Hay commentary

• Wednesday and Thursday brought scattered showers over the Goulburn Valley region with Echuca, Shepparton, Benalla and Kyabram only recording 1mm while Yarrawonga recorded 7mm.
• The rain is interrupting hay making. Canola and wheaten crops have been cut and are waiting to be baled. Early pasture hay and lucerne is ready for a cut once the weather is permitting.
• There is a strong demand for cereal hay in the region. There is a new season cereal, canola and Lucerne available in the region with clover and grasses available in the next couple of weeks.
• It has been reported canola is available in the region for $280 - $300/t on farm.
• It has been reported that vetch is available in the region from $550/t delivered locally.
• It has been reported there may be canola and wheaten silage being made and coming into the market at $200/t on farm.
• Cereal and Lucerne hay prices have firmed this week.
• Cereal hay: +20 ($350 to $400/t). Prices have firmed this week.
• Lucerne hay: +50 ($525 to $575/t). Prices have firmed this week
• Straw: +/-0 ($160 to $180/t). Prices remain steady this week.
• Pasture hay: +/-0 ($330 to $410/t). Prices remain steady this week.

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.