Yarding 4090 Change +690

Numbers lifted substantially after the Labour Day holiday last Monday, although quality was not as good with a large number of crossbred types in the offering. Straight-bred cattle were in shorter supply, and all well-bred cattle attracted premium prices from both restockers and feedlot buyers. The usual buying group was in attendance, although not all held feedlot orders at this sale. Restockers were very dominant for cattle under 400kg, with cattle destined for Tamworth, Forbes, South Australia and the local area. Processors were also operating solidly across most classes over 400kg.

Trade cattle sold 20-31c dearer selling between 455-530c/kg, with domestic buyers showing a preference for heifers rather than steers. The market for cattle suitable to feed on or return to the paddock fluctuated considerably, with restockers setting the market at times. Feeder steers 340-400kg sold 16c dearer, while medium weights were mostly unchanged the bulk, selling from 485-570c/kg. A late feedlot order in the heifer sale pushed prices higher as the market progressed. Lighter-weight feeder heifers sold from 468-522c/kg, while medium weights sold from 466-511c/kg, gaining 12c/kg. Light weight steers 200-280kg made from 460-635c/kg. Heifers 200-280kg fetched from 456-574c/kg to average $1372/head.

On the export front, heavy steers and bullocks were limited, with a major supermarket operating as a volume buyer. Heavy steers suitable for processors sold up to 20c dearer, fetching 482-511c/kg. Bullocks made from 425-498c/kg, while heavy heifers sold from 436-490c/kg. Heavy cows were well supplied and prices improved slightly, making from 385-428c/kg. Leaner types under 520kg sold between 330-376c/kg.

Market Reporter Leann Dax.

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