ABP Angus Youth Challenge Finalists
Natasha Dickson, Rachel Johnston, Autumn Mulholland and Ellie Gilmore of Markethill High School
Pay increase for agricultural workers
Following a meeting recently the Agricultural Wages Board for Northern Ireland has announced proposed increases to the minimum wage rates for agricultural workers from 1 April 2025
The proposed new minimum rates are:
Grade 1 - Applicable for the first 40 weeks cumulative employment:
- Under 18 - £8 00 per hour
- 18-20 years olds - £10 00 per hour
- Over 21 - £12 21 per hour
Grade 2 – Standard worker - £12 50 per hour
Grade 3 – Lead worker - £12 73 per hour
Grade 4 – Craft Grade - £12.98 per hour
Grade 5 – Supervisory Grade - £13 37 per hour
Grade 6 – Farm Management Grade - 13 90 per hour
Should the National Minimum Wage or the National Living Wage, as applicable, become higher than the hourly rates set out above then the hourly or other minimum rate will default to the National Minimum Wage or National Living
Wage, whichever applies
The accommodation offset has been increased to £54 71 per week
Any objections to the above proposals should be sent to: AWB Secretariat, 1st Floor, Jubilee House, 111 Ballykelly Road, Limavady, BT49 9HO, or via email to: CorporateSponsorBranch@daerani gov uk to arrive no later than 5 00pm on Tuesday 4 March 2025.
The Board will meet again on 7 March 2025 to consider any objections to the proposals The Board will make an Order to give effect to the new rates and other amendments which would come into operation on 1 April 2025
The definitions for the grades and the qualifications required for each grade are available from the DAERA website or by contacting the AWB Secretariat 1st Floor, Jubilee House, 111 Ballykelly Road, Limavady, BT49 9HO (Tel: 02877442037, Email: CorporateSponsorBranch@daera-ni gov uk)
AVIAN INFLUENZA HOUSING ORDER IN FORCE
Mandatory housing measures for all kept birds and poultry came into force across Northern Ireland (NI) recently This is to mitigate against any incursion of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) into our domestic poultry sector
The housing order, implemented by the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA), legally requires all bird keepers, including owners of pet birds, commercial flocks, backyard and hobby flocks, to keep their birds indoors or otherwise separate from wild birds The move is part of the Avian Influenza Prevention Zone (AIPZ) in Northern Ireland, introduced on 18 January 2025
There is also a ban on the gatherings of pheasants, partridge, quail, chickens, turkey, guinea fowl, ducks, geese, swans and poultry
The Chief Veterinary Officer for NI, Brian Dooher added: “I am urging all flock keepers to please take action now to improve biosecurity so as to reduce the risk of transmission
of avian influenza to poultry or other captive birds. “Anyone who keeps birds and poultry, not just those in the commercial sector, will now have a legal obligation to adhere to the housing order requirements, which are there to protect your flock It is expected that this order will be in place for up to eight weeks and will be kept under regular and close review by the Department.” DAERA stresses the mandatory legislative requirement that all keepers of birds (except keepers of pet birds kept in the owners home) must be registered with DAERA If you have not already done so, please download a registration form on the DAERA website: https://www.daerani gov uk/publications/birdregistration-form Avian Influenza is a notifiable disease Anyone who suspects an animal may be affected by a notifiable disease must, by law, report it to the DAERA Helpline on 0300 200 7840 or your local DAERA Direct Office immediately: https://www.daerani gov uk/contacts/daera-directregional-offices Failure to do so is an offence
The National Ploughing Association confirmed Screggan, Tullamore, Co Offaly as the venue for the 2025 National Ploughing Championships on 16th, 17th, 18th September
The Ploughing was held on the same farm in 2016-2017-2018 hosted by Joe Grogan, RIP – his wife Lisa Flaherty Grogan will host the 2025 event with additional lands being made available for ploughing and parking from many neighbouring farmers
The 3 day event is set to bring millions into the local economy mainly through the hospitality industry but also utilising many local services in order to build an event that requires upwards of 700 acres
The NPA are excited to be going back to Offaly in 2025 and Managing Director Anna May McHugh said “there will be many of the old favourite elements to the programme but also some new attractions in 2025.”
The announcement was made in the Tullamore Court Hotel, Tullamore and attended by members of the NPA Executive Committee, Landowners, Cathaoirleach, County Manager, Gardai and members of Offaly Ploughing
Action Cancer 'Big Bus' is coming to a mart near you As part of Mission: FarmStrong, the Action Cancer 'Big Bus' will be attending Enniskillen Mart on 20th Feb, Ballymena Mart 21st Feb, Omagh Mart 24th Feb and Hilltown Mart on 1st March
Why not get yourself booked in for a free health check or a breast screening clinic preformed by a fully qualified nurse - booking is essential via https://actioncancer org/bookservices/ or call 02890 803344
Put your health first and get your Health MOT booked now.
