Quality at most major markets appeared to decline, with limited consignments presented in prime condition. Those that were in good condition were typically supplementary fed, and otherwise most young cattle were suited to restockers and lotfeeders. Overall of all the young cattle 58% were purchased by lotfeeders, with only limited numbers of steers secured by processors.

Export steers and bullocks were generally limited as cows represented the largest proportion of the grown cattle numbers, however there were an increase number of bullocks at Wagga.

Feeder steers ease

Light weaner and vealers prices increased, however the heavy yearlings were generally cheaper. Vealer steers to slaughter and restockers were from firm to 5¢/kg cheaper. Vealer heifers were mainly purchased for slaughter and averaged from 3¢ to 8¢/kg dearer. Lightweight yearlings to feeders were up to 3¢ dearer, however heavy weights were firm to 2¢/kg cheaper. Steers and heifers to slaughter were firm to 5¢/kg dearer.

The eastern states trade steer indicator finished Tuesday at 173.9¢ which is unchanged on last week while the feeder steer indicator was at 168.4¢ which was 1¢/kg higher than this time last week.

The EYCI is currently at 312.5¢ which is 1.75¢/kg cwt higher than the same time last week. The indicator is currently underpinned by the large volumes of young cattle at Wagga, Gunnedah and Wodonga. Together these three saleyards currently represent 42% of the total volume of the EYCI, whilst prices (for EYCI specification cattle) this week have averaged 314.7¢, 322.5¢ and 301.2¢/kg respectively.

Mixed trend for grown cattle

Grown steers and bullocks benefited from being in limited supply and in turn attracted strong competition, particularly for the well finished 3 and 4 scores. Prices for heavy steers and bullocks averaged up to 3¢ dearer whilst medium steers to feeders were from 1¢ to 7¢/kg higher. Grown heifers have fallen by up to 6¢/kg.

Cows have represented 22% of total yardings, and sold to a varied trend. At some southern markets competition was stronger particularly on the 3 and 4 score beef cows. Overall for the eastern states light 1 and 2 score averaged from 1¢ to 11¢ dearer, while 3 and 4 score medium and heavy weights ranged from 2¢ cheaper to 3¢/kg dearer depending on fat score.

The eastern state Japan Ox indicator is presently 2¢ higher than last Tuesday at 178¢, whilst the cow indicator has fallen by 3¢ to 123¢/kg.

TheCattleSite News Desk