Yarding 4100 Change -420

Numbers declined moderately and agents offered a mixed yarding with trade cattle 400-500kg scarce. There were more major feedlots in the mix this week, while restockers remained subdued for lighter weight steers, leading to lower price levels. Domestic and export buyers attended but struggled to match the prices offered by feedlots, reflecting the stronger demand from feedlots. Heavy export cattle that were milk and two teeth were primarily purchased by lot feeders. Light weight cattle under 300kg sold to local producers, as well as into southern Victoria. A significant portion of the heifers were destined for Tamworth in NSW.

Trade cattle, sales were somewhat subdued and limited to a range of 430-520c/kg. Notably, a few veal suitable for processors commanded higher prices, falling between 510-550c/kg. The lightweight steers, weighing between 200-280kg, experienced notable price fluctuations depending on breed. The lack of intensity seen in previous weeks led to a price decline of 30c, bringing the average down to $1434/head. Similarly, the price for heifers dipped by 13c, resulting in an average of $1324/head. However, the feeder steers in the 330-400kg range saw a different trend. Stronger competition from feedlots pushed prices up by 7c, leading to an average of 595c/kg. Medium-weight feed steers fetched between 475-625c/kg, averaging 573c/kg. Feeder heifers attracted significant interest from a broader field of buyers, with the bulk selling between 472-570c/kg.

On the export front, processors struggled to match the prices offered by feedlots, who remained dominant. Feeder steers sold within a range of 485-598c/kg. Heavy steers suitable for processors, categorized as 4 and 6 tooth steers, eased back to a price range of 430-530c/kg, reflecting a drop of 9c/kg. In contrast, bullocks saw a price increase of 7c, selling between 450-510c/kg. Heavy heifers with desirable shape maintained their average at 475c/kg.

The cow sale was characterized by a larger group of processors; however, the overall trends were cheaper. Heavy cows sold within the range of 390-430c/kg, while cows weighing under 520kg experienced a decline of 6c, making between 352-393c/kg. Cows returning to the paddock were priced between 320-394c/kg, and heavy bulls topped the market at 456c/kg.

Market Reporter Leann Dax.

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