To make a donation to help raise funds for this worthwhile campaign click on the following link https://www.justgiving.com/campa ign/missionfarm -
Supreme Champion & Champion Limousin was awarded to Alise & Arthur Callaghan with their Claddagh McCabe (LM6529) sired heifer. She went on to sell for the top price of £11,500!
NI Commercial Cattle Exhibitors Club
Springtime Spectacular show & sale in Ballymena Livestock Market
breeding heifer
She sold for £6,500!
Champion
was awarded to Fergal Keown with his beauty of a roan heifer calf sired by Negrita Du Lac (BB8019)!
Champion British Blue went to the O’Kane family with their Hazard VD Pannemeers (BB2280) sired heifer calf!
Reserve Champion Breeding Heifer went to Martin O’Neill with his incredible Boherard Overdose (BB8337) sired heifer!
Just Farmers is coming to Northern Ireland!
Just Farmers is hosting a FREE three day workshop in Northern Ireland in April 2025, places are limited so get registered today
This is the first time that Just Farmers have ever brought their workshop to Northern Ireland. As an organisation that works with farmers from all different sectors and walks of life across the UK, they have yet to receive an application from Northern Ireland, so have decided - why not take their workshops on the road?
Just Farmers builds confidence at the grassroots of UK agriculture through fully-funded Media Education workshops that give farmers and growers the confidence to tell their stories with pride
The practical workshops are run
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Got a story contact us
by leading industry professionals, with introductions to TV, Radio, Podcasting, Writing, Filming on Your Phone and Social Media
Just Farmers believe in bridging divides between rural, farming communities and the urban, mainstream media - to support a better national conversation around all the big issues, from climate change to food security. Successful applicants will meet new people and explore fresh perspectives!
If you are a Northern Irish farmer who lives in Northern Ireland and is interested in applying, you can download the application form here https://www.justfarmers.org/ for-farmers/register. The deadline is the end of February 2025 - so don't delay get registered today!
Here’s your chance!
Enter the �������������������������������������������������������������������������������� and win: �������� entry for up to ���������������� + ������������ to the Balmoral Show Schools Trail
, free entry & parking for the driver
for your class! ��������������������:
Create a ����������-���������������������� EXPLAINING why your class wants to visit the Balmoral Show and what you hope to learn about agriculture!
Upload it to your school’s �������������������������������������� & tag @������������������������
Competition runs from Thursday 6th Feb – Sunday 9th March 2025 Don’t miss this ������������������������������������������������������ for your class! Get creative & get involved!
Five Top Tips for Indoor Lambing
Gwyn James from Nettex offers some personal and professional advice for any farm looking to make improvements to lambing indoors this season
For farms considering lambing indoors for the first time, and those that are well accustomed to the process, there are some best practice tips that can help improve ewe and lamb health through improved nutrition and hygiene.
Calcium Deficiency
Start by identifying ewes that show signs of a calcium deficiency When brought in prior to lambing, ewes can often suffer from a calcium deficiency. The nutritional imbalance is caused by the unavailability of metabolisable calcium seen in the final weeks of pregnancy as ewes are put under significant nutritional stress due to accelerated foetal growth CalciEwe+ is a calcium drench with added energy, magnesium and niacin to support recovery after pre-lambing exhaustion It should be used when the first signs of calcium deficiency are observed These can include coma, paralysis, rapid breathing, tremors or uncoordinated movements
Hygiene
Despite the pressure of managing other aspects of the farm, spending the time indoors to make sure lambing pens and overall shed hygiene is at its best is crucial to preventing common diseases
Preparation of a hygienic and comfortable lambing area is a discipline all farms tend to observe However, once lambing starts it is often tricky to maintain these high standards Equipment should be cleaned between uses to minimise the spread of any bacteria and disease Joint Ill and Watery Mouth are commonly caused by poor shed hygiene and can be avoided with a disciplined cleanliness regime
Colostrum
Following a successful birth, lambs will benefit from a quality colostrum product to help
recover from the birth
For lambs that struggle to stand and suckle, an energy boost in the form of colostrum is a must Lambs that don’t feed quickly are at risk from hypothermia, and a colostrum that can elevate blood glucose levels will help lambs to recover and suckle faster
Identification
Being able to identify lambs and ewes as housing fills up is important to ensure lost lambs are reunited with their mothers to avoid them becoming weak.
