The highly anticipated Costello Rural Upper Murray Christmas Cattle Sale saw an excellent yarding of more than 950 locally bred, grass-fed cattle at the Corryong Saleyards, with strong buyer competition both on-site and online via Auctions Plus.

Highlights of the market included:-

• More than 25 per cent of the cattle were sold online, demonstrating the increasing reach and demand for Upper Murray cattle.
• A large consignment of steers and heifers was secured by Tasmanian buyers for the Greenham Never Ever Program, highlighting the premium quality of the offering.
• Graham Costello of ‘Wabba House’ was awarded the Sheepy Jeffries Memorial Trophy for the Best Presented Pen with a standout line of 71 Angus steers, Buyers were out in force for quality averaging 340kg. They were purchased by a Tasmanian grass finisher from Greenham heartland.

Top results included:-

• Nariel Pines achieved top prices with 40 Angus steers (9 months) selling to $4.40/kg.
• Baringa Towong offered 120 Angus weaned steers, averaging $4.10 kg and 29 heifers, reaching a high of $1,230 per head.

Costello Rural principal Justin Costello said there was strong competition both live and online with a great attendance and solid buyer activity.

“The sale was well attended by local producers, along with RMA agents and interstate buyers seeking premium Upper Murray cattle,” he said.

“Strong competition throughout the sale underscored the excellent quality and reputation of the district’s producers.”

This article appeared in the Corryong Courier, 12 December 2024.