Weekly Cattle Market Update: Gunnedah Saleyards

File image: Selling action at the Gunnedah Saleyards.

Market Overview

Yarding: 3,300 cattle Change: +1,150

Gunnedah Saleyards witnessed a significant increase in cattle numbers this week, with a total of 3,300 penned, reflecting a rise of 1,150 from the previous week. Regular buyers were present and engaged in a market that remained stable compared to last week. However, prices for better-quality drafts and crossbred feeders saw an uptick, while cow numbers diminished considerably.

Price Breakdown

Light feeder steers traded between 386c to 492c/kg, showing a moderate increase in background drafts priced at 432c to 556c/kg. Medium feeders were slightly more expensive, ranging from 380c to 561c/kg, while background drafts for this category reached 430c to 500c/kg. Additionally, feeders weighing up to 480kgs experienced rising prices from 474c to 532c/kg.

Processor steers over 480kgs traded between 448c to 498c/kg, while similar weights reserved for feeding reached 380c to 528c/kg. Light heifers designated for feeding sold at 400c to 494c/kg, with similar heifers in backgrounding priced at 325c to 466c/kg. Medium heifers attracted strong competition, marked at 386c to 486c/kg. Heavy processors fetched up to 486c/kg.

Heavy Cattle Summary

Heavy grown steers for processing traded within the range of 358c to 408c/kg, while comparable heifers reached prices up to 456c/kg. Heavy cows saw a price increase, with trading values between 296c to 429c/kg. However, heavy bulls were priced lower, ranging from 282c to 340c/kg.

Source: Stephen Adams, MLA