A LIFT of 60c/kg for light steer calves at Wodonga livestock exchange recently has been welcomed by breeders as the store market showed signs of returning to a more traditional price trading pattern.
It's also a boost in confidence for local producers with the upcoming store sale at Wangaratta this Thursday, July 18.
In recent months, market prices have remained below average due to a poor autumn period with little rain which has put pressure on cattle producers financially as substantial feed in paddocks is absent causing the added expense of buying in feed.
Wangaratta Elders stock agent Oliver Mason believes the recent Wodonga sale, in combination with a changing market, will see a positive shift at Wangaratta this week.
“The store sale this Thursday is looking very optimistic with the market starting to shift in our favour,” he said.
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“A lot of stock has shifted north of the state which has opened the market in Victoria, bringing back confidence in the market at a local level in Wangaratta.
“We have a great lineup of cattle and buyers for the sale on Thursday, which again is presenting confidence for the local market and a positive shift towards better things to come.
“Cattle sales have been tough, especially for producers with the lack of rainfall, however, recent rain has put some green back in the paddocks which is a positive spin heading towards spring.
“The recent lack of rainfall has forced producers to sell, in some cases too early.
“The sale on Thursday has presented plenty of interest from local buyers and buyers from out of town which will help the potential of bidding being driven up.
“Local agents, producers and buyers are feeling quietly confident as we are now seeing a positive move forward and hope the market continues to step forward in the right direction.”
Thursday sale at the Wangaratta Livestock Exchange commences at 9am.