It is easy to lapse on marking as lambing gets busy, but it is important to use a quality spray. Gwyn tails and numbers lambs and docks the ewe’s tail too Having a long-lasting spray helps when the flock is turned out, especially in heavy rain
Twin Lamb Disease
Further health concerns for ewes carrying twins can be identified and dealt with quickly and easily thanks to high energy liquids that replace and rebalance the nutritional needs of ewes before lambing
Twin lamb disease, also known as pregnancy toxemia, affects sheep in the late stages of pregnancy If untreated, the ewe is unlikely to recover. It’s caused by low blood glucose levels and symptoms include weight loss, blindness and ewes will be unable to stand or eat It can be brought on by stress from handling or transporting ewes Ewes with too high or too low a body condition score are at greater risk A twin lamb solution containing a high energy liquid should be administered as early as possible If caught late and the ewe has gone down, twin lamb solutions become less effective, an important tool at this stage is make sure the ewe is hydrated via a drenching gun
St Comgall’s Eco Council goes ‘above and beyond’ on the environment
North Down Alliance MLA Andrew Muir has met with St Comgall’s Primary School’s Eco-Council and praised the pupils for their efforts to be environmentally friendly
Speaking about his meeting recently, Andrew Muir MLA said:
“The Eco-Council at St Comgall’s are a credit to the school and were clearly incredibly passionate about looking after our environment and the planet We talked about a huge range of issues from Climate Change to Lough Neagh and all the students were keen to highlight the importance of looking after our bees!
“St Comgall’s is definitely doing its part and going above and beyond to be environmentally conscious. I was delighted to be shown their bug hotel and vegetable garden, hear about how pupils were encouraged to close classroom doors and turn off lights, and see them collecting unwanted clothes to save them from landfill
“We should all be as conscientious as these young people and do what we can to look after our world for the next generation ”
Farm In Mind is a wonderful initiative to help and guide the farming community within Northern Ireland to help deal with stress and anxiety
Farming life is stressful but it is something that needs to be managed. When your stress level rises, so too does your risk of having an accident
It’s important that you learn to recognise the signs When you look after yourself, you’re also looking after your farm, your family and your livelihood.
Check out this free resource now and take a 5min test to see where your stress levels are at now and what help is available https://www.farminmind.co.uk/
NO POULTRY CLASSES TO BE HELD AT BALMORAL SHOW
The Royal Ulster Agricultural Society is disappointed to announce that there will be �������������������������������� at this year’s Balmoral Show in partnership with Ulster Bank Northern Ireland taking place from 14th to 17th May 2025.
This decision has been taken due to the uncertainty of when any ban on bird gatherings may be lifted
Show organisers plan to host a small display of birds from the same flock during the four days of the Show alongside the popular egg and decorated egg classes.
Ulster Farmers Unions chair Sam Chesney is delighted to announce details of this year’s County Down event
The UFU have partnered with County Down YFC and are holding a joint county quiz on Friday 7 March 2025 at Rockmount Golf Club Come along and test your knowledge with young and old both warmly invited Teams are a maximum of six persons and the cost is £10 00 per person which includes a fork supper
On the evening, they will also be holding a raffle and auction with proceeds in aid of Macmillan Cancer Support
Contact your local County Down Group office to register your interest and provide the name of your team by Friday 28 February 2025 for catering purposes
UFU appeals for dog owners to keep their dogs under control and on leads at all times in rural areas as farm animal attacks rose by
48% last year
The Ulster Farmers’ Union says it’s distressing to see that the latest figures from an NFU Mutual survey estimate that farm animals in Northern Ireland worth an estimated £218,000, were severely injured or killed in dog attacks in 2024
Other findings included 43% of dog owners surveyed believed their pet was capable of causing death or injury of livestock and if present at an attack, just over half would intervene to stop it and only 20% would tell a local farmer Commenting, UFU deputy president John McLenaghan said, “It’s utterly frustrating to learn of the findings from NFU Mutual’s livestock worrying survey
It’s an issue that causes constant stress and trauma for our farmers, and to see that the cost of dog attacks on livestock in 2024 increased by almost half compared to 2023, is devastating
“What makes it so difficult to comprehend, is that livestock worrying cases are always preventable and occur due to human negligence. Whilst the majority of dog owners act responsibility, the actions of a small percentage is putting lives at risk.”
