BURRABLISS Farms at Lake Boga, home of the award-winning Saxon Merino ultra-fine wool flock by the same name, is on the market.

Owners Bruce and Tricia Pollard shed and feed their 500 ewes on the 15.3ha property, renowned for producing 13-15-micron wool highly sought after by Italian buyers.

    BURRABLISS FARMS
  • LAKE BOGA
  • Property: fine wool production
  • Size: 15.2ha
  • For sale: by expressions of interest, closing Friday, March 16, 1pm.
  • Agent: Elders, Swan Hill
  • Contact: Peter Robertson, 0417 636 348

The couple also run a successful bed and breakfast (this too is named Burrabliss Farms, but is not on the market) and are stepping away from fine wool production to spend more time on the flourishing business.

This means the 15.2ha farm, fine-wool business and all associated plant and machinery, along with access to Bruce's substantial expertise in fine-wool production, is up for grabs.

Chairman of the Sharlea Ultra Fine Wool Association, Bruce has been instrumental in growing the industry and reopening markets in Asia.

"You never know what the the future holds, but it certainly looks a bit better (for fine wool producers) at the moment," he said.

"Anyone with an ear to the ground knows it's been a long time coming."

Almost all fine wool produced in Australia has been shipped to Italy since the collapse of the Asian market in 1998. But Bruce believes an increase in interest from Chinese buyers in recent times could be the beginning of a revival in the Asian market.

Bruce has run only pure Saxon Merino ewes to produce his award-winning wool and about 100 are for sale with the property with the purpose-built shed (49x12 metres) with a capacity of 500.

After 18 years of juggling the business with other pursuits, Bruce believes the property provides opportunities to multiple buyers.

"I have run this operation in conjunction with a full-time job and there are opportunities there for just about anyone. It could suit someone who wants to supplement their income; we have employed someone to feed the sheep daily, which only takes around an hour and is not a big cost." There is also a tourism aspect, with group and coach tours run by appointment.

Also included are irrigation sprinklers, 87MG water right and cottage.