Supply gains momentum
The overall supply of stock across Queensland, at MLA reported saleyards, increased by 8% week on week. However consignments at Dalby lifted by 38% to the highest level for 12 months, and numbers at the Roma store and Warwick sale increased by 12% and 18%, respectively.
The overall quality of the young cattle continues to be mixed with large numbers of calves from drought affected areas included in the line-up at Roma and Dalby. Export buyer attendance was generally good however some were not operating at markets early in the week. A large panel of feeder and restocker buyers was present at most markets, and at Dalby some volume buyers were in attendance.
Demand remains strong
Young cattle generally received strong demand from all sections of the market and, at Warwick, some well-bred lightweight calves and vealer steers sold to a new high. However, in places, plain poor quality lines were harder to sell with restockers being more selective.
Calves returning to the paddock averaged 6c dearer at 335¢ with special sales to 397.2¢/kg. The occasional vealer steer with show ring potential made to 408.2¢, while the remainder mostly sold around 330¢/kg.
The largest number of lightweight yearling steers to restockers made to 354.2¢, to average 329¢/kg. Medium and heavy weight yearling steers to feed were the centre of attention and attracted increased competition. Medium weights averaged 3¢ better with a large number in the mid-320¢ range with sales to 340¢/kg. Heavyweights to feed averaged 8¢ dearer and made to 339.2¢ with most close to 329¢/kg. Medium and heavy weight yearling heifers to feed were also in demand and medium weights averaged 303¢ and sold to 323.2¢, while the heavyweights to feed averaged 306¢/kg.
Heavy grown steers and bullocks generally sold to very solid demand with heavy grown steers averaging 312¢ and the bullock portion at 314¢, with sales to 321.2¢/kg.
Prices for cows varied in some selling centres and struggled to maintain the previous week’s level. However, across all markets for the week, medium weight 2 score cows remain firm at 224¢, and good heavy cows remained close to the previous week’s level at 264¢, with sales to 279.2¢/kg.
Note: All yardings and prices referenced from MLA reported saleyards.
