Yarding 800 Change NQ

Cattle were cheaper at Wagga as the market reacted to a shortage of workers at most abattoirs and a build up of stock waiting to exit feedlots. The small offering of 850 head was notably low for the first sale of 2022

In early sales there was little demand for secondary yearlings, with most feedlot buyers in Victoria for the annual weaner sales. Local store orders were operating and weaner steers returning to the paddock sold up to 40c/kg cheaper. Well-bred weaner steers returning to the paddock 280-330kg made from 555c-625c/kg to average $1894.Light weight well-bred heifers 200kg topped at 725c/kg.

The feeder steer market sold to lack lustre demand . Well-bred yearling steers dipped 25c to 30c/kg.  Medium weight steers 400-500kg sold at 480-560c/kg.

Feeder heifer competition was weak with very few orders in play. Heifers 330-400kg sold to infrequent bidding making from 470-560c/kg.

Trade cattle prices were few distorting rates. Heifers sold from 510-538c/kg.

Prices for bullocks sold to downward price trends while the heavy steers portion to feed on recorded a top price 480c/kg.  Bullocks made from 336c to 420c/kg

The supply of beef cows remained similar, 150 penned.  Very few buyers operated in a slightly cheaper market of 4-5c/kg. The better-quality beef cows made from 330- 360c/kg. Leaner grades ranged from 320-346c/kg.

Market reporter: Leann Dax

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