DEMAND FOR LAMBS

Evening Star, Issue 25698, 23 January 1946, Page 6

DEMAND FOR LAMBS

WETHERS IN SHORT SUPPLY VALUES AT BURfISIDE AUCTION Both the butchers and the export trade again competed freely for an average yarding of lambs at the weekly sale at Burnside to-day. This section, which included some outstanding consignments, resulted in a most satisfactory sale, reflected in prices of up to £2 for extra prime heavy lambs; prime, from 33s to 35s 6d; medium, from 27s to 30s; and light from 23s 6d. The sale for most sections was a good one, ruling prices, being mainly reached. Fat cattle prices were easier. There was a yarding of about 300, comprising a few trucks of prime heavy descriptions with the usual proportion of cows and heifers. At the opening of the auction heavy cattle declined in value to the extent of approximately £2, but halfway through the sale tended to become more stabilised, and in some cases late" parity rates were realised. The top price for the auction was £2B 2s 6d for a cow from South Otago. Several consignments of good quality steers fetched in the vicinity of £2O. Extra prime bullocks brought up to £2B 2s 6d; prime heavy, £2O 2s 6d to £23 12s 6d; medium, £l6 12s 6d to £lB 17s 6d; and light from £l3 2s 6d. Extra prime heifers brought up to £l6 17s 6d; prime to £l4 2s 6d; and medium from £ll 2s 6d to £l2 17s 6d. Best cows realised up to £l4 17s 6d. < The entry of fat sheep, 1,400, was smaller than usual. Because of the shortage there was a demand for wethers, particularly at the beginning of the auction. Ewes sold on the same scale as last week, and wethers were firmer by Is 66. to 2s a head, although there was an easing tendency during the sale of the concluding races. The offering of store cattle was a mixed one, including some.steers. Best three-year-olds sold up to £ls, and younger cattle did not attract much attention. Vealers sold at late rates. The fat pig section was a strong one, and included several consignments of heavv baconers. Best descriptions auctioned from £7 10s to £8 6s.