Cattle numbers at Wagga saw a notable decrease, with agents yarding 4570 head, 550 less than the previous sale.

The yarding was mostly secondary types, better suited for lot feeders or restockers.

Despite the absence of some exporters at the sale, the market held firm across all categories. Overall, prices remained fairly stable, except for light-weight steers returning to the paddock, which saw a price increase of 38c/kg.

In the trade sale, a select few well-finished cattle attracted strong competition from processors and lot feeders. Trade steers and heifers experienced a slight dip in rates for plainer types, selling firm yet averaging 4c lower, with prices ranging from 312c to 372c/kg. A limited number of vealers were available, fetching between 330c and 370c/kg.

Medium-weight feed steers were well represented, and heightened competition for large lines of well-bred Angus steers resulted in a 4c price increase, with sales ranging from 300 to 398c/kg.

Feeder heifers were well supplied but experienced fluctuating price trends throughout the sale. Medium-weight feed heifers remained firm, selling from 302c-366c/kg.

Light-weight steers weighing between 200-280kg saw strong demand from northern restockers, leading to a significant price jump of 38c, topping at 455c/kg, with an average price of $1,035 per head.

Although not all buyers were at the export sale, prices remained robust with all well finished stock keenly sought. Heavy steers sold for an average of 4c more, trading between 300c and 370c/kg. Bullocks held steady, with prices unchanged or slightly lower, ranging from 330c to 366c/kg. The supply of cows dropped significantly to just 470 head this week, and this limited availability contributed to a very solid market as buyers tried to fill their loads. Heavy cows sold between 310c and 339c, while leaner cows under 520 kilograms experienced a slight dip of 6c, selling for between 264c and 310c/kg.0

Market Reporter: Leann Dax

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