Bidding was competitive on the top quality pens, with prices reflecting recent improvements in prime sales.

Most of the 1800 yarding came from stations north of Port Augusta, including Alice Springs.

Elders' auctioneer Darrell Sims said there was strong demand from the Adelaide Hills with buyers also coming from the South East, York Peninsula, and the Mid North.

"Steers sold as well as the last sale but heifers were $20-$30 down," he said.

Top steer weaners made about $2 a kilogram.

Mr Sims said adverse seasonal conditions had encouraged vendors to offer younger stock.