ALTHOUGH dearer, and considerably in places, demand for store cattle was considered “lethargic” at Ballarat store sale today.
In damp conditions, following 20-30mm across the district, a limited field of feeders and restockers pushed prices for steers higher than the sale of a month ago, paying 180-205c/kg for grown steers.
Weaner steers were not as eagerly sought after and most made 190-200c/kg, with pens of lighter weaners sold between 200-215c/kg in a mixed display that contained a lot of “clean up” lots.
The demand for heifers proved the bright spot of market, making 170-200c/kg lwt.
Many of the heifer sales were $100-$120 dearer than the previous Ballarat sale before the rain occurred.
Heifers made to $740 for 16 Shorthorn heifers, rising 2yo, 485kg, from Caskieburn Shorthorns, Carisbrook, purchased to join by Digger Finch, Mt Moriac.
While steers made to $1030 for four black baldies weighing 548kg from OB Farms.
A typical sale of ideal feeder cattle was offered by Norm Sucking, Mollingghip – 16 Angus steers 431kg at $890.
Most steer lines were purchased by regular attendee, Thomas Foods International, who took 155 steers and 170 heifers.
- Full story in the Stock & Land April 17 edition
Murray Arnel
Stock store analyst for Stock & Land.
Stock store analyst for Stock & Land.
