Prices rocketed when the farming implements and equipment of Kilcairne Kings family farm, which went under the hammer in Hermon on Thursday, April 29.

Among the items that sold at prices far beyond expectation were a Welger bale-making machine, which was estimated and R25 000 and sold for R90 000 a Lindana wood-chipping machine (estimate R18 000) which fetched R70 000; and a steel-framed shed, estimated at R55 000, which reached a final bid of R130 000, according to Samantha James of the Michael James Organisation. Items on offer also included tractors, restaurant and wine equipment, an olive press and a complete woodworking factory, to name a few.

Auctioneer Andrew James said after the sale: “it’s encouraging to see over 400 people attending auctions of this nature. The bidding flowed and the buyers were keen the whole way through the auction.

Samantha James believes Andrew James contributed in no small measure to the auctions’ success.

“Andrew has and excellent rapport with the crowds and maintains their interest throughout the auction. This keeps the bidding alive and active and there is a great degree of enjoymenrt felt in the atmosphere.