REFUEL AFTER SCHOOL SPORTS DAY WITH A VISIT
As primary schools across prepare for their end-ofyear sports days, Finnebrogue, a leading UK food producer based in County Down, is thrilled to announce the second year of its hugely successful school sports day competition, which will again see three schools receive a tasty visit from the Finnebrogue Food Truck
Following a successful launch in 2024, which saw nearly 100 primary schools from Northern Ireland participate, this year’s competition has expanded to include primary schools across the entire island of Ireland Last year’s winners Killyleagh Integrated Primary School, St Bernard’s PS Belfast, and St Patrick's Legamaddy showcased exceptional creativity and enthusiasm for healthy eating which earned them the prized visits
STEPHANIE BYERS, FINNEBROGUE’S BRAND MANAGER ENCOURAGES EVEN MORE SCHOOLS TO GET INVOLVED THIS YEAR:
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Celebrating victory! The Finnebrogue team with the proud pupils from Killyleagh Integrated Primary School, winners of the 2024 Finnebrogue School Sports Day Competition
“Building on the incredible success of last year’s launch, three primary schools from across the island of Ireland will have the opportunity to win a visit from the Finnebrogue Food Truck at their school sports day We will serve up freshly made hotdogs with our delicious gluten-free Naked Pork Sausages, which kids will love Our hope is that this competition supports schools in driving home the crucial message that a balanced diet and physical
activity are essential for optimal performance, health, and well-being To enter the competition, schools need to visit the news section of the Finnebrogue website and download the entry form
The entry form will include instructions for the pupils to get creative and draw their ultimate loaded hotdog or burger using Finnebrogue’s Naked Pork Sausage or Finnebrogue Wagyu Burger or Finnebrogue's Naked Deli Ham From classic combinations to wild creations, we want to see the imaginative masterpieces that Ireland's young foodies can dream up!”
Finnebrogue is passionate about promoting healthy lifestyles and supports a number of youth and sports initiatives in County Down including the Jimmy’s 10k road race in Downpatrick, Celtic Bhoys Youth Tournament which includes teams from across Northern Ireland, and Downpatrick Cricket Club Youth Coaching The food producer also supports many schools and community clubs through the donation of products made without artificial preservatives or additives for their fundraiser events
The Finnebrogue Naked range, including Naked Bacon made without nitrites and Naked Pork Sausages, is available at leading supermarket retailers across the UK and Ireland Products are gluten-free, and made without artificial
preservatives, additives, colours or flavours. The school sports day competition is open to all primary schools located on the island of Ireland, and the winning schools will be carefully chosen from the entries submitted. The deadline for submission is 10th May 2025, so schools are encouraged to act quickly for their chance to win. Visit the news page at www.finnebrogue.com for more information and let your students unleash their creativity!
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Council Launch New Campaign to Recycle More Food Waste!
Recycle Now and Newry, Mourne and Down District Council is launching a new campaign to encourage homes in the district to use their food caddies to dispose of food waste
In Northern Ireland, most homes have a food waste recycling collection and 77% of the public regularly recycle their food waste Latest estimates show that a third (30%) of our average rubbish bins are still made up of food, most of which could have been eaten (23%)
The best thing we can do with our food is eat it, but for inedible items, make your caddy your go-to bin Even small amounts, like vegetable stalks, banana peels, nut shells, fruit stones, onion skins, eggshells, chicken bones and coffee grounds can be recycled
A household of four in the district could save £80 per month or £1,000 a year just by using all the food they buy! The best thing to do with your food is eat it Items such as bananas, chicken, bread and potatoes are amongst the most wasted items. By throwing these away we are not only wasting money we are also damaging the planet. Think about cooking up some quick-fire easy recipes using these most wasted items. How about making a banana smoothie or a chicken fajitas? There’s lots more inspiration for making the most of the food you buy over at Love Food Hate Waste www.lovefoodhatewaste.com.
