Pricing Updates

Yarding: 1,110 (-90). Ave c/bu: Yrlng: hfs 418 (-15) str 456 (+1). Grwn: hfs 363 (-7) str 389 (-17). Cows 297 (+10). Bulls 308 (-32). Veal: hfs 613 (+108) str 562 (+43).

There was a small reduction in numbers. Cows were well supplied along with vealers and yearlings. The quality of the offering was generally good with lines of very well bred vealers and yearlings available. The quality of the larger penning of cows also showed improvement. The full compliment of regular buyers were in attendance.

Strong restocker demand combined with a quality improvement saw heavy weight vealer steers sell to a much dearer trend. At the other end of the scale, very plain, very light vealers met fierce restocker competition to record some of the highest prices for this centre. Medium and heavy weight yearling feeder steers saw a firm to slightly cheaper market trend. Medium weights to restockers however were a shade dearer. There was greater availability of heavy steers suitable to the trade. There was a limited supply of yearling feeder heifers with the market showing little change. Well finished heifers to the trade sold to a cheaper trend, the exception being the few to local butcher orders.

Heavy weight steers over 500kg to feed experienced little change in market trends and included some younger drafts. Heavy weights to process saw a dearer trend with a great range in prices from an age and quality perspective. Strong demand combined with an improvement in quality resulted in a dearer cow market, up to 9c/kg better. Market reporter; James Armitage

Yarding: 798 (-436). Ave c/bu: Yrlng: hfs 356 (NQ) str 393 (NQ). Grwn: hfs 346 (NQ) str 360 (NQ). Cows 271 (NQ). Bulls 387 (NQ). Veal: hfs 426 (NQ) st

Muchea market penned 800 head, down by nearly 400 on last week. The market softened and was mainly quality driven. In the younger cattle sections, local weaners were down 30c/kg despite increased competition from live export. Pastoral weaners fell 50c to 70c/kg, mainly due to a poorer quality selection and no interstate enquiry. Heavier cattle also eased including score 2 cows back 10c, prime heavy cows down 5c and heavy prime bulls slipped 20c/kg. It was not all negative as the pastoral yearling heifers gained 15c, pastoral grown steers gained 20c and lightweight bulls to live export gained 20c/kg.

In the weaner portion of the yarding, the local weaner steers to feeders and live export sold from 350c to 550c, down 30c/kg. The corresponding pastoral weaner steers sold from 248c to 350c, down 70c/kg. Local weaner heifers sold from 320c to 484c, a fall of 30c/kg. The pastoral weaner heifers fell 50c/kg and sold from 240c to 462c/kg. Yearling steers, local to the trade sold at 350c to 404c/kg, to remain firm.

There were no pastoral yearling steers penned. Local yearling heifers to the trade were mainly supplementary grain fed and sold from 350c to 398c/kg to remain firm. The pastoral yearling heifers gained 15c, quality related and sold from 220c to 386c/kg. Local grown steers 500 to 600kg sold from 340c to 404c/kg firm. The pastoral grown steers improved in quality and price, they gained 20c and sold from 332c to 356c/kg. Grown heifers were all local and gained 5c at 320c to 396c/kg.

In the cow market, the medium weight 2 score to feeders and restockers eased 30c and sold from 146c to 246c/kg. Similar score 2 weights to processors sold from 220c to 258c, down by 10c/kg. The prime heavy to processors sold from 274c to 336c, down 5c/kg.

Yarding: 798 (-436). Ave c/bu: Yrlng: hfs 356 (NQ) str 393 (NQ). Grwn: hfs 346 (NQ) str 360 (NQ). Cows 271 (NQ). Bulls 387 (NQ). Veal: hfs 426 (NQ) st

Muchea market penned 800 head, down by nearly 400 on last week. The market softened and was mainly quality driven. In the younger cattle sections, local weaners were down 30c/kg despite increased competition from live export. Pastoral weaners fell 50c to 70c/kg, mainly due to a poorer quality selection and no interstate enquiry. Heavier cattle also eased including score 2 cows back 10c, prime heavy cows down 5c and heavy prime bulls slipped 20c/kg. It was not all negative as the pastoral yearling heifers gained 15c, pastoral grown steers gained 20c and lightweight bulls to live export gained 20c/kg.

In the weaner portion of the yarding, the local weaner steers to feeders and live export sold from 350c to 550c, down 30c/kg. The corresponding pastoral weaner steers sold from 248c to 350c, down 70c/kg. Local weaner heifers sold from 320c to 484c, a fall of 30c/kg. The pastoral weaner heifers fell 50c/kg and sold from 240c to 462c/kg. Yearling steers, local to the trade sold at 350c to 404c/kg, to remain firm.

There were no pastoral yearling steers penned. Local yearling heifers to the trade were mainly supplementary grain fed and sold from 350c to 398c/kg to remain firm. The pastoral yearling heifers gained 15c, quality related and sold from 220c to 386c/kg. Local grown steers 500 to 600kg sold from 340c to 404c/kg firm. The pastoral grown steers improved in quality and price, they gained 20c and sold from 332c to 356c/kg. Grown heifers were all local and gained 5c at 320c to 396c/kg.

In the cow market, the medium weight 2 score to feeders and restockers eased 30c and sold from 146c to 246c/kg. Similar score 2 weights to processors sold from 220c to 258c, down by 10c/kg. The prime heavy to processors sold from 274c to 336c, down 5c/kg.

Total 5,000 (+1,700), lambs 3,500 (+1,500), sheep 1,500 (+200).

Lamb numbers showed a good increase, while the sheep supply saw a moderate rise. The quality of the lamb offering was mostly good, with a mix of well finished crossbred, Dorper and Merinos. Restockers were well catered for with young ewes and some nicely bred crossbred lambs. The usual processors were in attendance, while restocker activity was high throughout.

Market trends were generally cheaper through the lamb market. Light weight lambs to restockers were not as keenly sought as buyers looked to take on heavier weights, targeting heavy and extra heavy weight carcases in late Winter. Those heavier weight restocker lambs were only marginally cheaper in comparison to the light weights. Lambs to process also sold to cheaper trends, the heaviest weight class most affected, while there was some quality related price change in some categories. Ewe lambs of any breed were keenly sought by restockers.

Restockers were also active in the ewe portion of the sheep sale, making it difficult for processors to purchase any but the heavy weights. Weaker processor demand resulted in sheep to slaughter selling to cheaper trends. Most classes only slightly affected.

Total 5,000 (+1,700), lambs 3,500 (+1,500), sheep 1,500 (+200).

Lamb numbers showed a good increase, while the sheep supply saw a moderate rise. The quality of the lamb offering was mostly good, with a mix of well finished crossbred, Dorper and Merinos. Restockers were well catered for with young ewes and some nicely bred crossbred lambs. The usual processors were in attendance, while restocker activity was high throughout.

Market trends were generally cheaper through the lamb market. Light weight lambs to restockers were not as keenly sought as buyers looked to take on heavier weights, targeting heavy and extra heavy weight carcases in late Winter. Those heavier weight restocker lambs were only marginally cheaper in comparison to the light weights. Lambs to process also sold to cheaper trends, the heaviest weight class most affected, while there was some quality related price change in some categories. Ewe lambs of any breed were keenly sought by restockers.

Restockers were also active in the ewe portion of the sheep sale, making it difficult for processors to purchase any but the heavy weights. Weaker processor demand resulted in sheep to slaughter selling to cheaper trends. Most classes only slightly affected.

Total 5,000 (+1,700), lambs 3,500 (+1,500), sheep 1,500 (+200).

