Beyond the Saleyards: WA lamb market stable as mutton bids rise

WA lamb markets have been relatively stable for the past week but there has been increased interest in mutton. Most buyers increased their bids by $0.10 to $0.20/kg hot standard carcase weight. Lamb prices remain around $5.60/kg HSCW with local abattoirs. Live-weight prices for lambs in WA is also relatively flat. Demand for lambs above a 35kg minimum is still strong but there are very few suppliers with significant lines that meet this minimum. On the east coast, Thomas Foods released August forward contracts for Victoria with crossbred lambs topping out at $7.80. Depending on freight this brings the market back to around $6.50-$6.80 in WA. On mutton, the east coast market is currently trading around $3.50/kg. After freight this is not a long way above WA, but it does seem to have nearer term demand compared to our domestic buyers. Cattle live export markets eased 10¢/kg last week with a new export order coming out of Queensland for Brahman and slick-coated steers at $2.60/kg and bulls $2.50/kg. Further south on the east coast, prices have shown mixed results. Non-MSA discounts have shrunk and Angus premiums have increased. Cows prices remain quoted at $4.40kg HSCW 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 information call us on 1300 812 345 or visit agoralivestock.com.au/marketplace.