The wool market opened back up again last week after the traditional Easter recess, with an offering of 43,000 bales across all three selling centres.
There were lifts across all micron price guides with significant gains in 18-20 micron price guides at the southern selling centre, whilst the superfine wools 17.5 and below bounced back after losses in recent weeks.
The largest price gains in the stronger market was again crossbred fleece as it was well supported.
After a strong start on the first day of sales, in particular Sydney sales, the market eased a little on the second day and the week closed out with the AWEX Eastern Market Indicator (EMI) increasing 17 cents to finish at 1960 cents a kilogram and a passed in rate of 6.4 per cent.
Online buying also strengthened with 212 bales sold on AuctionsPlus wool.
The lift in buying of superfine was also seen online, following the demand of the physical auctions, as 45 of the bales sold online were in the 17.5 and below micron range.
The top price online was secured by a line of superfine Merino fleece 13.7 micron at 2505c/kg (greasy) or 3474c/kg (clean). Top price for 16 and 17 micron fleece wool was 1635c/kg and 1665c/kg (greasy) or 2437c/kg and 2332c/kg (clean).
Top price for 18 and 19 micron fleece wool was 1445c/kg and 1220c/kg (greasy) or 2247c/kg and 2075c/kg (clean). Top price for 20 and 21 micron fleece wool was 545c/kg and 820c/kg (greasy) or 1108c/kg and 1598c/lg (clean).
This week there were 21 bales of crossbred fleece sold online, ranging from 22-25 micron. Top price for crossbred fleece was a line of 25.1 micron weaner fleece that sold for 800c/kg (greasy) or 1071c/kg (clean).
Looking forward, there is a reported of 33,500 bales on offer next week, with about 8000 in Sydney, 19,000 in Melbourne, 6000 in Fremantle and 4500 listed on AuctionsPlus Wool.