Livestock auctioneer Denis Barrett has devised a virtual system for selling bulls over the coming months. The Cork-based auctioneer has, in recent years, used the system in conjunction with a number of major pedigree sales, including the most recent Irish Limousin premier.

The proposed system will be totally online, giving breeders and sellers a safe environment to trade during the coronavirus pandemic. The platform allows customers use real-time bidding to secure a bull of choice. It also offers a secure system for payment, with new bidders having to pay a deposit.

I want to assure breeders we have something to suit everyone

It’s understood a number of societies have already been in contact to avail of the service. One of the first confirmed is the Irish Aberdeen Angus Association, which will use the system to replace its premier sale in Nenagh on 24 April.

The site offers a number of packages based on the content uploaded by the breeder or society and if the animals have a reserve or not

Denis told the Irish Farmers Journal: “I want to assure breeders we have something to suit everyone. Whether you have one bull for sale or conduct an annual sale, we can facilitate you in whatever you require. While the circumstances may be different, it’s nothing new for us, as we have been performing online sales since 2013.”

The site offers a number of packages based on the content uploaded by the breeder or society and if the animals have a reserve or not. These packages range from €15/head and 0.5% commission to €75 and 2% commission.

One of the major auction centres in the UK, Harrison and Hetherington in Carlisle, is also planning online auctions for some of its major sales.

One of the its biggest sales is the British Limousin cattle society premier in May which, depending on restrictions, could be done in this format.

The system generates an online catalogue, with bidding undertaken over three to four days. Regular breeding guarantees will remain, with a sale levy deduced from the price of the sale.

The Irish Simmental Society is using a system where breeders can enter bulls for a sale in a normal manner except with a picture and contact details

Most Irish cattle societies continue to advertise members’ bulls on their websites and social media platforms. The Irish Simmental Society is using a system where breeders can enter bulls for a sale in a normal manner except with a picture and contact details. Three different catalogues are then generated and pushed out online by the society. Details on available bulls can be sought from each of the respective breed societies.

Gigginstown Angus

The Gigginstown Angus sale on Fennor farm in Co Westmeath has been cancelled, but private sales continue. The catalogue of 28 bulls and 14 heifers went live on their social media platform last week and is understood to be one of the farm’s best offerings yet. The catalogue can be viewed at www.gigginstownhouse.com. Animals can be viewed with special precautions in place.