The seasonal shortage of quality domestic slaughter cattle gave the market an edge this week, with prices improving by up to 11c/kg at NVLX Wodonga on Tuesday.

The trend was evident over all trade cattle, where the best medium weight trade steers sold 3c dearer to reach a top price of 350c to average 332c/kg.

Trade heifers experienced stronger demand overall classes which was a reflection on the improved quality offering to the previous market and, stronger demand from several domestic processors. Generally trade prices were 11c dearer with the medium weight heifers making from 295-371c to average 320c/kg. Plainer shaped heifers sold at 280-294c/kg.

Vealers were also in demand, particularly the lighter weight portion, with a top price recorded of 364c/kg. At the same time heavier vealer steers and heifers were firm to slightly dearer in places selling from 325-370c/kg.

Store cattle prices this week responded to strong demand and a better quality line-up of secondary stock. This resulted in prices jumping 18c/kg with weaner steers making from 350c-370c/kg boosting steer values by 20c/kg.

The usual group of feedlot buyers did not affect values with prices generally firm. Medium weight steers 400-500kg made from 300c -344c to average 326c/kg. Angus heifers suitable to feed on met with steady competition and sold to 323c to average 314c/kg. Medium weight heifers to place on feed sold at 304-319c/kg.

A reduced offering of heavy grown steers and bullocks sold to steady demand, with buyers not prepared to push prices beyond 336c/kg. The market for heavy grown steers 500-600kg sold 2c dearer, while bullocks were unchanged making from 285-319c/kg.

A slightly smaller yarding of cows sold to a large group of buyers. Well finished cows to slaughter sold to steady demand, with prices holding firm. The better high yielding types made from 240-254c/kg. Leaner grades were generally 3c dearer averaging 229c/kg. Cows returning to the paddock made from 205-210c/kg. Heavy bulls with shape made from 240-268c/kg.