Lamb numbers showed a good increase, while the sheep supply saw a moderate rise. The quality of the lamb offering was mostly good, with a mix of well finished crossbred, Dorper and Merinos. Restockers were well catered for with young ewes and some nicely bred crossbred lambs. The usual processors were in attendance, while restocker activity was high throughout.

Market trends were generally cheaper through the lamb market. Light weight lambs to restockers were not as keenly sought as buyers looked to take on heavier weights, targeting heavy and extra heavy weight carcases in late Winter. Those heavier weight restocker lambs were only marginally cheaper in comparison to the light weights. Lambs to process also sold to cheaper trends, the heaviest weight class most affected, while there was some quality related price change in some categories. Ewe lambs of any breed were keenly sought by restockers.

Restockers were also active in the ewe portion of the sheep sale, making it difficult for processors to purchase any but the heavy weights. Weaker processor demand resulted in sheep to slaughter selling to cheaper trends. Most classes only slightly affected.

Total 5,000 (+1,700), lambs 3,500 (+1,500), sheep 1,500 (+200).

Lamb numbers showed a good increase, while the sheep supply saw a moderate rise. The quality of the lamb offering was mostly good, with a mix of well finished crossbred, Dorper and Merinos. Restockers were well catered for with young ewes and some nicely bred crossbred lambs. The usual processors were in attendance, while restocker activity was high throughout.

Market trends were generally cheaper through the lamb market. Light weight lambs to restockers were not as keenly sought as buyers looked to take on heavier weights, targeting heavy and extra heavy weight carcases in late Winter. Those heavier weight restocker lambs were only marginally cheaper in comparison to the light weights. Lambs to process also sold to cheaper trends, the heaviest weight class most affected, while there was some quality related price change in some categories. Ewe lambs of any breed were keenly sought by restockers.

Restockers were also active in the ewe portion of the sheep sale, making it difficult for processors to purchase any but the heavy weights. Weaker processor demand resulted in sheep to slaughter selling to cheaper trends. Most classes only slightly affected.

Total 5,000 (+1,700), lambs 3,500 (+1,500), sheep 1,500 (+200).

Lamb numbers showed a good increase, while the sheep supply saw a moderate rise. The quality of the lamb offering was mostly good, with a mix of well finished crossbred, Dorper and Merinos. Restockers were well catered for with young ewes and some nicely bred crossbred lambs. The usual processors were in attendance, while restocker activity was high throughout.

Market trends were generally cheaper through the lamb market. Light weight lambs to restockers were not as keenly sought as buyers looked to take on heavier weights, targeting heavy and extra heavy weight carcases in late Winter. Those heavier weight restocker lambs were only marginally cheaper in comparison to the light weights. Lambs to process also sold to cheaper trends, the heaviest weight class most affected, while there was some quality related price change in some categories. Ewe lambs of any breed were keenly sought by restockers.

Restockers were also active in the ewe portion of the sheep sale, making it difficult for processors to purchase any but the heavy weights. Weaker processor demand resulted in sheep to slaughter selling to cheaper trends. Most classes only slightly affected.

Total 5,000 (+1,700), lambs 3,500 (+1,500), sheep 1,500 (+200).

Lamb numbers showed a good increase, while the sheep supply saw a moderate rise. The quality of the lamb offering was mostly good, with a mix of well finished crossbred, Dorper and Merinos. Restockers were well catered for with young ewes and some nicely bred crossbred lambs. The usual processors were in attendance, while restocker activity was high throughout.

Market trends were generally cheaper through the lamb market. Light weight lambs to restockers were not as keenly sought as buyers looked to take on heavier weights, targeting heavy and extra heavy weight carcases in late Winter. Those heavier weight restocker lambs were only marginally cheaper in comparison to the light weights. Lambs to process also sold to cheaper trends, the heaviest weight class most affected, while there was some quality related price change in some categories. Ewe lambs of any breed were keenly sought by restockers.

Restockers were also active in the ewe portion of the sheep sale, making it difficult for processors to purchase any but the heavy weights. Weaker processor demand resulted in sheep to slaughter selling to cheaper trends. Most classes only slightly affected.

Total 5,000 (+1,700), lambs 3,500 (+1,500), sheep 1,500 (+200).

Lamb numbers showed a good increase, while the sheep supply saw a moderate rise. The quality of the lamb offering was mostly good, with a mix of well finished crossbred, Dorper and Merinos. Restockers were well catered for with young ewes and some nicely bred crossbred lambs. The usual processors were in attendance, while restocker activity was high throughout.

Market trends were generally cheaper through the lamb market. Light weight lambs to restockers were not as keenly sought as buyers looked to take on heavier weights, targeting heavy and extra heavy weight carcases in late Winter. Those heavier weight restocker lambs were only marginally cheaper in comparison to the light weights. Lambs to process also sold to cheaper trends, the heaviest weight class most affected, while there was some quality related price change in some categories. Ewe lambs of any breed were keenly sought by restockers.

Restockers were also active in the ewe portion of the sheep sale, making it difficult for processors to purchase any but the heavy weights. Weaker processor demand resulted in sheep to slaughter selling to cheaper trends. Most classes only slightly affected.

Total 15,180 (-2,030), lambs 11,590 (-360), sheep 3,590 (-1,670).

It was a fair quality yarding with good numbers of heavy weight lambs along with a few pens of good trade weights. There were larger numbers of lambs lacking bloom and finish along with a couple of consignments of only fair quality Merinos.

Trade lambs were $6 to $8 cheaper selling from $145 to $198/head to average between 780c and 810c/kg cwt. Heavy weight lambs finished $7 cheaper with the 24kg to 30kg lambs selling from $186 to $235/head to average 765c/kg cwt. The lambs over 30kg sold from $236 to $270/head to average 725c/kg cwt. Merino lambs were $3 to $7 cheaper with the trade weights selling from $140 to $193, while a pen of heavy weight Merino lambs sold for $201/head. Restocker lambs were $6 dearer with the crossbreds selling from $124 to $192 while two pens of first cross ewe lambs sold to the restockers for $200 and $252/head. Merino lambs to the restockers from $70 to $194/head. Hoggets sold to $250/head.

It was a mostly good quality yarding of mutton where the Merino sheep were up to $17 cheaper and the crossbreds were up to $20/head cheaper. Merino ewes sold from $98 to $231 while the crossbred ewes sold from $160 to $255/head. Merino wethers sold from $135 to $225/head. Dorper wethers sold to $240/head. Carcase prices ranged from 600c to 660c/kg cwt. The restockers paid from $172 to $207 for White Dorper and Aussie White ewes.

Total 15,180 (-2,030), lambs 11,590 (-360), sheep 3,590 (-1,670).

It was a fair quality yarding with good numbers of heavy weight lambs along with a few pens of good trade weights. There were larger numbers of lambs lacking bloom and finish along with a couple of consignments of only fair quality Merinos.

Trade lambs were $6 to $8 cheaper selling from $145 to $198/head to average between 780c and 810c/kg cwt. Heavy weight lambs finished $7 cheaper with the 24kg to 30kg lambs selling from $186 to $235/head to average 765c/kg cwt. The lambs over 30kg sold from $236 to $270/head to average 725c/kg cwt. Merino lambs were $3 to $7 cheaper with the trade weights selling from $140 to $193, while a pen of heavy weight Merino lambs sold for $201/head. Restocker lambs were $6 dearer with the crossbreds selling from $124 to $192 while two pens of first cross ewe lambs sold to the restockers for $200 and $252/head. Merino lambs to the restockers from $70 to $194/head. Hoggets sold to $250/head.

