Sco-op
January 2026Dear Members, Suppliers, Directors, and Team,
The 2025/26 harvest across the Esperance Port Zone delivered a mixed but generally solid result, with clear differences between crop types.
Canola and barley were the stand-out performers across most parts of the zone. Good establishment and relatively stable finishing conditions supported strong yields, and returns have generally stacked up well.
Wheat, however, told a different story. Two hot days during spring, combined with low rainfall at a critical point, had a noticeable impact on yields. When paired with softer wheat prices, the overall return from wheat has been disappointing compared to barley and canola, particularly given the similar price point between wheat and barley this season.
Despite these challenges, the Esperance Port Zone once again broke its record for total tonnes received. While strong yields contributed to this outcome, a small proportion of the increase reflects additional hectares coming into grain production, particularly where enterprises have transitioned out of sheep into cropping.
Looking ahead to 2026/27, wheat markets remain under pressure. Current price levels are not providing enough margin to comfortably absorb high input costs, including fertiliser, machinery and diesel. This is prompting many growers to reassess wheat exposure relative to other crop options.
Barley and canola continue to look comparatively attractive from a gross margin perspective, assuming normal seasonal conditions. However, legume market options in the zone remain limited, which continues to restrict both rotation flexibility and cropping system options.
As always, seasonal conditions will ultimately shape outcomes, but current price signals and input costs suggest growers will be weighing enterprise mix and risk more carefully as plans are finalised for the coming season.
Check Out Our January Supplier Spotlight
This month, our Supplier Spotlight highlights Saintly Steel, a locally owned business supplying steel and fabrication components to support builders, fabricators, and trades across the Esperance region. Established to meet a local need, their team focuses on practical solutions, reliable service, and keeping supply close to home. With a strong commitment to their customers and community, Saintly Steel is quickly becoming a trusted local partner for businesses of all sizes.
We hope you enjoy the read!
Warm regards,
Spotlight On
Saintly Steel
This month, our Supplier Spotlight shines on Saintly Steel – a locally owned business supplying steel and fabrication components to support builders, fabricators, and trades across the Esperance region.
Established in August 2025 alongside Wicked Welding & Fabrication, Saintly Steel was created in response to a local need. When the Bluescope Esperance branch closed, the team saw an opportunity to keep steel supply local and reduce the need for businesses to source materials from Perth.
Today, Saintly Steel supplies a wide range of steel products and operates the largest slitter folder machine in the Esperance region, allowing them to produce custom flashings in-house, up to 8 metres long and in nearly any colour. With accurate cutting services and free delivery within the Esperance townsite, they make it easier for local jobs to keep moving.
What really sets Saintly Steel apart is their people. Led by a close-knit, down-to-earth team, they’re known for being approachable, reliable, and genuinely invested in their customers. As they say, “Our customers are at the heart of everything we do.”
Looking for steel supply or fabrication components?
Visit Saintly Steel at 75 Norseman Road (within the Wicked Welding & Fabrication premises), call (08) 9071 4045, or email sales@saintlysteel.com.au.
Built by locals and focused on practical solutions, Saintly Steel is quickly becoming a trusted part of the Esperance business community.
Welcome to the New Year
January 2026
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Pet Care in the Heat
Summer temperatures can be hard on pets. January is a great time to check bedding, water access and pest control to keep dogs and other animals comfortable and healthy through the warmer months. We’ve got a range of practical solutions in store, just ask our team.
Back to work but still battling the heat?
Have you seen our Supplier Directory?
Let's GoDiscover where you can make use of your EOPP membership with our list of EOPP Suppliers above!
Interested in becoming an EOPP Supplier? Get in touch with our Executive Officer Helen at eo@eoppcooperativeltd.com!
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