Numbers were moderately lower and quality slipped to the previous market.

Trade lambs were in reasonable supply with good numbers of young shorn lambs which were supplementary fed.

Well shaped trade lambs were keenly sought by all processors, however plainer lambs lacking finish were overlooked by some buyers. The usual contingent of domestic and export buyers were competing in a cheaper market for trade lambs.

Secondary lambs suitable to restock or feed were in greater numbers and all types sold to solid competition from a large contingent of local restockers.

Bidding was strongest for well finished heavy shorn trade lambs, which were aided by steady demand from both export and domestic buyers. The bulk of the heavy trade lambs averaged 550c to 570c/kg cwt, reaching a top price of $148/head.

Trade lambs 18-20kg were keenly sought by both restockers and processors with lambs to slaughter averaging $112.70/head.

Light weight plain lambs sold to varying price trends with some export processors struggling to capture adequate supplies owing to strong restocker competition.

The plainer conditioned lambs returning to the paddock made from $62 to $72, while well-bred secondary lambs averaged $111/head. Lambs to the feedlots made from $106 to $122/head.

Heavy export lambs were in reasonable supply and sold to strong northern competition. Heavy and extra heavy lambs sold from $155 to $196, with a single pen estimated to weigh 38kg cwt reaching a top price of $198/head.

The bulk of the heavy lambs ranged from 540cto 570c/kg cwt.

Mutton numbers increased and quality was quite mixed, with all weights and grades represented.

Merino ewes suitable for the trade were in reasonable supply, and made from $56 to $91/head to average 301c to 330c/kg cwt.

Heavy sheep were well supplied and prices were generally a few dollars dearer for Merino ewes and wethers. Heavy Merino wethers made from $92 to $130/head.