Naracoorte Cattle Report

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Report Date: 18th February 2025

Total Yarding: 703

Commentary

Numbers nearly halved for a smaller offering of 703 cattle. About half the yarding was cows which had a very good lead of heavy Angus and Hereford females. The market was noticeably dearer across all grades, led by cows which improved 30c to 40c/kg on a week ago. The majority of cows sold above 300c/kg as key exporters stepped up for numbers. Younger feeder, trade and store calves also lifted in value by 20c to 30c/kg. Auctioneers said anticipation of an autumn break and the impact it could have on cattle supply and demand was starting to influence a more positive mood.

The line-up of grown steers and younger cattle was limited and mixed in quality. A stand-out pen of grown Angus steers sold for 394c/kg to a restocking order in a much dearer result than recent markets. Most of the better bred beef steers suiting feeder orders sold from 340c to 380c/kg, with buyers favouring those with frame size and some weight. Younger steer calves with less size 315c to 355c/kg. Competition for heifers improved, heavy grown types with fat over moving up into a range of 340c to 366c/kg. There was some plainer calves which still sold in the sub 300c price range, but sales below this price threshold were limited today.

The export run was the highlight of the market. Heavy beef cows sold from 312c to a top of 343c/kg to easily eclipse last week’s market top of 300c/kg. Even some of the plainer conditioned cows with less fat cover sold above 300c, There was a big representation of bulls in the yarding, selling agents suggesting some producers had upgraded bulls at recent stud sales. A stand-out Limousin bull topped at 350c/kg. Most of the better bulls 280c to 330c/kg. Only a few dairy steers were offered and these had minimal fat cover at 250c to 274c/kg.

Market reporter: Jenny Kelly