Market Comment
Winter blues
It was a cold start for the market this week after a hot few weeks for prices. Interest from buyers lacked the crank needed to
Ethan Woolley
July 24, 2026
It was a cold start for the market this week after a hot few weeks for prices. Interest from buyers lacked the crank needed to
Sucker season is almost upon us, and despite many price indicators reflecting short supply, lamb slaughter has remained historically strong for the year-to-date. Those following
Saleyard sheep supply returned with a bit more vigour this week but remained at a significant deficit to the same time last year. Reflecting last
Lamb and sheep prices continue to run hot, with trade lambs sitting in the sweet spot, and weights lighter and heavier lagging a little. Traditionally
Buyers were chasing weight this week in the depths of winter with heavy lambs across the saleyards attracting the most interest. Indicators were a mixed
Lamb exports remained resilient last month, but the sheep supply constraints were evident as mutton volumes fell away. China continues to bolster demand across both
The split of green and red in our weekly sheep and lamb year-on-year table shows pretty clearly the current supply and demand dynamic in the
If you ever listen to or read the Meat and Livestock Australia (MLA) market reports from the saleyards, you’ll know that lamb lot feeders have
Winter chill and price premiums have returned to the southern sheep regions. Turnoff sheep are few and far between and mutton indicators are now over
Last week we looked at sheepmeat demand, with more than 50% of what we produce here in Australia headed overseas. What we found was that
Another week another record high for mutton prices. At least a 55% jump in sheep yardings was not enough to meet the needs of buyers
Total sheepmeat exports fell by nearly a third year-on-year for the month of May. A lack of supply rather than any evidence of a further
For quick market recaps and in-depth chats with industry experts on the trends shaping livestock, grain and fibre markets.
Want market insights delivered straight to your inbox?
Sign up to the Mecardo mailing list to receive regular updates on new analysis and market outlooks.
Our team of market analysts combine deep industry knowledge with practical insights to help you navigate the ever-changing commodity landscape.
Stay in the loop as we share the latest in wool, livestock and grain markets across out social media platforms.
Or get in touch with us directly to talk about your business needs.