Buyers show reluctance at Ballarat

Discerning buyers were careful at a 4500-strong cattle yarding at Ballarat today. See the full sale recap.

A total of 4500 cattle went under the hammer at the Ballarat monthly store sale on Friday, with prices quoted as being cheaper than recent markets.

The overall result was a reflection in the drop in the cattle market after a rally in values last week.

Despite a full throng of commission buyers and restockers, it was a tough environment for vendors, with purchasers being selective and seeking out bargains.

Buyers from the local area and support from purchasers in South Australia helped to provide demand.

The heavy steers stood out, with those weighing 550kg making 320c/kg to 330c/kg.

Feedlot steers weighing 400kg made 350c/kg.

Kaye and Geoff Mitchell from Sandford, "Morebun Hill" at Ballarat sale. Picture: Yuri Kouzmin

The lighter steers, weighing less than 250kg, received 350c/kg to 400c/kg.

Heifers, and heavier females that were ready to join made 300c/kg.

The lighter females were less in price, however, did attract some restocker interest.

Females weighing 250kg to 300kg returned 300c/kg.

Dougal McIntyre of Charles Stewart Livestock at Ballarat estimated the market to be cheaper than recent sales, however, there was a good crowd of buyers in attendance.

“Unfortunately, as we got into the lighter weights, prices didn’t improve,” he said.

There was buying support from processors, including Thomas Foods International and Teys at Jindalee, NSW. Processing support was backed up by commission buyers and restockers.

“We are just going into winter, and I would say there is starting to be limited feed around,” Mr IcIntyre said.

Mick Carrey and his son Hugh, 4, from Gordon at Ballarat. Picture: Yuri Kouzmin

“The season is not looking bad, but there are people who do not really want to buy,” he said.

The market reflected what is happening nationally in terms of cattle prices. On Friday Meat and Livestock Australia’s Eastern States Young Cattle Indicator settled at 596.14c/kg representing a drop of 29.93c/kg in the past week.

While the indicator for Victoria on Friday was at 557.14c/kg a fall of 23.16c/kg but still 34.53c/kg stronger than last month.

L-R: Maddie Dodds, Lucy Fielke & Chantel Stavrides. Picture: Yuri Kouzmin