Secondary cattle were up to 5c dearer at Wagga. In a similar sized yarding of 4900 head, quality was variable as were the prices.

In early sales there was a lift in the level of demand for secondary yearlings, inspired by the prediction of more rain mid-week.

Northern and southern store orders were plentiful and weaner steers returning to the paddock sold 4-5c dearer.

The dearer price trend was aided by strong competition from feedlot buyers and a boat order. The well-bred weaner steers back to the paddock made from 292-404c/kg. With increasing numbers of secondary heifers being sold to feedlots, restockers found the going tough and paid from 265c-300c/kg with prices slipping back 50c/kg.

The feeder market continued to show promise with the lighter weight feeders steers 280-330kg jumping 15c/kg. Well-bred steers were keenly sought and feedlots paid 274c-333c/kg. In contrast the medium weight steers eased 5c making from 270c-309c/kg.

Feeder heifer competition was steady and prices were unchanged to 5c dearer for the lighter weight portion to average 290c/kg. Medium weight heifers to feed sold from 265c to 295c/kg.

Trade cattle prices were mostly cheaper with the market lacking intensity after the shorter trading week. Trade steers dipped 11c averaging 285c /kg. The focus instead shifted to purchasing well finished yearling heifers with buyers pushing prices out to 283c/kg for European types. The better shaped British bred heifers sold 10c cheaper making from 250c to 278c/kg.

Vealers suitable for the trade were in short supply and quality was quite good at the top end. The better finished fresh vealers sold from 302c-318c/kg.

Prices for heavy grown steers and bullocks sold 10-11c cheaper, with not all processors operating. The bulk of the steers topped at 285c with younger steers helping to create some interest. The better finished pens made from 270-283c/kg.

The supply of beef cows was similar and most, better quality beef cows sold firm making from 231- 251c/kg. Plainer cows sold between 205-231c/kg.