According to Meat and Livestock Australia’s National Livestock Reporting Service trade cattle were few and domestic processors were very subdued.

Grown steer and bullocks numbers dwindled notably however quality was quite good.

Not all of the usual buying group attended.

Restockers had the greatest influence over lighter weight categories posting dearer prices over most classes.

Prices lifted 10c to 12c for vealers, with the better finished making from 235c to 277c/kg.

There were only limited numbers of trade heifers, with the bulk of the heifers purchased by a large field of feedlot buyers.

Heifers suitable for the trade were unchanged to 2c easier, making from 245c to 269c/kg.

The bulk of the weaner steers returning to the paddock weighing 200-280kg gained 48c, returning prices from 208c to 320c/kg.

The heifer portion lifted 23c, making from 203c to 268c/kg. The feeder steer and heifer market sold to strong competition, with buyers keen for supplies before the Christmas holiday break.

Feeder steers generally lifted 2c to 4c, to receive from 220c to 299c/kg.

Feeder heifers weighing 330 to 400kg were well supplied and the steady demand kept prices unchanged to average 255c/kg. In the export market processors struggled to make a start due to the limited numbers.

Pens of prime finished steers to processors made from 245c to 280c/kg.

Not all northern buyers operated in the cow market, while other processors were selective.

Heavy cows eased 13c to average 198c/kg. The D3 medium weight lines sold 19c cheaper, making from 142c to 185c/kg.

WAGGA LIVESTOCK MARKETING CENTRE CHRISTMAS AND NEW YEAR SALE DATES: The last sheep and lamb sale will be on December, 13. The last cattle sale will be on December 17. In the New Year the first sheep sale of the year will be on January, 3 and the first cattle sale, January, 7.