Seasonal Shifts Drive AuctionsPlus Offering to 13,853 Head
AuctionsPlus reported a significant 28% increase in cattle offerings this week, totaling 13,853 head. The clearance rate, however, dipped to 68%, a 3% drop from the prior week.
Seasonal conditions may have played a role, especially for lighter steers, as some producers appeared eager to sell regardless of price.
Steers weighing less than 280kg achieved a strong 91% clearance rate but saw a $76 decrease per head compared to the previous week. On the other hand, steers in the 280-330kg range recorded a $60 increase per head, averaging $1,195, with a 77% clearance rate.
Among notable sales, 114 Angus steers from Ournie, Victoria, averaging 350kg, fetched $1,430 per head or 408c/kg, destined for a buyer near Orange, NSW.
Heifers Show Widespread Gains
Heifers performed well across all categories, with prices increasing compared to last week. A standout was a line of Murray Grey/Hereford heifers from Railton, Tasmania, averaging 322kg, which sold for $1,110 per head or 345c/kg. These heifers are headed to a buyer near Deloraine, Tasmania.
Another highlight included 192 Droughtmaster heifers from Clermont, Central Queensland, averaging 304kg, sold at 329c/kg ($1,000 per head). A lighter group of their counterparts, averaging 263kg, brought 303c/kg ($795 per head).
Breeding Females See Mixed Outcomes
Breeding females experienced diverging trends. Small yardings of SM heifers and SM cows with calves faced price declines, while PTIC heifers showed strong demand, with buyers willing to pay premiums for pregnancy-tested stock.
A noteworthy sale came from Camperdown, Victoria, where 26 Angus cows averaging 562kg sold for $2,220 per head or 395c/kg. These cows were purchased by a local buyer near Camperdown.
As AuctionsPlus navigates changing seasonal conditions, the demand for quality breeding females and heifers remains strong. This week’s results underscore the platform’s role in facilitating significant livestock transactions.
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