Seasonal Update
Victorian hay growers have typically sold some hay to their hay exporters, and some to their domestic buyers during the spike of summer demand but are yet to sell about the last third of their remaining stocks.
Overall, the region has had another week of perfect conditions for winter seeding. Less than 10 mls of rain fell in parts over the weekend.
Much cooler days and some light frosts have fallen in the area. With the start of winter still over two weeks away the need for good quality roughage for cattle producers may be much sooner this season.
The valley is still very green, and growth is good in the region. Fertiliser is also going out on new season pastures.
Figure 1. BoM 8-Day Rainfall Forecast.
Figure 2. Farm Online Maps Precipitation Outlook.
Trading and Marketing
Similar to last week, enquiry is slow. There is no hay moving from the region compared to a couple of months ago.
Given the tightness of hay stocks and the fact that winter is a peak demand period, hay prices should increase from their current levels.
Prices
Figure 3. Cereal Hay Values Into the Goulburn / Murray Valley.
Prices noted for this week:
All prices remain steady this week too.
| Change | per t | ||
| Cereal hay | +/- $0 | $190-220 | Steady |
| Lucerne hay | +/- $0 | $330-400 | Steady |
| Straw | +/- $0 | $80-100 | Steady |
| Pasture hay | +/- $0 | $250-330 | Steady |
Pictures of New Season Crops
Hay: Oaten Hay PW (Premium Weather Damage)
Specifications: Feels hard, minimal amount of weather damage spots, fresh aroma, <1% Rye Grass, JC-2 colour (75% Green) and JC-1 Super stem size (<5mm)
Location: Eaglehawk, VIC 3556
Sources: Bureau of Meteorology, Dairy Australia, WX Maps, Lachstock Research, Weekly Times, Grain Central, Mecardo Expert Market Analysis & Feed Central, Wingara AG.
By Katie Lindkvist, Wingara AG.