Included in this large yarding of 4959 head was a larger penning of European breeds with producers expecting more competition here than they might get in a normal fat cattle sale.

Generally, these assumptions were correct with feedlot competition driving a very strong sale.

Northern buyers who were especially targeting European breeds purchased a large number of these. However, it was more noticeable in the heifer section, where pen after pen went north. Prices for European breed heifers ranged from $1035-$1350 for most sales.

However, the opening pens of the sale were yearling steers. McCoy & Son Pastoral Co, Ohio, Holbrook, sold steers from two properties, which ranged from 16-22 months of age. Thier 134 Hereford steers sold from $1290-$1650, the later being the top price.

Teys Bros purchased many of the yearlings steers for their Jindalee feedlot. G&S Bawden, Kilchamaig, Mountain Creek, Holbrook, sold 113 Shorthorn and Shorthorn cross steers from $1080-$1450 with northern buyers the strength here.

European breed steers topped the calf section of the sale with GJ&MM Wood, Jarvis Creek, selling 21 Limousin-Angus steers for $1480. One could get lost on the book of European breeds when following this sale, but most were in very good condition and sold from $1150-$1480.

Hereford steers also sold to solid competition. The best price pen was sold by Mundoora Past Co, Jerilderie, for 14 steers, 12-13 months, making $1490. Any amount of Herefords made from $1200-$1395.

The usual story of strong competition for lighter weight steers, fell true here with most selling from $960-$1250.

Yearling heifers varied greatly in condition and weight, which saw Willgrow P/L, Balranald, sell 47 Hereford heifers, 24-30 months, from $1240-$1360. Other yearling heifers sold between $1115&$1330.

Producers were keen to source future breeders and paid above the odds for what they wanted. Buyers bid on a number of varied breeds.