For inedible items, make your food waste caddy your go-to bin Even small amounts, like vegetable stalks, banana peels, onion skins, eggshells, chicken bones and coffee grounds, can be recycled
Newry, Mourne and Down District Council Chairperson, Councillor Pete Byrne said, “The importance of this campaign is getting as many people as possible within Newry, Mourne and Down to first use the food they buy and then utilise their food caddy and stop putting food waste in the general rubbish bin The resources that go into producing our food - the water; the transportation and the energy to chill foods from farm to factory and into our kitchens are also wasted when we throw food away We need to raise awareness of the cost to households and the environment of needlessly putting food in the rubbish bin By using all the food we buy and recycling the inedible parts, you can save money and create compost for garden use”
And if you’re not sure what to place in your Brown bin/kitchen caddy or any of your bins please visit www.newrymournedown.org/bincollections-and-recycling.”
3 top tips for recycling food waste in the Newry, Mourne and Down area:
1 Make sure you recycle these items: vegetable stalks, fruit peels, onion skins, eggshells, bones, tea bags and coffee grounds
2. The best way to keep your caddy fresh is to use a compostable liner and empty it regularly. Half of regular food waste recyclers empty their caddies every or most days. Most food waste recyclers in NI use a liner (89%).
3 If you need a caddy, liners or more information on what to put in your caddy, visit www.newrymournedown.org/brownbin
Outstanding Performance at annual
YFCU
Arts Festival Gala
The Young Farmers’ Clubs of Ulster (YFCU) held their muchanticipated Arts Festival Gala at the Millennium Forum in Londonderry recently. The event drew a sell-out audience of over four hundred guests and is considered one of the highlights within the YFCU calendar.
This annual competition, generously supported by longstanding sponsor NFU Mutual through the Charitable Trust, showcased five acts from Curragh & Kilrea YFC, Kilraughts YFC, Glarryford YFC, Coleraine YFC and Moneymore YFC. Each cast delivered vibrant, engaging and clever self-written dramas, demonstrating their originality and creativity through song, dance, wit and enthusiasm.
Martin Malone, NFU Mutual Regional Manager for Northern Ireland & Scotland, commented, “NFU Mutual are immensely proud to uphold their support for the YFCU’s Arts Festival Gala through our Charitable Trust. The competition serves as a wonderful platform to spotlight and honour the intersection of agriculture and art, showcasing the rich talents and remarkable creativity of our young farmers.”
The evening commenced with a VIP reception, sponsored by Chestnutt Animal Feeds, which welcomed YFCU supporters and sponsors, past Presidents and office bearers, as well as competition producers. Cool FM radio host, Pete Snodden, carried the evening, engaging and entertaining the audience between performances as the compere for the night’s competition, while expert adjudicators Nicole Hooley and Ruth McCartney had the challenging task of selecting the ‘Outstanding Performance of the Night’.
To close the evening, President Richard Beattie unveiled the 2025 Arts Festival Gala Awards, which
19th July 2025
were kindly presented by Lauren Finlay from NFU Mutual Finvoy YFC were awarded ‘Most Amusing Moment’ with their act titled “Sacrifice To The Yellow Man”, Glarryford YFC were awarded ‘Most Innovative Musical Moment with their act titled “Sound Of Silence” and ‘Most Imaginative Theme’, Moneymore YFC were awarded ‘Best Choral’ piece with the song “You’ll Never Walk Alone”, Kilraughts YFC were awarded ‘Best Choreography’ and the ‘Best Newcomer’ award went to “County Armagh YFC”. The overall prize for ‘Outstanding Performance on the Night' award went to Moneymore YFC All five acts received a plaque for their participation, this was presented by Lauren Finlay (NFU Mutual)
Commenting on the competition, YFCU President Richard Beattie remarked, “there was a high standard of talent displayed on stage and it was a testament to the months of commitment, effort and preparation that went into making the event a tremendous evening of entertainment
Saturday night’s event was another example of how YFCU provide members with fantastic opportunities that they may not experience elsewhere” Chief Executive Officer for the organisation, Derek Lough, thanked the NFU Mutual Charitable Trust for their continued generosity and support of the Arts Festival Gala He thanked Gordon Lyons (Minister for Communities of Northern Ireland) for being a fantastic guest speaker, as well as the Millennium Forum for hosting the evening and Chestnutt Animal Feeds for their kind sponsorship of the VIP reception
Soil carbon sampling up to 1 metre depth at CAFRE farms.
