STEER prices fared better than heifers at Strathalbyn market on Friday, where ongoing dry conditions continued to depress demand.
Angus were the predominant breed in the 900-head yarding.
Bidding started strongly with the day's highest price of $760 paid for the first pen, 10 November/December 2013-drop Angus steers, Roseleigh blood, offered by MA Murray.
The second pen of eight Angus steers, also from MA Murray, of the same drop and bloodline, sold to $675.
Seven Angus-cross steers from PJ Dawson, May/April 2014-drop also reached $675.
Elders Strathalbyn livestock manager Danny Reynolds said the market for steers held firm from the last sale.
"Steers held fully firm on the last sale, due mainly to the strength of the live boat order," he said.
"Heavy steers over 400 kilograms made from $700 to $760, averaging around $1.90/kg while 300-400kg steers suitable for the boat trade were averaging $2.05-$2.10/kg."
Peter Palmer, R Palma & Sons, Balhannah agreed with Mr Reynolds about the trend of the sale, and was happy with the price for his steers.
"The sale was good for steers, not for heifers, " Mr Palmer said, attributing that to the dry season.
His first pen of 19 av 311kg and went at $640, while 10 lighter cattle in the second pen sold to $555.
Competition for steers was good thanks to strong bidding from Thomas Foods International and Livestock Shipping Services.
* Full report in Stock Journal, November 27, 2014 issue.