Weekly cattle and sheep market wrap

Cattle market

The cattle market has been positive, with cattle yardings lifting by 2,251 to 65,290 head. This uplift in prices was likely driven by the lack of well-finished cattle that meet buyer specifications.  

The Feeder Steer Indicator lifted by 12¢ to 364¢/kg liveweight (lwt), with significant price lifts in SA (29¢) and Victoria (29¢). Although quality was mixed in SA, there was strong feeder and restocker interest. NSW also experienced a 10¢ lift despite more secondary-quality cattle, leading to competitive bidding on well-finished animals.  

An 80¢ differential between the Restocker Steer and Heifer indicators have led to more lot feeders looking to purchase heifers. At Tamworth, market reports indicate a strong demand for heavyweight restockers as opposed to lighter animals.

Sheep market

The sheep market has also been positive, with the heavy and lightweight lambs supporting the market. This week, combined sheep and lamb yardings eased by 60,538 to 259,159 head, with both sheep (26,692 head) and lamb yardings (33,846 head) decreasing.

The Heavy Lamb Indicator lifted by 34¢ to 814¢/kg carcase weight (cwt), and prices lifted across most states. The largest increase was recorded in NSW, lifting by 45¢ with the trend of lambs over 30kg attracting premiums. At Wagga, processor-bound lambs over 30kg sold for $300/head and lambs at Tamworth sold for $278/head. Market reports have indicated the market was split, with heavyweights and lightweights performing strongly but fewer lambs meeting trade specifications. Thus, the Light Lamb Indicator lifted by 48¢ to 711¢/kg cwt.

2025 cattle and sheep projections

Cattle and sheep industry projection webinars will be held on 11 and 12 March. Register now to hear forecasts for herd/flock numbers, slaughter, production and carcase weights.

Attribute content to: Emily Tan, MLA Market Information Analyst