The first sale for 2020 saw just over 1100 head on offer at Emerald on Thursday, with mostly all categories coming under strong competition, market values increased from where it finished last year with slaughter and feeder types being well sought after.
Heavy bullocks over 550kg topped at 305c/kg to average 277c, while the 500-550kg steers topped at 303c. Steers 400-500kg reached 307c to average 296c, while 350-400kg steers also made to 307c. Steers 280-350kg topped at 303c to average 267c, while steers in the weaner weight ranges made to 272c to average 241c.
Heavy heifers saw the best to 285c to average 266c, while 350-400kg types made to 282c. Heifers 280-350kg topped at 278c, while heifers in the weaner weight ranges made to 264c to average 244c.
Slaughter cows over 520kg topped at 253c, while cows 450-520kg topped at 255c to average 228c. A mixed line-up of cows and calves saw the best to $1020.
The Springs family, Iron Springs, Clermont, sold Brahman Bullocks to 303c to weigh 549kg or $1665. The Deboni family, Boonal Downs, Capella, sold Brangus Steers to 299c to weigh 352kg or $1053.
Peter and Jenny Pocock, Highlands Plains, Dysart, sold Brahman cross steers to 302c to weigh 399kg or $1206. Jono and Carmel Tibbles, Westlyn, Springsure, sold Droughtmaster cross heifers to 273c to weigh 333kg or $911.
Jess O'Brien, Oklahoma, Capella, sold Santa cross cows to 236c to weigh 488kg or $1153. Alan and Clare Kirby, Wonga, Springsure, sold Euro cross cows to 244c to weigh 605kg or $1477.