Rain during March has put a sudden halt to demand for fodder around Australia while bringing a positive outlook to agricultural industries.
The Feed Central National April Hay Market Report says March began with reasonable volumes of trade, led by high interest in quality lines of product, but as the rain came in, so did a sudden halt in demand.
The report, by Feed Central general manager Cieran Maxwell and account manager Jock Jackson, said the massive rainfall totals in March had brought a sense of positivity to the feeding industry.
Mr Maxwell said the continued favourable seasonal conditions had seen some products such as DDG leave the market and the prices of most feed commodities slowly come down.
“Demand for hay has backed off considerably, with the only significant movement being local trade in Victoria,” he said.
Demand for hay for the remainder of 2021 is still very variable but what will be purchased first will be the higher quality lines.
“In saying that, prices will still need to meet the market,” Mr Maxwell said.
“We’re telling buyers to purchase now, despite the rain, fill your sheds, prepare for the next dry and ensure you’ve secured the demand you know you need for this year.”
Higher quality 2019 hay and straw is still available for sale but is being secured quickly.
Mr Maxwell said final cuts of lucerne were happening now but moisture levels were becoming a concern for some growers.
The full April report can be found at: www.feedcentral.com.au/national-hay-market-report-april-2021