High Country calf sales return for 2021
Despite the toll of recent drought and bushfires, cattle producers from Victoria’s high country are set to yard more than 8000 head at the looming iconic mountain calf sales.
YEARS of drought and recovery from the Black Summer bushfires may have cut numbers at the upcoming High Country mountain calf sales next week, but livestock agents say the quality of calves on offer are reflective of the stellar season across the east coast.
The iconic sales, taking place across Benambra, Ensay, and Omeo from March 2, will see more than 8000 steers and heifers offered.
Last year, one top-priced pen of heifers sold at the Omeo Hereford and roan sale returned an impressive $1810, a lift of $820 on the year prior.
Average prices were up across the sales in 2020, with many producers estimating an extra $700 per head of cattle.
The Sharp Fullgrabe Benambra sale on Tuesday traditionally heralds the start of the iconic mountain sales.
Sharp Fullgrabe livestock agent Graeme Fullgrabe said the 1100 cattle on offer next week were in great form.
“Inquiry has been tremendous, and from a long away, up in northern NSW, and as far as Mount Gambier,” Mr Fullgrabe said.
“Little cattle prices are enormous. The top end cattle are all at feedlot weight. It’s a terrific industry we’re in at the moment … it’s red hot.”
Mr Fullgrabe said despite the strength of the cattle market and record prices, he was confident calves would be sold next week.
“If a cocky has money, he spends it.”
Elders Omeo livestock agent David Hall said East Gippsland has experienced “one of the best autumns in quite some time”, which coupled with a cool summer and minimal fire risk has been beneficial for producers.
“The cattle numbers are down, in direct result of the fires and significant drought,” Mr Hall said.
“Generally, herd numbers are down about 20 to 30 per cent, and people are also retaining heifers post-drought.”
Mr Hall said while it was difficult to gauge which direction prices might go at next week’s sales, the quality of cattle was on par with previous seasons.
“We are probably one of the last weaner calf sales before winter, and it’s being primarily grass and feedlot driven at the moment,” Mr Hall said.
“We get a lot of support from buyers in South Gippsland, and our northern customers have all been pretty positive.”
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