According to sale yard talk, quality Merino ewes could be scarce if and when we get an autumn break.
The reduction of the Merino flock is a result of prolonged drought, and changing farming dynamics, but also reflecting low wool prices during the 1990’s.
Opening the 81st Urana Special Sheep sale when 10,000 sheep were offered recently, Denis Smith, JM Smith and Co, Urana noted 35,500 were presented for sale in 1985.
Phil Butt, Butt Livestock and Property, Yass, believes Merino flocks on the southern tablelands are low due to seasonal rather than market conditions, and expects a widespread shortage ‘when it rains’.
“I know numbers in the Yass district are lower than normal,” Mr Butt said.
“Sheep have been sold off because of the dry times.”
Mr Butt said it was similar across the state, where older ewes have been sold due to droughts, and it will take some time to rebuild flocks.
“Numbers are increasing, but often at the expense of the Merino,” he said.
“Especially when Merino ewes are being joined to terminal sires, it will take time to re-establish flocks.”
Craig Wilson, Craig Wilson and Associates, Wagga Wagga said there is not so much a shortage as might be thought because current prices are an impediment for some producers wishing to purchase stock.
Mr Wilson thought there are plenty of ewes out there if producers are prepared to pay for them.
“There are alternatives, but if they think cattle or first-cross ewes are expensive, then Merino ewes could be a good option, even at current prices,” Mr Wilson said.
“I haven’t heard anyone say they can’t buy Merino ewes.
“If they want them, they will pay for them”.
Elders, Narrandera livestock agent Dominic O’Mahoney is of the same opinion.
“We get our Merino ewes to join to Border Leicester rams from the western areas, and I think there will be enough sheep to satisfy demand,” he said.
“If the demand is there, people will find sheep to sell.
“And if producers want them, they will have to pay the market price.”
Quade Moncrieff Livestock and Property, West Wyalong director, Paul Quade thought ewe numbers seem to be holding, with “no excess by a longway”.
“Demand is keeping up with supply, and any shortage will push up prices,” he said.
“Young Merino ewes were still cheap on current prices paid for lambs and wool.”
Paull and Scollard, Wodonga agent Tim Robinson said demand in his area is ‘not outstripping supply’.
“Certainly we have low sheep numbers across the board, but prices are holding,” he said.