By Simon McKittrick, Logical Livestock and Property
The recent hot weather over the past week hasn’t had as much impact on the markets as initially expected. Numbers have increased across all major selling centres, though better-quality types in all categories have only eased by 10 c/kg or so.
This comes off strong highs at the start of the year.
Current Feeder & Cattle Prices:
- Crossbred Feeders: $3.60–$3.70/kg.
- Angus Feeders: Approx $3.80/kg.
- Heifer Feeders: Approx $3.20-$3.30c/kg for feeder types with weight.
- Heavy Slaughter Cows: Softened from $3.00/kg live to $2.70–$2.90/kg.
- Lighter or Secondary Restockers: High $2.00/kg to low $3.00/kg range.
Some export feedlots currently have no quote and are working 2–3 weeks out on delivery, closely watching weather patterns.
With significant tropical activity across Northern QLD, the NT, and the Kimberley region of WA, some producers are hesitant to accept current rates, knowing that any weather impact could trigger a price jump—especially if conditions push south.
As mentioned in our first newsletter this year, Blackall North in QLD remains dry, covering a large cattle-producing area.
South Australia and large parts of Victoria are also experiencing dry conditions. Market sentiment remains fairly confident, with most expecting pricing to hold steady over the coming months, though the current increase in numbers is testing market strength.
The EYCI is currently sitting around the 641c mark, while the Aus dollar is sitting just over US 62.1c.
- Domestic Feeder Steer @ $3.80/4.00
- Domestic Feeder Heifer @ $3.20/3.40
- Heavy Feeder Steer @ $3.60/3.70
- Angus Heavy Feeder Steer @ $3.70/3.90
- Cow @ $5.80/6.00
- MSA Steers @ $6.30/6.70