“I urge all dog owners to keep their dogs under control and on a lead at all times in rural areas, especially at this time of year with pregnant ewes and newborn lambs This is the only way to keep everyone, farm animals and pets safe No matter what breed, size or temperament, all dogs are capable of chasing, injuring and killing farm animals
“The UFU is continuing to work on this issue, raising awareness of responsible dog ownership, engaging with industry stakeholders and dog organisations to improve the number of livestock worrying cases locally Much work is needed in this area but it’s critical that we work together, getting the messaging out to the public so that NI farmers can have peace of mind and everyone can enjoy the countryside safely ”
Multi Award Winning Harbanero Steve’s devastated by Storm Eowyn
Family owned Habanero Steve’s is a multi-award winning small batch hot sauce, chilli jam & pickle producer. All the Chillies were grown in Bangor in their commercial sized double polytunnels until Storm OEowyn destroyed them last month. Olivia explains “Like many others, our tunnel was completely wrecked during Storm Eowyn the roof, ventilation system, wood and overhead irrigation all need replaced Since then we have been struggling to find a way to fix it If you are a lover of our chilli products, or if you are someone who likes to support small businesses, please consider buying a "virtual bottle of hot sauce" by way of a donation or donate via our Go Fund Me page to help us raise our target of £3000 to fix our polytunnel.”
Olivia Stewart with a bit of free labour from family from time to time run Habanero Steve’s a micro business who simply do not have the funds or manpower to do the necessary repair work to get their business back up and growing chillies again
If you or someone you know are interested in helping this small grower get back on their feet a Go Fund Me page has been set up just click the link to donate www gofundme com
Northern Ireland Holstein Young Breeders are looking forward to welcoming everyone to their first stock judging night of 2025.
Kindly hosted by The McLean Family of Priestland Holsteins, Bushmills on Thursday 20th March 2025 @ 7.30pm. Members are reminded that in order to qualify for the national competitions day you must attend at least 2 of the 3 judging events - full details on all the events - Coming Soon. NIHYB would once again like to thank ElectroMech Agri for sponsoring the stock judging competition and for their continued support.
ElectroMech Agri are a Dairy parlour equipment suppliers and an agricultural engineering company, specialising in bespoke dairy solutions, installations and service provision.
Celebrating
95 Years of Young Farmers’ Clubs of Ulster
The Young Farmers’ Clubs of Ulster (YFCU) marked a momentous milestone recently as they hosted a semi-formal event at Corick House Hotel & Spa in Clogher, County Tyrone to celebrate their 95th Anniversary.
This event was kindly sponsored by the NI Livestock & Meat Commission, Ulster Farmers' Union, SONI Limited and NFU Mutual Over 300 guests from across Northern Ireland traded their wellington boots for semi formal attire to celebrate this momentous milestone.
The delicious cake was prepared by Mulligan's Home Bakery, Omagh and was cut by Pam Robinson (Patron) and Richard Beattie (President)
17th March - St Patrick Day Races
13th April - Family Race Day
5th May - May Day Races
20th May - BoyleSports Summer Race Evening
Ben O’Connor, Lochlann Hegarty, Christopher Cunningham and Brent Magouran of Lecale Trinity College, Downpatrick
ABP Angus youth Challenge inspiring young people to innovate, learn, and develop practical skills that are vital to the future of beef farming
The four schools now competing in the final of the 2025 ABP Angus Youth Challenge are Enniskillen Royal Grammar School, Lecale Trinity Grammar School, Downpatrick, Markethill High School, and St. Joseph’s High School Crossmaglen
As finalists, each team are rearing their own mini-herd of Angus-cross calves provided by ABP in partnership with the Certified Irish Angus Producer Group Over the next ten months, these young farmers will gain hands-on experience in sustainable beef farming, supported by expert guidance from a CAFRE (College of Agriculture, Food and Rural Enterprise) mentor
Conor Phair, Mackenzie Wilson, Jenson
Lindsay and Alfie Thompson of Enniskillen Royal Grammar School
Casey Jane Creegan and Michaela McGuiness of St Joseph’s High School Crossmaglen
The teenagers will also be delving into research themes critical to modern beef farming Each team will champion a sustainability-focused topic, researching and promoting its importance within their schools, communities, and the wider agri-food industry Throughout the coming months their performance will be evaluated The team delivering the most successful outcomes overall stand to win an additional £1,000 for their school or affiliated club
Beyond practical farming experience, the finalists will also benefit from training and travel opportunities, gaining insights into ABP’s global operations and the broader agribusiness landscape. They will even receive a financial reward when their calves are sold to ABP, ensuring they experience every stage of the beef supply chain from farm to fork.
George Mullan, Managing Director of ABP Northern Ireland, congratulated the finalists: “The ABP Angus Youth Challenge inspires young people to innovate, learn, and develop practical skills that are vital to the future of beef farming. This competition also showcases the diverse career paths and opportunities available in the agrifood sector We look forward to seeing how these talented teams bring their projects to life and develop ideas to tackle the challenges facing our industry ”
Party at the Paddock BBQ, 3rd May,
Air Ambulance NI is thrilled to announce its partnership with the North West 200 Association for a special fundraising event –Party at the Paddock BBQ on Saturday, 3rd May 2025
This exciting evening will bring together supporters of both causes for a night of delicious food, fantastic entertainment, and a chance to win exclusive prizes The event will be held in the NW200 marquee and will feature a drinks reception, a twocourse steak BBQ, and an auction with a variety of fantastic items.
