This year, the Irish Belgian Blue Cattle Society will be present at the National ploughing Championships at block 3 LS. 05 in the livestock section.

The commercial progeny on display will focus on the outstanding terminal trait of the Belgian Blue breed, with commercial animals suitable for export and beef finishing here.

Beef feeding trials have highlighted the feed efficiency of the breed. This trait, with the double-muscle gene which commands a higher price market, has a major effect on the profit of beef farming.

The Pedigree show classes will kick off on the first day with four classes; this year will see a strong team of young bulls. 

Many of these young bulls will be presented for sale on Saturday 25 October at Roscrea Livestock Mart. Included will be the prizewinners from Tinahely, Tullamore and the All-Ireland finalist from Strokestown Show. The judge is Benoit Luycx from Belgium.

Retired stock bulls

Benoit has purchased many retired pedigree Belgian Blue stock bulls and cows for live export to Belgium for finishing over the last number of years.

This market has made is easy for existing users of Belgian Blue bulls to trade up to a younger bull. 

The new Belgian Blue sire directory will be available with many bulls suitable for beef and dairy farmers. Included in the directory are some well proven bulls, along with a number of interesting prospects for the upcoming breeding season.

The next society show and sales is on 25 October at Roscrea livestock mart.

The society is urging farmers to call to the Irish Belgian Blue stand where members will be on hand to discuss Blues.