It was a strong market, with local competition especially from cattlemen in the valleys of the northern Victorian ranges, where reasonable rainfall so far has set them up for a good spring, if follow-up rains come in the next few weeks.

This contrasts with the lack of winter rain in much of the northern Victorian farming areas, especially towards the west of Wodonga.

With August always a difficult time for cattle sales, local producers therefore pushed up the market in search of better bred and larger grown heifers.

These cattle breeders paid 180-190-clw, while lighter backgrounder heifers mostly made 150- 170-clw.

Along with a sole order placed from Roma, Qld and other from the Mornington Peninsula, Vic, heavy steers were sold to top of $735 (390kg).

A large band of middle to lighter weight steers (both Angus and Hereford) traded between 200 to 230c/kg law/w.

* Full market report to be published in Stock & Land, Vic, August-28