Yarding 7810  Change +655

WAGGA sale yesterday produced an all-time record yarding of 7810 head, up 9 percent on an already-large offering of 7155 the week before.

The milestone was driven largely by the absence of rain on the horizon and the upcoming Easter and Anzac holidays. A considerable portion of the cattle on offer weighed less than 500kg, with cow numbers surging to 1995. In the export market, processors have demonstrated significantly stronger demand, outbidding feedlots for the better-finished types.

Heavy steers sold from 310-423c/kg, while heavy heifers topped at 404c/kg. The availability of bullocks has been limited, with prices ranging from 314-365c/kg. The cow market has presented a mixed bag, with initial sales showing subdued bidding. However, as more processors entered the fray, heavy cows saw a price drop of up to 39c/kg, selling from 272-317c/kg. The middle run of leaner types has traded from 220-276c/kg.

Despite the impressive yarding numbers, the quality of the cattle remained mixed. A considerable portion of the cattle on offer weighed under 500kg.  Notably, cow numbers surged to 1995. However the increase saw a decline in overall quality, with a large proportion of leaner types entering the mix.

The sale attracted a big field of buyers, many of whom were actively seeking cattle for feedlot and restocking orders. Buyers appeared to be exercising greater discretion, particularly across all coloured cattle classes.

As the Easter break approaches, domestic buyers ramped up their purchasing, leading to a notable uptick in trade prices for those cattle weighing between 400 to 500kg. The demand for well finished stock pushed prices higher by 40-70c/kg as they engage in long bidding duels against feedlots. This resulted in trade steers and heifers selling at prices ranging from 372 to 432c/kg. In the feeder market, price trends have shown some fluctuations, although certain breeds have remained firm, with a few cents increase noted in specific areas.

Feeder steers weighing between 400-500/kg have sold at prices between 320 and 421, while lighter weights have reached up to 432c/kg. Meanwhile, medium-weight feeder heifers have experienced strong competition, with prices ranging from 336-375c, gaining an additional 5c/kg. However, restockers have been more cautious, seeking bargains and showing restraint in their bidding activities. Notably, weaner steers returning to the paddock have fetched impressive prices, reaching up to 449c/kg.

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