LOCAL CATTLE sales have recently hit highs not seen in years, with Kempsey Saleyard recording some excellent prices at the regular fat sale on August 27.
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Lightweight steer calves were the clear standouts on the day with 200-kilogram calves topping at 588c/kg, and some under 150 kilograms selling for 625c/kg, allegedly setting a new record for Kempsey.
Ian Argue from Kempsey stock and land has been involved in the industry for more than forty years, and he says some of the stock is fetching prices larger than he's experienced.
"The cattle market is the strongest it's been in years, after four to five years of trying conditions during the drought, we are starting to see some good stock prices again," he said.
"The farmers really needed it, during the drought they were forced to sell their cattle for next to nothing."
After the drought ended in a lot of areas, a perfect storm of conditions has seen plenty of healthy cattle, and the farmers are currently reaping the rewards of their hard work.
"There has been some solid rain since January, and that has produced good crops, on the back of a good season, we are seeing plenty of big healthy stock," Ian said.
Roughly 880 mixed quality cattle were presented at the regular fat sale and market day with a good number of buyers from the Central West, Northern Tablelands, and North West slopes.
Other standouts on the day included weaner calves, which saw one of the biggest jumps, with 60 cents added to their price.
Heavy weaner steers weighing up to 330 kilograms averaged 425c/kg, seeing a 35 cent increase. Weaner steers from 200 to 280 kilograms went up 50 cents, topping at 556.2c/kg.
Cows averaged 270c/kg, while medium weight cows up to 520 kilograms hit 296.2c/kg, while heavy cows over 520 kilograms made it to 284.2c/kg.
The best bull sold for 286.2c/kg.
The next sale is scheduled for Saturday, September 5, with an 11 am start. Due to Covid-19 regulations, sign-in protocols, social distancing and hygiene rules still apply.
For more information on upcoming sales, call Kempsey Stock and Land on 6562 6600.
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