SHORTHORN Hereford cross weaner steers sold to a top of $820 or 217c/kg at Ensay today.
The Ensay sale, the third in Elders' four sale mountain calf feature, attracted a smaller than normal yarding of 1614 steers and heifers.
Like in previous years the more favorable seasonal conditions at Ensay ensured that all cattle were well-conditioned.
Brotherly rivalrry between Barry and Evan Newcomen both from Ensay was unresolved when each secured the top price of $820 for 22 and 25 April-drop steers which were EU accredited and weaned.
Both pens were estimated at 380kg.
And while Newcomen price was under last year's peak of $840, both noted that their overall averages were up about $40.
The buyer of the Newcomen cattle was Romsey EU bullock fattener, Arthur Angliss.
Last year he bought 100 of the Newcomen steers. This year he was was back to buy 140 head paying on average $790.
Demand was poarticularly strong for the heavier Ensay steers, particularly from Elders Andrew Talbot from Tamworth who was buying for several grass finishers in the Coonamble district.
Hereford steers 300-350kg sold from $620-$700 while the lighter steers under 300kg sold from $540-$620.
In cents a kilogram the rates held consistentingly around 200-220c/kg.
Demand was also strong for the limited offering of Hereford, Hereford cross and Shorthorn heifers.
Barry Newcomen topped the heifers with a line of 26 Herefords, with an estimated weight of 320kg,which were bought by a breeder for $700.
Breeders bought more than half of the Ensay heifer offering.
Restockers looking for heifers to fatten paid from $480-$570 or about 190c/kg for the heavier 280kg plus heifers.
