According to Meat and Livestock Australia’s national livestock reporting service most cattle were secondary types with plenty showing the effects of the season.

Prices for vealers to domestic processors varied, selling from 202c to 305c/kg. Medium weight trade heifers benefited from strong competition from all domestic processors. Trade heifer prices were unchanged averaging 282c/kg.

Trade steers were limited and prices averaged 320c/kg. Restocking competition was stronger although prices did fluctuate. Overall weaner steers and heifers generally sold 17c to 27c/kg dearer. Lighter weight steers back to the paddock made from 210c to 316c/kg to average $676/head. Secondary light weight heifers with shape made from 184c to 232c/kg, averaging $492/head. Feeder steers were in limited numbers. Both categories of light and medium weight steers sold to a larger group of buyers. Medium weight feeder steers were unchanged making 275c to 317c/kg. Feeder heifers sold to stronger competition resulting in prices increasing 9c, selling from 240c to 293c/kg. Domestic and export processor competition lifted noticeably. The better quality pens of prime finished steers and bullocks made from 280c to 306c/kg. Cow numbers decreased and demand was notably stronger for cows with plenty of fat cover. Heavy cows topped at 244c to average 237c/kg. The D3 medium weight lines held firm despite plenty of cows lacking yield. Lean cows gained 5c to average 170c/kg.