It was a mostly good quality yarding of mutton where the Merino sheep were up to $17 cheaper and the crossbreds were up to $20/head cheaper. Merino ewes sold from $98 to $231 while the crossbred ewes sold from $160 to $255/head. Merino wethers sold from $135 to $225/head. Dorper wethers sold to $240/head. Carcase prices ranged from 600c to 660c/kg cwt. The restockers paid from $172 to $207 for White Dorper and Aussie White ewes.

Total 15,180 (-2,030), lambs 11,590 (-360), sheep 3,590 (-1,670).

It was a fair quality yarding with good numbers of heavy weight lambs along with a few pens of good trade weights. There were larger numbers of lambs lacking bloom and finish along with a couple of consignments of only fair quality Merinos.

Trade lambs were $6 to $8 cheaper selling from $145 to $198/head to average between 780c and 810c/kg cwt. Heavy weight lambs finished $7 cheaper with the 24kg to 30kg lambs selling from $186 to $235/head to average 765c/kg cwt. The lambs over 30kg sold from $236 to $270/head to average 725c/kg cwt. Merino lambs were $3 to $7 cheaper with the trade weights selling from $140 to $193, while a pen of heavy weight Merino lambs sold for $201/head. Restocker lambs were $6 dearer with the crossbreds selling from $124 to $192 while two pens of first cross ewe lambs sold to the restockers for $200 and $252/head. Merino lambs to the restockers from $70 to $194/head. Hoggets sold to $250/head.

It was a mostly good quality yarding of mutton where the Merino sheep were up to $17 cheaper and the crossbreds were up to $20/head cheaper. Merino ewes sold from $98 to $231 while the crossbred ewes sold from $160 to $255/head. Merino wethers sold from $135 to $225/head. Dorper wethers sold to $240/head. Carcase prices ranged from 600c to 660c/kg cwt. The restockers paid from $172 to $207 for White Dorper and Aussie White ewes.

Total 23,500 (-1,500), lambs 19,000 (), sheep 4,500 (-1,500).

Similar sized offering of lambs to a week ago, but less sheep. There was more weight and finish in the lead run of export and trade lambs, however quality across the balance of the yarding remained very mixed with a lot of pens lacking fat cover. Competition was keener from both export and domestic buyers, but bidding was still selective and the market was erratic at times. The general trend was firm to $3 to $10/head dearer over the better slaughter stock. Heavy export lambs in the 30 to 33kg cwt range showed the most improvement.

A pen of extra heavy crossbred lambs estimated at 38 to 40kg cwt topped the sale at $285, well clear of the general run at $235 to $265/head. Heavy lambs in the 26 to 30kg cwt category from $206 to $230/head for most. Carcase estimates for these heavy lambs stretched from 700c to 800c/kg depending on weight and quality, for averages of 770c to 780c/kg when all sales were calculated together. The best heavy trade lambs $190 to $210/head, the pick selling above 800c but again, plainer types were discounted for a similar overall result of 770 to 780c/kg cwt. Merino lambs sold strongly to match crossbred lambs on a carcase basis, reaching a top of $232/head. A lot of the plainer conditioned crossbred trade lambs with frame-size sold to restockers for winter feeding at $160 to $175, occasional sales to the paddock as high as $186/head. Very small and light lambs $80 to $130/head.

Another limited selection of sheep, with several lines of big Merino wethers the feature. Competition fluctuated for a cheaper result across most categories. Heavy Merino wethers in short skins from $196 to $234/head to hold their value. Big crossbred ewes $200 to $230 for most, with just isolated sales to $250/head.

Total 11,915 (-885), lambs 10,115 (+115), sheep 1,800 (-1,000).

Agents penned another slightly smaller yarding. The quality was mixed, with all weights and grades on offer. A full buying consortium were in attendance and all operating with restockers and feedlot buyers stepping in on light lambs and some unfinished lots.

The finish on trade lambs was mixed. Light and medium weights sold from $161 to $185, slipping $2 to $4/head. Domestic processors all participated on the heavy trade lambs and despite this, prices were $6 softer selling from $184 to $204/head. Heavy lambs 25 and 26kg continue to be well supplied with both domestic and export processors operating. Lambs were $5 softer selling from $190 to $212/head. A good offering of extra heavy weights were available with all export processors operating. Prices were $1 to $4 easier selling from $215 to $236, and the over 30kg lambs sold from $235 to $250/head.

Trade weight Merino lambs were well supplied making from $156 to $188 slipping up to $7, heavy weights selling to $225/head. Light lambs to the processors sold from $139 to $158 and were firm to $4 softer whilst light lambs back to the paddock sold from $87 to $150/head. Lambs between 18 and 24kg going onto feed, sold from $165 to $191/head.

Mutton quality was mixed selling to varying trends. Heavy Merino ewes sold from $168 to $214 and heavy cross bred ewes reached $215/head.

Total 11,915 (-885), lambs 10,115 (+115), sheep 1,800 (-1,000).

Agents penned another slightly smaller yarding. The quality was mixed, with all weights and grades on offer. A full buying consortium were in attendance and all operating with restockers and feedlot buyers stepping in on light lambs and some unfinished lots.

The finish on trade lambs was mixed. Light and medium weights sold from $161 to $185, slipping $2 to $4/head. Domestic processors all participated on the heavy trade lambs and despite this, prices were $6 softer selling from $184 to $204/head. Heavy lambs 25 and 26kg continue to be well supplied with both domestic and export processors operating. Lambs were $5 softer selling from $190 to $212/head. A good offering of extra heavy weights were available with all export processors operating. Prices were $1 to $4 easier selling from $215 to $236, and the over 30kg lambs sold from $235 to $250/head.

Trade weight Merino lambs were well supplied making from $156 to $188 slipping up to $7, heavy weights selling to $225/head. Light lambs to the processors sold from $139 to $158 and were firm to $4 softer whilst light lambs back to the paddock sold from $87 to $150/head. Lambs between 18 and 24kg going onto feed, sold from $165 to $191/head.

Mutton quality was mixed selling to varying trends. Heavy Merino ewes sold from $168 to $214 and heavy cross bred ewes reached $215/head.

Total 11,915 (-885), lambs 10,115 (+115), sheep 1,800 (-1,000).

Agents penned another slightly smaller yarding. The quality was mixed, with all weights and grades on offer. A full buying consortium were in attendance and all operating with restockers and feedlot buyers stepping in on light lambs and some unfinished lots.

The finish on trade lambs was mixed. Light and medium weights sold from $161 to $185, slipping $2 to $4/head. Domestic processors all participated on the heavy trade lambs and despite this, prices were $6 softer selling from $184 to $204/head. Heavy lambs 25 and 26kg continue to be well supplied with both domestic and export processors operating. Lambs were $5 softer selling from $190 to $212/head. A good offering of extra heavy weights were available with all export processors operating. Prices were $1 to $4 easier selling from $215 to $236, and the over 30kg lambs sold from $235 to $250/head.

Trade weight Merino lambs were well supplied making from $156 to $188 slipping up to $7, heavy weights selling to $225/head. Light lambs to the processors sold from $139 to $158 and were firm to $4 softer whilst light lambs back to the paddock sold from $87 to $150/head. Lambs between 18 and 24kg going onto feed, sold from $165 to $191/head.

Mutton quality was mixed selling to varying trends. Heavy Merino ewes sold from $168 to $214 and heavy cross bred ewes reached $215/head.

Total 11,915 (-885), lambs 10,115 (+115), sheep 1,800 (-1,000).

