Yarding 2200 Change -300

Results were quite mixed compared to the previous market. Domestic buyers were selective with the disruption of the Australia Day holiday Thursday.

Heavy export cattle prices were found good traction following on from the cheaper trend the previous week.

The seasonal shortage of export cattle at some selling centres was reflected in the bullock prices, with the better quality pens gaining 6c  making from 340c-372c/kg.  Heavy grown steers 500-600kg were keenly contested by southern processors which resulted in a dearer trend of 20c/kg. Heavy heifer rates lifted 7c, with the better shaped pens selling from 340c-375c/kg.

Bidding for medium weight trade steers was influenced by the level of feedlot competition at times. After some notable prices drops, medium weight steers topped at 386c to average 365c/kg.

Reasonable numbers of well finished yearling heifers suitable for the trade kept a lid on rates, with prices easing 9c/kg. The bulk of the better finished heifers averaged 310c to top at 360c/kg.

Prices for medium weight feeder heifers kicked 5c/kg on the back of one extra operator. Lighter weight heifers to feed on 330-400kg slipped 10c and made from 330c-408c/kg.

Supply wise yearling steers suitable for feedlots were in bigger numbers, with the well-bred secondary types well supplied. Feeder steers 330-400kg dipped 30c making from 330-428c/kg.

The cow market lost traction, with rates most noticeably dipping across leaner categories. Prices were 18c cheaper for higher yielding lines. Heavy cows made from 285-305c, while good lean types ranged from 220c-275c/kg. Heavy bull recorded a top price of 305c/kg.

Market reporter: Leann Dax

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