And while Elders Rural Service Deniliquin livestock agent Jason Andrews said it is difficult to pre-empt the value of the sheep this year, he said both numbers and quality should dictate a good price.
‘‘After a couple of good seasons we’ve seen an increase in lamb percentages, which means more people are selling because they have the numbers,’’ he said.
‘‘Producers will also be taking advantage of reasonable store stock prices, and although we don’t really know how it will go price wise we do expect it to be similar to what we have been experiencing recently.
‘‘The unknown is the (positive) effect of the rain — particularly to the north and north east of us.
‘‘There’s increased fodder, some more stored fodder and grain.’’
Mr Andrews said also helping numbers will be the increased number of livestock producers throughout the region.
‘‘There is a livestock resurgence,’’ he said.
‘‘People are starting to look at it more favourably because of the increased cost, the increased inputs, of cropping.
‘‘We’re seeing a bit of a train of thought that there’s more long term gain in livestock.’’
The Deniliquin Store Sale will be held at the Deniliquin Saleyards on Friday, January 21 from 11am.
Stock will be presented through Arentz & Barker Southern Riverina Livestock & Property (Justin Barker – 0448 066 625), Elders Rural Services Deniliquin (Jason Andrews – 0428 629 399) and Nutrien Livestock (Bill O’Brien – 0417 229 553).
