Wagga Wagga Sale Yards Report: January’s Insights

Sale Overview

Yarding: 500   Change: +3145

Market Trends

The second sale of the year indicated a notable increase in numbers, attributed largely to dry and hot conditions. A significant portion of the offering consisted of secondary stock, catering to lot feeders and restockers. Throughout the sale, competition and prices exhibited considerable variability, particularly affecting coloured cattle and crossbred types, which faced some discounts.

Restocker Engagement

Restockers were particularly active, with interest garnered from various regions including Gippsland, Toowoomba, and northern New South Wales, alongside local buyers.

Price Breakdown

• Lightweight steers: Averaged $1,095 per head.
• Lighter feeder steers (330-400 kg): Prices ranged from 400 to 485c/kg, demonstrating significant fluctuations.
• Medium-weight steers: Sold for 400 to 505c/kg, resulting in an average price of $1,949 per head.
• Feeder heifers: These were abundantly supplied, especially those under 300kg. Feeder heifers in the 330-400kg range faced weaker demand, selling between 398-470c/kg, while medium-weight heifers sold for 370-472c/kg.
• Trade steers and heifers (400-500kg): Sold at prices ranging from 390 to 500c/kg.

Export Insights

On the export front, not all processors were engaged. Heavy steers and bullocks were sold at prices from 440-497c/kg. Heavy cows maintained good supply, with prices fluctuating from 385-415c/kg, averaging out at 401c/kg. Leaner cows weighing under 520kg attracted a broader array of buyers, selling for between 300-385c/kg.

Market Reporter: Leann Dax

Further Information

Source: NLRS. Click here to view the full Wagga report on the NLRS website.