Yarding 5085  Change -670

Following the public holiday last week, there was a lift in cattle numbers. This increase in supply has brought a mix of quality to the market, with a lot of lighter weight young cattle looking very wintery in condition.

However, there have been some standout pens featuring well-finished cattle, with some off crop or grain assisted. Competition was somewhat erratic. Notably, coloured cattle have seen prices slip by as much as 20c/kg in some instances. This dip in prices has created opportunities for restockers, many of whom are taking advantage of the lower prices While most buyers were present at the sale, it’s worth noting that not all export companies were active. This absence influenced the inconsistency in competition particularly in the feeder steer market.

Trade cattle were few and processors did bid strongly for the correct types. Trade steers and heifers fetched between 374c and 430c/kg. The feeder steers market experienced fluctuations, particularly with a certain breed commanding premium prices. Lighter weight feeder steers traded between 356c and 460c, gaining 32c to average $1594/head. Meanwhile, medium weight feeder steers remained mostly unchanged, with prices increasing by up to 5c, selling in the range of 370-464c/kg. In a notable shift, the feeder heifer market gained momentum, lifting by 15-35c/kg. The majority of heifers sold within a range of 330-419c/kg. In contrast, lighter weight steers targeted at restockers struggled to establish a consistent base rate, with better-quality types selling from 330-452c/kg. Additionally, heifers returning to the paddock fetched prices between 255-380c/kg.

On the export front, young heavy well finished steers suitable for processors were scarce. Heavy steers weighing between 500-600kg sold for 380-388c/kg. In contrast, aged bullocks faced discounts, contributing to a downward trend of 35c/kg, with bullocks selling from 335-385c/kg.

The cow market varied in quality across all categories. Heavy cows saw a modest improvement of 7-8c, averaging 326c/kg. Equally, leaner cows under 520kg with some cover ranged between 222-294c/kg.

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