In a smaller yarding at NVLX Wodonga trade cattle prices showed a softer trend this week, along with weaker competition from feedlots and restockers.

The highlight of the sale was the export market which was boosted by stronger demand from Thomas Food International. Bullocks rates lifted 7c making from 272-298c to average 294c/kg. Heavy grown steers 500-600kg benefited from stronger domestic competition which helped underpin values. Heavy steers lifted 4c making from 270-300c/kg.

Price results for vealers was significantly lower which was mostly quality related. The limited supply averaged 20c cheaper making from 280-320c/kg.

While trade prices have become cheaper in the past two weeks, the better finished and well-bred supplementary fed heifers, with plenty of shape held their value best. Medium weight trade heifers 400-500kg sold firm making from 260-310c with a single sale to 312c/kg.

Competition fluctuated for supplementary fed steers which suited domestic processors while grass finished did not attract all buyers and price dipped 13c/kg. Well finished steers sold to high of 304c while other sales ranged from 280-300c/kg. A pen of lighter weight supplementary fed steers under 400kg fired the bidding reaching a top price of 363c/kg

There was not the depth in feedlot activity and this did have an adverse effect on lighter categories, with rates easing 7c making from 282-322c/kg. Medium weight steers sold to strong local feedlot demand lifting 13c fetching 280-312 c to average 305c/kg.

Heifers suitable to feed-on were limited and the leaner well-bred types slipped 5c making from 260-299c/kg.

The cow market mostly tracked firm in a smaller yarding and less processor competition. Heavy cows sold at 238-261c to average 243c/kg.. Leaner grades crept 1c higher making from 212-235c/kg