Store and prime cattle markets continue to be strong due to good feed supplies in many areas. There has been a strong demand for cattle to restock many properties. No feeding is known to be taking place in the region. Warm conditions and a good start to Spring have ensured that the great majority of areas have very good pastures. Pasture quantity is still short in many areas with only overstocked properties being completely bare.
All districts now report good to excellent surface water supplies.
Underground supplies have been replenished in some areas but generally it will take considerable rainfall to fully return these reserves to former levels. Grazing animals have maintained average body condition. Cattle have maintained comparatively high prices over the last few months which meant quite large movements to sale. As well, wool prices have risen to the highest point for 12 months. Goat and pig prices are also strong and the summer season looks favourable for rain and commodity prices of animal products.