Wagga cattle sale saw a notable increase in cattle numbers with 3780 yarded. The quality of cattle on offer remained consistently very good, especially in terms of finished cattle across various trade categories. Most notably, the prices for these well-finished trade cattle continued to enjoy robust demand, with a prominent supermarket chain actively participating at the top end of the trade.

Amongst the dynamics of the market, there was an uptick in orders from feedlots for medium weight heifers, leading to keen competition between these orders and processors. Equally, the trend indicated weaker feedlot demand for steers, a pattern that persisted throughout the market.

Major feedlot buyers displayed mixed interest, and competition appeared to wane for lines of well-bred steers. However, domestic processors continued to exhibit a steady appetite for steers weighing between 400 to 500 kilograms. Feeder steers faced lacklustre competition, resulting in a 10c/kg price dip, with medium weights averaging at 212 cents per kilogram. Light-weight feed steers in the 330 to 400kg range experienced a 14c price decrease, averaging at 208c/kg. On the other hand, light-weight feeder heifers in the 330 to 400-kilogram category saw a 4c price increase, averaging at 165c/kg. Medium-weight feeder heifers were in high demand, with several sales surging by 10c, reaching a top price of 212c/kg. Trade heifers faced fluctuating demand, as buyers occasionally hesitated to compete with feedlot buyers. Heifers in the 400 to 500kg range observed a 30c price decline, averaging at 189c/kg. In contrast, trade steers remained stable, with well-covered pens fetching prices ranging from 210 to 240c/kg.

Turning to the export market, bidding activity maintained its solidness, gaining momentum as the sales progressed. Heavy steers retained their pricing stability, averaging at 225c/kg. However, bullock prices experienced a slight downward drift, especially for the older steers, with prices ranging from 190 to 244c/kg. The quality of cows was excellent, with a higher proportion of heavy types. Prices for heavy cows improved by 5c/kg. Heavy D4 cows traded between 178c and 198c, while leaner-grade cows fetched prices ranging from 154 to 178c/kg.

Market reporter: Leanne Dax