Tables of 10 are available for £500 or individual tickets for £50. Attendees will also be entered to a free draw for a fantastic prize – two tickets for NW200 corporate hospitality on Thursday, 8th May 2025
This event is a great way to enjoy a night out while supporting two fantastic causes: Air Ambulance NI and NW200 Association. By attending, you’ll be helping to fund life-saving services provided by Air Ambulance NI and supporting the continued success of the North West 200, one of the world’s most iconic motorcycle races.
Mervyn Whyte MBE from NW200 said, “The Air Ambulance NI has been a game changer since its introduction to NI and has been instrumental in providing so much support to those involved in so many accidents. We would ask you to support this fundraising evening, providing much needed funds to the Air Ambulance and NW200 Association
Kerry Anderson from Air Ambulance NI said, " This is a fantastic opportunity for a fun night out whether it’s a corporate table or group of friends; all in support of a vital cause keeping the helicopter flying to help critically ill or injured individuals, which happens an average of twice a day Our charity needs to raise nearly £7,000 daily to ensure we ' re there when people face lifethreatening trauma or medical emergencies ”
For Air Ambulance NI tickets contact Kerry Anderson on 07935502513 or email kerry.anderson@airambulanceni.org.
For NW200 Association tickets contact Barry Dallat at Arbutus Catering on 07818673339 or email barry@arbutuscatering com Further information is available at www.airambulanceni.org/Partyatthepitts
Are you interested in receiving up to £1,500 towards your personal development?
Entries are now open for the Holstein Young Breeders Sue Cope Bursary
Following the loss of the Holstein UK CEO Sue Cope in 2022, the Board of Trustees launched a bursary in her memory Having successfully competed in YMA herself for a number of years, and a previous winner of the President’s Medal Award, Sue was a great supporter of the next generation and one of her earliest roles in the company was as National YMA Coordinator
The bursary is to support Holstein Young Breeders who have an interest in furthering their skillset within the dairy industry The money provided could be used towards a training course, management programme or to gain a wider knowledge of international farming practices The bursary is open to all Holstein Young Breeders aged between 18 and 26 on the 1st January of the corresponding year and they must be a current resident within the UK The young breeder must be interested in taking part in a study course, or similar, related to the dairy industry and applicants will be assessed on merit
The Bursary
One bursary of up to £1,500 will be awarded on an annual basis and a Holstein Young Breeder is only eligible to apply once per year and must state how they would spend the money in their application (e g conference place, international study trip, transport costs, additional certificates, i e foot trimming course)
Entry Requirements
NINE STUDENTS AWARDED LAKELAND DAIRIES’
Nine students throughout the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland have been awarded bursaries from Lakeland Dairies to support their academic pursuits
These outstanding individuals, who represent the next generation of agricultural leaders, will receive €2,000 / £2,000 each to support their academic pursuits in agricultural science, dairy science, and engineering.
The bursaries were awarded after a rigorous selection process, which saw nearly 100 applicants from across Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland This initiative is part of Lakeland Dairies’ sustainability strategy launched in 2023, aimed at supporting innovation and education in the agricultural sector
The successful bursary recipients are:
1 Maria Finnegan of Dundalk Institute of Technology and Teagasc
2 Eoin O’Sullivan of Dublin City University
3. John Doris of University College Dublin
4. Jack Barry of University College Dublin
To apply for the bursary, applicants must specify how they intend to use the bursary and submit an entry outlining ‘Why I want to be part of the British dairy industry’ Entries can be submitted as either a 500 word written essay, or a two minute video Entries must be sent to naomilewis@holstein-uk org by Thursday 17th April, 2025 and the applications will be reviewed by the Holstein UK Board of Trustees and successful appliants will be notified Mid May
5 Kate Gormley of University of Limerick
6. Killian O'Reilly of Atlantic Technological University
7 Aimee McKnight Queen's University
Belfast
8. Sinead McAtamney of CAFRE - College of Agriculture, Food and Rural Enterprise
9 Louise Weir of Queen's University Belfast and CAFRE - College of Agriculture, Food and Rural Enterprise.
Commenting on the success of the Bursary programme, Liz Shouldice Chief People Officer at Lakeland Dairies, said:
"We are thrilled to support these bright, ambitious students through our Pathway to a Better Future bursary programme
Education is at the heart of our commitment to innovation and sustainability within the agricultural sector.
