Wednesday 15 August 2012
Australia
Bad weather slows cattle numbers
The throughput of cattle at MLA’s National Livestock Reporting Service saleyards so far during winter has been 7% higher than the corresponding period in 2011, despite the continuation of some logistical issues across several states.
However, it should also be noted that yardings during the corresponding periods in both 2011 and 2010 were very low, influenced by the very wet conditions, flooding and producers retaining stock after several years of drought.
Yearling steers were yarded in the largest numbers during June and July making up 23% of the national yarding – an increase of 18% year-on-year.
Cows were also well represented, making up around 21% of the national yarding, with the majority purchased by processors.
Yearling heifer offerings surged 25% year-on-year, while grown steers supplies lifted 10%, with a steady supply of heavy steers also heading directly to processors.
The total throughput of vealer steers increased 3% year-on-year, with the majority going back on farm.
The favourable seasonal conditions across many key cattle producing regions of Queensland and northern NSW continues to underpin demand for light cattle, with producers keen to make the most of ample pasture.
Restockers have also been quite active on females, indicating that rebuilding intentions remain – albeit not as strong as in previous years.
There were considerably more yearling steers offered during June and July.
The percentage of yearling steers purchased by feeders during the two months jumped 25% on the corresponding period last year.
In the final week of July the feeder steer indicator was 2¢ dearer year-on-year, at 203¢/kg lwt.
Source: MLA.com
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