National throughput at MLA’s NLRS reported saleyards for the week so far has remained similar to last week. On a state basis however, NSW throughput increased by 15% in comparison to the same period last week with the Gunnedah market illustrating the largest gains. At the other end Naracoorte and SA LE in SA offered decreased yardings.

Quality has been consistent to recent weeks. This has ranged from a mixed trend across all grades to slightly improved condition. There have been some good crop and supplementary fed young cattle while the balance of the offering at most sales lacked condition which is to be expected at this time of the year. Most cows were carting more weight and condition and demand responded accordingly.

Prices continue to remain firm

The continuation of low supply has aided demand to remain firm as the majority of categories of young and grown cattle show little variation on the same period last week. The benchmark Eastern Young Cattle Indicator (EYCI) however slipped 3.75¢ on last Tuesdays three month high to 338.5¢/kg cwt. Trade and feeder steers lost 2¢ and gained 2¢ to settle at 194¢ and 184¢/kg respectively.

Export categories were also close to firm across the eastern states. Medium steers were at 176¢ to be 1¢/kg cheaper. Japan ox was unchanged at 186¢ and the US cow indicator was at 136¢ after a 1¢/kg gain.

TheCattleSite News Desk