CAFRE has recently launched a large-scale deep soil carbon coring project across its estate The project, the largest of its kind in Northern Ireland samples carbon stocks up to 100 cm deep in the soil profile The project has just completed in-field sampling across 1,200 hectares of active agricultural land covering a range of farming systems, environments and habitats.
CAFRE Senior Technologist, Elizabeth Earle explained that Northern Ireland’s (NI) agricultural soils are an important carbon store. Optimising the condition of these soils will be fundamental for delivering against NI climate change targets, environmental sustainability and for ensuring efficient agricultural production. Many scientific studies have shown there are several positive co-benefits between optimising and protecting soil carbon stocks on water quality, soil fertility, nutrient use efficiency and biodiversity
Elizabeth commented: “The project delivered by Agricarbon UK has sampled close to 240 fields ranging from mineral to peat soils, it includes several land uses from lowland and upland beef and sheep grassland systems to lowland dairying, arable and equine systems. The project has also taken soil cores from a representative area of woodlands, hedgerows, agroforestry and field margins across the farms to provide information on soil carbon stocks in biodiversity areas across the CAFRE estate”
Elizabeth hopes the project will build upon the great work of the ArcZero NI project led by Professor John Gilliland which also measured soil carbon stocks across a network of farms in NI in 2021
The CAFRE soil carbon coring project has been funded by the DAERA Carrier Bag Levy and has been delivered by the Sustainable Land Management Branch at CAFRE The results from the project will establish an important baseline for deep soil carbon stocks, broad nutrients and carbon properties at a field level for each of the CAFRE farm centres.
Elizabeth explained that the soil carbon data captured within the project will be combined with historic field management records to provide critical analysis on how historic and current land management practices at CAFRE have impacted soil carbon stocks across its estate.
The project will help inform future land management practices at CAFRE and provide vital resources for CAFRE knowledge transfer and educational programmes Results will be a key to supporting farmers across NI in implementing technologies and practices to protect existing soil carbon stocks, enhance soil health and reduce greenhouse gas emissions from agricultural production.
The project will also support delivery of DAERA farming for carbon policies, Northern Ireland Climate Change Act 2022 target for net zero by 2050 and the CAFRE College Estate Strategy 2021-2030 which sets out the strategic direction of CAFRE innovation work. One overarching objective of the College Estate Strategy is to demonstrate the highest quality environmental practices in all activities across the CAFRE Estate.
The new CAFRE soil carbon coring project will support CAFRE in achieving its target to be 50% Carbon Neutral by 2030 For more information visit the Business Support area of www.cafre.ac.uk.
JCB Dancing Diggers Return to Balmoral Show
Balmoral Show organisers, the Royal Ulster Agricultural Society, are thrilled to announce that the renowned JCB Dancing Diggers are returning to the Show for the first time in over 30 years having taken the crowds by storm at the King’s Hall in 1993. Avid machinery enthusiasts and visitors of all ages will be in with the chance to watch the impressive stunt team manoeuvre up to eight mighty machines through pyramid formations, balancing acts and seamless spins on each day of the Show. With the team limiting their appearances to three or four shows each year, this is an exclusive
performance not to be missed The JCB Dancing Digger Performance Team will feature at the Balmoral Show, organised in partnership with Ulster Bank, when it returns to the Eikon Exhibition Centre showgrounds from Wednesday 14th May to Saturday 17th May 2025.
