Performance of the dairy and beef markets, and the outlook for both, should spur yearling bull sales to greater heights.

Yearling bull sales are upon us. More than 50 sales will take place throughout the country, running through to mid-October, with plenty of yearling bulls also set to sell via private treaty.

High genetic values are on offer. Based on the current performance of the dairy and beef markets, and the outlook for both sectors, prospects for strong competition at the sales are positive. On the back of the exceptional demand and record prices at this year’s two-year-old bull sales, some farmers will be persuaded to focus on adding increased numbers of yearling bulls at more affordable values.

Most farmers at the yearling bull sales know their requirements and will have consulted their genetics representative to prepare a suitable breeding plan. These will identify what traits they need to enhance the bottom line. Dairy sector purchasers will generally prioritise genetics that deliver calving ease and low birth-weight, while beef farmers are motivated by genetics that provide a combination of moderate birth weight and growth.

Likely the yearlings will maintain the enthusiasm evident at the recent two-year-old bull sales. Expect strong clearances and firm values.

Each year the yearling bull sale season serves as a prompt for many farmers to apply for a PGG Wrightson Defer-A-Bull purchase agreement. Defer-A-Bull is a proven winner, providing an ideal opportunity to finance a bull team with no upfront cost and no re-payments until the bulls are sold.

Some farmers have subscribed to Defer-A-Bull for ten years and longer. It offers an ideal opportunity to secure capital to fund annual bull purchases. With Defer-A-Bull farmers can invest in a bull team when they need it, without putting pressure on funds when cashflow can be tight.

For more details see here, or contact your PGG Wrightson Livestock representative.