Continental weanlings proved in very high demand in Ballinsloe Mart over the weekend resulting in a 95% clearance rate.
The majority of lots in the weanling part of the sale were Charolais, with a selection of Limousin and Simmmental also.
Similar to trade over the past few weeks, demand remained highest for the lighter stock, in particular the bulls. For Charolais bulls weighing between 300kg and 400kg, the average price hit a very satisfactory €2.56/kg.
Limousin were next in line for highest average at €2.42/kg.
Top price in this section was a Charolais bull which weighed 320kg. He sold for €1,080 or €3.38/kg.
Top for the Limousin breed in the same weight dropped just below the €3/kg mark, with a 305kg bull selling for €900 (€2.95/kg).
As the weight moved up, the prices dropped back. Looking at Charolais bulls weanlings weighing between 400kg and 500kg, the average price settled at €2.21/kg. Top-priced Charolais in this weight was a 400kg early spring-born bull which sold for €1,000 (€2.50/kg).
The Limousin breed actually secured the top average in this section, settling at €2.32/kg.
With the smaller numbers of Limousin present, this was helped by one 410kg bull selling for €2.51/kg and another 410kg bull at €2.39/kg.
Females
A strong demand was also witnessed in the female section, with select, lighter heifers again securing the highest demand. However, prices were back on that of bulls of similar weight.
Charolais heifers weighing between 300kg and 400kg again made up the majority of lots, with overall average resting at €2.25/kg. This was led with a call of €900 for a 305kg Charolais heifer (€2.95/kg). Over €2.80/kg was achievable for the right type of Charolais heifer.
The smaller entry of Limouisn weanling heifers of the same weight boasted a higher average of €2.36/kg. That €2.70 to €2.80/kg price was achievable for light, smart, muscular heifers. Top Limousin was a 305kg spring-born heifer which sold for €860 (€2.82/kg).
Entries for heifers over 400kg proved very small, with a handful of Charolais heifers selling to average €2.42/kg. This was led with a call of €1,100 for a 400kg heifer (€2.75/kg).
Clipping cattle at housing time