“These students represent the future of the industry be that inside the farm gate or factory gate and we are proud to assist them as they embark on their educational journeys."
A SERVICE FOR PRIVATE FARMERS, EQUESTRIANS WISHING TO SELL THEIR USED MACHINERY, LIVESTOCK OR EQUIPMENT
NAME, ADDRESS, TELEPHONE NUMBER, EMAIL ADDRESS, 250 CHARACTERS MAX
PROVIDE A DESCRIPTION INCLUDE A PHOTOGRAPH SELECT A CATEGORY
SUPPLY YOUR DETAILS
CATEGORIES INCLUDE: EQUESTRIAN, EQUIPMENT, LIVESTOCK, MACHINERY, TRACTORS, TRAILERS, WANTED
Lucca Does The Double at Final of Baileys Horse Feeds Flexi Eventing
Saturday was a very memorable day as the curtain came down on the Baileys Horse Feeds Flexi Eventing Series for 2025. It was one of the most successful years to date with almost 600 combinations competing in over 2000 activities, across the three phases, in the course of the seven weeks
Catherine Cowan and Lady Remarque were crowned this year’s Champions amidst all the pomp and ceremony so brilliantly compered by Georgia Stubington and executed by Catherine Abbott As well as prize money, sash and rosette, they received a beautiful trophy. Huge thank you to our Title Sponsor, Judy Maxwell of Baileys Horse Feeds who has been there each week through frost, snow, ice and wind as well as the sunshine to show her support and help with the organisation of this extremely popular League
Thanks also go to Class Sponsors, Treo Eile, whose sponsorship made the
series very special and incentivised all the Thoroughbred owners to give the Flexi a go and they thoroughly enjoyed it. The winners, Connor McClory and Bestman Bryan were presented with €150 plus a rug for their endeavours.The top three League prize winners each received a beautiful sash and rosette prepared byTracey Blair of Awardboard Rosettes & TrophiesIreland It was particularly pleasing to see ALL the prize winners present and beautifully turned out for the impressive prize giving It is also very gratifying to see the number of Underage riders featuring in the line up which augurs very well for the future of our sport.
At the conclusion of the Prize Giving, Denis Currie presented bouquets of flowers to Judy Maxwell, Sponsor, and Catherine Abbott, Secretary, on behalf of the riders
Loughanmore last August
The entries in all three phases this week were uncharacteristically high for a
non-qualifying day and, once again, meant a two way division of the Intro class. The ‘Graduate’ Judge this week was Tina O’Connor who certainly showed that she wasn’t afraid to use the full range of marks. Top of her list with a score of 72.5 was Eimear Watson riding the sixteen year old Irish Draught mare,Gaurlin Lady This combination made their debut Eventing Ireland appearance at Tullymurry last year where they came runner up in a class of twenty four They also featured in the top six at Hazeldene the following month Veterinary surgeon, Kathryn Henderson, occupied second place with Betty (Mocking Bird), her fifteen year old Builders Delight mare with whom she enjoyed considerable eventing success including a win at The Intro ‘B’ class of sixteen was judged by Lucinda WebbGraham who reserved her top mark of 74 3% for Lucca Stubington and Goofy, a five year old gelding, bred and owned by Liam Lynskey. He is by Liam’s stallion, DS
Are You With Me, and was broken and produced by Lucca who is aiming him at the Young Event Horse Qualifiers as well as some EI events Claire Ireland also broke the 70% barrier with a score of 73% on her much accomplished palomino gelding, Goin’ for Gold.
Lucca Stubington was back on the centre of the podium for the Pre Novice class, judged by Lucinda Webb-Graham, where she scored the highest mark of the day, 78 8% with Harry (Glencarne) owned by Heather McReynolds He is a seven year old gelding by Olympic Lux and has had three runs at EI100 level with Eventing Ireland. The very consistent and three times class winner at this year’s Flexi Series, Christine Findlay occupied the runner up spot with a score of 75.8 with her ten year old Diarado gelding, Parklodge Over and Under, with whom she chose to move up a grade this week FEI Judge, Vanda Stewart, was charged with responsibility for the Novice class of twenty two. This class was dominated by one of Smith Brothers pupils, seventeen year old Lee Bloomfield, who took three of
his four mounts into the top six However, the top place was reserved for Alex Houston and My Atlantic Encore (Dinky) who were rewarded with 73 8 Dinky is a home bred eight year old mare by Centrestage out of their Thoroughbred mare, Lady Coroner by Coroner. This combination won the EI 100 class at Ash Hollow’s inaugural event last August
Casey Webb, of Smith Brothers attained a mark of 70.3 to take the runner up spot with Will (Annaghmore Cornoko), by HHS Cornet, owned by Campbell McLean This six year old gelding competed under Eventing Ireland rules in the latter part of last year, winning in a heavily subscribed class at Tullymurry
Casey Webb also proved her prowess in the Intermediate class, judged by Vanda Stewart where she took the top two placings Kornelia (Aprils Pacino Time) was the winner, scoring 66 6% This twelve year old Pacino mare has competed up to 4* level. Stable mate, HHF Elegance (Jessie) took second place, scoring 63.7. This fourteen year old mare by Watermill Swatch is jointly owned by Steven Smith
and John Minford and successfully completed two 4* runs last year.As the Flexi Series comes to an end, we want to extend a thank you to all the helpers over the 7 weeks- Judges, Course Designers, Scribes, Call Up Stewards, Arena Parties, Office Staff, Hat Taggers and Scorers –their dedication to duty is exemplary and very much appreciated
This includes the NR Committee who have been exceptional.
