In pictures: another lively trade for quality cattle at Balla

There was a slightly smaller entry than last week at Balla Mart on Saturday. The trade was quite strong once again, with plenty of farmers and agents active for all quality types. Demand for plainer cattle continues to be much lower than for top-quality types, but there were buyers present for all types of cattle.

Once again, Charolais and Limousin cross cattle were most in demand, with plenty of buyers active for these. Most types over 600kg sold from €700 to €800 over the weight, with average-quality types selling from €650 to €750 over. Those from 500kg to 600kg were a solid trade and prices ranged mainly from €600 to €700 over the weight for the average bullock. U grades made over €800 along with the weight.

There was a good entry of bullocks from 400kg to 500kg. These sold mainly from €550 to €650 over, with most selling for more than €600 over the weight. Again, better-quality types made from €700 over and upwards.

This 520kg July 2016-born Limousin bullock sold for €1,215 (€2.34/kg).

This Charolais cross bullock weighing 555kg and born April 2016 sold for €1,220 (€2.20/kg).

This Charolais bullock weighing 495kg and born April 2016 sold for €1,000 (€2.02/kg).

Heifers

The heifer trade was strong like last week, with buyers quite active for all good heifers, and as a result they were easily sold. Heifers over 600kg continue to be scarce but there was a good trade for those on offer.

Heifers from 500kg to 600kg were more common and sold mainly from €550 to €650 over the weight, with better-quality types selling for as much as €700 over, and up to €800 over in a few cases. Types from 400kg to 500kg were plentiful and the trade was good for these also. Prices ranged mainly from €500 to €700 over.

This 555kg Charolais cross heifer born May 2016 sold for €1,120 (€2.02/kg).

This 480kg Limousin cross heifer, born April 2015 sold for €1,180 (€2.46/kg).

See more photos from the sale in the slideshow above.

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