The EYCI is still however well above average. At the same time in 2010 the benchmark figure sat at 315.5c.

NLRS said cattle prices have begun the year strongly, although a slight easing has been observed to the final weeks of 2011.

“The extra numbers and absence of some buyers has caused prices to weaken, although prices remain seasonally high,” NLRS reports.

Peter Daniel, GDL Dalby, said Dalby’s sale on Wednesday 18 was a good, quality yarding of 4800 head.

Dalby has a strong reputation as one of the premier selling centres, and regular buyers were in attendance and operating well.

Mr Daniel said the market had come back slightly.

“Our numbers are starting to get back to a regular size, but there are still extra numbers coming forward, making the market a shade cheaper.

“Yearlings sold well, while meatworks are still to get to their full capacity,” Mr Daniel said.

NLRS reported the trade steer indicator was down 8c to sit at 209c, feeder steers were back 3c to 217c, heavy steers were steady at 191c, and medium cows were back 1c to 148c.