At NVLX Wodonga cattle numbers increased slightly to 2065 and results were a mixed bag.

Export cattle prices strengthened again following on from the dearer trend the previous week

The higher prices offered, caused a larger number of well-finished Heavy grown steers and bullocks to enter the market regardless of the favourable spring conditions.

The seasonal shortage of export cattle at some selling centres was reflected in the bullock prices, with the better quality pens selling 9c dearer making from 308c-332c/kg. Heavy grown steers 500-600kg was keenly contested by southern processors and a major supermarket which pushed prices 4c higher to top at 344c and to average 326c/kg. Heavy heifer rates slipped 9c, the better shaped pens selling from 290c-320c/kg.

Vealer numbers and quality improved, as traditionally occurs this time of year which pushed rates higher. Vealers at the top end jumped 6c to reach a top price of 354c/kg. Most other veal ranged from 312-348c/kg. Vealers lacking finish were keenly contested by feedlots and store orders and buyers paid from 315-343c/kg to average 328c/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 340c to average 337c easing 2c/kg.

Bigger numbers of well finished yearling heifers suitable for the trade kept a lid on rates, with prices easing 9c/kg. The bulk of the better finished heifers averaged 314c to top at 325c/kg.

Prices for feeder heifers softened 2c/kg on the back of the smaller contingent of feedlot buyers. Lighter weight heifers to feed on 330-400kg made from 305c-322c/kg.

Supply wise yearling steers suitable for feedlots were in limited numbers, with the well-bred secondary article hard to find. Feeder steers eased 5c with the medium weights averaging 328c/kg.

The cow market continued to gather pace as the sale progressed this week. Prices were 7-11c dearer for higher yielding lines to average 276c/kg. Heavy cows made from 262-294.2c, while good clean lean cows ranged from 248c-272c/kg. Heavy bulls sold from 270-300c/kg.