A strong turnout at the Jan. 9, 2026, Yass ewe sale saw nearly 3,500 ewes sold, with top prices up to $385 despite dry conditions.

A strong turnout at the January 9, 2026, Yass first-cross ewe sale saw nearly 3,500 ewes offered despite hot, dry conditions. Top prices reached $385 for Border Leicester/Merino ewes, $350 for Thalabah-blood, and $346 for Tolldale Gunning, with 1.5-year-olds averaging $294 and ewe lambs $169. Heavier ewes commanded premiums due to readiness for joining. Buyers, including regional operators like the Morrison family and O’Brien brothers, showed confidence in winter lamb and mutton demand. While prices were below the November 2025 record of $480, agents noted market resilience and a shift toward diverse breeds. The sale was conducted by the South Eastern Livestock Exchange combined agents’ association.