Elders Western Australia stud stock manager Nathan King provides insight into the recent bull sale market in Western Australia.
Two bulls awaiting sale at the recent Koojan Hills sale in Western Australia
The bull selling season in Western Australia has been particularly testing this year, marked by a combination of poor seasonal conditions, especially along the south coast, and market uncertainty.
One southern agent reported that over 7,000 cows have exited the system, which is a reflection of the difficult circumstances. This significant reduction has naturally led to decreased demand for bulls, just as herd numbers were beginning to recover.
While the supply of bulls is up, demand has sharply declined. Rising feed costs and the long feeding period, spanning 18 to 24 months, have significantly impacted the bottom line for cattle buyers. Revenue from weaner sales has largely gone toward catching up on expenses, leaving little in the way of surplus funds.
As a result, buyers have become highly selective. Competition remains strong for top-quality bulls, but most producers are purchasing only the bare minimum.
The Angus breed has seen relatively stable demand, whereas other breeds have been more heavily impacted, likely due to the sell-off of cows traditionally used for first-cross calving.
On a more positive note, early rain across much of WA, in particular through the southwest and parts of the south coast, has offered some optimism. A strong season for water and feed could give cattle farmers the breathing room to sell on their own terms, rather than being forced into the market by necessity.
This would likely help support stronger prices, and there’s cautious confidence that better times may lie ahead, provided seasonal conditions continue to improve.
Our thoughts also go out to those affected by the severe drought in parts of South Australia, Victoria, and New South Wales, as well as the devastating floods in Queensland.
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