Yarding 7000  Change +1900

Producers responded to the impending Australia Day public holiday next week, which contributed to numbers lifting significantly. Quality continues to be mostly secondary.

The usual contingent of export and domestic processors attended the sale, though notably not all operated, or were extremely selective.  What stood out was the significantly increased presence of feedlot orders in the market, with buyers indicating strong interest in securing steers carrying adequate weight. Restockers from both northern and southern regions maintained active buying alongside local inquiry, creating a competitive sale across lighter weight classes.

Steers and heifers suitable for the trade remained in short supply, prices were between 410 to 478c/kg. The feeder steers attracted keen competition, especially for cattle exceeding 330kg. Light and medium-weight feeder steers saw lengthy bidding for well-bred stock, with light weights 330-400kg making between 425 and 508c/kg. Medium-weight feeder steers gained 14c to average 468c, while heavy weights proved hotly contested, resulting in a notable 34c price lift that saw them trading between 445 and 515c/kg.

On the export front, feedlot buyers dominated trading in the heavy st0eer class, with processors taking only limited numbers from this category. Steers suitable for processor sold from 410 and 460c, while bullocks experienced weaker demand, slipping 33c to average 447c/kg. The cow market saw plenty of weight in the heavy category, with prices easing 5c to range from 370 to 412c/kg Leaner cattle under 520kg sold from 350 to 383c/kg. Store cows with some condition sold from 344-393c/kg.

Market Reporter Leann Dax.

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