Yarding 4800  Change +1100

Numbers saw a lift in anticipation of next week’s closure for the Anzac public holiday. The yarding presented a mixed bag, while some secondary cattle were well-bred, they were often in plainer condition. Well-finished cattle across all classes were notably limited. The usual buyers were present, but not all orders were active this week, leading to fluctuations in demand throughout the sale. Restockers appeared more subdued, reflecting a cautious approach amidst the current conditions. The standout aspect of the sale was the cow sale, where prices experienced a decline of 35-60c. This drop can be attributed to abattoirs feeling the pressure from the overwhelming number of cattle coming out of the north.

There was a price shift for light weight steers, which was attributed to a decline in demand. Steers weighing between 200-280kg, saw prices drop by 40c, averaging 476c/kg. In contrast, the heifer portion managed to garner stronger demand, reaching an average of 408c/kg. Feedlot competition for steers remained solid, though it lacked the intensity experienced the previous sale. Light weight steers in the 330-400kg category sold for an average of 483c, reflecting a decrease of 34c. Medium weight feeder steers also faced a slight easing in prices, selling from 430-522c down by 7c/kg. Trade steers and heifers weighing between 400-500kg, was limited. Notably, an odd pen of grain-assisted cattle was offered, yet some domestic buyers showed reluctance to buy. Prices for these steers and heifers varied, ranging from 400-516c/kg.

The export market presented its own challenges, with not all buyers showing interest in heavy steers and bullocks, which did exert downward pressure on prices. Additionally, several pens of 6 and 8 teeth cattle contributed to a significant price drop. On the other hand, milk and two teeth steers attracted robust interest from feedlots, resulting in competitive bidding and all young steers destined for feedlots. Prices for aged steers and bullocks varied, falling between 374-440c, while feedlots paid between 366-526c for steers in the 500-600kg range.

On the cow front, processors exhibited a subdued response to the 1255 head offered, largely due to the overwhelming supply coming from the north. Heavy cow prices fluctuated, with many sales reflecting significant price drops. The bulk of heavy cows sold between 325-358c, with a few isolated instances of single cows reaching 368c/kg. Demand weakened for cows under 520kg as the sale progressed, with D2-D3 cows trading between 240-320c/kg. Store cows also saw a price decline, making 250-335c/kg, reflecting a decrease of 60c/kg.

Market Reporter Leann Dax.

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