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.
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.
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.
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.
Heifers and bullocks
Calves