Yarding 2400 Change -860

Numbers dipped and trends varied in a smaller yarding of 2,495 cattle at Wagga.

Cattle prices continue to fluctuate as the industry braces itself against a tough winter following another week of disappointing rainfall.

Lighter weight categories of weaner steers and heifers under 300kg suffered a price correction of 20c and more due to waning interest from restockers, which in turn has taken the pressure off a boat order and feedlot competition. Steers back to the paddock sold from 228-302c. while the heifer portion made from 160-244c/kg.

Demand from feedlots continued to strengthen given buyers wanted 400-500kg steers, which elevated prices a further 7c/kg. Well-bred medium steers sold from 277-318c/kg. Lighter weight secondary steers 330-400kg suitable to feed-on was in shorter supply, and sold 2c higher to average 306c/kg.

Secondary heifers suitable for feedlots were also in limited numbers and settled into a price range of 259c-291c/kg.

The trade market continued its buoyant run. Good quality domestic heifers were keenly sought by both domestic buyers and feedlots which contributed to dearer rates of 15c/kg. The better finished lines making from 255c to 309c/kg.  Steers were few making from 290-304c/kg.

Heavy grown steers and bullocks held their ground with prices firm on the better finished younger lines of steers 500-600kg. Heavy grown steers sold from 266-295. Bullocks made from 275-295c/kg.

In the cow run prices improved 19c/kg.  A run of heavy beef cows averaged 226c topping at 238c/kg.  Leaner grades surged up to 22c making from 169-205c/kg. The hot ticket item was store cows with a fair percentage of the offering returning to the paddock. Store cows sold at 144-206c to average $1016.

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