Bendigo's Livestock Exchange had no crowd yesterday due to restrictions on gatherings amid the coronavirus pandemic.
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Stock Agent's Association president Richard Leitch said it made for a different mood in the yards.
"There was only buyers and agents out there," Mr Leitch said.
"We didn't have the crowd there for the first time that I've seen.
Supermarket panic buying has translated to the paddocks, with the market $15 to $20 cheaper than usual, according to Mr Leitch.
"People are in unknown territory and saying they better start selling now because they don't know what's going to happen," Mr Leitch said.
Compared to drought, which the industry is accustomed to, coronavirus poses a new challenge.
"Farmers can battle, but as long as people are still buying food, we know we have got a market," Mr Leitch said.
Abattoirs have moved to six-day per week operations in the midst of supermarket panic buying, something which Mr Leitch has never experienced.
"We are prepared for Christmas and Easter," he said.
"The abattoirs have stock and the supermarkets are stock.
"This came out of left field."
There is no widespread issue with acquiring materials, except for some agricultural chemicals, although that shortage appears short term, Mr Leitch said.
"China seems to be coming back online and any issue with supply seems to be short term," he said.
Numbers remained similar to previous markets, according to the Bendigo Cattle Market report.
Heavy bullocks made a top of 330 cents per kilo, while a very good run of quality milk vealers also made a top of 380 cents per kilo, holding firm to 10 cents cheaper.
The release of the NAB Rural Commodities Index today revealed an 8.5 per cent surge to post its best month on record in February.
NAB Agribusiness economist Phin Ziebell said Australia's position as a net exporter of food positions it well in terms of food security.
"Australia produces roughly enough food for 60 to 75 million people," Mr Ziebell said.
"Despite a very challenging 2019 season, there is still grain in storage, the livestock sector continues to produce high quality meat and fruit and vegetables are readily available."
The unfolding coronavirus pandemic will likely increase demand in domestic markets, while limits export demand, according to Mr Ziebell.
"Domestically, panic buying will bring forward demand for most agricultural products, with the exception of some specialty products destined for restaurants," he said.
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