Agents penned another slightly smaller yarding. The quality was mixed, with all weights and grades on offer. A full buying consortium were in attendance and all operating with restockers and feedlot buyers stepping in on light lambs and some unfinished lots.

The finish on trade lambs was mixed. Light and medium weights sold from $161 to $185, slipping $2 to $4/head. Domestic processors all participated on the heavy trade lambs and despite this, prices were $6 softer selling from $184 to $204/head. Heavy lambs 25 and 26kg continue to be well supplied with both domestic and export processors operating. Lambs were $5 softer selling from $190 to $212/head. A good offering of extra heavy weights were available with all export processors operating. Prices were $1 to $4 easier selling from $215 to $236, and the over 30kg lambs sold from $235 to $250/head.

Trade weight Merino lambs were well supplied making from $156 to $188 slipping up to $7, heavy weights selling to $225/head. Light lambs to the processors sold from $139 to $158 and were firm to $4 softer whilst light lambs back to the paddock sold from $87 to $150/head. Lambs between 18 and 24kg going onto feed, sold from $165 to $191/head.

Mutton quality was mixed selling to varying trends. Heavy Merino ewes sold from $168 to $214 and heavy cross bred ewes reached $215/head.

Total 11,915 (-885), lambs 10,115 (+115), sheep 1,800 (-1,000).

Agents penned another slightly smaller yarding. The quality was mixed, with all weights and grades on offer. A full buying consortium were in attendance and all operating with restockers and feedlot buyers stepping in on light lambs and some unfinished lots.

The finish on trade lambs was mixed. Light and medium weights sold from $161 to $185, slipping $2 to $4/head. Domestic processors all participated on the heavy trade lambs and despite this, prices were $6 softer selling from $184 to $204/head. Heavy lambs 25 and 26kg continue to be well supplied with both domestic and export processors operating. Lambs were $5 softer selling from $190 to $212/head. A good offering of extra heavy weights were available with all export processors operating. Prices were $1 to $4 easier selling from $215 to $236, and the over 30kg lambs sold from $235 to $250/head.

Trade weight Merino lambs were well supplied making from $156 to $188 slipping up to $7, heavy weights selling to $225/head. Light lambs to the processors sold from $139 to $158 and were firm to $4 softer whilst light lambs back to the paddock sold from $87 to $150/head. Lambs between 18 and 24kg going onto feed, sold from $165 to $191/head.

Mutton quality was mixed selling to varying trends. Heavy Merino ewes sold from $168 to $214 and heavy cross bred ewes reached $215/head.

Yarding: 771 (-97). Ave c/bu: Yrlng: hfs 386 (NQ) str 400 (NQ). Grwn: hfs 311 (NQ) str 372 (NQ). MX str 290 (NQ). Cows 272 (NQ). Bulls 327 (NQ). Veal: hfs 427 (NQ) str 449 (NQ).

There were 771 cattle sold, which was 97 head less then last week. The quality ranged from average to good. The usual buyers attended and operated in a slightly cheaper sale for the younger cattle of 5c to 10c/kg with some of the well presented pens selling close to unchanged in places. Grown cattle and cows were on average from 5c to 15c/kg easier, and the plainer quality of bulls offered also sold to a cheaper trend.

The better quality vealers sold from 438c to 485c, yearling steers to the trade sold from 378c to 420c/kg. Yearling heifers, also to the processors, made from 355c to 432c, with the feeders and restockers paying from 360c to 438c/kg. Grown steers C3 score made from 364c to 394c, with a pen going to restockers at 415c/kg. The older bullocks sold from 335c to 368c, heavy grown heifers with cover sold from 338c to 388c and a pen of Friesian manufacturing steers made 290c/kg.

Very light cows made 140c to 210c and the leaner and medium weight cows sold from 255c to 288c/kg. The heavy dairy bred cows, D1 and D2 scores made from 220c to 256c/kg. Heavy beef cows sold from 290c to 328c/kg and cows purchased by restockers sold from 208c to 304c/kg. The best of the bulls sold from 241c to 246c, with a pen of young bull vealers making to 405c/kg.

Yarding: 3,300 (+100). Ave c/bu: Yrlng: hfs 459 (NQ) str 489 (NQ). Grwn: hfs 372 (NQ) str 411 (NQ). MX str 321 (NQ). Cows 312 (NQ). Bulls 328 (NQ). Veal: hfs 468 (NQ) str 512 (NQ). Calves 598 (NQ).

Dry conditions and strong prices contributed to higher numbers. The limited availability of good domestic trade cattle meant processors had to up the ante to purchase stock. Secondary cattle were well supplied with a large percentage destined for feedlots. All the regular export and domestic buyers were in attendance. There were several northern and local restocking orders in place however buyers struggled to find adequate numbers of well-bred types.

In the trade market, domestic buyers competed strongly to acquire steers 400 to 500kg. Steers suitable for the trade averaged 474c/kg. A single pen of European cross steers recorded a top price of 495c/kg. Feedlots put a solid floor in trade heifer prices which resulted in a price lift of 3c/kg. Medium weight trade heifers sold from 398c to 456c/kg. Light weight secondary steers 200 to 280kg sold to a top price of 715c/kg to average $1,577 per head. The heifer portion recorded a top price of 575c/kg. Prices for feeder steers were strong for all weight categories. Steers 400 to 500kg sold from 400c to 489c to average 466c/kg. Medium weight feeder heifers eased 2c averaging 448c/kg.

Not all processors operated in the export run. Heavy steers and bullock sold to stronger competition from domestic buyers, feedlots and some export demand. Prices for C3 steers and bullocks ranged from 365c to 451c/kg. Heavy heifers were in shorter supply and several processors along with feedlots keenly contested the younger portion. The bulk suitable to process, selling from 333c to 392c/kg. In the cow market, not all processors operated. Heavy well finished cows sold from 296c to 338c/kg. Leaner cows were in short supply making from 250c to 313c/kg.

Yarding: 1,233 (NQ).

Numbers were down for a total yarding of 1,233 head of good quality cattle at Mt Barker. All categories gained again with only light weight calves easing on quality. Heavy cows remained firm selling to 348c while store cows gained 15c/kg. Light weight steer weaners sold to a top of 568c while a quality line of angus heifers to restockers sold up to 558c/kg.

Weaner steers weighing over 330kg sold from 426c to 538c while medium weights made from 498c to 554c and lightweights returned 466c to 568c/kg.

Weaner heifers weighing over 330kg made 410c to 558c while medium weights sold for 448c to 486c and lightweights returned 420c to 482c/kg.

Yearling steers sold from 400c to 532c while yearling heifers gained returning 358c to 460c /kg.

Bullocks weighing over 500kg sold for 350c to 400c while lighter weights returned 376c to 448c /kg.

Grown heifers weighing over 540kg made from 320c to 360c and the lighter trade weights sold from 300c to 440c /kg.

Heavy prime cows remained firm selling for 308c to 348c while boners returned 180c to 280c while feeder buyers picked up cows for 276c /kg.

Heavy bulls sold for 260c to 310c, medium weights made 370c and lightweight bullies returned from 300c to 494c to average 438c/kg.

Yarding: 1,156 (-95). Ave c/bu: Yrlng: hfs 392 (NQ) str 431 (NQ). Grwn: hfs 332 (NQ) str 387 (NQ). MX str 347 (NQ). Cows 272 (NQ). Bulls 342 (NQ). Veal: hfs 452 (NQ) str 465 (NQ).

