As it punched through the 1050 barrier it posted the 5th consecutive daily market rise. The Market experienced solid rises in the Merino fleece category over both days and there was good support for all types and styles in this sector.

The continued interest in the low mid-break lots extended into lower strength fleece as the demand began to out-strip this weeks 41,000 bale offering and was demonstrated by the low pass in rate for the week (6.1 per cent).

There was a slowing of the positive price trend late on Thursday possibly due to the news that next weeks offering has pushed through the 50,000 mark – the largest offering in eight months.

Merino skirtings firmed in line with the fleece and was unaffected by the closing trend. While crossbreeds steadied, cardings found support gaining 10 cents.