The return to a full trading week and the greater supply at markets reported by MLA’s NLRS resulted in the total states supply increasing almost 57%.
Very low rainfall across the supply area in recent months also had an effect on numbers with Dalby recording the largest yarding since September 2009.
Despite the harsh seasonal conditions across a wide area of the state the overall standard of the heavy steers bullocks and cows was fair to good, while there was a wide variation in the quality of the young cattle.
Restockers resistant to buy at current prices
A full panel of export buyers was present at most markets, however buyer representation was reduced in the young cattle sections.
Good numbers of restocker buyers were present at the Roma store sale however most were unwilling to pay the same prices as the previous week.
This trend continued as the week progressed across all markets and lightweight yearling steers averaged 14¢/kg less.
Feeder descriptions commenced the week on a firm trend, nevertheless by mid week average prices deteriorated by 3¢ to 6¢/kg.
The lack of supermarket support combined with less competition from wholesalers saw average prices for medium and heavy weight yearling steers 3¢ to 9¢/kg cheaper.
The heifer portion suffered the most with losses of 12¢ and up to 20¢/kg in places.
Export slaughter descriptions went against this downward trend with heavy steers and bullocks meeting very solid demand across all markets.
Cows experienced similar strong demand and a large consignment of good heavy cows from the far west boosted the overall standard at Dalby and also improved prices.
Grown cattle sell stronger
A large number of lightweight yearling steers returned to the paddock at 200¢ with sales to 221.2¢/kg. Medium and heavy weight yearling heifers to the local trade market generally sold in 170¢/kg range
Heavy steers to export slaughter averaged 183¢ with a few pens to 193.2¢/kg. A good selection of bullocks also averaged 183¢ and sold to 190.2¢/kg. Heavy 4 score cows in the largest numbers averaged 152¢ and made to 164.2¢/kg.
Source: Argentine Beef Packers S.A.
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