Yarding 3340 Change -1020

Numbers declined significantly, though the quality remained mixed. Notably, a significant number of heifers weighing between 400-500kg, carried substantial fat cover, attracting processors but ultimately a fair portion were snapped up by feedlots. The secondary cattle presented were well-bred, with a large contingent of feedlot and restocking buyers were present, each holding several orders. Heavy steers and bullocks, however, continued to be in short supply. Lighter weight cattle under 280kg were in reasonable number

Trade cattle numbers increased, primarily comprising grass-finished stock. Steers and heifers in the 400-500kg range sold between 422-554c/kg. Steers weighing 330-400kg experienced strong demand from restockers, resulting in a price increase of 48c/kg, bolstered by recent rainfall. The bulk of these sold between 500-587c/kg, while similarly weighted steers destined for feedlots gained 10c/kg, averaging 548c/kg. Medium-weight feeder steers, from 400-500kg, sold from 488-556c/kg, gaining 7c/kg in the process. Feeder heifers faced stronger competition at times, leading to fluctuating price improvements based on breed and the purchasing feedlot. Lighter weights in this category sold 20c dearer, averaging 515c/kg, while medium weights fluctuated around firm levels, making between 390-540c/kg. Light weight steers 200-280kg averaged $1465, while the heifer portion $1272/head.

On the export front, heavy steers were mainly purchased by feedlots and fetched prices ranging from 470-541c/kg. Buyers shifted their focus to bullocks, which resulted in a 28c/kg price increase, with sales occurring between 449-485c/kg. Heavy cows lifted by 7ckg, selling at 396-433c/kg, while leaner cows under 520kg gained 10-15c/kg, fetching between 365-396c/kg.

Market Reporter Leann Dax.

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