Sheep farmers enjoying one of best seasons in a decade

With ewe and lamb prices on a high, sheep farmers are enjoying one of their best seasons in a decade.

Sheep farmers are enjoying one of their best seasons in a decade with prices remaining in a buoyant mood.

Last month independent livestock operator and commentator David Cotton predicted there was only one way for the store market to go and that was up.

This month he was delighted to be proven correct.

At last Friday's Feilding sale store prices lifted significantly with lambs averaging over $3.50/kg compared to $3/kg last month.

"Light lambs were cracking the $/kg mark. If farmers are in the market to buy they might want to visit the bank manager first to increase the mortgage," Mr Cotton said slightly tongue-in-cheek.

The killing price for finished lambs has remained high for this time of year fetching $7.10/kg.

"The makes a 20kg (deadweight) lamb worth $140. The mutton schedule at $5/kg is higher than I've seen at this time of year."

He also issued a warning that some killing sheets had shown numbers of ewes affected by facial eczema suggesting that ewes retained for breeding may well show signs at lambing.

The affects of FE, however, are often subtle and clinical signs do not always appear. Sub-clinical signs often manifest in lower production.

"With ewes worth in excess of $130 and carrying twins, so forking out a $4 capsule per head to protect them seems a great investment to me."

Meanwhile, beef prices remain good, although have eased in recent weeks.
The ox/bull schedule is averaging $5.35/kg with a wide range being paid by meat companies.

"Things are looking bright. Some sheep farmers are telling me they are enjoying their best or second best season in 10 years - long may it last," Mr Cotton said.