Notes:

Change in price is the change since the last report. Hay quoted is sourced and delivered locally, GST exclusive unless stated otherwise. It should be noted that local prices quoted may not be the cheapest available, sourcing it from another region may be more affordable, and buyers are encouraged to evaluate all options. Prices are indicative to a mid-range shedded product, and based on the best indication of market value at the time of reporting. It should be noted there is a wide variation in quality of hay, prices for a mid-range product will not reflect the weighted average of trade. Prices will naturally vary based on the product quantity and quality, buyer/seller relationship and the size of the trade.

Hay commentary

• Patchy rain fell in the Goulburn Valley this week with Yarrawonga recording 15mm of rainfall, Shepparton 12mm, Echuca 2mm and Kyabram 11mm.
• Next seasons crops are looking promising. With the consistent rainfall it is anticipated many farmers will only need a reasonable end to the season.
• Demand is very strong in the region and supply is limited. Farmers in the Riverina are baling corn stubble again, as this has been exposed to rain it is mouldy. Rice straw continues to be made in the Riverina and sorghum stubble is starting to be baled. This feed is moving into the Goulburn Valley. There is a high demand for protein hay but there is very little of this. It is postulated that there are farmers in the region sitting on reserves to ensure they have themselves covered. It is thought that with the consistent rainfall some of this feed may be released onto the market. Many farmers in the region are only servicing existing customers. A lot of the hay that is now moving is low-grade. There is a lot of hay being carted into and out of the region.
• It has been reported that corn stubble is available in the Goulburn Valley from $190/t.
• It has been reported there is gassed rice straw available in the region from $100/bale.
• It has been reported canola is available in the region from $300/t on farm.
• It has been reported that there is some gassed rice straw silage available from $100/bale delivered locally.
• No price changes have been noted this week.
• Cereal hay: +/-0 ($380 to $440/t). Prices remain steady this week.
• Lucerne hay: +/-0 ($600 to $700/t). Prices remain steady this week
• Straw: +/-0 ($150 to $200/t). Prices remain steady this week.
• Pasture hay: +/-0 ($420 to $480/t). Prices remain steady this week.
• 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.

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.