At NVLX Wodonga cattle numbers decreased slightly to 1540 and results were on par with the previous market; however at times some domestic buyers become more selective across vealer categories.

Heavy export cattle prices were mostly stable following on from the dearer trend the previous week

The seasonal shortage of export cattle at some selling centres was reflected in the bullock prices, with the better quality pens firm making from 234c-276c/kg. Heavy grown steers 500-600kg was not as keenly contested by southern processors which resulted in a cheaper trend of 7c to average 259c/kg. Heavy heifer rates lifted 7c, with the better shaped pens selling from 253c-269c/kg.

Vealer numbers and quality slipped, as traditionally occurs this time of year. Vealer steers at the top end sold 14c cheaper reaching a top price of 315c/kg. Most other veal ranged from 250-312c/kg. Vealers lacking finish were keenly contested by a southern feedlot and the odd store order. Buyers paid from 260-298c/kg to average 285c/kg.

Bidding for medium weight trade steers was influenced by the level of feedlot competition at times. After some notable prices, medium weight steers topped at 294c to average 278c lifting 4c/kg.

Reasonable numbers of well finished yearling heifers suitable for the trade kept a lid on rates, with prices easing 2c/kg. The bulk of the better finished heifers averaged 259c to top at 285c/kg.

Prices for feeder heifers kicked 6c/kg on the back of one extra operator. Lighter weight heifers to feed on 330-400kg made from 243c-276c/kg.

Supply wise yearling steers suitable for feedlots were in bigger numbers, with the well-bred secondary types well supplied. Feeder steers were unchanged to 2c easier making from 243-281c/kg.

The cow market lost traction with rates most noticeably dipping across leaner categories. Prices were 5c cheaper for higher yielding lines to average 207c/kg. Heavy cows made from 194-213c, while good lean ranged from 177c-191c/kg. Heavy bull lifted 8c selling from 214-237c/kg.