Yarding 3400 Change -1870

On the back of cheaper trends last week, numbers fell significantly, with producers opting to hold cattle for weight gain due to the abundance of feed across most of the supply area. Not all domestic or export buyers were operating, while feedlot and restocking orders were back on past weeks. However, demand lifted as reduced numbers were offered across all categories, with restockers and feedlots keen to make purchases particularly the steer portion, while domestic processors remained extremely cautious.

Trade steers and heifers sold to very weak demand, with little competition coming from Victoria. Prices fell by an average of 26-30c, with the bulk selling between 430-540c/kg. Lighter weight grass finished heifers improved 17c to average 471c/kg. Feeder steers sold to stronger demand as the sale progressed. Lighter weights were unchanged, while medium weights gained 6-13c selling from 485-550c/kg. It was another fluctuating market for feeder heifers, with prices firming. Lightweight feeder heifers were mostly unchanged, while medium weights gained 4-10c/kg, making from 426-510c/kg.

In the export market, heavy steers and bullocks were scarce. Bullocks improved by 16c, selling from 430-491c/kg. Most exporters set their sights on heavy heifers, along with a major supermarket, with prices improving by 38c to make from 467-492c/kg. Heavy cows made up the bulk of the cow offering, making from 370-421c/kg. Leaner types under 520kg were limited, resulting in an 18c price lift and making from 355-398c/kg. Cows returning to the paddock sold from 386-396c/kg.

Market Reporter Leann Dax.

Source: NLRS Click here to view full Wagga report on NLRS website.