Yarding 4400  Change +800

Last week’s price rise sparked moderate increase in numbers. The offering was mixed in quality, featuring predominantly well-bred secondary stock alongside some exceptional grain-fed export cattle. A substantial group of buyers attended the sale, including restockers from both northern and southern regions along with local activity. This robust competition once again drove prices upward, especially with restockers frequently outbidding feedlots for cattle under 400kg.

In terms of trade cattle, steers and heifers weighing between 400-500kg were limited in each agent’s run, with the majority selling for 441-524c/kg, and the heifer portion significantly outperforming, climbing by 26c/kg. Lightweight feeder heifers 330-400kg experienced strong demand from the north, which boosted their prices by 22c to an average of 519c/kg. Medium-weight heifers suitable for feeding gained 6c, selling for 410-518c/kg. Lightweight feeder steers weighing 330-400kg attracted keen interest from both feedlots and restockers. Angus-bred steers in this weight range ignited competitive bidding, with those returning to the paddock achieving a 52c/kg increase, averaging $2111/head. Meanwhile, steers destined for feedlots improved by 32c to average $2002/head. Medium-weight feed steers remained unchanged, fetching between 478-551c/kg, while lightweight steers weighing 200-289kg saw a 5c increase, averaging $1534/head.

On the export front, younger cattle, particularly grain-fed types, drew intense competition from processors and feedlots. Bullocks remained firm, with prices rising by up to 2c to average 480c/kg. Heavy steers suitable for processors surged by 19c, reaching a top price of 539c/kg. The steers portion to feed on sold from 440-550c/kg gaining 9c/kg. Heavy grain-fed heifers also pushed prices upward, with the bulk selling for 435-496c/kg for the better-quality types. In the cow sale, quality varied, but heavy cows were well-represented and sought after, resulting in price increases of 17-20c, with the bulk selling for 392-441c/kg. Leaner cows under 520kg the D3 types sold between 370-412c/kg, while store cows fetched prices ranging from 355-439c/kg.

Market Reporter Leann Dax.

Source: NLRS Click here to view full Wagga report on NLRS website.