70 west of Ireland-sourced suckler-bred heifers will come under the hammer at Patrick Donnelly’s annual in-calf heifer sale at Markethill Livestock Mart, on Thursday, September 29th, 2023.
The Augher, Co Tyrone native’s evening sale comprises a selection of “outstanding quality” Charolais-crosses, Belgian Blue-crosses, Simmental-crosses, and Limousin-crosses.
All heifers are served to easy-calving pedigree Limousin bulls.
A select group of 12 roan-coloured and Belgian Blue-cross heifers are served to the easy-calving AI Limousin bull, EBY (Elderberry Galahad, available from Dovea Genetics) and are scanned carrying heifer calves.
In-calf heifer sale
Speaking to That’s Farming editor, Catherina Cunnane, ahead of the sale, Patrick said:
“This consignment has been handpicked to offer superior quality suckler-bred westof Ireland-sourced stock for sale.”
“I source my breeding females from the west of Ireland mainly for the high-quality animal on offer from WOI suckler farmers.”
“These cattle come with a lovely temperament and there is a big demand for them every year with many repeat customers and usually a 100% clear-out on the night.”
“The heifers range in age from two-and-a-half to three-years-old and vary in weight from circa 650kgs to 750kgs. They are due to calve from mid-October and can be viewed on-farm prior to the sale, by appointment.”
“Also, as part of our herd health plan, they have been vaccinated for BVD. I am really pleased with the group, and I think there is a heifer to suit every farmer.”
“Each animal has something catchy about them, containing the desirable qualities that you would want in a cow.”
“The sale is an annual event apart from the time of the Covid-19 pandemic when I sold directly from the farm.”
“My contact details are available from Markethill Mart, and heifers can be exported from the farm after the sale,” he concluded.
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