Consultation launched on mandatory CCTV in slaughterhouses
Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) Minister Andrew Muir has launched a consultation on proposals to make closed-circuit television (CCTV) systems mandatory in slaughterhouses throughout Northern Ireland.
Announcing the consultation, Minister Muir said: “I am pleased to launch a public consultation on mandatory CCTV coverage in slaughterhouses in Northern Ireland. Animal welfare is one of my top priorities and this proposal would bring Northern Ireland into parity with the rest of the UK, supporting my commitment to closing legislative deficits.
“I am aware that slaughterhouses in Northern Ireland operate to a very high standard, and nearly all have CCTV coverage in place This proposal will supplement those high standards through three key aims; enhancing coverage by making CCTV mandatory in unloading, handling, lairage, stunning and the kill areas of the slaughterhouses; allowing unrestricted access to the CCTV recordings for officials; and requirement that all recordings are kept for 90 days.”
Whilst the Department recognises that the vast majority of industry will already meet the proposed requirements, the regulations, if introduced, will ensure that there is parity across all slaughterhouses.
The consultation closes on 20 May 2025 and DAERA welcomes views from interested parties. The document along with details on how to respond are available on the DAERA website at: www daerani.gov uk/consultations
Regional Food Programme opens for applications
Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs
Minister Andrew Muir has announced the opening of the 2025/26 Northern Ireland Regional Food Programme (NIRFP)
The Programme provides support of up to £250,000 to help raise the profile of quality regional food Applications are invited from not-for-profit groups & regional development agencies as well as registered charities
Welcoming the opening of the Programme, Minister Muir said: “The programme provides a very important source of funding to help promote our food and drink sector. In line with the recently published NI Food Framework, it will encourage collaboration between all sectors and representative bodies within the local food industry through financial support to help showcase quality regional food.
“Last year, the Programme provided funding to 18 local projects including the Food Pavilion at Balmoral Show where over 100 food and drink producers from across NI were able to sell their produce direct to the public and also showcase to trade buyers
“The food and drinks sector in Northern Ireland plays a critically important role in our local economy and I will continue to support the delivery of high quality, high impact projects that will raise the profile of local quality produce across Northern Ireland, the Republic of Ireland and GB”
The programme has supported many local events and initiatives by providing financial support in three key areasregional fairs/exhibitions, seminars/workshops, and information programmes
In 2024/25 the NIRFP awarded funding to 18 projects, providing local producers with showcasing opportunities at a range of agri-food events across Northern Ireland.
Applications are now open for projects taking place between 1 May 2025 and 31 March 2026 Applications must be submitted by 4:00pm on Wednesday 16 April 2025 Awards will be subject to budget availability Application forms can be downloaded from: www.daerani gov uk/articles/northern-ireland-regional-foodprogramme
Entitlement Transfer Service now open for 2025
DAERA has confirmed that the Entitlement Transfer Service for 2025 will open on Thursday 3 April with the trading period extended until the 15 May 2025.
Farmers wishing to claim the Farm Sustainability Transition Payment (FSTP) can now buy, sell or lease payment entitlements by logging into their DAERA Online Services account at: www daera-ni.gov uk/services/daera-online-services Any entitlement transfers via lease during the 2025 trading period will be restricted to one year only Farmers can also view the number of entitlements they hold, their value, previous entitlement transfers, and other important information (such as entitlements that have been confiscated from the business).
As DAERA increasingly moves towards more digital communications, farm business members are advised to register now with NIDA or Government Gateway for a DAERA online account and regularly check their emails (including Junk folder) for communications from DAERA Area-based Schemes. Registration for a DAERA online account can be completed at: https://www daera-ni.gov uk/services/daera-online-services or call 0300 200 7840 for support to get registered.
