Access to water still the key in Tamworth region: HTW

There has been no significant rainfall across most of the north-west, according to the latest report from the property valuation firm Herron Todd White (HTW).

The valuation firm found that holdings with secure water through permanent rivers, creeks and reticulation systems are proving to be more sought after in the current market.

However listings remain well below average as owners appear to be holding out until the season improves.

"There has been increased demand for small to medium irrigation properties, especially those with groundwater, as this adds another level of security buyers are looking for," it noted.

Irrigation holdings that rely purely on unregulated river were in less demand, HTW noted, due to a 0% allocation within most unregulated river water sources in the north-west.

Over the past two months (August and September) there have been increased yardings through the Tamworth Regional Livestock Exchange.

The yarding remained high with 13,755 sheep and 9,763 cattle yarded in the first three weeks of September.

The lack of rain, high feed prices and the fact that some areas are running out of water are contributing to the increased yardings and general lower than average stock condition.

"Overall trends are cheaper, however the market appears to be holding out for better quality stock," the report concluded.