Yarding 4250 Change +650

Numbers lifted significantly with road trains arriving from Tilpa, Wilcannia, Cobar and Yunta South Australia to add to the supply. The quality of the cattle was very good, with a substantial percentage in excellent condition carrying plenty of fat cover. Agents reported that due to the mild winter and outstanding pasture growth across much of the supply area, cattle are arriving 40-60kg heavier than in previous years. A large field of buyers attended the sale, all holding multiple feedlot or restocking orders, which contributed to the market’s dynamics. The combination of quality cattle and increased buyer interest created a competitive market over all classes of stock.

The trade market competition lifted considerably, with domestic buyers prepared to step up their bidding efforts to secure well-finished trade types, particularly in the weight range of 400-500kg. Prices remained mostly unchanged, although some crossbred types saw a slight softening, with prices ranging from 440-567c/kg. Feeder steers faced a robust field of buyers, as restockers also sought to secure cattle in the 340-400kg weight range. Light feeder steers commanded prices from 518-618c, with the Angus portion attracting particularly intense bidding. Medium weight feeder steers sold 7c easier, with coloured cattle experiencing cheaper price levels, the bulk making from 500-573c/kg.

As the sale progressed, heifer prices gained momentum, with buyers raising their bids midway through the market. Lighter weight feeder heifers improved by 11c to average 534c/kg, while medium weights in the 400-500kg range saw an uptick of 16c, making from 492-549c/kg. Light weight steers, weighing 200-280kg, experienced strong restocker competition, achieving prices from 500-708c to average $1549, while the heifer portion fetched 510-610c/kg, averaging $1352/head.

Heavy steers and bullocks suitable for processors were scarce, selling between 458-492c/kg. Heavy feeder steers traded from 490-558c/kg, and heavy heifers intended for feeding topped at 510c/kg. The cow sale saw a mixed quality offering, with heavy cows gaining 8c, making from 420-449c/kg. Leaner cows under 520kg, with some cover, were keenly sought after, selling from 371-410c/kg.

Market Reporter Leann Dax.

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