Change in the air at Bandon mart

There was a change in the air in Bandon this week. There was a bit more bite in prices for bullocks close to and above 500kg.

Spring 2015 stores continue to provide the back bone of the bullock trade and there was some excellent specimens on display. Friesian bullocks were an improved trade on last week, with those with potential O grade confirmation making €1.65/kg to €1.77/kg.

P grade Friesians were back on this, down to €1.55/kg.

Overall Friesians sold from €225 to €450 with their weight. Hereford and Angus cross bullocks dominated the bullock numbers again and the majority made from €1.77/kg up to €2.04/kg. Age, weight and confirmation having a big influence on their price which ranged from €380 to €625 with their weight.

Continental bullocks were scarce and those available sold for up to €750 with the euro per kilo.

Sample prices

Heifer numbers were similar to last week with 95 on offer. They made from €250 up to €550 over the €/kg. Angus and Hereford cross heifers dominated the numbers and prices were similar to last week.

Sample prices

There was 170 calves and runners on offer. Friesian bull calves made from €101 to €180 for younger calves with runners selling for up to €350. Friesian heifers made up to €220. Hereford and Angus bulls made from €200 to €380 for younger calves with up to €530 available for the runners. Angus and Hereford heifer calves sold from €200 to €360 with stronger heifers making up to €490.

There were 80 dry cows on offer with parlour cows beginning to make an appearance. They made from €200 under up to €500 over the €/kg.

Sample prices