Yarding 2670 Change -65

Secondary cattle were dearer at Wagga as the market reacted to tight supplies at all selling centres.

The offering of 2670 was marginally lower than the previous sale. Quality was mostly secondary with well finished cattle in short supply.

In early sales there was a lift in the level of demand for secondary yearlings, inspired by northern store orders and backgrounders. Weaner steers returning to the paddock were up to 50c dearer  The dearer price trend was aided by the increased orders. The well-bred weaner steers returning to the paddock 200-280kg made from 755c-820c/kg to average $1874.  With increasing numbers of secondary heifers being sold to feedlots, restockers found the going tough paying from 632c-730c/kg for plainer store conditioned types.

The feeder steer market continued its impressive run . Well-bred Angus yearling steers were keenly sought by major feedlots pushing rates 25c higher for steers 330-400kg. Prices topped at 655c to average $2349. Medium weight steers 400-500kg sold at 522-599c/kg.

Feeder heifer competition strengthened 6c to 13c/kg with buyers in regular bidding duels throughout the sale. Heifers 330-400kg consistently made from 475-622c/kg. Medium weight heifers sold from 470 to 580c, with prices strengthening  as the sale progressed.

Trade cattle were limited. Steers and heifers sold from 470-590c/kg.

Prices for heavy grown steers and bullocks sold to patchy demand with both categories selling 14c/kg cheaper. C3 and C4 steers sold from 420c to 530c/kg.

The supply of beef cows remained similar, 400 penned.  Most buyers operated in a slightly cheaper market of 2 to 3c/kg. The better-quality beef cows made from 390- 410c/kg. Leaner grades ranged from 320 to 395c/kg.

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