There were approximately 800 export and 350 young cattle penned representing a decrease of 90 head week-on-week. The usual buying group was present but not all operating fully in a cheaper market in places. Quality declined with a large proportion of the yarding showing the effects of the cold weather. The top vealers sold firm while most young cattle eased with quality an issue. Well finished grown steers improved 5c to processors while feeder lots and bullocks eased 10c/kg. Heavy grown heifers lost 15c/kg. Heavy manufacturing steers were back 5c/kg. Light conditioned cows improved 5c while heavy beef cows eased 5c to 10c/kg. Heavy bulls sold firm to 10c/kg cheaper.

Vealers sold from 410c to 510c/kg. Yearling trade steers made between 420c and 500c/kg. Yearling heifers to the trade sold between 373c and 500c/kg. Grown steers made from 372c to 408c/kg. Bullocks sold from 374c to 385c/kg. Heavy Grown heifers made between 322c and 370c/kg.

Heavy manufacturing steers sold between 314c and 368c/kg. Most light and medium weight cows made from 214c to 291c/kg. Heavy weight cows sold mostly from 245c to 334c/kg. Heavy bulls made between 284c and 315c/kg.

Yarding: 701 (-190). Ave c/bu: Yrlng: hfs 428 (NQ) str 456 (NQ). Grwn: hfs 348 (NQ) str 380 (NQ). Cows 307 (NQ). Bulls 290 (NQ). Veal: hfs 498 (NQ) str 523 (NQ).

Numbers were back but the quality remains good with plenty of yearlings with weight and cover. Cattle more suited to feeders were back in volume and there was a limited number of grown steers. Around 190 mostly heavy cows were penned. The market trend firm to dearer.

Weaner steers reached 558c and heifers 498c/kg. Medium weight feeder steers lifted 6c ranging from 450c to 470c and heavy feeders gained 8c selling from 423c to 469c/kg. Medium weight heifers gained 3c to make 400c to 457c/kg. Heavy trade steers were firm 385c to 466c and heifers were firm to 3c cheaper selling from 361c to 448c/kg.

A limited supply of grown steers were dearer selling from 385c to 393c, heavy grown heifers reached 360c/kg. Cows lifted 3c to 6c, with the heavy 3 and 4 scores selling from 280c to 322c/kg.

Yarding: 780 (-310). Ave c/bu: Yrlng: hfs 440 (NQ) str 447 (NQ). Grwn: hfs 357 (NQ) str 368 (NQ). Cows 285 (NQ). Bulls 277 (NQ). Veal: hfs 541 (NQ) str 534 (NQ).

There was a rain reduced penning with up to 30mm of rain falling across the drawing area. Yearlings were well supplied, along with a fair supply of grown cattle. The quality of the young cattle was quite mixed, some well bred high quality lots alongside a fair number of crossbred cattle. Condition was fair to good through all categories. The usual processors were in attendance, however there was reduced feedlot competition for heavy weight feeder steers.

There were varying trends through the young cattle. Limited supplies of vealer steers to restockers sold to cheaper trends with quality a factor. Heifer vealers to the trade were dearer. Medium weight yearling feeder steers sold to a slightly dearer trend. The best quality heavy weight feeder steers remained firm, however the secondary quality, and less sought after lines sold to a cheaper trend. Heavy trade steers sold to a dearer trend. Light and medium weight yearling heifers to feed also sold to dearer trends.

Heavy grown steers to feed sold to a cheaper trend, under reduced competition and with some breed, and quality related change. Heavy weights to process saw a dearer trend with a number of milk and 2 tooth lines included. Well finished grown heifers experienced little but quality related price change. The cow market eased slightly with quality also contributing to price change.

Yarding: 255 (+15). Ave c/bu: Yrlng: hfs 478 (NQ) str 496 (NQ). Grwn: hfs 321 (NQ) str 361 (NQ). MX str 278 (NQ). Cows 252 (NQ). Bulls 360 (NQ). Veal: hfs 490 (NQ) .

The supply of stock remained relatively close to the previous weeks level at 255 head at the Toowoomba sale. Young cattle continued to dominate the yarding, with only a small selection of heavy grown steers, bullocks and cows. Buyer attendance was generally good with restockers active against feeder operators on suitable classes. The lift in the quality of the young cattle improved average prices across the feeder and restocker lines.

A handful of vealer heifers made to 490c/kg. Light weight yearling steers made to a top of 630c to average 564c/kg. Yearling steers to feed for the domestic market averaged from 483c to 493c and made to 510c/kg. A handful of heavy weight yearling steers sold to restockers at a top of 484c to average 482c/kg. Light weight yearling heifers to restockers or background made to 570c to average 513c/kg. Yearling heifers to feed averaged from 443c to 455c and sold to 472c/kg.

Heavy grown steers to feed averaged 370c and a few to export processors made to 374c/kg. A small selection of bullocks made to 351c to average 346c/kg. Heavy weight cows returning to the paddock averaged 288c, with a few to export processors reaching 294c/kg. Cows and calves made to $2,950 per unit.

Due to a run of Monday public holidays, the next sale in Toowoomba will be Monday, 10th of May.

Market Reporter: Trevor Hess

Yarding: 1,118 (-683).

A total yarding of 1,486 head consisting of 1,118 sold by cents per kilogram live weight, and comprised beef bred weaners, yearlings and a good supply of yearlings, plus Friesian and Friesian cross steers. In the live weight section, cattle were presented in mainly score 2 condition, and the record average for weaner beef bred steers was equaled at 536c/kg. Beef bred weaner heifers were of similar quality to last weeks offering and gained 15c/kg to average a credible 447c/kg.

In the beef bred weaner steer division, the 200 to 330kg averaged 550c, with the over 330kgs averaging 510c/kg. The beef bred heifer weaners 200 to 280kg averaged 464c, the 280 to 330kg averaged 446c, the heavier at an average of 460c. Also included was a small offering of light weight Murray Grey bulls at an average of 154kg, selling for 675c/kg to receive the highest cents per kilogram price of the day. The small penning of beef bred yearling cattle met limited competition, the steers sold from 382c to 480c to average 425c/kg, down 15c/kg. The heifers from 398c to 422c to average 414c/kg, up 13c/kg

In the dairy and dairy cross section, demand softened and the heavier weighted Friesian feeder steers sold from 220c to 362c to average 342c/kg, down by 40c/kg. The Angus Friesian cross feeder steers sold from 340c to 440c to average 405c, down 15c/kg. Friesian yearling steers sold from 250c to 390c to average 356c, down 90c/kg on a very small selection. Angus Friesian cross yearling steers remained firm and sold from 408c to 470c to average 436c/kg.

The appraisal section, selling dollars per head, comprised of mainly light weight Friesian and Friesian cross steers, plus a selection of potential breeders. The younger light weight Friesian steers, 6 to 12 months, sold from $880 to $1120, up $100/head on the last sale. The older 12 to 15 months group sold firm at $1,100 to $1,260/head. Angus Friesian cross steers 6 to 12 months, averaged $1,200/head to remain firm.

Yarding: 1,327 (NQ).

The Special Feeder and Weaner sale attracted 1,327 head at Dalby. Cattle were mainly drawn from the local supply area, plus a few consignments from Tambo, Morven, Mitchell, and Yuleba. A large number of feeder operators were in attendance and operating, along with a good panel of restockers. Buyers appreciated the excellent quality on offer, and this was also reflected in the prices achieved.

Angus weaner steers under 280kg made to 650c and averaged 605c/kg, and returned a top of $1,646/head. Angus weaner steers under 330kg made to 558c to average 553c/kg, and returned an average of $1,657/head. Angus weaner heifers under 280kg averaged 488c, with a handful of European cross making to 510c/kg.

