The select portion of the Magic Millions national broodmare sale ended its two-day run in Australia May 29 with increases of 23.9% in gross and 37.6% in average price from a year ago.

“The positive vibe around the complex suggests the industry is on firm footing,” Magic Millions managing director Vin Cox said.

The 299 horses sold grossed Aust$19,855,250 ($19,555,200 in U.S. funds) and averaged Aust$66,406 ($65,403). The clearance rate was 73.8%, down from 76.1% in 2011.

Group I winner Melito, who is in foal to Encosta de Largo, commanded the auction’s top price of Aust$1,650,000 ($1,625,070) during the opening session. Listed in the supplementary catalog, she was purchased by Coolmore Stud’s Tom Magnier from Reavill Farm.

Melito (Redoute’s Choice – Cloister, by Marauding) won five added-money events, including the 2010 editions of the Sky Racing Winter Stakes (Aust-I) and Darley T. J. Smith Stakes (Aust-I).

Hurtle Myrtle, who captured the 2011 Myer Classic Empire Rose Stakes (Aust-I), was the sale’s second highest-priced horse at Aust$1 million ($984,890). Segenhoe Stud bought her from Kitchwin Hills, agent, during the second session.

Hurtle Myrtle (Dane Shadow – Ravenswood, by Woodman) was offered as a racing or broodmare prospect.