THE practical impact of genetic advancements like those discussed in tonight’s companion article is seen in the year-over-year sales data for various cattle breeds.

An analysis of average prices, top prices, and clearance rates reveals shifts in demand and highlights breeds that benefit from strategic genetic improvements.

While Beef Central’s comprehensive end-of-year national summary on bull sales performance will be published in early December after 2024 sales conclude, the following results based on privately compiled data* on 315 bull sales held so far this year offering 16,785 bulls shows some useful trends. (*Data collected from Beef Central bull sales results, agency reports, AuctionsPlus and other sources).

Year-over-year comparison of average prices by breed:

In 2023, Angus had the highest average price per head at $11,086, dropping slightly to $10,489 in 2024. Meanwhile, Santa Gertrudis increased its average price from $9879 to this year’s highest breed average of $11,186, reflecting demand for breeds with resilience and adaptability to diverse conditions. Charolais also saw an increase in average price this year to $11,171, signalling continued strong demand for the breed. Click on graphs for a larger view.

Top prices and market confidence:

Average top prices at bull sales provide valuable insight into buyer interest in premium genetics across breeds. In 2024, Brahman achieved a record average top price of $59,944, up from $44,406 in 2023, underscoring strong demand in high-end markets. Droughtmasters, while seeing a drop in average top price from $51,156 in 2023 to $34,641 in 2024, continued to draw attention for its upper-tier offerings. Shorthorns maintained stability with an average top price of $35,000 in 2024, close to its previous peak of $36,500, indicating steady demand within its range. Santa Gertrudis showed growth across both average and average top price categories, with an average top price of $38,535 in 2024.

Clearance rates and demand shifts:

The overall clearance rate at bull sales this year increased to 86pc, up from 84pc in 2023, indicating strong market confidence. Santa Gertrudis saw the largest clearance rate increase from 86pc to 92pc, with rising average and top prices aligning with its reputation for adaptability.

Similarly, Shorthorn sales clearance rate increased from 87pc to 93pc, while Charolais saw a boost from 86pc to 94pc. These figures highlight strong demand for certain resilient breeds, as producers align breeding choices with environmental resilience.

• Beef Central will shortly start to compile its comprehensive annual statistical summary of bull sale results performance – average price and numbers sold – for major Australian beef breeds based on national sales across the country. The reports will appear after the year’s final bull sales, during the first week in December.

Alastair Rayner is the General Manager of Extension & Operations with Cibo Labs and Principal of RaynerAg.  Alastair has over 28 years’ experience advising beef producers & graziers across Australia.   He can be contacted here or through his website www.raynerag.com.au