Yarding 3100 Change -105

In the wake of recent rain, market numbers remained similar, though the quality of cattle was mixed. Notably, some cattle came off crops or were grain fed. The usual buyers attended the sale, along with added feedlot orders this week. Feedlots emerged as the primary volume buyers, while restockers played a more subdued role.

Trade in steers and heifers was limited, with heifers making up most trade cattle in the 400-500 kg range. Sales varied significantly, ranging from 472 to 548/c/kg, with lighter weights stopping at 573c/kg.

There was strong demand for feeder steers, prompting buyers to focus on lighter weights, particularly since cattle over the 400kg mark were limited in many agents offerings. Light-weight feed steers saw an increase of 11c, selling between 530-630c/kg.

Medium weights remained mostly unchanged, trading from 500 to 617 c/kg. Feeder heifer prices exhibited notable fluctuations, with Angus heifer’s vendor-bred achieving premium prices. The lighter heifers, weighing 330-400kg, improved by 15c to average 528 c/kg, while medium weights saw a decline, dropping 10c to average 523c/kg.

Light-weight steers in the 200-280kg category experienced a significant drop of 28c, trading between 473 and 626c/kg, averaging $1476/head.

On the export front, a significant portion of the heavy steers was acquired by feedlots. Steers suitable for processors were sold within the range of 450-540c/kg, whereas those destined for feedlots fetched prices between 422-584c/kg. Bullocks faced patchy competition, trading between 430-493c/kg, reflecting a decline of 15c/kg. Demand in the cow market remained robust, with well-finished cows improving 4c to average 414c/kg. Leaner cows weighing under 520 kg were limited, selling between 370-394 c/kg for the better-covered types.

Market Reporter Leann Dax.

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