By Simon McKittrick, Logical Livestock and Property
It’s hardly news that markets have been struggling for a while now, due to the extreme and prolonged dry conditions across a huge area of Australia.
That is all about to change with the most recent general rains that fell last week.
Pricing across all categories have been struggling, the length and severity of this dry spell has taken a toll on all involved. All markets both physical and online were up last week, albeit it coming off a pretty low base. It never ceases to amaze how much a general rain can stimulate buying activity.
Anyone who has been holding back on marketing cattle and are looking to sell over the next month or so will be keen to capitalise on the market turnaround. Combine this with those who now have the option to hold, we will more than likely see a decline in numbers of most categories coming forward.
This may not be a drought breaker but it is a very, very good start. The timing, the broad area and the amount of rain will certainly improve confidence and trading conditions over the next few months.
Many people across the Eastern half of Australia have received some of the best falls in over two years and areas of Qld more than double that.
The rains came on the back of some patchier falls over the last couple of weeks or so. For many areas this is a game changer, as the timing will still allow a reasonable window for pasture growth and winter cropping programs of course will now be in full swing.
We do feel very sorry for everyone who has been affected by the recent dreadful floods in North Queensland. Many of these families will take years to recover, spare a thought.
Some of the best falls we have heard:
Coonamble 80mm
Gunnedah 50mm
Merriwa 85mm
Coolah/Cassilis 100mm+
Dunedoo 110mm
Scone 75mm
Yass 45mm
Canberra 45mm
Khancoban 70mm
