Beyond the Saleyards: Balance returns to WA market following lack of rainfall

With a lack of rainfall and the exodus of sheep to the east cost, the WA market now appears to be getting more in balance. Buyers are starting to show booking space for lambs. On the mutton front, prices have increased by 10¢ over the past week – indicating they are making space for it, or at least trying to stop it all heading east. On the east coast, forward prices of $7.80 for July crossbred trade lambs were available last week. These were short-lived but at the same time, many buyers now think that market has more upside. Merino continues to sit at a $0.30 - $0.50 discount. Hoggets are bid $4.00 and mutton is back above $3. Live export cattle markets have eased a bit with steers prices down $0.10 for late May delivery at $2.70/kg and bulls are $2.60/kg. We have also seen an increase in demand for pregnancy tested in calf Angus or British breed cattle with medium frame animals trading around $1200/head. On the east coast, markets are relatively flat. Cows are $4.40/kg hot standard carcase weight and bulls $4.60/kg HSCW. All prices quoted are available in the Agora Livestock Markets app — available free on the app stores. Agora Livestock has recently released a marketplace for agents and farmers to list livestock for sale. For more info call us on 1300 812 345 or visit agoralivestock.com.au/marketplace.