Early lambs sales more hesitant 

Spring cattle sales have just been completed in the South Island. Current positive schedules and good feed conditions throughout most South Island regions meant stock sold well, especially well-bred traditional cattle.

Early lambs sales, including in paddock sales, ranged from $2.80 to $2.90 per kilogram. The outlook for sheep meats is subdued due to Australia exporting record quantities of lamb and mutton, coupled with the Chinese economic slowdown. Increasing lamb numbers coming forward in the next month will give a more accurate picture on values.

At a sale in Temuka on 24 November, the season’s first 100 kilogram calves were offered, with approximately 1500 head available. Results exceeded expectations by approximately $50 per head. Friesian bulls accounted for the highest proportion of the yarding, averaging 100 kilograms even and selling at $480, $4.78 per kilogram. An enthusiastic gallery of mostly local buyers, from Mid- and South-Canterbury, met the market for bulls, steers and heifers, including Hereford-Friesian, Charolais-Friesian and Jerseys.

Shane Gerken, PGG Wrightson South Island Livestock Manager