There was a strong turnout of cattle in Macroom Mart, with 770 cattle on offer. Commenting on the sale, mart manager John O’Mahony said: “I was delighted with the number of stock around the place. Both rings were busy and trade in general was good. We had plenty of buyers for weanlings, both shippers and farmers, and that helped demand. There was a good trade for forward stores as well, especially considering the price on the factory side.”

Weanling bull prices were split between those over and under 350kg, with quality determining prices. Heavier bulls were selling from €1.85/kg to €2.10/kg with a handful of select lots exceeding this.

The lighter bull was much sought after, especially those weighing 260kg to 330kg. Well-shaped continentals sold from €2.45/kg to €2.86/kg, with those more likely to grade R below this.

Dairy-cross weanling bulls made up to €2.05/kg. Weanling heifers sold in a tighter price range with lighter heifers making between €2.15/kg and €2.30/kg with those over 400kg from €1.95/kg to €2.10/kg.

A few lots of exceptional heifers with breeding potential were making over €2.50/kg. Traditional beef breed-crosses dominated the forward store bullock numbers and most sold for between €1.75 and €1.90/kg.

Commission rates for weanlings are 1.5% (minimum €8.50/kg to seller and €8.50 to buyer). Entry fee €2.50/head.