Extremely dry conditions and plainer quality eroded prices in a reduced yarding of 3,200 cattle at Wagga. The market opened weaker on the back of last week’s cheaper trends.

Steers suitable for the trade were up to 20c cheaper, with domestic processors more selective across all weights and grades. Grass finished steers sold from 285-345c to average 302c/kg. Trade steers lacking finish sold from 270-294c/kg.

Heifer price trends varied with quality and competition tending to be the driving factor. Prices for better finished heifers were generally firm 3c dearer selling from 270-339c/kg.

Vealers were in shorter supply selling 6c cheaper and the best kill price recorded was 380c, with the balance selling from 295c to 356c/kg.

Most weaner heifers returning to the paddock 200-280kg hovered around 290-342c, with rates generally unchanged. Good quality lines of Angus steers 330-400kg attracted less buyers, with the lead pens holding their value best. Overall rates slipped 19c selling from 268-367c/kg.

A mixed selection of secondary steers was penned. The regular feedlot and opportunistic feeders were present and active. Some feedlot buyers were restricted by weight and breeding, which aided the cheaper trends of 11-18c/kg. However, some good rates were still recorded for well-bred Angus steers. Medium weight steers to feed on made from 300-365c/kg. Lighter weights topped at 365c to average 342c/kg.

After recent price corrections export steers gained some ground. Grown steers were quoted as 5c dearer by the National Livestock reporting Service (NLRS) making from 276-312c/kg. Heavy bullocks were in short supply selling at 282-300c/kg. Heavy heifers sold to fluctuating price trends, with the aged portion discounted. Heifers generally sold 6-13c cheaper topping at 300c to average 279c/kg.

The cow market lacked drive and competition fluctuated. Heavy cows were unchanged to 1c easier, while leaner grades slipped 7-11c/kg. High yielding beef cows sold from 238-260c to average 248c/kg. Leaner grades ranged from 172-225c/kg.