According to Meat and Livestock Australia’s National Livestock Reporting Service (NLRS) supply lifted on the back of higher prices paid last week. Longer wool lambs lacked finish and sold to mixed price trends.

Shorn trade lambs sold to strong demand with major processors keen to buy shorter skinned well shaped types.

All trade and export buyers were present and operating. New season trade lambs were once again in limited supply.

Medium and heavy trade lambs made from $138 to $164/head to average 624c/kg cwt.

Well shaped shorn trade lambs were keenly sought by major domestic processors which helped push prices slightly higher.

Shorn medium and heavy trade lambs sold from $137 to $169/head to average 638c/kg cwt.

Heavy and extra heavy shorn lambs made up the bulk of the offering and prices were solid. Heavy shorn lambs sold from $164 to $178/head. Extra heavy shorn lambs made from $16 to $230/head to average 615c/kg cwt.

There was only limited restocker competition due to the dry conditions. The well-bred portion sold from $107 to $129/head It was a mixed quality offering of mutton with all weights and grades represented. Most buyers were operating and demand did fluctuate over heavy categories. Heavy mutton made from $98 to $159.20/head. Trade sheep prices tracked dearer selling from $72 to $120/head to average 406c/kg cwt. Light sheep made from $64 to $71.20/head.