Yarding 4360 Change +1260

The market experienced a significant lift in numbers, with quality remaining mixed. Some excellent younger cattle, either grain finished or off crops, stood out in this week’s sale. Premium prices were achieved for secondary lines of well-bred vendor steers and heifers, although competition varied significantly by breed. Light weight cattle were in greater numbers this week. A full field of export and domestic buyers were in attendance however not all domestic or export processors operated.

Trade steers and heifers sold within the range of 440-540c/kg. Lightweight steers experienced strong competition, resulting in a price increase of 36c, averaging 1447/head. The heifer portion gained 25c, averaging $1243/head. Lightweight feeder steers lifted 10c, supported by strong demand from the north, fetching between 480-586c/kg. Medium-weight feeder steers, weighing 400-500kg, remained mostly unchanged to slightly cheaper, selling for 428-547c/kg. Feeder heifers increased by 30c, while the medium-weight heifers slipped 8c, mainly making from 450-526c/kg.

In the export market, feedlots dominated purchases of younger steers, particularly Angus. Heavy steers and bullocks suitable for processors sold from 424-500c/kg. The steers headed for feedlots improved by 26c, ranging from 470-539c/kg. The cow sale was erratic, with heavy cows selling for 384-428c/kg, down by 6c/kg. Leaner cows under 520kg remained steady, fetching between 330-380c/kg. Notably, cows returning to the paddock that were pregnancy tested in calf reached a top price of 476c/kg, underscoring the ongoing strong demand for young cows.

Market Reporter Leann Dax.

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