Kenny Wilkinson discusses his dairy herd performance with CAFRE’s Dairying Adviser, Elizabeth Calvin
Dairy Farmer benefits from CAFRE Business
Group membership
Elizabeth Calvin, College of Agriculture, Food and Rural Enterprise (CAFRE) Dairying Adviser caught up with a past North Antrim Dairy Business Group participant to discuss his experiences of the Scheme
Kenny Wilkinson along with his wife Nan and sons James and Daniel farm on the north Antrim coast near Ballycastle. In addition to the 115 head dairy herd, the family also run Wilkinson Agri Contracts
Kenny has a clear objective for his dairy herd - to maximise milk from forage. Current farm production is 8,000 litres per cow (649 kg milk solids/cow), at a feed rate of 0 29 kg per litre
Kenny joined the Causeway Dairy Business Development Group (BDG) when the groups were first introduced in 2016. He maintained membership until the scheme ended in 2023
“The primary aim of previous Business Development Groups was to facilitate knowledge transfer and encourage the adoption of new technologies”, commented Elizabeth Calvin.
“One such technology being utilised on our farm is the use of a plate metre to monitor grass growth”, commented Kenny. The herd is full-time at grass from April through to October. Monitoring grass growth alongside Agrinet software to produce a grass wedge gives Kenny the data to accurately allocate grass to cows, identify excesses and deficits and alter the rotation accordingly. It also allows for reseeding decisions to be made based on production information.
“This technology is fundamental for achieving the farm objective of improving milk from forage. It has been crucial in navigating the uncertain grass growing conditions experienced in recent years” added Kenny
“After a series of heifer rearing meetings focusing on measurement to achieve performance, we’ve implemented a weigh band to monitor growth stages. We are using this at weaning, first turnout and six to eight weeks before breeding,” remarked Kenny
Elizabeth noted that: “By measuring and monitoring, performance is tracked enabling decision making to ensure stock are on track to meet target liveweights throughout the rearing period. This enables farmers to identify animals not on target and re-group and preferentially feed to attain target weights”
“It is not always a major technology that you learn about and decide to implement. I often took take away small ideas from the discussion meetings or from seeing around someone else’s farm. The Groups were good at identifying and discussing different ways of doing things better”, added Kenny
As part of the Causeway Group, Kenny met with other Dairy farmers from his local area. After some initial apprehension the group members connected well
“Farming can be an isolated job, and it is easy to have negative conversations at challenging times Being part of a Group, you can get away from your farm and realise that you are not the only person with difficult decisions. You can have a laugh and a joke with similarly minded people and constructive conversations about what can be done!” concluded Kenny
CAFRE is currently recruiting for the new programme of Business Sustainability Groups (BSGs). If you are a Dairy farmer develop your knowledge, cooperation and innovation through a BSG. Apply now to improve the sustainability and performance of your businesses
Applications close at noon on Friday 2 May 2025. For more information visit the Business Support area of the CAFRE website at: https://www cafre.ac.uk/businesssupport/knowledge-transfer-programmes/businesssustainability-groups/
Publication of UK Pesticides National Action Plan 2025
Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs
Minister Andrew Muir has welcomed the publication of the UK Pesticides National Action Plan 2025 (NAP).
The UK Pesticides National Action Plan 2025 sets out how all four UK Governments will work with farmers, growers, and other land managers to minimise the impacts of pesticides on people and the environment whilst managing pests sustainably and supporting food production.