Thanks also to Aaron McCusker and his team at the MEC for all their hard work and attention to detail, week on week
Also, a deep debt of appreciation goes to Tori O'Connor and her team of photographers who’ve captured all the action in every arena every week
Finally, a sincere thank you to all the competitors who supported the Leagueit wouldn’t have been a competition without them and we value that support immensely We hope they and their horses and ponies have benefitted from the seven weeks of intense training and we look forward to welcoming them all back in January 2026
BHS Gold members to enjoy the beauty of Mount Stewart.
The BHS are giving their Gold Members 5 opportunities to trek around the beautiful Mount Stewart Estate. These will be evening rides from 5.30pm to 9pm depending on day light hours. Pre-booking is essential with a maximum attendance number of 60 with pre-organised departure times. This event is NOT suitable for lead rein riders.
O Book click the link beside the date you wish to attend
Saturday 12 April - https://buytickets at/bhsireland/1548109
Friday 23 May - https://buytickets at/bhsireland/1548120
Saturday 28 June - https://buytickets at/bhsireland/1548140
Friday 25 July - https://buytickets at/bhsireland/1548149
Saturday 16 August - https://buytickets at/bhsireland/1548150
The Londonderry family of Mount Stewart always had horses and ponies and they rode through the grounds at Mount Stewart on trails that were made for just that purpose The National Trust is working to recover and renovate access to the estate by uncovering and renovating existing paths We will have access to a variety of trails in the estate The route will be decided close to the time and will depend on weather and ground conditions The route is planned to be approximately 5 to 6 miles in length
Nationwide protection for you and your equine with The Digital Stable App
This new digital approach is at the forefront of equine traceability and enables more effective biosecurity, disease control, fraud management and human food chain safety.
The digital stable is protected by rigorous security and identity checks to ensure owners’ information and equine records are safe. It is designed with owners in mind to make it easy to manage and keep records legal and up to date.”
Download today through your phone’s app store by searching for ‘Digital Stable’
Check Equine Details
Verify if your equine's microchip or UELN is on the Central Equine Database (CED). Enter the number in the search box to confirm its registration.
Confirm Ownership
Create a Digital Stable account to ensure you ' re the recognised owner of your equine. Regardless of CED status, this step is essential for your records.
Stay Legal & Updated
Once confirmed as the registered owner, update any missing or incorrect info on the CED. Ensure all details, including microchip number and food chain status, are accurate.
It’s completely free to download and use, so what are you waiting for?
Are you ready to ride into the new season?
As excitement builds ahead of the new season, Eventing Ireland are encouraging members to be fully prepared ahead of entries for Tyrella 1 opening on Monday 3rd March at 9am Here is the Ultimate Checklist to ensure you are ready H���������������������� had their Registration completed or renewed?
Have you renewed / completed your membership?
Have you submitted copies of the naming page of your horses Passport to Head Office for new registrations? Email headoffice@eventingirel and.com
H������������������������������������ ���������������������������������������� ����������?All new underage riders are required to submit a parental consent form, a
photo/scan of their birth cert or passport and a competency form before you can make entries H�������������������������������� ���������������������������������������� ���������������������� ������������������������? Each new combination needs a competency form - a competency form for a rider with one horse/pony cannot be transferred to another horse/pony H�������������������������������� ���������������������������������������� ����������������������������������������
������������? If you ' ve bought a horse already on the EI system, please make sure you complete the Change of Ownership form and pay the Change of Ownership fee in the EI Shop
Are your horses Vaccinations up to date?
All forms can be found at eventingireland.com/forms
Starting the season off with a flying start
Mary King who needs no introduction with Olympic, World and European Championship medals to her
The brainchild of Tara and Karen Dixon to invite Mary over has given riders here the chance to benefit from her expertise and knowledge.
