Cattle throughput declines with some rain in places

Total cattle consignments across the country so far this week reduced 27pc, with all states yarding fewer numbers, as rain fell across some supply regions in places through much needed areas of Queensland and NSW. Numbers in Queensland were 37pc lower week-on-week, with Roma penning 2,000 head fewer cattle, while NSW saw total throughput decline 32pc, as numbers more than halved at Gunnedah. Cattle supply across Victoria dropped 6pc on last week, while consignments across SA eased 2pc over the same period. WA’s Muchea declined 11pc week-on-week, and Tasmania’s Killafaddy market saw numbers fall 22pc.

Good restocker and feeder demand

As there were fewer numbers yarded at most markets due to some rain, prices generally trended dearer across most categories, with good competition from restocker and feeder buyers through Queensland. Young cattle dominated the yardings at Toowoomba and Warwick this week, while heavy grown steers and most cow grades met dearer prices from processors.

Buoyed by recent rain and the weather forecast, Tamworth saw increased restocker demand on light and medium weight vealer steers, with keen restocker and feeder interest reported at Scone, CTLX and Wagga. Quality continues to be reportedly mixed throughout most categories.

Prices generally dearer

At the close of Tuesday’s markets, the Eastern Young Cattle Indicator (EYCI) improved 4.25c week-on-week, to settle on 295.50c/kg cwt. Trade steers were 3c dearer on 172c, while medium steers reduced 6c, to average 157c/kg. Feeder steers increased 3c on 165c, while heavy steers were 4c lower on 169c/kg. Medium cows were 1c dearer, to average 115c/kg.

Source: Meat & Livestock Australia