Melbourne cup day produced a similar sized yarding of 1,700. The effect of a month’s improved weather conditions was reflected in the condition of cattle, with increased numbers of well finished yearlings.

The market showed two distinct price trends for young cattle, with trade steers unchanged while the heifer portion lost 10c/kg.

Trade steers made from 328c -361c, with the European cross portion commanding premium prices. A major domestic processors was absent from the market which contributed to the price correction for medium weight heifers. The bulk of the heifers fetched 300- 357c to average 316c/kg.

There were some price spikes for vealers, but overall the market continued to track firm. Veal rates ranged from 318-414c/kg.

Feedlot buyers were active over a range of weights and grades of yearling steers and prices were generally unchanged. Feeder steers 330-400kg made from 326-358c/kg.

The feeder heifer market fluctuated because of only limited supplies of Angus heifers 330-400kg, which generally command the higher rates. Lighter weight feeder heifer slipped 17c to average 316.5c/kg. A few more medium weights heifers attracted a Wagga feedlot selling from 305-317c/kg.

The divergent nature of the export market was seen over bullock categories with processors lowering prices by 8c/kg for steers over 600kg to average 290c/kg. Yet heavy steers lacked major domestic competition causing prices to fall back 10c/kg. The main run of heavy steers 500-600kg sold at 276-329c to average 311c/kg.

Cow numbers more than halved in a yarding of just over 330. Heavy cows were unchanged making from 234-260c to average 242c/kg. Leaner grades sold at 205-244c/kg