Comment

With 51,000 bales on offer and according to AWEX, the largest sale since April last year, most would have anticipated a softening trend this week. While there were some irregular movements in the various micron categories, the overall market trend was very positive. The crossbred sector again outperformed the merino types. The MPG’s are not a clear indication of the market strength for the better specification types. For example, the MPG’s for 17.0 micron were down in both Sydney and Melbourne but our market quotes for good 17.0 micron were very firm, tending dearer for the better lots. The MPG’s tend to be influenced a little by what is on offer and the general selection has deteriorated at an alarming rate in our opinion. Yields appear lower, length’s shorter and staple strengths lower, all as a result of the very concerning continuation of drought conditions and extraordinarily hot temperatures being felt across Australia. Overall $101,000,000 worth of wool was purchased by the trade.