Yarding 4260 Change +460
Numbers increased moderately. The overall quality of the cattle was fair to good, with a notable increase of heavier cattle in the mix.
The usual buyers were present at the sale, alongside a significant group of restockers, many of whom were operating from Victoria. This influx of restockers contributed to stronger competition, especially around specific breeds. Buyers demonstrated a willingness to pay premium prices for vendor bred Angus steers and heifers.
One of the standout features of the sale was the cow market, which experienced a noticeable uptick in prices, with values rising by more than 30c/kg.
There was a very good selection of vealers and processors paid from 440-504c/kg. Trade steers and heifers 400-500kg sold between 420-496c/kg. Notably, the feeder steer market was particularly strong, with some buyers introducing new orders midway through the sale. Medium weight feeder steers recorded a 5c increase, averaging 475c/kg. Lighter weights saw an even more significant rise of 27c, driven by strong interest from restockers. Light weight steers, weighing 280-330kg, averaged $1570, while the heifer portion similarly averaged $1451/head. Feeder heifers were in high demand, with buyers bidding aggressively for vendor bred lines. Medium weight feeder heifers gained 11c, selling between 405-487c/kg.
On the export front, heavy steers, and bullocks suitable for processors sold at significantly higher prices, ranging from 410 to 490c/kg. Heavy heifers with good shape saw an improvement of 18c, fetching between 432-467c/kg. The cow market also experienced a notable uplift of 30c at the beginning of the sale, with heavy cows selling for 400 to 435c/kg, reflecting overall 32c/kg increase. Leaner cows weighing under 520kg were also highly sought after, gaining 39c and selling between 370-424c/kg. Additionally, restockers looking for young cows contributed to a substantial market push, elevating prices by 63c/kg. Cows intended to return to the paddock made between 370 and 421c/kg.
Market Reporter Leann Dax.
Source: NLRS Click here to view full Wagga report on NLRS website.