Yarding 5900  Change +2760

Following last week’s public holiday, numbers surged, driven mostly by drying spring conditions. All the usual buyers were at the sale and, it became evident that their purchasing power was operating at significantly lower price levels compared to just two weeks prior.

Quality remains a mixed bag, with a percentage of young cattle showing finish, appealing to specific buyers looking for well finished stock. However, the different breeds led to some pronounced price gaps, especially for coloured cattle, which have not seen the same level of demand.

Restockers, who typically play a crucial role in the market, were noticeably less active this week. The drying spring conditions have likely contributed to this cautious approach, as restockers assess the implications of dry weather.

Trade steers and heifers were in reasonable numbers and domestic processors struggled to compete against feedlots. The bulk of the trade cattle  sold 35-55c cheaper for stock weighing between 400-500kg. The bulk making from 440-513c/kg. Light weight feeder steers 330-400kg saw prices strengthened as the sale progressed. Prices ranged from 340-526c/kg. Medium weight feeder steers slipped 29c/kg despite a big field of buyers. Light weight steers back to the paddock 200-280kg experienced a price drop of 38c/kg to average $1205/head.  Feeder heifers sold to erratic price trends with buyers discounting coloured stock. Medium weight feeder heifers sold 20c cheaper making from 357-474c/kg.

On the export front, feedlots once again dominated. Grown steers and bullocks suitable for processors sold from 430-490c/kg. Heavy steers to feed on made from 440-504c/kg. Heavy cows were well supplied however prices slipped back 23c with the better finished making from 370-405c/kg. Leaner cows under 520kg held their value best selling from 325-378c/kg.

Market Reporter Leann Dax.

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