The first full selling week of 2026 has begun much as 2025 ended, with tight supply, selective buying and resilient young cattle prices. A total of 4,942 head were listed for the week ending Friday, January 9.
The first full selling week of 2026 has begun much as 2025 ended, with tight supply, selective buying and resilient young cattle prices. A total of 4,942 head were listed for the week ending Friday, January 9. Clearance finished at 59%, which is broadly consistent with late-December results and reflective of cautious early-season buyer behaviour.
Steer supply was led by heavier lines, with steers over 400kg accounting for more than 1,000 head and clearing 59%, averaging 505c/kg DW. Steers weighing between 330–400kg averaged 533c/kg DW, while lighter steers between 200–280kg were keenly sought, achieving a 100% clearance and averaging 561c/kg DW, highlighting ongoing competition for well-bred young cattle suitable for backgrounding. Heifer trends were similar, with lighter weight categories showing improved buyer interest and firmer pricing compared to heavier types.
Breeding stock numbers remained limited, particularly in cows and calves, with clearance varying widely by category. PTIC cows averaged $2,759/head with modest clearance, while PTIC heifers averaged $2,765/head, reflecting selective demand rather than broad-based competition.
The AuctionsPlus Young Cattle Indicator (AYCI) lifted to 987c/kg DW, finishing in the top quartile of historical performance. This improvement reinforces the underlying strength in young cattle values despite lower clearance rates and subdued volumes, suggesting that price resilience remains a feature of the market. Value Over Reserve (VOR) averaged $111/head, indicating that when cattle did sell, they often exceeded vendor expectations.
From Wingen, NSW, a line of 24 Angus steers aged 4 to 5 months old and weighing 181kg returned $1,180/head, or 654c/kg and will travel to a buyer in New England, NSW.
From Glen Innes, NSW, a line of 58 Angus steers aged 9 to 11 months old and weighing 228kg returned $1,355/head, or 595c/kg and will travel to a buyer in Millmerran, QLD.
From Guluguba, QLD, a line of 39 Angus/Droughtmaster steers aged 8 to 10 months old and weighing 261kg returned $1,450/head, or 555c/kg and will travel to a buyer in Maclagan, QLD.
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Newsroom: Jan 9, 2026
The first full selling week of 2026 has begun much as 2025 ended, with tight supply, selective buying and resilient young cattle prices. A total...
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Alex McLaughlin: Jan 9, 2026
It’s that time of the week when we check in on some key indicators of performance in the livestock markets.
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