Minister Muir said: “I welcome the role my department has played in developing the new UK Pesticides National Action Plan working in close partnership with officials from the UK Government, Scottish Government and Welsh Government. The plan recognises that pesticides have a key role to play in our agriculture and amenity industries. It is important that pesticide users have the tools to ensure a sustainable supply of food, safeguard natural landscapes from native and invasive pests and maintain transport infrastructure and amenity areas
“However, the use of pesticides must be carefully managed and controlled to make sure that they do not pose a risk to human and animal health and that there are no adverse environmental impacts on water quality and biodiversity”
Pesticide resistance, climate change, and invasive species pose significant challenges to our food security, the management of our natural landscapes and maintenance of our transport infrastructure and amenity areas
The Plan sets out how pesticide users will be supported to increase their use of nature friendly approaches to pest management and embrace alternative measures to reduce the potential harm from pesticides by 10% by 2030, while controlling pests and pesticide resistance effectively
Sustainable pesticide use means healthier ecosystems where vital pollinators, such as bees, are allowed to flourish – boosting crop health and food production for the long-term. By using nature-based solutions and alternative techniques, farmers can better safeguard crops for the long-term, helping to cut down expenditure on pesticides, and contributing towards greater productivity. We also want to address some of the key barriers to Integrated Pest Management uptake in the amenity sector and reduce reliance on pesticides, whilst recognising the continuing role pesticides will play for example, in ensuring public highways are accessible and safe
The core goals of the National Action Plan are to:
Set clear targets and measures to monitor the use of pesticides
Encourage uptake of Integrated Pest Management
Strengthen compliance and promote good practice
Successful first year for the Beef Carbon Reduction Scheme
DAERA Minister Andrew Muir has highlighted the effectiveness of the Beef Carbon Reduction Scheme in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and improving productivity in its first year
The scheme has benefitted approximately 8,000 eligible farm businesses with around £19.8 million in financial support in its inaugural year
The Minister re-iterated his commitment to investing in environmental farming practices and rewarding farmers for providing environmental benefits alongside food production.
Designed to address the beef sector's unique challenges, the BCR scheme focuses on increasing productivity and improving environmental sustainability. The scheme is being implemented over a fouryear period and incentivises a progressive reduction in the age at slaughter each year
In the first year (2024), the maximum age at slaughter target was 30 months. In the second year of the scheme, this has now reduced to 28 months for animals slaughtered during 2025
Minister Muir said: “I am glad to see 8,000 (98%) eligible farm businesses opting into the Beef Carbon Reduction Scheme which is supporting both a reduction in greenhouse gas emissions and enhanced productivity."
Payments will continue to issue to remaining farm businesses upon the completion of validations
The Minister added: “These payments demonstrate my commitment to supporting our farmers to enhance productivity whilst improving environmental sustainability in Northern Ireland.”
Registered online users of eligible farm businesses will receive their payment notification via DAERA messaging. Agents will receive the payment notification via DAERA message on behalf of the clients they opted in.
To receive notifications by e-mail and view payment details online, farm businesses must register with either NI Direct Account or Government Gateway for a DAERA online account. Registration for a DAERA online account can be completed at DAERA Online Services: Body or call 0300 200 7848 for support to get registered and ask to speak to the Single Application Team.
DAERA Extends Strategic Environmental Assessment Consultation
SEA consultation extended to consider the Update on the Proposed Ammonia Strategy and Revised Operational Protocol
The Strategic Environmental Assessment Consultation launched by the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) in February, has been extended to include the Update on the Proposed Ammonia Strategy and Revised Operational Protocol
The extension comes after a request for clarity from stakeholders. Including the Update on the Proposed Ammonia Strategy and Revised Operational Protocol in the consultation means that the department would now like responses that also consider the proposed measures to reduce ammonia emissions from agriculture and the proposed revised procedure for the assessment of the impacts of
air pollution on the natural environment
A DAERA spokesperson said: “The Department is extending the Strategic Environmental Assessment Consultation to include the Update on the Proposed Ammonia Strategy and Revised Operational Protocol and would encourage responses by the new deadline of 23 May 2025”
Responses are now also invited on the associated documents including the updates to the Ammonia Strategy and the revised Operational Protocol. The consultation will close at 11.59pm on 23 May 2025. All the documents and details of how to respond can be found at:
https://www.daera-
ni.gov.uk/consultations/consultationsea-environmental-report-proposedammonia-strategy-and-revisedoperational-protocol
CAFRE student innovation shines at GrowIN Competition
The College of Agriculture, Food and Rural Enterprise (CAFRE) celebrates the achievement of its students in the annual CAFRE GrowIN Innovation Competition
This year’s competition which saw incredible talent, culminated in a remarkable prize fund of £5,000 being awarded to the top entrants.
