Beyond the Saleyards: Sheep market continues slide

The WA sheep market is continuing on a downward trend, with only a small number of buyers at the saleyards this week.

Live export shipping is expected to start up again in September, which will hopefully help with the backlog of sheep supply seen over the past six-plus months.

East coast sheep prices have gained, with bookings available from the end of September.

Wool markets are also off with the potential to go lower, after China removed its ban on South African wool imports effective immediately.

Cattle on the east coast are in demand, with Victorian processors looking as far as Queensland for stock and pushing prices higher in the process.

The Eastern Market Indicator has risen 38¢ this week.

Cattle prices were also strong in WA, with lightweight weaner steers hitting 700¢/kg at the saleyards.

The number of visas for international workers is expected to increase in the near term, which will be a relief for many agricultural industry participants struggling with staff.

Processor and feedlot market bids at the start of the week (¢/kg or $/head):

● WA market indices: Weaner steers 700¢, weaner heifers 540¢, yearling steers 540¢, yearling heifers 520¢.

● SA market indices: Yearling steers: 575¢, vealers: 600¢.

● East coast processor prices: MSA: steers 770¢, heifers 765¢. Cows 660¢. Jap Ox: steers 740¢, Bulls 545¢.

● Queensland feedlots: Black Angus: 540¢, Black Angus British X: 520¢, Wagyu X Angus: POA.

To contact buyers and for more price information please login to the Agora Livestock Markets app or online at www.agoralivestock.com.au.

Rob Kelly is the founder and managing director of Agora Livestock, a free service with the latest sheep, cattle and goat price grids in one easy-to-use app.