Widden Announces 2025 NSW & VIC Fees

Ahead of the upcoming breeding season, Widden Stud has unveiled its 2025 service fees across a diverse roster of 20 stallions, split between its NSW and Victorian bases, with flagship sire Zoustar to stand again at $275,000 (inc. GST). Zoustar was the world’s leading sire of winners in 2024 and continues in the same vein this year, with 12 Australian stakes winners including Group 1 stars Joliestar and Schwarz. His progeny have already earned more than $20 million this season. At the 2024 Inglis Easter Sale, Zoustar yearlings were in hot demand – 26 fetched $500,000 or more, with the top lot, a Widden-bred filly from The Actuary, making $2.6 million. “Zoustar is a champion sire for both the racetrack and sale ring,” said Antony Thompson. “His progeny have the precocity Australian buyers expect, along with the constitution to train on, as shown by Joliestar and Schwarz this season.” Widden has also prioritised value for budget-conscious breeders. Zousain remains at $27,500, Written By stays at $22,000, and Portland Sky drops slightly to $16,500 following a strong debut with yearlings selling up to $320,000. “Yearlings by Zousain, Written By, and Portland Sky delivered great results off modest fees,” said Matt Comerford. Rebel Dane, Supido and Gold Standard – all priced below $10,000 – have already made major impacts, siring Group 1 winners like Fireburn, Buenos Noches and Sheeza Belter. Broader support from breeders puts all three in strong positions to progress. Fees have been reduced for proven performers such as Trapeze Artist, Russian Camelot (IRE), Jacquinot, Bruckner, and Nicconi. Meanwhile, emerging sires Dirty Work, Doubtland and Anders – all standing at $13,200 – have made promising starts, each siring multiple winners from relatively small crops. Two newcomers join the2025  roster: dual Group 1 winner Southport Tycoon, who Antony Thompson sees as a natural Written Tycoon successor, and US speedster Cogburn, the fastest horse in the world in 2024. “Cogburn is by Not This Time, one of North America’s most exciting sires, now standing for $US175,000,” revealed Thompson. The full line-up by state, all GST inclusive, is below: