Yarding 5800 Change 120

Cattle markets in the past week have been erratic and Wagga experienced the same fluctuating price trends, depending on quality and competition. Agents yarded 5900 cattle in a similar sized offering.

The quality of the yarding slipped, with producers offloading unfinished stock in varying condition on the back of dry conditions and cheaper prices.

Select lines of well-bred feeder steers are still commanding over 290c despite the cheaper trend of 10-18c/kg. Medium weight steers to feed on 400-500kg made from 266c-315c to average 287c/kg. Lighter weight steers 330-400kg averaged 276c/kg.

The price correction for feeder heifers was less severe under the weight of reduced numbers and more competition. Feeder heifers sold up to 6c cheaper to average 261c/kg.

Bidding for trade steers was steady and only top drafts of well finished steers attracted spirited bidding. Prices were generally unchanged with 400-500kg steers topping at 292c to average 281c/kg.

The heifer market was erratic at times, with buyers not willing to lift rates much past 260c/kg. A select butcher orders competed solidly for the top pens, paying up to 272c/kg.  Trade heifers 400-500kg sold 11c cheaper averaging 258c/kg.

Weaker demand from processors and limited supplies of heavy steers kept a floor in price. Heavy steers 500-600kg topped at 296c to average 285c/kg. Bullock quality varied and aged bullocks were discounted. Younger bullocks made from 260-285c/kg.

The cow market continued to lack drive under the weight of numbers and weaker demand and a bigger yarding of 1350. Despite an almost full field of buyer’s, prices dipped notably. Heavy cows sold 15c cheaper to average 214c/kg. The better leaner grades made from 172-213. Ends….

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