Hay commentary

• It was a dry week in central South Australia with no rainfall recorded.
• Harvest is almost complete in central South Australia and straw making is well underway. Many farmers are busy baling as much straw as they can before the forecast rain falls.
• Demand has eased in the region. It has been reported that stock are taking well to canola hay and the feed tests on this vary. Canola which has had nitrogen spread with the anticipation of rain is not testing as well as those crops that have not been treated with nitrogen. There is a lot of frosted wheat in the region that is of varying quality.
• It has been reported that there is canola hay available in the region for $300-$350/t on farm.
• Price changes have been noted this week.
• Cereal hay: -15 ($290 to $330/t). Prices have eased this week.
• Lucerne hay: -15 ($420 to $500/t). Prices have eased this week.
• Straw: +/-0 ($160 to $250/t). Prices remain steady this week.
• Please note unless stated otherwise, prices are per tonne, 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.

Notes:

Change in price is the change since the last report. Hay prices are delivered, GST exclusive, based on shedded hay without weather damage, of good quality and colour. It should be noted there is a wide variation in quality for hay, so prices are indicative for a mid-range product.

This report has been commissioned by Dairy Australia to provide an independent and timely assessment of grain and hay markets in each dairying region. It should be remembered that actual prices may vary for quality or other reasons. Whilst all reasonable steps have been taken to ensure the accuracy of the information contained in this report, to the fullest extent permitted by Australian law Dairy Australia disclaims all liability for any inadvertent errors and for any losses or damages stemming from reliance upon its content. Dairy Australia recommends that all persons seek independent advice and, where appropriate, advice from a qualified adviser, before making any decisions about changes to business strategy.