Arguably one of the most iconic saleyards in all of Australia, Landmark’s Gelantipy, set in the cold country area, 120 kilometres north east of Bairnsdale, was the setting for the annual sale, Monday.
Gelantipy producers see this yard used once a year, always in March, and usually at the start of autumn.
This was the case this year, although it didn’t feel like autumn, being 27 degrees with a slight summer breeze.
This area has suffered from an extensive dry period, but the cattle offered were all in good condition, and until the cold temperatures commence, the cattle will hold that condition.
Quality is one of the features here at Gelantipy, which draws a contingent of regular buyers back to the area.
By far, the largest vendor is Frank and Dawn Boulton, Gelantipy Station, which happens to be across the road.
Offering nearly half of the yarding, their 558 Hereford-Angus, and Angus steers are 12-14 months of age.
Due to the very poor season, these steers were a lot lighter, and estimated to weigh from 220-360 kilograms.
Normally, a NSW feedlot operator buys a large number of these steers to grain feed, but his absence allowed several other buyers to participate this year.
Many of these steers went to South Gippsland, but competition came also from a company that will grain feed these steers for a prime steer order.
The lightest of these steers sold from $760-960, with the heavier steers mostly $990-$1145.
Regular sellers here at Gelantipy are local Hereford breeders, noted for the high quality of their cattle.
Karoonda and Mawarra Hereford bulls are the dominant genetics used here.
W&A Henderson sold 41 Hereford steers from $880-$1080, topping the weaned steer section.
TE Woodgate sold 179 Herefords to $1050, but most steers sold from $580-$960.
Some steers had a weight displayed, which saw them equal 276-306c/kg lwt.
Lighter weight steers, and most of the heifers, were harder to attract competition, and were considered as cheaper compared to other recent high country sales.
TE Woodgate sold the highest price heifers, which sold for $770.
FA&DM Boulton purchased two pens of Hereford heifers, for future breeders, paying to $760.
Most heifers sold between $465-$680/head, and were good buying.