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As the 2026 AFL season gets underway - and footy tipping competitions start to take shape, AuctionsPlus has assembled its own “starting nine” - not on the field, but across the nation’s cattle listings.
Drawing inspiration from the 18 players per side in AFL (here halved), the “starting nine” lists the top cattle breeds in each state based on throughput since July 1, 2025 to March 20, 2026. The data captures all stock categories listed on the platform, offering a broad snapshot of supply, pricing and buyer demand across New South Wales, Queensland, Victoria and South Australia.
While volume determines selection, additional performance indicators - including average price, clearance rates and value over reserve provide a deeper look at how each breed is performing in market conditions.
At a glimpse, across the eastern states, the Angus breed continues to anchor the national herd on AuctionsPlus, dominating listings by volume in every state analysed. However, beyond Angus, the data reveals clear regional differences in both breed composition and buying behaviour.
In Queensland, breeds such as Santa Gertrudis, Droughtmaster and Brahman feature prominently, supported by consistently strong clearance rates above 90 percent.
Meanwhile, Victoria and South Australia present more mixed results, where clearance rates and buyer competition vary significantly between breeds and stock types, highlighting more selective purchasing trends.
New South Wales remains the largest contributor by volume, with a strong concentration of British and crossbred cattle, particularly through weaner categories.
The “starting nine” is designed as a high-level snapshot, and it is important to note that results are influenced by the mix of stock categories within each breed. Higher-value lines - such as joined females or well-bred replacement stock - can lift average prices, while clearance rates are often shaped by seasonal supply and vendor price alignment.
Just as footy tipping rewards those who can read form and pick winners early, producers and buyers continue to weigh breed performance, adaptability and market demand when making decisions.
Over the coming weeks, AuctionsPlus will break down each state’s “starting nine”, analysing how the leading breeds stack up and where competition is strongest across the country.
Ripley Atkinson: May 6, 2026
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