The strong trade for bullocks seen in recent weeks was evident in ring one at Balla Mart on Saturday, and even strengthened in cases, with the average price up 7c/kg on the week.

Bullocks from 350kg to 400kg averaged €2.35/kg, with the top third making €2.62/kg. In the 400kg to 500kg weight range, the average price paid was €2.29/kg, with the top third making €2.51/kg. For those weighing between 500kg and 600kg the average price was €2.22/kg, with the top third in this weight band making €2.44/kg. Bullocks over 600kg averaged €2.14/kg.

Heifers

Heifers weighing between 350kg and 400kg were somewhat easier than the previous week, with an average price of €2.35/kg. In the 400kg to 500kg weight range, the average price paid was €2.31/kg, while those in the top third averaged €2.55/kg. Heifers from 500kg to 600kg averaged €2.24/kg, with the top third in this weight band well above the average price at €2.50/kg. Those weighing over 600kg averaged €2.09/kg.

This March 2019-born Limousin bullock weighing 460kg sold for €1,040 (€2.26/kg).

This April 2019-born Limousin bullock weighing 505kg sold for €1,350 (€2.67/kg).

This October 2018-born Limousin heifer weighed 590kg and sold for €1,630 (€2.76/kg).

This March 2019-born Angus heifer weighing 500kg sold for €1,050 (€2.10/kg).

This April 2019-born Limousin heifer weighing 420kg sold for €1,070 (€2.55/kg).

This January 2019-born Belgian Blue heifer weighing 415kg sold for €1,190 (€2.87/kg).

This 2006-born Limousin cow weighing 625kg sold for €960 (€1.54/kg).

This 2015-born Charolais cow weighing 890kg sold for €1,550 (€1.74/kg).

Cows

Almost 100 cows were forward for sale. Dry cows averaged €1.78/kg, with the top third making €2.07/kg for R and U grades or those with a good cover of flesh. Cows with calves at foot averaged €1,410/unit and ranged from €1,070 to €2,100 for a 2015-born Limousin with a May-born Charolais heifer calf at foot.