The annual Ray White Eastern Rural beef bonanza saw a quality lineup at the Dalby saleyards on Wednesday morning, with demand from lot feeders and processors pushing the market to a top of 290c/kg.
The grand champion title was taken out by Ian and Roz McKelvie, Moonie, for their pen of 12 Angus-cross steers.
Weighing in at 475kg, the feeder steers made 290c/kg to average $1377/head.
The champion trade weight feeder exhibit was awarded to Frank and Lorna McNamara, Tara, for their pen of 12 Hereford-cross steers weighing 365kg, which sold for 280c/kg to make $1025/head.
The champion weaner exhibit was won by G and S Hohns, Pittsworth, for their pen of 12 Angus-cross steers weighing 298kg, which made 277c/kg for $828/head.
A total of 918 head was consigned to Ray White Eastern Rural, with 400 head eligible for the Beef Bonanza competition.
Competition saw both local and across the downs vendors showcase quality lines of cattle that presented in great condition despite the tough season.
Agent Peter Bird said Dalby saw a fairly average yarding of 5300 head on Wednesday, with the market falling in most places.
“Bullocks were down by up to 25 cents a kilo, down from 305c/kg last week, topping at 278c/kg,” he said.
“Heavy heifers to kill were also 15 to 18c/kg down, with a main meatworks buyer not present, and cows on average would have been 15c/kg cheaper, but the top price was probably only 4 or 5c/kg back on last week.
“Heavy feeder steers got out to 290c/kg, with plenty of good feeder steers around that 280c/kg, while trade weight steers made similar sort of money, anywhere form 275 to 290c/kg.”
Mr Bird said feeder heifers made up to 280c/kg, with most making 270 to 275c/kg, while the weaner market remained firm for quality lines.
“If they were light weights they were cheaper, but weaner steers made up to 280c/kg, and lightweights anywhere from 200c/kg to 220c/kg,” he said.
“Heifers topped at 245c/kg, with most around that 220 to 225c/kg.
“Cows and calves got up to $1000/head, with quite a few yarded.”
