Dairy Market Sees Mixed Results as Summer Sales Conclude

Dairy sales across the country are winding down for the summer months, marked by several final sales this week. Farmers were keen to complete field work in favorable weather, which led to active participation in several marts. As a result, while overall prices have decreased, quality animals in smaller sales continue to command prices of up to and over €1,700 per head.

At the Carnaross Mart in County Meath, an open dairy sale was held, featuring a substantial entry of quality pedigree stock bulls. This sale primarily consisted of a dispersal sale for a local farmer, offering 40 freshly calved cows and heifers, along with 20 maiden heifers. Two separate lots achieved a top price of €2,600. The first was a January 2024 born heifer that had calved three weeks prior, boasting an Economic Breeding Index (EBI) of €5, a milk sub-index of €74, and a fertility sub-index of -52. The second was an October 2022 born cow producing 34 liters.

Additionally, over 30 heifers sold for more than €2,000 each. Notable prices included €2,460 for a January 2023 born fresh calver, and €2,440 each for February and March 2024 born fresh calvers. Despite these high prices, the overall trade concluded with an average price of €1,695 per head. Older cows not suitable for the milking parlour faced the lowest demand, with prices dropping to €800 per head.

The demand remained steady for quality heifers ready to commence milking, while yearlings fetched up to €1,120 per head. The sale also featured various stock bulls, including an April 2024 born Angus bull weighing 700kg, which sold for €3,500. Another Angus, born in July 2024 and weighing 580kg, was auctioned for €3,300. A January 2025 born Angus at 550kg went for €1,800, and an April 2023 born Hereford weighing 920kg sold for €3,400.