Aussie flock hits 116 year low
Prolonged dry conditions in rural Australia are taking a toll on its national sheep flock.
NZ Wool Services International Ltd’s chief executive John Dawson reports the a weakening NZ dollar compared to the main trading currencies saw the weighted indicator easing 1.1% compared to last week, giving a small amount of support to local prices.
Dawson advises pressure for quick shipment of orders and the diverse wool types on offer attracted good support, helping underpin the market.
Compared to last time offered at the South Island sale on September 22 merino fleece 16 to 19 microns were firm to 1.5% cheaper with 20 to 23 microns generally 1.5% easier and mid micron fleece 25 microns were 1% dearer with 25.5 to 29 microns 1 to 4% cheaper.
Compared to the North Island sale on September 29 fine crossbred fleece 32 to 35 microns were firm with early shorn and second shears 3 to 5 and 3 to 4 inches also remaining firm. Shears 2 to 4 inches were 2 to 3.5% cheaper with 2 to 3 inches firm to 1% cheaper.
Coarse crossbred full fleece were firm for good colour and 1% dearer for average colour.
Longer coarse shears were firm with 2 to 4 inches 3.5 to 5.5% cheaper and 2 to 3 inches 2.5% easier.
Short oddments were 4 to 6% cheaper with faulted lines discounted the most.
The next sale on October 20 comprises about 5600 bales from the North Island and 8150 bales from the South Island.
