LOCAL buyers, possibly spooked by the hype and high prices of January weaner sales, stepped up with more certainty and bought their cattle at the new NVLX Barnawartha saleyards near Wodonga on Thursday.
Competing for a 3000-head yarding of winter-drop weaners, selling agents called the market fully firm on recent North East district rates, with feedlots proactive on the heavier drafts.
Better sales of Angus steers led the way through the brisk demand making to a top of $985 a head. Hereford steer sales reached a best of $895 while a limited selection of Charolais-cross steers made to $890.
Heavier weights of all breeds ranged in value from 235 to 265c/kg lwt while lighter weights realized 240- 280c/kg lwt.
Heifers also meet strong demand with feed-lot buyers displaying much greater willingness to participate with the cattle now housed on the soft floors of the newly built Barnawartha facility.
Heavy heifers made to $855 a head and averaged 216c/kg lwt while the majority of the mid-weighted heifers made $640- $790 to average 220- 225c/kg lwt.