Angus feeder steers under 400kg made to 534c to average 508c/kg, to return an average of $1,821/head. Charolais feeder steers in the same weight range were in the largest numbers and averaged 460c and made to 480c/kg, with the heaviest pens returning $1,829/head. Angus feeder steers over 400kg made to 480c to average 453c/kg, to return an average of $1,970/head. Santa Gertrudis steers dominated the over 400kg section and made to 438c to average 433c/kg, to return an average of $1,975/head. Angus and Simbrah feeder heifers under 400kg made to 478c/kg to return an average of $1,610/head.

Prices up from $0.20 to $1.00 for delivery commencing 19-Apr

Type Prices Change
Lambs
XB $7.40 (up $0.20)
Merino $7.20 (up $0.20)
Mixed $7.20 (up $0.20)

Ram Lambs
XB $7.40 (up $0.20)
Other $6.20 (up $1.00)

Mutton $6.20 (up $0.20)

If you are a WAMMCO member, please ensure you have selected the "WAMMCO member" option in your Profile page of the LIVEstock Pricing app so that the prices you see in the app reflect member prices. Otherwise you will be seeing non-member prices that are $0.10 lower.

Press See Prices link (in LIVEstock Pricing app only) for full grids, detailed changes and buyer details.

Total 7,000 (-3,500), lambs 6,500 (-2,500), sheep 500 (-1,000).

Numbers fell by 3,500 sheep and lambs and the quality was plainer than previous weeks. There were very few quality trade weight lambs on offer, however, the regular supply of extra heavy weights continued to be good. The regular buying group were in attendance and joined by an additional buyer this week, all operating in a firm to easier market trend.

Trade weight lambs continue to be limited with medium and heavy weights selling from $174 to $204, gaining up to $5/head. Lambs averaged between 813c and 820c/kg cwt. Heavy lambs 25kg and 26kg going to domestic and export processors slipped $3 making from $203 to $215/head. Despite some good quality across the extra heavy export types, the market was firm to $15 softer. Lambs selling from $208 to $236, the over 30kg lambs sold up to $293/head, to average 790c/kg cwt. Extra heavy Dorper lambs over 30kg sold up to $230, slipping $11/head. Heavy Merino lambs sold from $198 to $217, slipping up to $25/head.

A small mixed quality offering of mutton was available, selling in a firm market. Heavy mutton softened $10 to $20, heavy Merino ewes selling from $202 to $215 and heavy cross bred ewes sold up to $224/head.

Total 9,200 (+3,200), lambs 8,000 (+3,000), sheep 1,200 (+200).

Similar sized yarding of 8,000 lambs after an extended break due to Easter. Mixed offering across all breeds of crossbred, Merino and Dorper, with all but the lead runs off grain showing the affects of the dry and colder weather. Processor demand was subdued, with not all exporters or domestic buyers operating and those in attendance were only interested in purchasing at lower price levels. As this market is being compared to the last sale held at Swan Hill in mid-March, price results appear significantly less. In relation to more recent auctions, the sale was down on Victorian markets held earlier this week as the softening trend across the industry continues. Agents at Swan Hill did pass in some lambs.

Export competition on the top pens of heavy lambs was limited, the 30kg cwt plus run selling from $225 to a top of $253 to average $236/head. Heavy lambs from 26kg to 30kg cwt also struggled for support at times, particularly the plainer 27kg to 29kg types that fell outside preferred export and trade specifications at $186 to $220/head. The neatest domestic lambs sold to the best demand but were still down at $180 to $210/head. On a carcase basis, a range of 700c to 760c/kg covered the bulk of slaughter lambs above 22kg cwt, only the pick of the domestic lambs selling higher at times. Fed Merino lambs in high value skins sold to $216/head and were also cheaper.

Sheep numbers remained low and quality was mixed. Demand was patchy, the best lines of Merino wethers and ewes attracting the strongest support to be solid on recent markets. Cheaper trends were evident for mixed lots of sheep and extra heavy crossbreds.

Yarding: 3,960 (+2,307).

Just under 4,000 good quality weaners were penned and there was more weight throughout the sale with most ranged from 270kg to 330kg. There was a large buying group that were competitive through the sale and kept most of the cattle under 300kg at similar values while the heavier runs were up to $100/head softer.

Light weaner steers under 200kg $1,210 to $1,260/head. Medium weights 200kg to 280kg sold from $1,400 to $1,760/head with most averaging around 645c/kg lwt. Heavy weaners 280kg and heavier, $1,510 to a top of $1,890/head. Light weaner heifers sold from $1,090 to $1,270 and the medium weights $1,300 to $1,610/head with the medium weights 540c to 620c/kg for the lighter weights around 220 to 240kg. Heavy heifers ranged from $1,500 to $1,820/head. Yearling steers just over 12 months of age reached $1,980/head.

PTIC heifers were limited and reached $2,400 and the cows topped at $2,350/head. Cow and calf units reached $3,150/unit for an Angus cow with a Euro cross calf at foot.

Yarding: 2,777 (+1,707).

There were approximately 2,780 head penned representing an increase of 1,700 from the sale of 4 weeks ago. Quality was very good with a large proportion of the yarding being well bred breeders calves including some large runs of one mark steers while heifer numbers were limited. The buyers gallery was very busy with orders operating from across Victoria and into NSW while numerous feedlot orders were working on suitable lines. Competition was fierce for all grades with prices around $200/head dearer than the last sale, and more in places.

The top of the weaner steers made $2,170/head for 16 Angus steers weighing in at 407kg which equates to 533c/kg. The top of the yearling steers made $2,290/head for 12 Angus steers weighed at 501kg or 457c/kg. The top of the weaner heifers made $1,890/head for 20 Angus heifers weighed at 336kg or 562c/kg. The top of the yearling heifers made $1,990/head for 8 Hereford heifers estimated to weigh 420kg or 473c/kg.

Yarding: 2,636 (+536).

There was another excellent quality yarding of 2,636 mainly weaner calves at Powranna, the last weaner sale for the autumn. There were more coloured calves than in previous weeks, with most cattle coming from the north east, Northern Midlands and Southern regions with a few drafts from the Northwest coast. Competition was not as strong to see most prices ease $70 to $100/head on average with most cattle bought by Tasmanian finishers and backgrounders and only about 300 heading to Victoria.

The heavy steers over 330kg made $1,580 to $1,880/head averaging 470c/kg live weight. Medium weights 280kg to 330kg made $1,440 to $1,650/head to average 510c/kg, and light weights 200kg to 280kg made from $1,200 to $1,540/head, averaging 565c/kg live weight. The very small selling for $920 to $1,040/head.

The heaviest heifers made $1,460 to $2,240/head, medium weights $1,200 to $1,980/head, to an average 460c/kg live weight. Light weights sold from $810 to $1,500/head for an average of 490c/kg live weight and the very small $740 to $960/head. A number of the medium and heavy heifers were sought by buyers looking for future breeders.

The final Tasmanian weaner sale of 2021 will be held next Thursday at Powranna.

Yarding: 2,636 (+536).

Similar sized yarding of 8,000 lambs after an extended break due to Easter. Mixed offering across all breeds of crossbred, Merino and Dorper, with all but the lead runs off grain showing the affects of the dry and colder weather. Processor demand was subdued, with not all exporters or domestic buyers operating and those in attendance were only interested in purchasing at lower price levels. As this market is being compared to the last sale held at Swan Hill in mid-March, price results appear significantly less. In relation to more recent auctions, the sale was down on Victorian markets held earlier this week as the softening trend across the industry continues. Agents at Swan Hill did pass in some lambs.

