Yarding 5000 Change -1130

CATTLE markets in the past week have been erratic and Wagga experienced the same fluctuating price trends, depending on quality and competition. Agents yarded 5000 cattle, 1000 less than the previous market.

The quality of the yarding slipped, with producers offloading unfinished stock in varying condition on the back of dry conditions and cheaper prices.

Select lines of well-bred feeder steers are still commanding over 280c despite the cheaper trend of 15-20c/kg. Medium weight steers to feed on 400-500kg made from 222c-287c to average 264c/kg. Lighter weight steers 330-400kg averaged 263c/kg.

The price correction for feeder heifers was more severe under the weight of bigger numbers and reduced competition. Feeder heifers sold up to 24c cheaper to average 220c/kg.

Bidding for trade steers was steady and only top drafts of well finished steers attracted spirited bidding. Prices were generally unchanged with 400-500kg steers topping at 290c to average 281c/kg.

The heifer market was erratic at times, with buyers not willing to lift rates much past 260c/kg. A select butcher order competed strongly for the top pens, paying up to 272c/kg.  Trade heifers 400-500kg sold 2c cheaper while the lighter trade weights 330-400kg slipped 1c averaging 246c/kg.

Steady demand from processors and limited supplies of heavy steers kept prices firm. Heavy steers 500-600kg topped at 286c to average 278c/kg. Bullock quality varied and aged bullocks were discounted heavily. Younger bullocks made from 280-290c/kg with the main run averaging 280c/kg.

The cow market continued to lack drive under the weight of numbers and weaker demand and a bigger yarding of 1250. Despite an almost full field of buyer’s, prices dipped notably. Heavy cows sold 22c cheaper to average 208c/kg. The better leaner grades made from 150-210. Plainer types were more difficult to sell ranging from 120-150c/kg.

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