Yarding 1600 Change -800

The market at Wagga found some of its mojo, with prices improving for a few categories. Numbers declined notably, with agents yarding only 1600 head, 800 less than the previous week.

Keen buying competition from all sectors helped give the market some momentum. One of the highlights was strong buying by two major feedlots for heavy weight steers.

Supplementary fed trade steers attracted stronger competition, with prices reaching a high of 354c to average 333c/kg.

Continual rain in the past 10 days contributed to fewer young cattle being offered which helped lift heifer trade prices a further 10c/kg. Medium weight heifers 400-500kg made from 255-326c to average 310c/kg.

Feeder steers 400-500kg were unchanged to a few cents dearer owing to increased demand from a major feedlot after a short absence. Secondary heifers to feed on 400-500kg were 5c dearer, with several feedlots and processors bidding for a market share.

Prices strengthened for light weight weaner steers and heifers. Drafts of steers lacking finish 200-280kg, jumped 94c making from 365-402c/kg, to average the equivalent of $951. Bidding for secondary heifers was solid topping at 300c/kg.

It was more of the same in the export market with a combination of tightening supplies and stronger feedlot demand. Heavy bullocks and steers to kill made from 280 to 340c/kg. Heavy grown steers to feed on met stronger demand for the better milk and two tooth portion. National Livestock Reporting Service quoted feeder prices 30c higher with a single pen reaching a top price of 330c/kg.

Cow numbers declined, with only 395 yarded and not all processors operated. Not all weights and grades were represented, and prices generally lifted 20c/kg. Heavy cows made from 240c-269c to average 261c/kg. Leaner grades were plainer, and the better run of leaner cows made from 210-226c/kg.  Store cows sold to a small field of restockers making from 216-219c/kg.

Market reporter: Leanne Dax

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