Numbers dipped and rates lifted in a smaller yarding of 2,800 cattle at Wagga.

Weaner steer prices hit their highest level in three months on the back of widespread rain. The dearer trend of 30-56c/kg stretched over all light weight categories of steers and heifers, with prices reaching a top of 440c/kg for the steer portion. Breed and quality this week was good, comprising of some feature lines of Angus and black baldy heifers which sold to a top of 382c/kg. Well-bred store heifers sold from 360-382c/kg.

Demand from feedlots continued to strengthen given buyers dropped into lighter weight categories 280-320kg, which elevated prices a further 10c/kg. Well-bred light weight steers sold from 314-384c to average 376c/kg. Medium weight secondary steers 400-500kg suitable to feed-on was in shorter supply, and sold 14c higher to average 346c/kg.

Secondary heifers suitable for feedlots were also in limited numbers and settled into a price range of 328c-339c/kg.

The trade market continued its buoyant run. Trade steers 400-500kg lifted 20c making from 322-360c/kg. Good quality domestic heifers were keenly sought by both domestic buyers and feedlots which contributed to dearer rates. The better finished lines jumped 20c making from 310c to 364c/kg.

Heavy grown steers and bullocks held their ground with prices strengthening on the better finished younger lines of steers 500-600kg. Heavy grown steers sold 8c higher to record a top price of 339c/kg. Bullocks made from 292-310c/kg.

In the cow run a few more buyers participated and prices improved 6-14c/kg. A run of heavy beef cows averaged 243c topping at 265c/kg. Leaner grades surged up to 14c making from 215-244c/kg. The hot ticket item was store cows with a large percentage of the offering returning to the paddock. Store cows sold at 200-248c to average $1100