Yarding 2870  Change +770

In the wake of last week’s robust sales, the cattle market experienced a notable lift. However, the quality of livestock remains mixed, with a significant portion of purchases made by lot feeders.

All the usual buying groups were present at the sale, and most were actively participating, yet lot feeders dominating most categories. There was a larger number of cattle in the 400-500kg range, specifically suiting domestic processors. While competition varied across secondary categories, interest in coloured cattle waned from lot feeders, leading to a decline in prices.

Trade steers and heifers sold within a range of 440-510c/kg, although the price for steers slipped by 22c/kg. Lightweight feeder steers faced a downturn, losing 27c to average 513c/kg. Medium-weight feeder steers also experienced weaker price trends, despite active participation from most buyers, with prices dropping by 22c, selling between 455-429c/kg. Additionally, the lighter weight steers, ranging from 200-280kg back to the paddock, saw a reduced number of local buyers, resulting in lower prices that fell by 50c, averaging $1240/head. Feeder heifer sales displayed erratic patterns; lighter weights improved by 7c, while medium weights saw a decline of 16c, averaging 480c/kg.

On the export front, the numbers remained limited, with the majority of stock sold to lot feeders. Heavy steers and bullocks to suit processors fetched prices between 440-528c/kg, while heavy feeder cattle sold within a range of 476-539c/kg. Heavy cows were in high demand, lifting by 12c to range from 420-455c/kg. Cattle under 520kg experienced strong competition as buyers sought to make up loads with light weight cows, with prices varying from 330-433c/kg.

Market Reporter Leann Dax.

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