Wagga Sheep Market Report

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Report Date: 11th June 2026

Total Yarding: 36,350

Commentary

Market dynamics led to a notable increase in numbers, driven by the robust sale previous week. This yarding was exceptional, with most lambs exceeding 23kg either hard fed or receiving a grain ration in the paddock. However, the market did not replicate the intensity seen in the previous sale, as not all exporters and domestic buyers were active. Despite fewer processors in operation, the prices for the top pens of heavy export and domestic trade lambs remained strong. Notably, feedlot buyers and restockers were actively purchasing, with feedlots taking a leading role in acquiring well-bred shorn trade types.

Trade lambs experienced a price dip, selling $1 to $8 cheaper and more in places across various weight categories. The 21-24kg range sold for prices between $277 and $312, averaging around 1237c/kg cwt. In the 26-30kg category, buyers exhibited caution, with most sales occurring between $300 and $332/head. The availability of Merino trade lambs was limited, with prices ranging from $235 to $296/head. Lambs intended for feeding fetched between $250 and $299, while those returning to the paddock were sold at prices ranging from $158 to $262/head..

On the export side, the quality of lambs was outstanding, with all presented being grain-fed. As the sale progressed, the market gained momentum; however, lambs in the 26-30kg weight range faced an $8 decrease, selling between $300 and $368/head and averaging 1180c/kg cwt. The heavier lambs, those over 30kg cwt, saw keen competition. Prices for these lambs eased by $3, with sales ranging from $368 to $455/head and averaging 1127c/kg cwt.

It was a very mixed yarding of sheep with all weights and grades represented. Not all buyers were in attendance this week. Trade sheep sold from $192-$254/head to average 912c/kg cwt. Heavy sheep sold from $245-$362/head to average between 942-962c/kg cwt.

Leann Dax, Market reporter.