NRLX Prime Cattle Market Remains Firm Despite Reduced Numbers
Northern Rivers Livestock Exchange – Prime Cattle Sale Report
The Northern Rivers Livestock Exchange prime cattle sale delivered a generally firm market this week, with processors continuing to compete strongly for quality stock despite a reduction in overall yarding numbers.
A total of 2,202 head were sold through 797 lots, generating more than $2.88 million in turnover. The sale averaged 402.9 cents per kilogram across all categories, with strong demand evident for well-finished steers, bullocks and quality heifers. Buyers remained selective but were prepared to pay premiums for cattle displaying weight, condition and processing suitability.
Steers were again the standout category, averaging an impressive 496.0 cents per kilogram and reaching a top price of 622.2 cents per kilogram. The 739 head sold generated more than $911,800 in turnover and averaged $1,233.83 per head.
Heifers also attracted solid competition, averaging 411.7 cents per kilogram and topping at 514.2 cents per kilogram. A total of 806 head sold, returning an average value of $1,042.62 per head and contributing more than $840,000 to overall sale turnover.
Bullocks continued to command strong prices, averaging 429.6 cents per kilogram and reaching a top of 448.2 cents per kilogram. The category returned an average of $2,797.40 per head, with top-selling animals reaching $3,279.49.
The cow market remained steady, with 585 head sold. Cows averaged 338.3 cents per kilogram and topped at 397.2 cents per kilogram. Returns ranged from $172.26 to $2,740.68, averaging $1,651.35 per head and generating more than $966,000 in turnover.
Bulls averaged 363.9 cents per kilogram and reached 397.2 cents per kilogram. The category returned an average value of $2,613.46 per head, with top bulls making $3,961.71.
Vealer bulls averaged 382.8 cents per kilogram and topped at 454.2 cents per kilogram, returning up to $1,460.95 per head.
Overall, buyer confidence remains solid across the Northern Rivers region, with processors continuing to underpin the market. Strong prices for finished cattle and quality feeder lines indicate ongoing demand from both domestic and interstate sectors as winter progresses.
The sale generated total turnover of $2.89 million, highlighting the continuing strength of the region’s livestock industry and the importance of NRLX as a key marketing centre for Northern Rivers producers.
