I CAN remember reading the advice of Bob Jamieson, in this column in May, when he recommended to stock up while the northern weaner cattle sales were in full swing. Timely and very accurate.
We sold steer calves for 378.2 cents a kilogram last Monday, returning more than $1000, which would have made 350c/kg in early April. This was blown away at Tenterfield, on the same day, when calves just under 200kg sold for 417.2c/kg.
Just a quick comment on those calves which had been affected by poor pasture conditions. In this market, more than at any time since the disastrous collapse in the cattle market in 1974, cattlemen will be looking for compensatory growth and weight gains.
It can be a long time coming in cattle that have been badly drought affected, which results in weak rumen development hindering good performance.
Our leading tractor farmers have made huge progress in recent years on the back of exponential improvements in technology. Now our livestock producers are further improving their approach to feed management.
The strong lamb and sheep prices have allowed lamb breeders to supplement pasture finishing with dry feed mixes delivered to troughs.
Guyra graziers have led the charge as they have easy access to a reliable supply from the local commercial feed mill. This practice has allowed the turning off of well-finished lambs in the absence of fresh oat paddocks which have been few and far between this year in the north.
This transformation of practices has been well assisted and led by Landcare groups such as our local group known as Glenrac. Our very active group led by Kylie Falconer, who reports to a strong board chaired by Jim Benton, has taken control of extension work to our livestock producers.
They have very professionally filled the void left when the government so drastically reduced the input of the Department of Agriculture employees.
The transformation in the season in the eastern States, brought about by the rains, will hurt some such as those with waterlogged chickpeas, but generally most will benefit.
The past 12 months of strong, stable livestock prices have been a wonderful boost for producers – and livestock agents.
Budgets receive a lift as happened with such great effect in the north of Australia when live export gained momentum. This will lead to investment in maintenance and infrastructure improvements.
Many well educated minds think that it will continue for some time. Fingers crossed!