As the end of another successful southern summer/autumn calf selling season comes to a close, we look back with enthusiasm at what has taken place.
Strong support has seen a real thirst for quality calves and was evident across the entire season.
Strong values for calves were seen right from the beginning in December, through to the present time. Breeders in turn are being deservedly rewarded for their time, effort and the costs expended to produce quality calves. Calves certainly have kept the Australian meat industry cogs turning, and continue to place the industry squarely at the forefront of global markets. Now that the autumn break has arrived, the prime market seems to have now stabilized, with some categories clearly starting to strengthen.
A very interesting three to four months now appear in front of us as we see how numbers, or perhaps even lack of numbers, shape and influence our market place.
The very nature of our industry means we must remain vigilant and focused on the pursuit of excellence in all facets of our business model: from paddock to plate, as the saying goes.
With the shadow of winter looming, now is clearly the time for breeders and finishers alike, to be proactive in implementing their animal health and nutritional requirement strategies.
Measures taken now will reap benefits in the future months when the favorable conditions of spring arrive and the stock can take full advantage.
Whilst our industry appears to be a never ending cycle of proactive choices and reactive decisions, those who intentionally consider and respond to both with equal commitment, are often those who gain the most.
It is also imperative, as we consider and respond to the demands of our industry, to never forget that relationships in business including ours, are a crucial part to our future success. It may seem unnecessary as we now drift into winter at this early stage of the season, but as we all know that time gets way from us. I do though implore you to take time out to make contact with your preferred livestock marketing agent and discuss thoroughly your future marketing plans. We all know having more than just a plan A, is crucial in agriculture, being that we are dependent on so many influence that are out of our control. Prepare now, benefit later. “Success is where preparation and opportunity meet,” Bobby Unser.
ALPA will be conducting an auctioneer school in Bendigo on the June 14 and 15.
This school will be the selection for the 2017 ALPA Victorian Young Auctioneers Competition being held on the September 18, at the Victorian Livestock Exchange Pakenham.