The Leongatha store sale on Thursday witnessed weaned steers securing a premium of 20-25 cents per kilogram compared to unweaned cattle, even as the overall market displayed a slight decline. Approximately 3,270 cattle were yarded by Elders, Alex Scott & Staff, and Baw Baw Livestock agents, including 110 cows and calves, indicating a robust turnout despite the market’s softening trend.
According to David Setches, livestock manager at Alex Scott & Staff in Pakenham, the premium for weaned steers was evident, but the overall market was down compared to the Elders Yea weaner sale held at the new Eastern Victoria Livestock Exchange the previous week. “It was certainly a softer market than last week,” Setches noted, reflecting on the fluctuations observed.
The decline in market prices was attributed to quality issues, as highlighted by Damien Minogue, territory sales manager for Elders in Korumburra. He remarked that grown cattle prices remained stable to only slightly lower, indicating a nuanced market landscape. As buyers assessed their options, commission buyer Campbell Ross was notably active in acquiring heavier steers, catering to both his own orders and those of Victorian Livestock & Property.
Despite the strong lineup of cattle, minimal feedlotter activity was observed, with buyer Wayne Reid purchasing cattle for the McKenzie feedlot based in Bunnaloo, New South Wales. Reid’s focus included both heavier steers and the middle run, while commission buyer Anthony Hullick acquired cattle for processor Westside, specifically targeting mid-weight to heavier steers for either feeding or processing.
Local agents showed strong interest in lighter cattle, including both steers and heifers, which were sought after for fattening and backgrounding in South Gippsland. Additionally, several agents purchased well-bred heavy heifers for local clients’ joining programs.
In terms of pricing, heavy steers weighing 500-600 kg commanded 440-480 cents per kilogram, while heavier heifers weighing 400-500 kg sold for 420-450 cents per kilogram. Medium-weight steers in the 400-450 kg range fetched 450-530 cents, and lighter steers weighing 300-400 kg sold for 490-560 cents, a decrease from the 560-600 cents achieved at the previous week’s sale.
Setches indicated that the mid-weight weaner steers showed better performance, selling for around 500 cents, with a peak of 606 cents per kilogram, while the majority were sold within the 500-550 cents range. Medium-weight heifers weighing 300-400 kg were traded for between 440-515 cents, depending on quality, with processors showing particular interest in those within the 350-400 kg category.
Lighter weaner heifers under 300 kg sold for 400-500 cents, reflecting the variable market conditions influenced by quality and supply.
As the market continues to evolve, stakeholders are closely monitoring trends and pricing to navigate future sales effectively.
