It seems a rate lift last week contributed to another large yarding at Wagga of 4,900 cattle. After strong results the previous week, where prices rose 10-20c, rates again jumped by 10-25c/kg for secondary types.

Trade cattle were in limited numbers according to Meat & Livestock Australia’s National Livestock Reporting Service, and, the best price recorded for domestic kill cattle on Monday was 316c/kg for vealer steers. It meant the top vealer calves returned up to $1217.

Trade steer quality slipped, with only a handful selling to the trade and competition was selective. Prices ranged from 275 to 314c/kg. There were reasonable numbers of medium weight trade heifers 400-500kg who attracted solid support from most processors. Well-finished heifers lifted 6c to average 286c/kg.

The bigger yarding of secondary cattle was off-set by increased feedlot orders. Prices held up remarkably well, with rates lifting as the sale progressed. Overall feeder steers rose 5-10c/kg. Steers 330-400kg made from 290 331c to average 320/kg. Feeder steers 400-500kg topped at 328c to average 316c/kg.

Mixed quality yearling heifers did cause some price variations and generally put a halt to any price increases, with all categories mostly unchanged to a few cents cheaper. Feeder heifers 330-400kg fetched 270-309c/kg.

Rain across the supply area a fortnight ago has provided a confidence boost, with restocking weaner steers surging up to 25c/kg. Well-bred lines of steers 200-280kg sold from 310-360c/kg. Weaner heifers were in greater numbers this week making from 259c-299c/kg.

Better quality heavy steers and bullocks were in shorter supply, and prices did fluctuate depending on age. The better steers and bullocks made from 270-304c/kg.

Cow numbers increased and so did demand, with all weights and grades keenly sought. Plainer cows sold to stronger demand finding solid support from restockers. Leaner types sold 9c dearer making from 205-233c/kg. Heavy cows were up to 6c dearer topping at 245c to average 234c/kg. Store cows ranged from 176c to 236c/kg.