Strong Market Holds Steady at Roma Saleyards

Date: Second Last Sale of 2025
Yarding: 9,455 head
Change: +1,484

Overview

In a bustling turnout just shy of 10,000 head, Roma Saleyards witnessed a strong market that remained firm throughout the day, despite a mixed quality yarding. The presence of regular processors, feedlotters, and backgrounders added to the competitive atmosphere as they actively bid on the cattle.

Origin of Cattle

A significant number of the cattle came from northern and western regions, including Quilpie, Longreach, Augathella, Muttaburra, and Tambo, with additional consignments from the local supply districts of Mitchell, Morven, Injune, and St George. This wide range of origins reinforces Roma Saleyards’ reputation as the go-to marketplace for cattle.

Highlighted Sales

Among the noteworthy sellers was Russell Mocker, operating from ‘Surprise’ at St George. He successfully sold a quality run of Santa Gertrudis steers, achieving an average price of 571c/kg for steers weighing 285kg, ultimately earning $1,627 per head.

Two pens of Mocker’s steers even broke the 600c/kg barrier, weighing in at 260kg for an average return of $1,462 per head. He also had a pen of heavier steers sell for 542c/kg at 323kg, resulting in $1,751 per head, all consigned through Nutrien Roma.

Market Insights from NLRS

As the selling season nears its end, agents yarded 9,455 head, with all regular buyers in attendance. Although the overall quality of cattle was not as high as the previous sale, competitive pricing prevailed.

Yearling Steers

Prices for yearling steers ranged as follows:

• 200 to 280kg: 342c to 600c/kg
• 280 to 330kg: Made to 580c, averaging 515c/kg
• 330 to 400kg: Sold at 562c to restockers, 524c/kg to Lot Feeders
• 400 to 480kg: Prices fell slightly with a high of 514c/kg
• Over 480kg: Maintained at 514c/kg for Lot Feeders

Yearling Heifers

Heifer prices showed similar trends:

• 200 to 280kg: Topped 454c, averaging 423c/kg
• 280 to 330kg: Prices ranged from 258c to 452c/kg
• 330 to 400kg: Lot Feeders paid up to 446c/kg
• 400 to 480kg: Sold at 418c/kg to processors

Cow Market Analysis

The supply of cows remained robust, but the market could not sustain levels from the previous sale. Notable prices included:

• 3 score cows over 520kg: Topped at 410c, averaging 389c/kg
• 2 score cows (400-520kg): Reached a high of 365c/kg
• Bulls: Varied with prices up to 418c/kg for those 450-600kg and 405c/kg for bulls over 600kg

Conclusion

As we approach the end of the year, the results from Roma Saleyards reinforce the robust health of the cattle market, with strong participation from buyers and an array of cattle that appeals to various sectors within the industry.

Market Reporter: David Friend

For a detailed report, visit the NLRS report.