Strong demand for store Lambs at Wagga Wagga

Yarding - 46,000

A total of 11,400 new season lambs were presented at the market, reflecting a slight increase in numbers compared to the previous market. The quality of these lambs varied significantly across different trade weight categories. Young store lambs were abundant and attracted strong demand. However, three major export companies participated in the bidding process but were largely unsuccessful in acquiring lambs. Meanwhile, several domestic buyers exhibited caution, leading to a more selective purchasing approach.

The majority of the new season trade lambs fell within the 21-22 kg cwt weight range, with prices ranging from $244 to $276 per head. For lambs weighing between 24-26 kg, prices fluctuated between $305 and $322 per head. Young lambs exceeding 26 kg cwt were scarce, selling for between $331 and $344, with an average of 1,242 c/kg cwt. Young lambs intended for feeding or returning to the paddock with additional weight and frame were priced between $180 and $248 per head.

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The market for older trade lambs showed mixed results, especially for recently shorn types, which commanded premium prices. Lambs weighing 20-24 kg fetched prices ranging from $202 to $312, although bidding was erratic. Merino lambs were well supplied, with some buyers eager to secure better-finished types. Trade lambs in the 20-26 kg range sold for between $200 and $306 per head. Heavy export old lamb numbers saw a decline this week. Lambs in the 26-30 kg range fell in price by $11, selling from $325 to $377 per head. Additionally, lambs over 30 kg experienced a price drop of up to $16, averaging 1,172 c/kg cwt, with a top price of $400 per head.

There was a good quality yarding of mutton, with a larger supply of heavy ewes, including impressive lines of recently shorn Merino and crossbred ewes. Heavy sheep sold for prices ranging from $170 to $284, averaging 670-720 c/kg cwt. The better trade types were priced between $148 and $168, averaging 715 c/kg cwt.

https://wagga.nsw.gov.au/business-investment/council-businesses/livestock-marketing-centre