The Kerryman (South Kerry Edition)
40th Anniversary at Gortatlea Mart
TO date all the reports are saying ‘so far this year there has been a sluggish start to the mart trade ...’ - not at Gortatlea Mart, Ballymac, Tralee, where they hold an evening sale for calves and weanlings every Wednesday starting at 5pm, and general cattle, beef and store sale on Friday from 10am.
Last Friday, January 25, Gortatlea Mart celebrated their 40th Anniversary sale, while Maurice Brosnan is now into his fifth year running the mart. It is obvious to see Maurice’s immense knowledge of cattle as the numbers of buyers and sellers are growing year on year.
Gortatlea Mart are very proud to host so many buyers from the north of the country who are keen to buy the quality stock on show weekly. Leading buyers from all corners of the country visit Gortatlea as it has a reputation country wide that it carries the best of quality stock.
Maurice has come from a family of successful cattle farmers and dealers, and it is clear to see the cattle business runs through his veins - his knowledge is outstanding and he is happy to help or advise anyone who asks.
On Friday last, it was great to see prices for good stores holding as good as this time last year. It shows confidence in the trade, which is much needed for everyone.
Cows were making up to €2.38 per kg, Bulls making up to €3.74 per kg, Heifers making from €2.60per kg, Bullocks making from €2.70per kg. Record number of outstanding dry cows were for sale with many a buyer commenting that they had not seen a yard of stock like it in years.
Maurice is not just good at picking out stock, his staff at the mart are a joy to see working as they are like a welloiled machine. The place runs like clockwork thanks to his outstanding drovers and office staff all working hand in hand to ensure a safe and pleasant place to work and visit.
On the podium, Maurice has a young, enthusiastic auctioneer who travels the length of the country to sell weekly. He knows the value of cattle as quick as anyone, with seller and buyers respecting James as the gent he is.