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HomeBeefBrennan’s sale returning to Balla after fetching up to €5k last year
Catherina Cunnane
Catherina Cunnanehttps://www.thatsfarming.com/
Catherina Cunnane hails from a sixth-generation drystock and specialised pedigree suckler enterprise in Co. Mayo. She currently holds the positions of editor and general manager at That's Farming, having joined the firm during its start-up phase in 2015.
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Brennan’s sale returning to Balla after fetching up to €5k last year

50 “top-quality” in-calf heifers will come under the hammer at Walter Brennan’s 14th annual sale at Balla Mart later this evening (Friday, November 19th, 2021).

A mixture of commercial suckler-bred females are catalogued for the sale, which is due to commence in the Mayo-based mart at 7 pm.

The consignment includes various Simmental-crosses, Charolais-crosses, Belgian Blue-crosses, and Limousin-crosses, ranging from 18-35 months.

Heifers are calving from December 2021 to either AI Limousin bulls, including EBY, Lodge Hamlet, Loyal, Ivor, Jolly, or a Limousin stockbull, an Ivor son.

Boyne Valley Meats is sponsoring a €200 lucks’ penny for the highest-priced heifer on the night.

Walter Brennan’s annual sale

Speaking to That’s Farming, the Mayo Abbey, Claremorris, Co Mayo farmer said:

“When sourcing heifers, I look for something I know I would be happy in calving myself.”

“All heifers I buy can do a good job in any suckler herd.”

“Once correct in every way and easy on the eye with good temperament, they will be fit for purpose in the Irish suckler herd.”

“I have a very high percentage of repeat customers which is vital. I have support from local suckler farmers, but heifers go to Donegal and Clare annually. Some are sold to the north from year-to-year.”

When asked what his customers are in the market for, Brennan replied, “A cow maker that will be fit for purpose; an ability to calf and produce export quality and show potential calves.”

“Furthermore, online is driving demand via Facebook and DoneDeal, for example. Quality over quantity seems to be the new norm.”

That’s Farming reported that last year’s sale saw a full clearance with prices to €5,000.

Viewing and bidding

You can access a catalogue with photos and service dates.

You can view the heifers in the mart from 4p m onwards. All personnel must adhere to the mart’s strict Covid-19 protocols – wearing face coverings, social distancing, and hand sanitiser use.

Ringside bidding and also online via MartBids – Register and contact mart to approve your registration.

Photos of some of the entries: [Credits: TJ Duffy]

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