The Innovation Competition, now in its third year was facilitated by Helen Keys from Growing Innovation Network (GrowIN), who supported ten CAFRE teams and individuals to develop their innovative ideas Each participant entered the competition with a novel concept or spark of inspiration. Through the competition process they were connected with a diverse ecosystem of support, including mentors, funders and advisors.
Focused on addressing some of the most pressing global challenges, the competition encouraged ideas related to climate change, greenhouse gas reduction, biodiversity conservation, soil health, environmental protection, and food security The projects also aligned with at least one or more of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals
Keys, Growing Innovation Network congratulates Anna Jackson (Newtownabbey) who was awarded first place for her concept of Feisty Iron Enriched Health Bars, and Harrison Clarke (Cookstown) who was awarded third place for his engineering concept
Dr Eric Long, Head of Education Service at CAFRE remarked: “Now in its third year the CAFRE GrowIN competition fosters the next generation of innovative thinkers and entrepreneurs for the Agriculture, Equine, Food and Horticulture industries I extend thanks to Helen Keys from the Growing Innovation Network for facilitating this competition and to the Food, Farming and Countryside Commission and DAERA’s Innovation and Science Transformation Division for jointly providing the prize fund.”
Finalists presented their business proposals to a distinguished panel of judges, which included Claire Saunderson (Food, Farming, and Countryside Commission), Gren Armstrong (InvestNI), Dr Eric Long (CAFRE) and Nigel Murphy (CAFRE).
The competition results were as follows:
First place was awarded to Anna Jackson a first year BSc (Hons) Degree in Food Business Management student who presented her concept of Feisty Iron Enriched Health Bars
·Second place was awarded to Lucy Wolf a Certificate in Higher Education Equine Science and Management student for her proposal for an End 2 End, Parasite Management Service
·Third position (tied) Harrison Clarke a final year student studying on the Level 3 Advanced Technical Extended Diploma in Agriculture for his engineering concept. Grace Hunter a second year BSc (Hons) Degree in Food Innovation Management student for her pitch featuring a Willow Feed Supplement
Pictured with the CAFRE GrowIN Innovation Competition finalists are, facilitator Helen Keys and judges Dr Eric Long (CAFRE), Nigel Murphy (CAFRE), Gren Armstrong (InvestNI) and Claire Saunderson (Food Farming Countryside Commission)
Helen
Environmental Youth Speak Competition Winners Announced
Winning pupils from Newry, Mourne and Down District Council’s annual Environmental Youth Speak competition attended a special awards ceremony at the Downshire Council Offices on Thursday 27 March
Fourteen pupils from primary and secondary schools were selected from forty online submissions to present their speeches in front of a three-person panel The annual competition, organised each year by Council aims to encourage debate on sustainability issues, culminates with the crowning of the Junior and Senior Environmental Youth Speak Champions 2025
Ten primary school pupils and four secondary pupils were selected to perform their speeches in person at the celebration event. Primary school pupils spoke on the topic ‘Welcome to the World of Waste Wizardry’; ‘Lesson One: Making Our Waste Disappear’, while Secondary schools were asked to speak on ‘Back to the Future Learning from the Past to Reduce Our Carbon Footprint’
After much deliberation the judges chose as this year’s overall winner, in the Junior Section, Aoibhinn Cunningham from St Malachy’s Primary School, Castlewellan and Paddy Keenan from St Paul’s High School, Bessbrook was the senior winner
Environmental Youth Speak is a fun public speaking competition organised each year by the Council to encourage debate on sustainability issues On presenting the winning pupils with their prizes, Newry, Mourne and Down District Council Deputy Chairperson, Councillor David Lee-Surginor welcomed all the pupils and said, “I really enjoyed hearing all your speeches today Congratulations to our overall winners Aoibhinn and Paddy and to all of today’s speakers You presented imaginative, informative and engaging speeches Reducing the impact we have on the environment is vital and you all have demonstrated excellent knowledge and awareness of the need to change how we live in order to reduce waste and our carbon footprint.”
