Hay Report - Game Changer

Speaking with a prominent farmer in the North Mallee region of Victoria over the weekend who was sowing sheep feed ahead of a significant rain forecast. He said if it came off, it would be a game changer.

Low and behold, he was spot on.

Widespread rain has now fallen right across the Mallee and through much of Victoria although it has been a little hit and miss in places. We’re hearing reports of up to 100mm around the Ouyen district, with 20–50mm recorded through other central areas. There is also more rain forecasted for the rest of week and into next week.

It’s amazing how quickly the voice and attitude shift after an event like this. The reaction is almost like winning the lottery.

As history shows, rain events like this have set many farmers up for the seasons ahead. They understand the importance of solid subsoil moisture before committing to their cropping programs. This is particularly significant for those planning to include vetch and canola in their 2026 program and crops that rely heavily on a strong moisture profile to reach their potential.

After a tough stretch, this rain could be the turning point many have been waiting for.

By Shane Ruyg

Back in a fortnight.

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What's happened to Hay prices over the last fortnight?

Here are the latest prices.

Vetch is in the bracket of $300 to $450 a tonne (New Season)

Cereal Hay ranges from $200 to $400 a tonne (New Season)

Lucerne Hay ranges from $340 to $615 a tonne.

Clover & Rye Hay ranges from $350-$380 a tonne.

New Season Straw ranges (at the moment) is from $90-$155 a tonne.

We go around the grounds to see what our Farm Tender Sales people have to say:

Paul Grayling - Mallee, Vic-based

Over the past Fortnight we have seen the Hay Job heat up, With buyers looking to secure Hay while the price is still reasonable and the supply is still there. While some areas have received some rain the age old saying that it doesnt rain grass comes in to play. We suspect that if the year continues as it has begun supply will tighten and pricing will only climb. There are still some quality parcels available, Securing your needs might be a bit cheaper to do now as opposed to in a few months time. As per the norm, Photos’s and Feed Test are important and an inspection where possible is also advisable when buying Hay.

Mike Pickard - On the road

Spot loads of hay are still selling especially in New South Wales mainly Central where Barley straw and Wheaton hay have been selling in the Central West slopes and Plains and also Central Tablelands. There is more hay coming out the woodwork, this hay has been shedded and out of the weather. With reasonable amounts of rain falling it’s taken the pressure off for a little while although in some areas it’s too late to have any benefit.

Jim Oehms - Northern Country, Vic-based

There has been a fair bit of hay listed over the past few weeks with most being Wheaten and barley, a few Vetch and cereals / silage thrown in also. Straw is also coming onto the market. Some are still sitting on the fence as to whether to let it go or keep as well. Prices are keeping pretty realistic for the time being. With the recent rains and some decent falls in places across NSW and parts of Vic, there should be feed on the ground. Remember that if you are selling hay to have a feed test done and if buying to inspect first.

For more information on selling or buying Hay contact the following:

Paul Grayling – 0447 069 082 or paulg@farmtender.com.au

Shane Ruyg – 0447 922 604 or shaner@farmtender.com.au

Mike Pickard – 0429 677 636 or mikep@farmtender.com.au

Jim Oehms -- 0481 102 288 or jimo@farmtender.com.au

Or 1300 Farming (1300 327 646)

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