Rain once again at the very best has been patchy and in most cases only light to moderate falls have been recorded.

In recent weeks Queensland saleyards have seen record numbers of cattle arriving for sale but many of these at their present level of condition have absolutely no use whatsoever for the processor.

Abattoir owner and meat companies in general are aware of the implications which may evolve from handling large numbers of these already stressed cattle.

Recent years have seen far greater emphasis placed on animal welfare. Operators are keen to avoid problems which are being caused by the current drought and the related heat stress. These vast numbers of cattle unsuitable for the trade may provide opportunities for those graziers fortunate enough to be able to provide prime cattle to the market.

Some northern sheds are thought to be moving their buyers further south in an effort to secure their requirements. One northern processor who has an adhoc relationship with NSW saleyards is thought to need 1000 to 1200 cattle from here to bolster the declining number of suitable cattle in their home state. Some Queensland cattle prices have begun to edge higher as processors try to source suitable livestock.

An example of the attraction of Dubbo Saleyards and the drawing power of the Elders Branch Network was evident today (Thursday) when three grazing families from a dry pocket in South Australia consigned almost 500 head to the centre. These calves were in very plain condition and at the top end were not much bigger than good sized grass eaters -

RJ Anderson:  Heifer Calves to $518.12

Steer Calves to $770.70

Mutooroo Past Co: Heifer Calves to $495.00

Steer Calves to $539.00

Mooralue Station: Heifer Calves to $792.75

Steer Calves to $547.42

The best of the lightweights in these consignments made up to $4.00/kg.

Live export orders out of Darwin to Indonesia have risen dramatically in the first 6/7 weeks of 2018. For 2017 cattle loaded ex Darwin tallied 287 221 down from 355 656 in 2016. So far in January we saw 30 000 head leave Darwin with three cattle carriers having loaded at the port in the last few days.

One source contacted thought that this sudden activity was possibly the result of the very dry condition in Western Queensland combining with the demand for feeders to do their 100 to 120 days to be ready for the Ramadan/Labaran religious festival which take place in Indonesia in June/July.

For the producers in the top end one would hope that these favourable export conditions will prevail long term at these suitable price levels.

However, the industry still has the spectre of low priced frozen Buffalo meat imported from India hanging over their head.

Today’s Prime cattle sale saw a draw of 3900 down 1600 head on the previous week.

Market much stronger.