Among larger heifer lines offered yesterday, these 61 Angus backgrounder heifers 15-21 months averaging 293kg from Tamworth NSW made 418c/kg or $1225.

A SMALL yarding of only 4982 head was presented for bidders’ competition in the first AuctionsPlus online sale for the 2026 year yesterday.

Despite the limited offering, clearance rate was only 59pc, reflective of cautious early-season buyer behaviour.

Values were similar to where they ended in 2025, with tight supply, selective buying and resilient young cattle prices.

Steer supply was led by heavier lines, with steers +400kg accounting for more than 1000 head and clearing 59pc, averaging 505c/kg.

Steers 330–400kg averaged 533c/kg, while lighter steers 200–280kg were keenly sought, achieving a 100pc clearance and averaging 561c/kg, highlighting ongoing competition for well-bred young cattle suitable for backgrounding.

Highlights A line of 24 Angus steers 4-months averaging 181kg from Wingen, NSW, returned $1180 or 654c/kg and will travel to a buyer in the New England, NSW.

Fifty eight Angus steers 9-11 months averaging 228kg from Glen Innes, NSW, returned $1355 or 595c/kg and will travel to a buyer near Millmerran, QLD.

From Guluguba, QLD, 39 Angus x Droughtmaster steers 8-10 months averaging 261kg returned $1450 or 555c/kg, and will travel to a buyer near Maclagan, QLD.

Heifer trends were similar, with lighter weight categories showing improved buyer interest and firmer pricing compared to heavier types.

Among larger heifer lines, 61 Angus backgrounder heifers 15-21 months averaging 293kg from Tamworth NSW made 418c/kg or $1225.

Breeding stock numbers remained limited, particularly among cows and calves, with clearance varying widely by category. PTIC cows averaged $2759 with modest clearance, while PTIC heifers averaged $2765, reflecting selective demand rather than broad-based competition.

• AuctionsPlus sale tables were not provided this week, but are expected to return next week when week-on-week comparisons can be made.