Kilrush Mart, Co. Clare, held its cattle show and sale on Wednesday, February 21. Prizes were offered for cows, heifers and bullocks. The sale attracted strong numbers and a good trade was reported for all lots on the day.

Cows

A mix of Friesian and continental cows were on offer. Friesian cow prices stood at €1.50-1.90/kg; a top price of €1,030 was achieved. Continental cows made up to €2.25/kg and a 910kg Limousin cow topped out at €1,720 or €1.89/kg.

Sample cull cow prices:
  • Limousin: 910kg – €1,720 or €1.89/kg;
  • Friesian: 555kg – €925 or €1.67/kg;
  • Angus: 860kg – €1,330 or €1.54/kg;
  • Friesian: 570kg – €835 or €1.46/kg;
  • Limousin: 820kg – €1,520 or €1.85/kg.

Heifers and bullocks

A good farmer demand for heavy heifers was evident at the sale. Overall, both heavy and light heifers met a lively trade. A 360kg Charolais heifer fetched €970 or €2.69/kg.

Sample heifer prices:
  • Limousin: 725kg – €1,710 or €2.36/kg;
  • Shorthorn: 285kg – €770 or €2.33/kg;
  • Charolais: 700kg – €1,640 or €2.24/kg;
  • Hereford: 300kg – €660 or €2.20/kg;
  • Simmental: 382kg – €945 or €2.47/kg.

The bullocks traded were to a high standard, a mart spokesperson said, with some excellent Hereford and Angus stock on offer.

Taking first prize, a 630kg Hereford bullock made €1,360 or €2.16/kg. However, a 1,145kg Belgian Blue steer achieved the top price on the day at €2,580.

Calves

There was a large increase in the number of calves present at the sale when compared to the corresponding sale last week.

Attracting a large farmer demand, light Friesian calves sold for €70-€105, strong lots sold up to €170 and Angus calves made €190-240. A number of Hereford calves were also up for grabs and these sold to a top price of €330.

Despite the solids returns achieved, the mart advised farmers to keep calves for three weeks in order to obtain the highest prices.