Beyond the Saleyards: Processor prices and saleyard numbers improve

WA sheep processor prices are steady to higher this week and the number traded at the saleyards has largely increased this week.

Liveweight prices are off a good whack, reflecting the slowing down of feedlots before new season lambs.

Direct cattle prices are steady to slightly higher this week, with demand remaining relatively strong.

Recent reports are predicting a slow down in demand for Australian cattle from Indonesia, at least until they have foot and mouth disease vaccines available for all imported cattle within 48 hours of arrival.

Red meat processors on the east coast of Australia are nervously waiting on news regarding the electricity caps being enforced by the Australian Energy and Market Operator.

It would be another blow for meat processors who are only just getting closer to working at full capacity.

A cap on electricity would mean the numbers of livestock processed would drop and the losses processors have been seeing in the past few years would be exacerbated further.

Processor and feedlot market bids at the start of the week (c/kg or $/head):

● WA market indices: weaner steers 712c, weaner heifers 590c. yearling steers 616c, yearling heifers 462c.

● East coast processor prices: MSA: steers 790, heifers 785c. Cows 730c. Jap Ox: steers 760c, Bulls 580c.

● Queensland feedlots: Black Angus: 655c, Black Angus British X: 635c, Wagyu X Angus: POA

● NSW feedlots (steers): Feeder steers: 0-2T 520c, Feeder heifers: 0-2T 480c, Bulls 600c,

To contact buyers and for more price information, please login to the Agora Livestock Markets app or online at www.agoralivestock.com.au.

Rob Kelly is the founder and managing director of Agora Livestock, a free service with the latest sheep, cattle and goat price grids in one easy-to-use app.