MLA says the EYCI ranged between 358.5¢ and 363.5¢/kg (carcase weight) during this period, with the stable trend on the back of a better than average September season in most areas.

This, however, followed a cold and dry August.

At the beginning of September, restockers entered the market to purchase larger numbers.

However, MLA says lotfeeders are now also underpinning the market.

Trade buyers have exerted strong demand for well finished lines (which are still hardest to source).

So far this spring, there has been a price spread in the EYCI of 17.75¢ compared to 41.5¢ during the same period last year and 30.5¢/kg cwt during the same time in 2006.

The average EYCI for spring to date of 339¢/kg is also 19pc above last year and 10pc higher than the same period in 2006.

The average daily number of EYCI suitable cattle last month was 5pc lower than September 2006 and 2007.

Vealer steer prices were firm, with the national indicator up 1¢, on the back of tighter supplies in the saleyards last week, at 190¢/kg.

Yearling steers to processors were slightly cheaper, with the national indicator down 1¢ to finish Thursday at 191¢/kg.

The national feeder steer indicator was also dearer, rising 2¢ from last week, to 191¢/kg (live).