Strong Cow and Steer Prices Highlight Northern Rivers Livestock Exchange Sale
The Northern Rivers Livestock Exchange recorded another solid prime cattle sale this week, with strong demand for quality stock producing competitive prices across most categories.
A total of 2,310 head were sold through 908 lots, generating a gross market value of more than $2.85 million. Buyers remained active throughout the sale, particularly for well-finished steers, cows and heavy bullocks, while lighter and secondary lines met more selective competition.
Steers once again attracted some of the strongest bidding of the day. A total of 694 head averaged 491.1 cents per kilogram, reaching a sale-high of 600.2c/kg. Returns ranged from $255 to $2,729.24 per head, with the category averaging $1,124.87.
The large yarding of 823 heifers also sold well, averaging 398.5c/kg and topping at 488.2c/kg. Prices ranged from $214.89 to $2,091.41 per head, reflecting continued demand for both feeder and processor cattle.
Cows made up the largest section of the sale, with 701 head offered. Prices averaged 336.7c/kg and reached 420c/kg for the better quality lines. Vendors received between $312 and $3,173.31 per head, with an average return of $1,620.88.
Heavy bullocks maintained their recent momentum, averaging 402.6c/kg and topping at 440.2c/kg. Individual returns ranged from $811.03 to $3,475.80 per head.
The bull market remained firm, with 35 head averaging 360c/kg and reaching 396.2c/kg. Values ranged from $857.52 to $3,667, highlighting continued processor demand for heavier bulls.
Vealer numbers were comparatively small. Eight vealers averaged 275.5c/kg, while 36 vealer bulls averaged 292.3c/kg, topping at 450.2c/kg and returning up to $1,320.
The sale also included a small offering of prime cattle sold on a per-head basis. Two bobby calves sold for $20 each, while eight cows and calves averaged $1,129.38, topping at $1,240.
Across all categories sold by weight, the market averaged 387.6c/kg, with the average value sitting at $1,235.10 per head. The overall sale generated $2,853,090.35, underlining another successful trading day for producers, buyers and agents despite seasonal winter conditions.
The results continue to demonstrate resilient demand for quality cattle throughout the Northern Rivers, with well-finished stock maintaining excellent competition as producers move deeper into the winter selling season.
