DRY conditions have brought about record numbers again with today’s fat cattle sale seeing the second biggest yarding for the year with 4500 head sold at the Gunnedah Saleyards.
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Gunnedah Stock and Station Agent Association President Adam Pollock said although numbers were high, prices had dropped.
“Heavier cattle seem to have dropped off a bit, especially cows and bulls,” Mr Pollock said.
“Yearling cattle are still strong, particularly the good cattle are holding firm, but plainer cattle overall won’t make as much.”
He said the large yarding is due to the dry season.
“We are seeing a lot of cattle from other areas, particularly from out west and other drought affected places,” Mr Pollock said.
“It’s definitely a sign of the dry times.”
Elders Gunnedah yarded 950 head out of the 4500 cattle strong sale.
Elders Gunnedah Stock and Station agent David Simpson said their cattle were mainly booked in from Nyngan, Walgett, Moree and Coonamble with only a few local graziers selling their stock.
“It’s been a pretty ordinary season out west, but most of the cattle are in good order considering the conditions,” Mr Simpson said.
“The prices are definitely cheaper, at least 10-15 cents.”
Next Tuesday, December 17 is the final fat cattle sale for the year, with the first sale of 2014 to be held on January 7.