The 4th Annual Maiden Suckler Heifer Sale in Ballybay Mart last Saturday was a major success, with all 37 heifers that went through the ring being sold.

Trade was very strong, with the heifers which averaged 445 kgs in weight, averaging €1370 a head. This was €100 up on last year’s sale. On the day the heifers averaged €3.08/kg.

Noel Daniels, Drumoorey, Cootehill had the top seller on the day, a 5 Star Limousin heifer at 515kgs which sold at €1670.

Michael Prior, Rockcorry achieved tremendous prices for the 5 heifers he entered in the sale, with Lot 33 a 490kgs Simmental heifer selling at €1620.

Patrick Keenan, Cordrummans, Donaghmoyne achieved €1610 for a 460kg Limousin heifer out of the AI sire Hauteclair (HCA).

Colm Conlon, Drumacrib, Castleblaney was the owner of Lot 25 which at 350kgs sold for €1480, €4.23/kg. This heifer out of the renowned Simmental stock bull Drumnagar Champion, had a replacement index value of €144, the highest in the sale.

The 100% clearance of heifers was helped by repeat buyers from as far away as Longford and Laois, who returned to buy genuine, top quality suckler breeding stock. Further details can be obtained from Mairead Kirk, Beef Advisor, Teagasc, Monaghan (047) 81188.

Ballybay Group

Heifers sellers pictured with Mairead Kirk, Teagasc, Eamonn Conroy, ABP  Clones Sponsors and Seamus Mc Carvill, Ballybay Mart Manager.