Yarding 5250 Change +1150

As spring conditions continue to dry out, the  market saw an uptick in numbers at Wagga. While overall quality was mostly secondary, there were noteworthy exceptions, particularly among heavy export cattle classes. However, not all buyers actively participated in the market, likely due to the upcoming Melbourne Cup holiday, which has contributed to a more measured approach when purchasing.

The demand for feeder steers was notably robust, especially for those in the 400-500kg range. Prices for these sought-after steers improved by 2-3 cents, selling between 310-356c/kg. In contrast, lighter feeder steers experienced a slight decline, slipping by 5c to average 321c/kg.

Feeder heifers, on the other hand, experienced a more erratic demand depending on what breed. The most affected were the heifers weighing between 280-330kg, which saw prices drop significantly as the sale progressed, averaging 275c after a decline of 28c/kg. Medium-weight feeder heifers also faced a downturn, selling for 9c less and fetching between 300c-315c/kg. However, there was strong demand for heifers intended for paddock return, with prices ranging from 296c to 322c/kg. Similarly, steers back to the paddock in the 280-330kg range commanded prices from 278c to 384c/kg. Trade steers and heifers experienced fluctuating price trends, with the majority selling between 290c and 340c/kg.

 In the export market, not all buyers attended or operated. However, prices remained solid across the board. Heavy steers held steady, maintaining prices from 29c0 to 350c/kg. Bullocks were particularly competitive, with prices rising by 2c to range from 305c to 386c/kg. The cow market saw most of the buying group engaged, with heavy cows unchanged at 280c-301c/kg.  Additionally, the middle run of cows weighing under 520kg improved slightly, averaging 267c/kg.

Market Reporter: Leann Dax

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