PHOTO: Topping the WVLX Mortlake market today at 425c/kg were 4 of the Speckle Park X steers in this pen that were sold by Charles Stewart Nash McVilly, averaging $1987 for Miranee North P/L. The other 2 sold for 293c/kg, $1646ph.
Numbers eased back to 1,937 this week at WVLX Mortlake, representing a reduction of 723 head on the previous week. It was a mixed yarding over most categories. Fewer good heavy beef cows were on offer and an increase in plainer types and dairy breeds. There was an additional two operators this week along with the regular processor panel, however not all were fully active. Feeder and restocker interest was evident. The offering consisted of 404 grown cattle with 560 trade weights, 893 cows and 80 bulls.
The market remained strong and improved over most categories. Grown cattle gained 5 to 20c/kg, more so for the medium weights. Trade weight cattle improved 20c/kg and manufacturing types also gained 20 to 30c/kg in places. Most cows remained firm to dearer by 15c/kg, more so for the medium weights. Grown bulls were firm to 10c/kg dearer.
A small number of vealers topped at 366c/kg. Trade steers and heifers sold from 310 to 425c/kg. Grown cattle topped at 404c and manufacturing steers sold up to 350c/kg. Heavy beef cows sold from 290 to 360c/kg with the medium weights selling between 260 and 300c/kg. The better covered dairy cows were generally from 220 to 310c/kg with grown bulls to 292c/kg.