The significant impact that rain has had on cattle movements this week has been underlined by the latest weekly national cattle throughput figures released by National Livestock Reporting Service last night.

Yardings at NLRS reported sales have dropped by 21pc this week compared to the corresponding period last week.

NSW cattle supply fell 23pc, with most centres recording reductions.

As reported in Beef Central on Tuesday several Queensland sales were also cancelled due to rain including Roma, Longreach and Blackall, which saw throughput in the state decline by 58pc.

The NLRS said other states remained relatively firm, with the exception of Victoria which went against the trend to record a 23pc increase week on week.

This was due to greater numbers early in the week with a public holiday next Monday.

The NLRS reports that a large proportion of yarded cattle are showing the effects of the cool and wet conditions.

Young cattle supply has declined by close to 10pc for the week, and the majority of those offered have been plainer.

“The cooler temperatures are affecting quality most noticeably in the south though the north is yet to feel the full effects of winter conditions,” the NLRS said.

The combination of lower numbers but sustained buying demand saw competition increase for suitable slaughter lines, with the largest price gains evident on grown cattle.

The EYCI  currently stands at 369c/kg, up 3.75c/kg on week ago levels.

Trade steers gained 3c to 198c however feeder steers slipped 3c to 191c/kg and was the only indicator to suffer a fall.

The medium steer indicator settled on 183c up 7c while heavy steers gained 12c to finish on 185.3c/kg. Medium cows also improved 5c to 130c/kg.