Export competition on the top pens of heavy lambs was limited, the 30kg cwt plus run selling from $225 to a top of $253 to average $236/head. Heavy lambs from 26kg to 30kg cwt also struggled for support at times, particularly the plainer 27kg to 29kg types that fell outside preferred export and trade specifications at $186 to $220/head. The neatest domestic lambs sold to the best demand but were still down at $180 to $210/head. On a carcase basis, a range of 700c to 760c/kg covered the bulk of slaughter lambs above 22kg cwt, only the pick of the domestic lambs selling higher at times. Fed Merino lambs in high value skins sold to $216/head and were also cheaper.

Sheep numbers remained low and quality was mixed. Demand was patchy, the best lines of Merino wethers and ewes attracting the strongest support to be solid on recent markets. Cheaper trends were evident for mixed lots of sheep and extra heavy crossbreds.

All Prices unchanged

Natures Fresh: HGP Free, 0-6tooth, MSA, Steers & Heifers (Grid: 16N20)

Min MSA Price Change
52+ $6.90 (no change)

Standard Grid (16G21)

Dent Price Change
Premium Jap Ox Steers (heifers -$0.05)
4 tooth $6.35 (no change)
5-6 tooth $6.30 (no change)
7-8 tooth $6.25 (no change)

Grass Trade Yearlings (0-2 tooth)
Steers $6.40 (no change)
Heifers $6.35 (no change)

Export
Steers $6.05 (no change)
Heifers $6.00 (no change)
OX $5.85 (no change)
Cow $5.85 (no change)

Manufacturing
MX Ox $5.45 (no change)
MX Cow $5.40 (no change)

Bull $5.00 (no change)

Prices up - MSA Premium steers (Grid: 15G21MSA) (heifers -$0.05)
0-2 tooth $6.50 (no change)
4 tooth $6.45 (no change)
6 tooth $6.40 (no change)
Ox $6.35 (no change)


Press See Prices link (in LIVEstock Pricing app only) to view full grids and detailed changes.

Stock Wanted / Export Orders

Unjoined Friesian heifers (200kg) $2,200 +GST
Breed: Friesian
Sex: Heifer
Status: Unjoined
Weight: 200kg
Price: $2,200

Unjoined Jersey heifers $1,300 +GST
Breed: Jersey
Sex: Heifer
Status: Unjoined
Price: $1,300 (up $100)

Unjoined Xbred heifers (+265kg) $1,100 +GST
Breed: Xbred
Sex: Heifer
Status: Unjoined
Weight: +265kg
Price: $1,100
Colour: Any colour

Yarding: 2,237 (+883). Ave c/bu: Yrlng: hfs 431 (NQ) str 493 (NQ). Grwn: hfs 323 (NQ) str 367 (NQ). Cows 279 (NQ). Bulls 419 (NQ). Veal: hfs 411 (NQ) str 571 (NQ). Calves 462 (NQ).

Emerald agents penned an extra 883 head, for a total yarding of 2,237. Along with cattle drawn from the local area, there was a large line of yearling steers and heifers from Collinsville, and weaner heifers and bulls from McKinlay. Competition was good from the usual feeders and processors and a changed line up of restockers. Most price variations were quality related with values improving in many classes.

Vealer steers made to a top of 602c and averaged 539c to 579c/kg. Vealer heifers sold to average from 456c to 468c/kg. Light yearling steers averaged 529c to 545c/kg to restockers. Medium and heavy pens averaged from 418c to 466c/kg. Yearling heifers in light weight pens returned averages from 443c to 445c/kg, medium pens selling to 442c and averaging 401c to 419c/kg for the best.

Grown steers to feed averaged 366c to 423c with heavy 4 score bullocks selling to 375c, averaging 363c/kg for the best finished pens. Grown heifers were in short supply, selling to 380c to average 312c to 337c/kg. Heavy, four score cows topped at 289c and averaged 283c/kg. Heavy bulls went mostly to live export to average 285c/kg. One pen of better bred cows and calves made $2,300/unit.

Current live export and domestic orders - unjoined Jersey's up $100

Export order - PTIC Friesian Heifers $2,300 plus GST (unchanged).
Breed: Friesian
Sex: Heifers
Weight: +330kg
Price point: On-farm
Price: $2,500 +GST (up $200)
China protocols apply

Export order - Friesian Heifers $2,100 plus GST (unchanged).
Breed: Friesian
Sex: Heifers
Weight: +200kg
Price point: On-farm
Price: $2,100 +GST (up $100)
China protocols apply

Stock wanted: Friesian heifers (not export)
Breed: Fresian
Sex: Heifers
Weight: 120-150kg
Price: $1,200 +GST
Price point: On-farm

Export order - Jersey PTIC Heifers $1,400 inc GST (unchanged)
Breed: Jersey
Sex: Heifers
Weight: +270kg
Price point: On-farm
China protocols apply

Export order - Jersey Heifers $1,300 inc GST (up $100)
Breed: Jersey
Sex: Heifers
Weight: +200kg
Price point: On-farm
China protocols apply

Stock wanted: Jersey heifers (not export)
Breed: Jersey
Sex: Heifers
Weight: 120-150kg
Price: $500 +GST
Price point: On-farm

Export order - Red Angus Heifers $1,300 inc GST (unchanged)
Breed: Red Angus
Sex: Heifers
Weight: +220kg
Price point: On-farm
China protocols apply

Total 44,500 (+1,500), lambs 37,000 (+3,000), sheep 7,500 (-1,500).

Numbers jumped significantly with producers continuing to sew or preparing paddocks for cropping. Trade weight lambs 21kg to 24kg were well supplied and quality was fair to very good. Extra heavy lamb classes presented with plenty of finish however buyers preferred lambs weighing more than 30kg carcase weight. A full field of buyers were in attendance and most were operating. Local restockers were few this week while northern feedlot buyers were keen to buy lambs from 21 to 24kg.

In the trade market, major domestic processors led the way picking the top drafts from each agents run. Prices for trade lambs sold to softer trends of $5 to $6/head. Lambs weighing 22kg to 24kg, sold $5 dearer to average 813c/kg cwt. Merino trade lambs sold to a bigger group of processors and all categories sold to significantly cheaper price trends. Heavy merino trade lambs averaged 709c/kg carcase weight. Young lambs returning to the paddock and to feed on, with weight and frame, sold from $168 to $214/head.

There was a full field of export buyers in attendance however, not all were operating fully. Heavy and extra heavy lambs sold to very erratic demand with prices varying greatly as the sale progressed. Heavy lambs 24kg to 26kg eased $7 averaging 787c/kg cwt. Lambs 26kg to 30kg met patchy demand resulting in a price drop of $12 to average 777c/kg cwt. Big, extra heavy lambs over 30kg carcase weight sold $9 cheaper recording a top price of $285 to average 737c/kg cwt.

It was a very mixed quality yarding of mutton, with heavy sheep in good supply. Heavy ewes sold to weaker demand with a not all processors operating. Heavy crossbred ewes averaged 643c/kg cwt. Heavy crossbred wethers recorded a top price of $256/head. Trade sheep buyers were few causing a price drop of $3 to $14 to average 608c to 672c/kg cwt.

Yarding: 1,233 (-75). Ave c/bu: Yrlng: hfs 428 (NQ) str 487 (NQ). Grwn: hfs 376 (NQ) str 388 (NQ). Cows 313 (NQ). Bulls 338 (NQ). Veal: hfs 473 (NQ) str 527 (NQ).

