Yarding 3775  Change -810

Numbers dropped significantly, and the bulk of the cattle were secondary types A notable feature of the offering was the substantial numbers of light-weight cattle across each agent’s run. Local agents said the local area had not benefited from the rain experienced in other regions, leading vendors to prefer not holding on to lighter stock through the winter months. The usual buyers in made it to the sale however export processors were very subdued when operating in the cow sale.

Restockers and feedlots showed keen interest in light-weight steers and heifers ranging from 200-280kg. Prices experienced a notable lift, with steers returning to the paddock increasing by 19c, fetching between 462-628c to average $1,338, while the heifers averaged $962/head. Meanwhile, steers in the same weight bracket destined for feeding averaged $1,353/head. The light-weight feeder steers weighing 330-400kg also saw an improvement of 6c, averaging 504c/kg. As the sale unfolded, medium-weight feeder steer prices rose, primarily spurred by limited numbers, gaining 5c and selling between 440-538c/kg. Feeder heifers drew a smaller group of buyers, yet prices still climbed by 14c for lighter weights, averaging 464c/kg. Medium-weight feeder heifers found a market between 430-484c/kg. The trade heifers saw an uptick in numbers, including some grain-fed, resulting in a price increase of 21c, with the bulk averaging 473c/kg.

In the export market, heavy cattle were scarce, with heavy steers and bullocks selling between 440-480c/kg. Heavy heifers with good shape commanded prices from 440-471c/kg. However, in the cow sale, the scenario was less optimistic; fewer buyers were active, leading to weaker competition. Heavy cows sold 7c cheaper, ranging from 385-408c/kg, while leaner cows under 530kg saw a 7c increase, supported by restockers. Cows returning to the paddock with some cover sold within the range of 338-395c/kg.

Market Reporter Leann Dax.

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