In the latest cattle auction at Dalby, total yarding witnessed a significant decrease to 1,723 head, a reduction of 2,087 from the previous auction. This decline in numbers is attributed to the useful falls of rain across most parts of the supply areas.
Despite the reduced turnout, the market saw a full panel of export buyers, though not all were actively participating. Regular feed, trade buyers, and restockers were present and engaged in active bidding.
A notable trend in this auction was the general increase in prices across most cattle classes. Light weight yearling steers returning to the paddock showed minimal price change, maintaining a very plain quality lineup. However, yearling steers meant for feeding purposes saw a significant price increase, averaging between 20c to 30c/kg more than previous rates. Light weight yearling heifers destined for restockers were marked at noticeably higher prices, with increases over 40c/kg in some instances. Similarly, yearling heifers for feeding and trade purposes also experienced a substantial lift in price.
Regarding heavier cattle, grown steers and bullocks averaged a 40c/kg increase. All cow classes enjoyed improvements ranging from 30c to 35c/kg.
In terms of specific pricing, light weight yearling steers returning to the paddock averaged 315c, reaching up to 353c/kg. For domestic market feeding, yearling steers ranged from 302c to 319c, with some sales peaking at 335c/kg. Heavy weight yearling steers for feeding topped at 296c, averaging around 270c, and some traded at 306c/kg. Light weight yearling heifers for restockers peaked at 308c, averaging 296c/kg. Medium weight yearling heifers for feeding were priced between 253c to 260c, with the top sales at 270c/kg, and heavy weights for feeding occasionally reached 293c, averaging 276c/kg.
The heavy grown steers and bullocks destined for export processors were marked up to 278c, with a fair sample averaging at 274c/kg. Medium weight 2 score cows for restockers reached 204c/kg. The best quality cows made up to 241c, with both medium and heavy weights averaging in the early 230c/kg range. Lastly, heavy weight bulls were sold for as much as 247c/kg.
This auction at Dalby reflects a healthy demand in the cattle market, buoyed by favourable weather conditions and active participation from a variety of buyers.
