Cattle prices lost traction At NVLX Wodonga after the Easter holiday break.

In the larger yarding of 1,450 rates generally fell 10c – some categories by more – as processor and feedlots were more subdued across plainer types.

Bidding was described as selective across categories suitable for the trade, with vealers easing 6-10c/kg. Isolated sales of quality European vealers sold to 337c/kg, while other sales ranged from 290 to 335c/kg.

The yearling trade cattle lacked the quality of the previous sale, owing to the limited supplies of supplementary feedstock. Trade steers were unchanged selling at 308-328c to average 322c/kg. Medium weight trade heifers sold up to 20c cheaper making from 276-307c averaging 293c/kg.

Feedlot and restocker demand fluctuated across secondary stock, however well-bred lighter weight steers 330-400kg attracted the most competition to sell 9c/kg higher. The better bred lines sold from 300-328c/kg. Medium weight feeder steers sold to a small group of buyers easing 7c selling from 284c-318c/kg. It was a similar story for the lighter weight heifers; with an upward price trend of 5-6c some of this due to a feedlot buyer back in the market after a short absence.

Bullock prices varied and demand for heavy grown steers 500-600kg slipped. Good quality heavy grown steers were least effected by the cheaper trend of 10c, with odd sales of milk and two teeth pens touching firm. Heavy grown steers sold to a low of 278c to top at 310c/kg. Better quality bullocks eased 4c selling from 288-306c/kg.

In the cow market rates firmed this week in a mixed quality offering of 478 head. Most cows were quoted by the National Live stock service firm to a few cents dearer. Heavy cows sold at 237-244.6ckg averaging 241c/kg. Heavy Lean cows lifted 4c making from 225-258c/kg. Leaner types reflecting the seasonal conditions made from 175-203c/kg. Heavy bulls sold to solid competition fetching 240-270c/kg.