Yarding 8690  Change +2140

WAGGA selling centre has witnessed an unprecedented influx of cattle, setting a new yarding record this week that has surprised agents. The surge in numbers is primarily attributed to ongoing water issues and a lack of feed, which have forced many farmers to sell, with some farmers having no choice but to commence liquidating their cow herds. Agents in the Wagga region expect this trend to continue as conditions remain dire. Most of the usual processors participated in the sale, but it was evident that not all buyers held feedlot orders this week. A notable absence of restocking inquiries from the northern regions significantly impacted prices, particularly across the lighter weight categories. However, one specific breed managed to maintain its value better than others.

The trade cattle market saw limited activity, with prices ranging from 310 to 383c/kg. Medium weight feeder steers gathered keen interest, particularly when they belonged to a specific breed. This demand helped bolster the average prices within this category, with medium weights selling between 310c and 438c/kg. The enthusiasm for these steers was notable with all buyers chasing weight. Lighter weight feeder steers, specifically those weighing between 330-400kg, experienced a significant price drop, selling for 38c cheaper than previous weeks, averaging 373c/kg. The medium weight feeder heifer market was well supplied, leading to a price decrease of 18c/kg. In the lighter weight category, prices dipped by 2c, averaging 336c/kg. Lightweight weaner steers, weighing between 200-280kg, faced a notable decline of 55c, with prices ranging from 320 to 436c/kg. The heifer portion of this  weight category sold within a range of 250 to 340c/kg.

In the export market, the availability of heavy cattle, particularly heavy steers and bullocks, was limited. Prices for these cattle ranged from 303 to 400c, while heavy heifers reached a top price of 398c/kg. A total of 2,415 cows of various weights and grades were offered, but prices experienced a decline of 20 to 30c/kg across the board. Heavy cows sold within the range of 280 to 310c/kg, while leaner cows fetched prices between 210 and 290c/kg. Store cow numbers increased and they sold from 190c to 292c/kg.

Source: NLRS Click here to view full Wagga report on NLRS website.