Numbers lifted considerably. The quality of cattle on offer were fair to good, especially in terms of well bred secondary stock across various categories.

Most notably, the prices for secondary cattle experienced strong competition with restockers also entering the fray.

Amongst the dynamics of the market, there was an uptick in orders from feedlots and restockers while, domestic processors were unable to match feedlot prices. Major feedlot buyers showed keen interest across all well-bred lines of stock. And, feedlots continued to show a big appetite for steers weighing between 330 to 640kg. Feeder steers faced a big group of buyers as the sale progressed resulting in a lift in competition, and a price jump of 25-43c/kg with medium weights averaging at 271c/kg.

Light-weight feed steers in the 330 to 400kg bracket experienced a 11c price increase, averaging out at 258c/kg. On the other hand, light-weight feeder heifers in the 280 to 330 category saw a 76c price gain, averaging at 264c/kg. Medium-weight feeder heifers were in strong demand, reaching a top price of 220c/kg. Trade heifers and steers sold from 210c to 256c/kg. In the export market heavy steers improved 26c to average 232c/kg Bullocks averaged a 20c price increase with more exporters competing. Prices ranging from 228c to 250c/kg. The quality of cows was excellent, with heavier types in greater numbers. Prices for cows jumped 20c to 25c/kg with heavy cows averaging 221c/kg.

Leaner-grades attracted stronger competition fetching from 154c to 216c/kg.

Market reporter: Leanne Dax