The 2025 financial year was strong for AuctionsPlus, with producers and buyers continuing to back proven genetics while showing growing interest in crossbreeds. Based on throughput over the past year, we take a closer look at the most popular breeds and how they compare historically.
1. Angus Pure
Angus Pure continued its commanding position on AuctionsPlus, rising +15% from FY2024 to FY2025 and now up +25% since FY2023. Its strong carcase qualities and broad buyer demand cement its reputation as the breed of choice.
Angus Pure listings experienced steady growth over the past financial year, with a significant surge in May 2025. That month recorded the highest volume of the year, with more than 55,000 head offered, representing an increase of more than 100% compared to May 2024.
How different categories performed on a quarterly basis over FY2025.
Throughout FY2025, two other clear peaks occurred in November 2024 and March 2025, when monthly listings again exceeded 25,000 head. While natural seasonal dips were evident in December and February, supply remained consistent overall, highlighting producer confidence in bringing Angus Pure cattle to market.
Angus Pure steers attracted strong premiums across all weight classes in FY2025. Heavy steers above 400kg averaged $2,004 per head in Q2 2025, which represents a 12% increase compared to the same period last year. Steers weighing 330-400kg also improved steadily, reaching an average of $1,510 per head, a gain of 7% year-on-year.
Heifer categories also delivered solid results. Heifers in the 330-400kg range averaged $1,294 per head in Q2 2025, which is up 6% compared to Q2 2024. Heavier lines of heifers weighing 400kg+ achieved an average of $1,621 per head, a 7% increase over the year.
While easing slightly (-3% year-on-year), Angus Cross remains the second-most listed type on AuctionsPlus. Its consistency highlights ongoing demand for flexibility across markets and environments.
Angus Cross listings followed a consistent seasonal pattern across FY2025. The year began with moderate volumes through winter, before rising to more than 13,000 head in August 2024 and maintaining steady levels through spring.
Two of the busiest periods were recorded in November 2024 and January 2025, with both months exceeding 11,000 head. However, the standout month was May 2025, when listings surged to nearly 20,000 head.
Prices lifted across every category year-on-year for Angus Cross listings.
How different categories performed on a quarterly basis over FY2025.
The largest gains for Angus Cross prices were recorded in the lighter heifer categories. Heifers weighing under 200kg jumped by +38% year-on-year (from $525 to $724), while heifers 330–400kg lifted by +25% (from $1,014 to $1,266).
Midweight heifers also performed well, with 280–330kg lines up +23% to $1,014, and 200–280kg heifers rising +17% to $832. Even heavy heifers (400kg+) achieved solid growth of +8%, averaging $1,405.
Steers posted more modest but still consistent improvements across all classes, averaging +13% growth overall. Light steers under 200kg rose +14% (to $834), while 200–280kg steers gained +16% (to $1,050).
Midweight lines also strengthened, with 280–330kg steers up +12% to $1,257, and 330–400kg steers lifting +13% to $1,461. Heavy steers (400kg+) rounded out the category with an +8% increase to $1,721.
Santa Gertrudis Cross rebounded strongly with a +6% increase in throughput over FY2025. This breed of cattle maintained a strong presence on AuctionsPlus throughout FY2025, supported by steady listing volumes, consistent buyer demand, and competitive prices.
In terms of price performance, steers in the 200–280kg range lifted by 17%, increasing from an average price of $957 to $1,117/head. Midweight steers weighing within the 280–330kg range and 330–400kg categories both increasing by 27% year-on-year to reach $1,305 and $1,523 per head respectively. Heavy steers weighing 400kg+ also rose, increasing by 6% to $1,616 per head.
How different categories performed on a quarterly basis over FY2025.
Heifers in the 200–280kg range recorded a much stronger result, increasing by 32% to $864/head. Meanwhile, heavy heifers weighing 400kg+ recorded the most significant increase, rising by 41% to reach $1,510 per head.
The most prominent crossbreeding combinations within the Santa Gertrudis Cross category included Santa Gertrudis × Santa Gertrudis Cross, Santa Gertrudis × Hereford, and Santa Gertrudis × Droughtmaster.
Droughtmaster Cross listings lifted +12% year-on-year.
Hereford Pure surged +14% in FY2025, underlining renewed confidence in the breed’s genetics. While crossbred Herefords softened in numbers, the pure lines are proving increasingly attractive to buyers.
Charolais Cross numbers slipped -7% year-on-year, yet it maintains a firm place in the top 10 thanks to its outstanding growth and carcase qualities, particularly in feedlot markets.
After a surge in FY2024, Wagyu Cross offerings softened -21% in FY2025. Despite this adjustment, it remains a top 10 performer, reflecting sustained industry interest in high-value beef programs.
Simmental Cross continued its upward momentum, growing +23% since FY2023. Its dual-purpose traits and feedlot suitability have secured a stable market share.
Ultrablack Cross has recorded back-to-back gains, up +19% since FY2023. Its ability to combine tropical adaptability with Angus carcase traits is driving increasing interest, especially in northern regions.
Shorthorn Cross rose +14% year-on-year, re-establishing itself in the top 10. With versatility across breeding and finishing systems, it remains a valuable option for producers looking for balance in growth and fertility.
