7 November 2011

1 minute read

Oceania

MLA reports that cattle on feed numbers were back seven per cent year-on-year (765,818 head) and also fell 10% on the June quarter (792,446 head).

Uncertain global economic activity, higher feeder cattle and grain prices, as well as an A$ averaging 16 per cent higher year-on-year through the September quarter contributed to the survey outcome.

Subsequently, numbers were back against the June quarter, with numbers in Queensland (407,958 head) and NSW (233,678 head) back seven per cent.

In comparison to a year ago, NSW and SA (23,316 head) numbers were four per cent and one per cent higher respectively, while numbers in Victoria (45,625 head) and Queensland were back 14 per cent and eight per cent respectively.

MLA states that total cattle on feed in WA fell to its lowest level in 15 years, declining 86 per cent year-on-year, to only 3,151 head. While the grainfed market continued to remain challenging, cattle producers in WA have benefited from the much improved season in the west since mid-winter, constraining available cattle numbers.

Cattle turnoff for the quarter totalled 646,968 head – two per cent lower than the June quarter and nine per cent back on last year. In contrast to last year, turnoff was back across all states, except Victoria, which jumped seven per cent.

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