The Clinics took place in Danescroft’s outdoor arena with a mix of Show Jumps and Cross Country fences making it the perfect training ground.
Mary offered the riders some top tips and put them through their paces on the ins and outs of upping their game for the 2025 season!
Here is just some of Mary’s accolades;
- 6 X Olympics Games
- 3 X World Championships (2 Gold, 1 Silver)
- 4 X European Championships (4 Gold, 1 Bronze)
- 5* WINNER at Badminton x2, Burghley, Kentucky
- 5 X British Champion
Don’t miss the debate at NEF 2025
There is still time to be a part of the important annual equestrian discussions at this year’s National Equine Forum, 6th March 2025. Tickets for the face-to-face event have been selling fast, but a limited number are still available.
NEF will also be accessible to all this year, via a free live stream which will include closed captions if required. View the programme and find out more here: https://www.nationalequine forum.com/diary-remindernef-2025/
name paid a visit to Danescroft Equestrian this month.
‘YFCU are calling on all members interested in their Show Jumping Competition’
The Young Farmers’ Clubs of Ulster (YFCU) are delighted to hold their Show Jumping Competition for the second year in a row. Entries are open for the event which takes place on Sunday 9th March 2025 at the Meadows Equestrian Centre in Lurgan. There are two age categories, where members will be split into an Under 16 group and Over 16 group and the four different height classes are 65cm, 85cm, 100cm and 110cm
The competition was hugely successful last year with over 100 members from across Northern Ireland taking part Please ensure your Club Secretary sends all enquiries and entries to Assistant Events Manager Hayley Sloan; 07771886533 / 028 9037 0713 hayley.sloan@yfcu.org.
Monart Spring Selection day
open for entries
One of Ireland’s leading elite horse auctions, The Monart Sale has opened its Entries for their Spring Sale Selection Day on the 1st April. This elite sale is for Ridden Horses 4yr old and upwards to make top class potential Sport Horses and also horses suitable for the competitive amateur Horses will be selected on their conformation, ability and ride ability and will be assessed at the level they are currently at on the flat, over a course of show jumps and around a short cross-country course. Entries are now open and close on the 26th March 2025 you will need your horse’s passport to do the entry and you MUST enter all your horses’ passport details correctly.
Entries can be made www.monartequestrian.com/events/ridden-horsespring-sale-selection-day-tuesday-april-1st/
Anna Excels as Level 3 Equine Apprentice at CAFRE
The College of Agriculture, Food and Rural Enterprise (CAFRE) delivers Equine Apprenticeship training at Level 2 and Level 3.
An Equine Apprentice works for a minimum of 21 hours per week in a Northern Ireland business and completes training one day per week Anna McErlean from Moria is a full time Level 3 Equine Apprenticeship student based at Smith Brothers Eventing
Smith Brothers Eventing based in Gilford has four CAFRE apprentice students all working towards the Level 3 Apprenticeship As part of the Apprenticeship programme, Anna is gaining hands on experience in competition riding, stable management and horse care all under the guidance of Trevor Smith, Steven Smith and Yard Manager Casey Webb.
Anna successfully competed on her own horse, Kilmanahan Cool Star, in 2024 at EI100J level and this year has been competing horses for clients at the flexi eventing, including a win in the 100 class at Week Two
Casey Webb, International Event Rider said: “The Level 3 Equine Apprenticeship provides Anna with the perfect balance of practical experience and formal training, equipping her with the skills and knowledge to pursue a successful career in the equestrian sector.”
Speaking about her experience, Anna said: “Working at Smith Brothers Eventing has been incredible opportunity Every day I learn something new, whether its caring for horses at the highest standards or seeing what it takes to prepare for top level competition I really enjoy the blended learning at CAFRE We have online classes every other week and then have block training once a month at CAFRE
“At CAFRE we focus on the practical element of the exam, and we complete lungeing, riding and practice such things as bandaging I really enjoy my time at CAFRE as I also get to meet other students my own age who are working in the industry I feel the apprenticeship has given me the confidence and skills to pursue my dreams in the equestrian world ”
Smith Brothers Eventing said: “We are proud to support young talent like Anna through apprenticeships that provide valuable industry recognised qualifications.”
Anna obtained direct entry to the Level 3 Apprenticeship after gaining Pony club B test through Killultagh Pony Club, along with her academic qualifications
Applications are now open for the Level 3 Apprenticeship starting in September 2025 For further details on our equine courses please visit: www cafre ac uk, or email jenny richardson@daera-ni gov uk
CAFRE Enniskillen Campus Level 3 Equine Apprentice Anna McErlean successfully competing in Flexi Eventing on her own horse, Kilmanahan Cool Start, in 2024
