CONTINUING dry in the Clarence Valley meant a lack of local buyers at last Thursday’s monthly store sale at Grafton. Quality of cattle on the market was also down on the previous month.
As a result prices for cows and calves were back by $200 compared to the April market while stronger demand for weaner steers and heifers saw that price fall just $15.
In saying that there were some highlights which included a pen of Brangus feeder steers from Bruce Brotherson, Ulmarra, averaging 490kg to fetch 274 cents per kilo or $1343.
Rod Grant of Karangi – which has managed a reasonable season – provided the right weight Angus weaner steers, averaging 242kg to make 326 cents or $791.
Best cow and calf, Angus, came from P and A De Graff, Southgate – the driest pocket in the valley – to make $1260.
Upper Clarence has fared well but paddocks around Grafton have not, said agent Mitch Donovan.
Last week’s auction was held in conjunction with David Farrell.