Numbers were down for a total yarding of 1,233 head of good quality cattle. All categories gained once again, with only light weight calves easing on quality. Heavy cows remained firm selling to 348c while store cows gained 15c/kg. Light weight steer weaners sold to a top of 568c while a quality line of angus heifers to restockers sold up to 558c/kg. Weaner steers weighing over 330kg sold from 468c to 542c, medium weights made from 470c to 556c and light weights returned 466c to 568c/kg.

Weaner heifers weighing over 330kg made 410c to 558c, medium weights sold for 448c to 486c and light weights returned 420c to 482c/kg. Yearling steers sold from 400c to 532c while yearling heifers gained, returning 358c to 460c /kg.

Bullocks weighing over 500kg sold for 350c to 400c while lighter weights returned 376c to 448c /kg. Grown heifers weighing over 540kg made from 320c to 360c and the lighter trade weights sold from 300c to 440c /kg. Heavy prime cows remained firm selling for 308c to 348c while boners returned 180c to 280c while feeder buyers picked up cows for 276c/kg. Heavy bulls sold for 260c to 310c, medium weights made 370c and light weight bullies returned from 300c to 494c to average 438c/kg.

Total 10,411 (+1,162), lambs (+NQ), sheep 10,411 (+1,162).

Agents yarded 10,411 sheep at Hamilton this week. It was a very mixed offering and the overall quality and weight ranged from plain to good with a little more weight on offer due to more wethers being yarded. All weights and grades were available with heavy sheep still in the minority. Not all the regular buyers were in attendance or fully active. One major processer was absent in a sale that was softer over all categories, resulting in all light to medium sheep 18kg and under being $20 to $30/head cheaper. All other sheep over 18kg, 2 and 3 score being $10 to $20/head softer in places.

Hoggets sold to $190/head. Light weight 1 and 2 score sheep sold from $64 to $118/head to average between 520c and 580c/kg cwt. Medium weight sheep 2 and 3 score sold from $118 to $188/head averaging around 590c to 650c/kg cwt. Heavy Merino ewes sold from $152 to $176, heavy Merino wethers made from $170 to $230/head. Heavy crossbred ewes sold to a top of $218/head averaging 610c/kg cwt. The general cost of mutton was around 600c to 650c/kg cwt. Rams, terminal sires to $110 and Merino rams to $179/head.

Standalone Melb sale today and Merino types lead price gains. EMI nominally +6 to 1291ac. Mer flc and skts <18.5mic+40 to +50, 19 to 20mic+20, >20mic unch. Xbds -10. cards FF.

New buyer - Prime Meat Co, located Gingin. Delivery for 1 - 31 May.

Type Prices Change
Lambs
XB $7.80 (new price)
Merino $7.80 (new price)
Ram $6.00 (new price)
Damara $5.00 (new price)

Mutton
All breeds $6.30 (new price)

Press See Prices link (in LIVEstock Pricing app only) for full grids, detailed changes and buyer details.

Yarding: 2,010 (-306). Ave c/bu: Yrlng: hfs 444 (NQ) str 469 (NQ). Grwn: hfs 353 (NQ) str 368 (NQ). MX str 254 (NQ). Cows 306 (NQ). Bulls 353 (NQ). Veal: hfs 483 (NQ) str 530 (NQ). Calves 684 (NQ).

It was a mixed yarding with some good lines of young cattle to suit the feeders and processors. There was fair numbers of well finished grown steers, heifers and weaners to suit the backgrounders and restockers. There was a fair selection of cows and there was a larger percentage of plainer quality cattle. Most of the regular buyers were operating along with the return of a major feedlot operator.

Young cattle to the trade were around firm, with prime vealers selling from 410c to 486c/kg. Prime yearlings sold from 370c to 484c/kg. Feeder steers and heifers finished 5c/kg dearer. Feeder steers sold from 370c to 484c while the feeder heifers sold from 396c to 475c/kg. Weaners to the restockers sold well with the young steers selling from 480c to 592c while the young heifers sold to 514c/kg.

Grown steers and heifers were 11c cheaper with the prime grown steers selling from 330c to 388c/kg. Prime grown heifers sold from 326c to 380c/kg. Cows were 5c cheaper with the 2 and 3 scores selling from 220c to 286c to the processors and 305c/kg to the restockers. The prime heavy weight cows sold from 290c to 320c to average 310c/kg. Heavy bulls sold to 320c/kg.

Yarding: 3,553 (+2,116). Ave c/bu: Yrlng: hfs 343 (NQ) str 392 (NQ). Grwn: hfs 293 (NQ) str 347 (NQ). MX str 327 (NQ). Cows 253 (NQ). Bulls 379 (NQ). Veal: hfs 407 (NQ) str 473 (NQ). Calves 479 (NQ).

The supply of cattle more than doubled on last sale, with 3,553 head penned in Charters Towers. Quality was mostly very good with several lines of prime conditioned cows and heifers. Well presented lines of store steers and greater numbers of cows and calves were also available. The buyer panel was increased with three additional processors, two live exporters, central backgrounders and southern restockers operating strongly throughout. Cattle were drawn from the far west and northern areas, with many local vendors. Values improved across most categories, with young steers and heifers improving by up to 30c, grown steers and bullocks were firm to 4c higher, prime cows were firm, cows and calves sold to a new saleyard record.

Light steer calves returning to grass sold to 566c with mixed sex averages of 481c to 512c/kg. Light heifers to the trade sold to 440c to average 437c/kg. An increased supply of light vealer steers above 200kg to southern restockers sold to 512c to average 472c to 498c and vealer heifers above 200kg to the trade sold to 446c to average 421c/kg. Yearling steers above 330kg to feed sold to 438c to average 404c, while restocker lines sold to 468c to average 404c to 414c/kg. A good sample of yearling heifers above 330kg to feed sold to 374c to average from 365c to 372c/kg.

Grown steers to the trade made to 352c, with averages from 338c to 349c/kg. Suitable steers to live export sold to 342c multiple times, to average near 340c/kg. Grown heifers to the trade sold to 324c to average 310c/kg. Heavy full mouthed bullocks to export slaughter reached 342c to average 326c to 338c/kg. Increased processor demand saw medium weight, 2 score cows reach 262c to average 257c, while a large sample of 3 score cows sold to 280c to average 266 to 275c/kg.

Yarding: 495 (+214). Ave c/bu: Yrlng: hfs 358 (NQ) str 387 (NQ). Grwn: hfs 327 (NQ) str 370 (NQ). MX str 318 (NQ). Cows 266 (NQ). Bulls 286 (NQ). Veal: hfs 457 (NQ) str 477 (NQ).

There were approximately 350 export and 150 young cattle penned representing an increase of 220 head week-on-week. A couple of orders rejoined the regulars in a cheaper market in places. Quality declined with a larger proportion lacking finish. Vealers sold 10c cheaper while the yearling heifers suited to the trade eased 15c/kg. Grown steers lost 10c while bullocks sold 15c/kg lower. Heavy grown heifers gave back 20c/kg. Manufacturing steers sold firm to 5c/kg cheaper. Cows eased 10c while heavy bulls improved 3c/kg.

Vealers sold from 388c to 500c/kg. Yearling heifers suited to the trade made between 344c and 370c with restocking lots out to 406c/kg. Grown steers sold between 362c and 380c/kg. Bullocks made from 350c to 390c/kg. Heavy heifers sold from 328c to 350c/kg.

Heavy manufacturing steers made between 302c and 365c/kg. Most light and medium weight cows sold between 192c and 278c/kg. Heavy weight cows made mostly from 242c to 319c/kg. Restocking cows sold from 200c to 350c/kg. Heavy bulls made between 257c and 325c/kg.