Store lamb presentation: Store lamb entries in mart sales are gradually increasing and many mart managers report a positive start. While the trade is only getting going, many managers say they can already see lamb presentation having a big influence on buyer interest and prices. The lambs meeting the best demand are uniform batches, with gender, breed type and weight the top priorities.

At present, wethers seem to be the favourite over ram lambs. This varies throughout the season, with some specialist producers intensively opting for ram lambs due to higher feeding efficiency. At this stage of the season, wether lambs appear to be attracting a premium on price. Managers say there is noticeably more demand where there is less than a 5kg spread in weight, while general appearance such as dirty tail-ends being dagged will also help generate more competition. Buyers are also starting to purchase ewe lambs with breeding potential, and are also seeking uniform batches of similar breed type.

Eid al-Adha 2019 date: There have been numerous queries from farmers as to when Eid al-Adha falls in 2019. The timing of the festival could still change by 12 to 24 hours as the festival approaches, depending on the alignment of the moon. It is predicted to run from Sunday 11 August to Thursday 15 August. Demand to service the market has accounted for the largest weekly throughput in the last five years. It is worth noting the market has helped keep a floor under the trade, rather than bring about an upturn in price. Producers can gear up to take advantage of the spike in demand, but in the meantime it is important to market lambs as they come fit.

Trailer safety: This week’s feature on farm safety covers a wide range of safety issues. One critical issue that is often overlooked is the road worthiness of trailers. Manufacturers say brakes and the condition of the hitch are two important areas to watch, and to regularly check lights. It is also advisable to check wear and tear in the hitch of the vehicle towing the trailer. A refresher on licensing and towing regulations is recommended.

Tullamore farm open day: This week’s focus includes a six-page preview on next Wednesday’s beef and sheep event on Tullamore Farm. As well as discussing the farm’s physical and financial performance for 2018 and 2019, there is a lot to interest sheep farmers. The Bimeda exhibit on external parasites will provide valuable information on control options, at a time when farmers have fewer products to select from.

The animal handling demonstrations will allow farmers to assess a number of options in the one venue. The current tranche of the TAMS II opened on 06 July and will remain open until 4 October 2019. With growing interest in recent tranches it is advisable that those interested apply quickly, as early applicants can be rolled over to subsequent tranches if unsuccessful The scheme remains open until 31 December 2020.