Bidding for cattle in a smaller yarding at Wagga of 2,485 became more selective as pressure mounts from the hot summer and easing export beef prices.

Most categories followed the weaker trend of the past week and prices for secondary cattle continued to fluctuate depending on the level of restocker and feedlot demand.

Feed steers at the commencement of the sale slipped 20c before recovering somewhat midway to finish 13c/kg easier. The main run of 778 feeder steers made from 254-303c to average 284c over both light and medium weight categories.

Prices for feeder heifers fell by an average of 13c, with sales very erratic at times. The bulk of the feeder heifers made from 212-280c/kg.

Yearling steers and heifers suitable for the trade were in short supply. Trade steers lifted 7c making from 252-294c/kg. Trade heifers were in reasonable supply however competition was weak. Heifers in general sold 7c cheaper to average 247/kg.

There was fewer heavy export cattle and limited competition for all grades of stock. Heavy steers sold to unchanged rates making from 248-264c/kg. Bullocks sold mainly to one export buyer causing prices to slip 8c to average 250c/kg. Heavy frown heifers 500kg plus sold 10-20c cheaper making from 214-247c/kg.

There were signs producers are starting to withhold stock due to the significant price correction. Cow numbers slumped to just over 400 in a mixed yarding. Despite a drop in supply buyers rarely pushed over 202c for heavy cows resulting in a cheaper trend of 8c/kg. Heavy well finished cows sold from 185-204c/kg. Leaner types were hardest hit slipping 15c making from 155-185c/kg.