The AWN team in Inverell recently held a successful Special Weaner Sale at the Inverell Regional Livestock Exchange – IRLX on Thursday, 8th May 2025.
With approximately 3,000 well-bred calves on offer—primarily black cattle—the sale attracted strong interest from a wide range of buyers. As a result, the competitive bidding led to impressive prices, highlighting the high demand for quality livestock.
The steer market opened strongly, particularly for heavier drafts. Black steers around 370 kilograms reached a peak of $4.54–$4.55 per kilogram, driven by demand from backgrounders and feedlot operators. Steers in the 300-kilogram range sold consistently for $4.40–$4.50 per kilogram, exceeding vendor expectations.
Black baldy steers weighing 280–300 kilograms averaged around $4.30 per kilogram, while lighter black steers (200–250 kilograms) commanded up to $4.98 per kilogram. Even lighter black baldy steers maintained steady demand, selling between $4.40–$4.60 per kilogram.
Coloured steers also performed well, with Euro-steers in the 260–280 kilogram range making $4.30–$4.40 per kilogram. Heavier Euro-steers (360–380 kilograms) sold for $4.20–$4.30 per kilogram, and Santa Hereford steers near 300 kilograms fetched $4.30–$4.40 per kilogram. Most steers sold above $4.20 per kilogram, reflecting a strong market.
The heifer section saw solid demand. Top-quality black heifers (280–290 kilograms) reached $3.60 per kilogram, while Simmental crosses (350–360 kilograms) achieved up to $3.73. Lighter heifers sold between $3.25–$3.50 per kilogram. A standout pen of Santa Hereford heifers reached $4.10 per kilogram at 300 kilograms, highlighting demand for breeding stock.
Robbie Bloch, AWN Senior Stockman & Property Sales from Inverell highlighted the positive outcome of the sale, emphasising the exceptional quality of the calves presented and the strong support received from both local buyers and backgrounding and feedlot operators from the Darling Downs region. He extended his sincere appreciation to all clients, customers, and transport providers who contributed to the sale’s success.
Mr. Bloch also highlighted the favourable seasonal conditions currently experienced in the Inverell region. With a mild start to winter and ample moisture in the ground, these conditions have likely boosted buyer confidence, further supporting strong market demand. These positive factors, combined with strong demand, highlight the ongoing resilience and strength of the weaner market in the Inverell district.
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