Wagga Cattle Sale Update: A Competitive Market Realigned

Yarding: 5,100 Change: +100

Overview of Recent Sales

The recent cattle sale at Wagga showed steady numbers, with the quality of stock under 500kg being notably mixed. However, heavy cattle were in high demand, showcasing ample shape and finish, attracting a full field of buyers, some of whom came with additional feedlot orders.

Feedlot Competition Intensifies

Feedlot competition surged, particularly for Angus steers, as buyers showcased a strong eagerness to secure quality stock. Restockers were also active, purchasing cattle for both local and southern Victorian areas. This dynamic illustrated a vibrant marketplace driven by the demand for quality cattle.

Trade Cattle Insights

Trade cattle were scarce, with feedlots dominating across weight categories. Trade steers and heifers sold between 422-481c/kg, with a heightened focus on cattle suitable for feeding. Buyers were inclined to pay premium prices, especially for Angus and black baldy steers. Notably, bidding wars ensued for steers weighing 400-500kg, which increased by 25c, fetching between 454-524c/kg. Contrarily, lighter weights saw a drop of 41c due to declining quality and fewer orders compared to the previous week.

Feeder Heifers and Export Bullocks

Feeder heifers gained attention, with medium weights selling for an additional 12c and ranging between 422-476c/kg. Lighter weights also saw improvements, selling between 410-502c/kg, an increase of 7c/kg. The presence of exceptional export bullocks further elevated the market, seeing a quality-driven increase of about 12c/kg, with prices for these lots ranging from 440–494c/kg.

Heavy Steers and Cow Market Trends

Heavy steers weighing between 500-600kg, mainly destined for domestic processors, were limited in availability as most of this weight range was secured by feedlots. Prices for these steers ranged from 420–480c/kg, marking an 11c/kg dip from the previous week. In contrast, heavy feeder steers appreciated by 23c to average 499c/kg.

The cow market held strong across all weights and grades, even as prices eased slightly. Heavy cows were sold from around 405–426c/kg, down roughly 9c/kg, while leaner cows under 520kg experienced a more significant dip, averaging 391c/kg. Store cows traded in the range of 382–424c/kg, reflecting ongoing demand for lighter plain types. Heavy bulls were sold between 420-450c/kg.

Conclusion

The Wagga cattle sale underscores a competitive landscape, bolstered largely by the discerning demands of feedlots and the ongoing interest from restockers. For comprehensive market analysis, please refer to the source linked below.

Market Reporter: Leann Dax.

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