Wagga Sheep Market Report

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Report Date: 13th March 2025

Total Yarding: 54,000

Commentary

There was an increase in lamb numbers, with quality remaining fair to very good across the board. A notable mix of grain-fed and grass-finished lambs was available. The return of key domestic buyers, who had been absent from the market for an extended period, further invigorated sales, leading to a more competitive atmosphere at the top end of the trade lambs. All other buyers were at the market but not all were operating.

Trade lambs were in reasonable supply, but the spotlight was on grain-fed lambs with short skins, which were particularly sought after by buyers. Grass-finished lambs found a market among a smaller group of processors, indicating a targeted interest in shape and yield. For lambs weighing between 20-24 kg, prices remained firm, to $3 dearer. These lambs fetched prices ranging from $150 to $204/head. In the 24-26 kg category, lambs experienced a firming trend after an initially slow start, averaging 784c/kg cwt. Feedlot buyers were particularly active, seeking out well-presented lambs with good weight. These well bred lambs sold for between $151 and $194, while store lambs ranged from $90 to $156/head, reflecting a healthy interest in both finished and store stock.

On the export front, bidding for lambs in the 26-30 kg cwt range showed some volatility, with prices ranging from $209 to $255, averaging around 800/kg cwt. Meanwhile, lambs over 30 kg saw a slight decrease in prices, easing by $3 to sell between $250 and $285/head.