Market Update: Cattle Yarding at Gunnedah Saleyards

File Image: Selling action at the Gunnedah Saleyards.

Yarding Overview

Total Yardings: 2400 Change: -620

This week, Gunnedah yarded 2150 cattle, which is 870 less than the previous market. The quality of the yarding was generally good, featuring a solid supply of cows and favorable lines suitable for feedlots and backgrounders.

Market Dynamics

Strong competition was evident across the board, particularly for cattle intended for processing and feeding. Most regular buyers attended the auction, with additional processors contributing to increased prices for prime cows.

Cattle Pricing Trends

Young Cattle: Prices for young cattle destined for trade were higher, with prime vealers and yearlings fetching between 404c to 492c/kg. Feeders showed an upward trend as well:

• Feeder Steers: Increased by 20c, selling at 430c to 528c/kg.
• Feeder Heifers: Remained firm or increased by 15c, with prices between 380c to 449c/kg.

For restockers and backgrounders, young cattle saw substantial price increases:

• Yearling Steers: Sold from 430c to 550c/kg.
• Yearling Heifers: Made up to 445c/kg.

Other Market Movements

Prime Grown Heifers: Prices rose, ranging from 360c to 469c/kg.
Grown Steers: Feed lots drew prices from 398c to 471c/kg.
Cows: Notably, prime heavyweight 4 score cows sold between 402c to 433c/kg.

Bulls intended for processing were slightly cheaper, topping at 365c/kg.

Source: Peter Dundon, MLA Gunnedah