Falkland Wool Growers Report for Week Ending 12/11/03

The Australian Eastern Market Indicator lost five cents on Tuesday, lost another six cents on Wednesday and drifted two more cents on Thursday. The EMI thus closed the week down 1.6 percent or 13 cents at 775 A cents. ‘The Australian wool auctions saw an indifferent tone this week, with 83% sold. The Australian dollar rose above 74 US cents on Tuesday and Wednesday, slowing the wool market. Practically all micron categories lost ground.’ WRWMR

In New Zealand the Fine Indicator was quoted down eight to 1,025 NZ cents. The Medium Indicator was quoted down 11 cents. The Strong Indicator closed a cent lower at 385 NZ cents on last week. The Lamb Indicator ended the week up 13 cents 376 NZ cents. There was an 85 percent clearance.

The Cape Wools Overall Merino Indicator drifted 0.8 percent moving from 2,835 SA cents to 2,813 SA cents, 94% of bales were sold.

The British sale saw 75 percent sold with prices firm to three percent off.

This week the Australian dollar was trading weaker at around A$2.36/£; combined with the lower wool market this had the effect of lowering sterling prices for Australian wool by up to 20 p/kg. The New Zealand dollar was also trading weaker at around NZ$2.69/£.

Both general combing and speciality scouring supply interest received this week.

My December Visit Itinerary currently is as follows: 15^th: Arrive MPA; 16^th Stanley Meetings; 17^th Fly to Port Edgar and stay at South Harbour; 18^th to Fox Bay, staying at Coast Ridge; 19^th to Hill Cove via Sheffield, staying at The Peaks; 20^th Fly to Stanley; North Camp 21^st staying at Mount Kent; 22^nd staying at Hope Cottage; 23^rd staying at Kingsford Valley; 24^th – 29^th Stanley; 30^th Depart MPA. My very grateful thanks to those people kindly having me to stay and passing me along the track. Please make arrangements with me/my hosts to meet me if you are able to.

My Stanley contact telephone number c/o Gerald and Marie = 21402.

With Thanks and Regards

Robert