Central SA

Notes:

Commentary

• Some parts of the region have received light rains of between 5-10mm of rain, building on good falls over the past month. Barossa valley region growers have received up to 100 - 125mm of rain since the end of May.
• Estimates that 98% of crop seeding has now been completed. Only grain producers in very heavy dry areas had to wait until rains to seed, with 95% of the crop across those areas dry sown.
• Diesel sitting at around $2.20 per litre for bulk deliveries on farm, is causing considerable concern around profitability of cropping and hay production. Fuel levies and increased prices for local deliveries are expected to remain a feature. Hay prices will need to rise to reflect the increasing costs of inputs and commodity prices for alternative crops.
• There is increasing demand for hay. Livestock farmers are deciding to supplementary feed to support holding on to stock, confident that rainfall will support pasture growth into Spring.
• Pricing remains variable due to remaining stocks of low-quality older hay from 2-3 seasons ago.
• Demand is increasing as supply shortages become well known.
• Cereal hay: +/-0 ($170 to $250/t). Prices remain steady.
• Lucerne hay: +/-0 ($390 to $420/t). Prices remain steady this week for high protein hay.
• Straw: +$10 ($110 to $150/t). Prices have increased because supply is short.
• Please note: Unless stated otherwise, prices are per tonne, sourced and delivered locally. The price range indicated is for feeds of varying quality with the price range generally indicative of quality of feed. We recommend feed testing and viewing of fodder before purchase to be sure of the quality of feed.