Tamworth cattle market remains strong after recent rainfall - Northern Daily Leader

More than 500 head of cattle went up for bids at the final sale before the Easter break, as only accredited buyers were allowed to be in attendance due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

However, Tamworth stock agent Chris Peterson said buyers were not deterred by the coronavirus crisis.

"It was a very strong market," Mr Peterson said.

"The bulls started off very strong again, probably around the $2.60 to $2.70 mark was around the strongest for the bulls.

"The best of the cows was about the same, with the majority of the cows making around the $2.50 to $2.60 mark."

Mr Peterson said the feeder steer market was one of the strongest of the sale.

"The best feeder steers got to about $4.10, while the majority of steers got to around the $4 mark," he said.

"So it was very firm.

"Feeder heifers were also very firm, with the top being around the $4 mark, most heifers made it to around the $3.90 mark."

Recent rain across the region and new COVID-19 support measures for exporters prompted a spike in buyers looking to capitalise and restock their herds.

"The big increase on the day was the restockers," Mr Peterson said.

"Some good weaner steers made around $5.30 and good yearling steers to be put away were making around the $4.70 to $4.80 mark.

"It seems to be with the low numbers and the rain about, the market is going from strength to strength."

Gunnedah will host its final sale before Easter on Tuesday.