Kilkenny Mart - More life about the trade in every sector
Hello again after a long absence where for the last few weeks I have been to shows, sales and holidays spent in this damp country of ours.
The National Livestock Show in Tullamore was held on the 13th August and attracted a very big crowd. I was involved with the commercial sector under the stewardship of Michael Dolan. There was a terrific attendance all day with crowds two to three deep around the rings. This section has proved very popular and over the years and has expanded to this years record entries.
It was great meeting up with only friends and acquaintances be they exhibitors, helpers or the general spectator. A day full of life with a lot of positivity.
I have also been involved this month in auctioning Ped Suffolk Rams in Roscrea, Belclares in Kilkenny, horses in Cavan and last weekend the major ram sale for sheep Ireland in Tullamore - one thing about my job is it's very varied.
My break took on visits to Waterville, Cahersiveen, Tralee, Doolin and Innisheer. The trip across in the ferry was more like a roller coaster than a pleasant sea crossing and the only saving grace was I did take the sea sick travel pills which proved to be a very wise decision.
Cattle Sale
Back to business, last Thursday's cattle sale was a positive affair with more life about the trade in every sector. Beef bullocks saw prices range from €1380 to €2060 per head with forward stores €1020 to €1730 and lighter types €600 to €1550 per head.
The best price in this sector was €1320 for 2 Char bullocks which weighed 355 kilo eg €3.72 per kilo. Beef heifers saw prices range from €1350 to €1670 per head Forward types €980 to €1330 per head with lighter store heifers €600 to €1140. Cull cows also sold very with Friesians peaking at €2.30 per kilo and continentals to a top of €2.60 per kilo.
Remember all cattle should be entered before 3.30pm on the previous Wednesday by contacting Kilkenny Mart on 056 7721407.
Sheep Sale
Monday's sheep sale attracted an entry of 850 with trade for heavy lambs, in excess of 50 kilo, more difficult to sell especially for those lacking flesh.
The most popular weighs were 43 to 47 kilo lambs with a top call of €142 for 47 kilo or €3.02 per kilo. The trade for cull ewes was also subdued with €150 been the top call. Breeding hoggets did not match last weeks top call of €285 with €240 been the best price attained this week. Next weeks sheep sale on the 4th September includes the first of the Kilkenny Breeders Ram sale at 1pm. If you have calves to sell they are also offered for sale on that day.
Until next time Do Be Careful on The Farm and Good Buying, Good Selling & Good Luck