Gunnedah Cattle Market Sees Drop in Yard Numbers

File image: Selling action at the Gunnedah Saleyards.

Market Overview

This week’s yarding at Gunnedah decreased significantly, totaling 5,850 cattle, down by 1,400 from the previous week. The market showcased fair quality livestock, predominantly consisting of a large number of cows. All major buyers were present, competing steadily, particularly for cows and the top-end feeder cattle, which remained in high demand.

Pricing Insights

Young cattle available for trade were limited, priced between 420c and 454c/kg. Feeder steers maintained stable pricing, ranging from 470c to 527c/kg, averaging at 500c/kg. Meanwhile, feeder heifers followed suit, fetching between 416c and 469c/kg. Notably, young steers for restockers saw a decline of 15c, averaging 499c/kg with a range of 410c to 544c/kg. Heifers in this category decreased by 5c, priced between 330c and 448c/kg.

Cattle Types and Price Changes

Few grown steers and heifers were available for quoting at this market. However, cows saw a significant drop in prices, with secondary cows declining by up to 25c. Two and three-score cows destined for processing ranged from 302c to 366c/kg, while prime heavyweight cows also faced price reductions, selling between 358c and 380c/kg. Cows designated for pasture returned prices from 280c to 351c/kg.

Conclusion

The current trends in the Gunnedah cattle market indicate a noteworthy shift, especially concerning cow prices. As the market adjusts, both buyers and sellers will need to stay informed to navigate these changes effectively.

Source: Hamish Hosegood, MLA Gunnedah