WANGARATTA Livestock Exchange held its annual Gordon Sinclair Memorial Sale on August 14 with the event branded a raging success.

More than 4900 head were penned and vendors and buyers were out in big numbers, bringing a breath of fresh air to what has been a challenging six months on the farm and at store sales.

Elders livestock manager of Wangaratta, Kirsty Taylor, said the sale was a confidence booster for the cattle industry leading into spring.

“The memorial sale overall went exceptionally well and exceeded all expectations,” Ms Taylor said.

“There was a good display of local cattle with many in great condition considering the seasonal conditions we have had in recent months, with a huge gathering overall.

“Overall prices reflected on quality which was of a high standard.

“The sale presented plenty of local support with northern and southern interest.

“Cattle were sold and went to South Australia, northern New South Wales and southern Victoria with high numbers being sold at a local level.”

Market prices on the day saw grown steers go for $1800, Angus steers 380-430kg at $1580, lightweight Angus steers 250-280kg at $5/kg, heifer Angus lightweight steers from $900-$1180, and Hereford steers at $3.90/kg.

“This sale was the game changer we have been looking for as enthusiasm is now seeing the market heading in the right direction," Ms Taylor said.

“We still need more rain especially leading into spring...farmers will be crossing there fingers.

“I’d like to express my thanks and gratitude for all the vendors, carriers and saleyard staff who did an amazing job.”

Killawarra cattle producers Emma Iddison and David Felmingham presented 65 Angus steer weaners at the sale and were pleased with the results.

The couple run their cattle, with 280 cows and calves, on 700 acres at the family property, Windswept farm, and they remain optimistic leading into spring.

“I have been a cattle producer for 20 years and there have been plenty of ups and downs in this time,” Ms Iddison said.

“The autumn period has been tough on many farmers to state the obvious, however, recent rainfall and a positive shift in the cattle industry is seeing a swing for the better.

“This year we have been feeding out a lot more hay which is added pressure so to counteract the costs, we have been offloading cows and calves to reduce numbers and feeding out costs.

“Another strategy we have used is injecting selenium and multimin which are vitamin boosters to assist the cattle as a lack of feed and quality has not been enough for the cattle to sustain the nutrients they need.

“On average, cattle weight is down by around 30kgs compared to this time last year because of a poor autumn period and lack of feed, however condition overall remains very good coming into spring.

“Spring will still be a wait and see as the season remains uncertain, which makes farmers a little nervous.

“On a positive note, prices remain fair but are showing a return that is bringing back confidence to producers and buyers alike.”