Yarding 5100 Change +100
Numbers remained steady, and the quality of stock under 500kg continued to be mixed. Heavy cattle stood out at the sale, presenting processors with plenty of shape and finish. A full field of buyers attended, with some arriving with extra feedlot orders.
Feedlot competition intensified, particularly for Angus steers, as many buyers were eager to acquire stock. Additionally, restockers participated actively, purchasing cattle either for the local area or to southern areas of Victoria. Overall, the sale highlighted a competitive environment, implemented by feedlots for quality lines of cattle.
Trade cattle were in short supply, with feedlots dominating all weight categories. Trade steers and heifers sold within the range of 422-481c/kg. The primary focus was on cattle suitable for feeding, and buyers were willing to pay premium prices for Angus and black baldy steers. Bidding duels were lengthy, especially for steers weighing between 400-500kg, which saw an increase of 25c, fetching from 454-524c/kg. In contrast, lighter weights experienced a decline of 41c, reflecting a drop in quality and less orders compared to the previous week.
Feeder heifers were highly sought after, with medium weights fetching an additional 12c selling between 422-476c/kg. Lighter weights also improved, making between 410-502c/kg, which equated to a lift of 7c/kg.
There was some exceptional export bullocks offered, and the lift in quality helped push the market higher by about 12 c/kg. Processors paid a premium for these better-quality lots, with prices in the 440–494c/kg range.
Heavy steers 500 to 600kg suitable for domestic processors were in limited supply as feedlots secured most of this weight range. Prices for these steers ranged from 420–480c/kg, a price dip of 11c/kg on the week. Heavy feeder steers however gained 23c to average 499c/kg.
The cow market remained solid across all weights and grades, even though prices eased marginlly. Heavy cows sold from around 405–426c/kg, down roughly 9c/kg. Leaner cows under 520 kg experienced a larger dip to average 391c/kg. Store cows traded in the 382–424c/kg band, reflecting continued demand for lighter plain types. Heavy bulls sold from 420-450c/kg.
Market Reporter Leann Dax.
Source: NLRS Click here to view full Wagga report on NLRS website.