Australian winter cattle sales see firm prices amid dry conditions

In Victoria's East Gippsland town of Bairnsdale, about 1,100 cattle were yarded on July 24. Weaner steers fetched a peak of 632 cents per kilogram, while feeder cattle sold for 500‑550 cents per kilogram. Livestock manager Jake Fullgrabe said the market was "a typical winter market" but noted "very limited support by local buyers because our season is turning against us" as dry weather has left dams empty. Feedlotters and outside restockers dominated buying, with major purchasers such as Anthony Hullick, Steve Rennie and Murray Stewart taking large lots.

Further north in Naracoorte, South Australia, a larger yarding of 2,593 head was reported. Prices held up strongly, highlighted by a $3,020 sale for two spring‑2024 drop steers and several premium EU‑accredited Angus and Simmental steers selling between $2,800 and $2,900. Sellers, including Neil Engler, said they are "hedging bets" on the El Niño forecast, while buyer interest from feedlotters remained high. Overall, both sales reflected firm winter prices driven by feedlot demand despite a dry season affecting local graziers.