Horsham Regional Livestock Exchange witnessed a significant increase in sheep and lamb sales at Wednesday's auction, following a quieter period throughout 2024.
The sale attracted a much higher yarding, with sales up by more than 12,000 head.
Buyers from across the region flocked to the afternoon sale, reflecting the surging demand for livestock.
Horsham Rural City Council Commercial Enterprises Co-ordinator Paul Christopher attributed the surge in numbers to shifts in supply and demand.
"We've seen low lamb production throughout the year so far. But now the supply and demand equation has moved in favour of producers," he said.
"We only had 1500 head last week, and 13600 this week. So it was a significant lift.
"Confidence in the market is high with buyers reacting positively despite the increasing prices trends, and that's a sign that we are in for a strong few months ahead," Mr Christopher said.
As the market continues to rebound, the Horsham Regional Livestock Exchange remains a vital hub for the region's agricultural sector.
As the major regional exchange for the Wimmera-Southern Mallee region, Horsham's saleyards can attract vendors from as far afield as the South Australian border and southern-New South Wales.
More info: HRLE market draw and reports
