Since the start of 2009, mutton sheep yardings have lifted 6pc above those for the same period last year, as the dry summer and high temperatures in the southern states forced producers to offload stock.
But prices have risen, despite bigger yardings, due to strong competition from processors, live exporters and restockers.
Over the hooks prices for sheep have also been on a steady rise as some processors work to secure supplies to keep plants operating.
Mutton quality has varied since the start of the year, with ewes consistently accounting for the largest percentage of the yarding, and light and medium weights dominating the mix.
Lightweight ewes accounted for 25pc of the national offering, while lightweight wethers contributed just 5pc.
Heavy weight sheep were scarce by comparison, with ewes making up 12pc of the sheep yarded over the period and heavy wethers just 3pc.
The national mutton indicator finished Thursday at 216¢, 26¢/kg cwt higher than for the same week last year.
MLA says sheep prices are expected to remain strong over coming months, as the unsustainably high sheep turnoff is likely to lead to a shortfall in sheep numbers.
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