PHOTO: A cracking morning at the WVLX prime cattle sale where manufacturing steers were up 20c/kg and trade cattle firm.
Mortlake provided reduced numbers this week of 1,525 head, being a reduction of just over 1,000 from the previous week. Again a mixed yarding was on offer below the quality of the last market due mainly to the seasonal drying conditions. Lead pens with weight in the bullocks and grown cattle were in good numbers as were manufacturing types. The market comprised 237 grown cattle, 569 trade weights along with 676 cows and 43 grown bulls. Regular buyers were present and active and good feeder and restocker interest was evident. The market remained firm over most categories and for the lead cattle price increases were evident.
Manufacturing steers were up to 20c/kg dearer whilst trade cattle remained firm. The better covered beef cows also remained firm with the majority of cows including dairy cows stronger by 10c to 15c/kg. Heavy weight bulls were stronger with the balance firm.
A small number of vealers made to 305c/kg. Trade weight steers and heifers were selling from 280c to 350c/kg. Grown cattle topped at 341c/kg with manufacturing steers selling up to 262c/kg. Heavy beef cows sold from 210c to 271c/kg with the medium weights between 180c and 210c/kg. Well covered dairy cows were generally selling from 170c to 224c/kg. Grown beef bulls topped at 266c/kg.