Runners up in the junior section were Aralynn O’Hare, St Jospeh’s Primary School, Carnacaville and Olivia Tumilty, St Colman’s Primary School, Saval Runners up in the Senior section were Ella McKee, Kilkeel High School, Emma Hearne, Our Lady’s Grammar school and Eva Kelly, Sacred Heart Grammar school.
Deputy Chairperson Lee-Surginor presented the Junior and Senior Champions with a trophy for them to keep All pupils who attended also received a commemorative certificate and a voucher to acknowledge their contribution
Pictured at the recent celebration event are Paddy Keenan from St Paul’s High School, Bessbrook was the winner of the Environmental Youth Speak, senior section, and received his trophy from Newry, Mourne and Down District Council, Deputy Chairperson, Councillor David Lee-Surginor
Pictured at the recent celebration event are Aoibhinn Cunningham, St Malachy’s Primary School, Castlewellan, was the winner of the Environmental Youth Speak, junior section and received her trophy from Newry, Mourne and Down District Council, Deputy Chairperson, Councillor David Lee-Surginor
First year Level 3 student Food students enjoy their Loughry Campus student formal Ellen Livingston (Randalstown), Ritchie McBride (Coleraine), Anna Aitcheson (Portglenone) with Fintan McCann, CAFRE Head of Food Education
Second year Level 3 Food students at the Loughry Campus Formal; Erin Hadden (Aughnnacloy), Charlotte Smyth (Larne), Gemma McNeilly (Toomebridge), Catherine Richmond (Ballymoney), Elle Smyth (Ballymoney), Rachel Moore (Portglenone) and Lucy McKeeman (Ballymoney).
Food Degree Emma Witherspoon (Ballymena), Rachel Steenson (Cookstown), Sophie Hawthorne (Collone), Grace Hunter (Dungannon), Adele Smyth (Moneymore) and Sarah Hetherington (Omagh)
The Loughry Campus Organising Committee with CAFRE staff at the Student Formal held at Leighinmohr House Hotel
Food Degree students Aimee McConville (Portadown), Jayne Kirkpatrick (Ballymoney) and Leah McKeown (Ballygowan) ready for their
Loughry Campus students joined by friends and staff came together for their annual formal
Loughry Campus students enjoyed a lavish dinner at Leighinmohr House Hotel, followed by music, dancing and photographic opportunities The evening offered the students a perfect blend of glamour, fun, and celebration.
Level 3 student Eireann Gallagher from Antrim ready for the Loughry Campus Formal with guest Corey McGuigan
Loughry Campus Formal
Ready for their Student Formal are degree students Alix Dalzell (Londonderry), Kaitlin Hanna (Kilkeel) and Chloe Millar (Benburb).
Minister Muir announces opening of the Suckler Cow Scheme from 1 April 2025
Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs, Andrew Muir has announced that the new Suckler Cow Scheme will commence on 1 April 2025, with the online Scheme opt-in also being available from that date
The Scheme forms part of the Beef Sustainability Package within the Sustainable Agriculture Programme. This Package will deliver 25% of the greenhouse gas reductions from agriculture by 2027, if the uptake levels and targets within the Scheme are met
It also aims to encourage farm businesses to improve breeding management practices to increase the percentage of eligible calving events that achieve a reduced age at first calving and a reduced calving interval over a four-year phased implementation period.
The phased implementation period of the Scheme includes a maximum age at first calving for suckler heifers of 34 months, reducing to 29 months in Year 4
The maximum calving interval in Year 1 will be 415 days, reducing to 385 days in Year 4
Minister Muir said: “I am delighted to announce the commencement of the Suckler Cow Scheme and the opening of the online opt-in.
“This Scheme plays an important role in supporting our farm businesses on a journey of change ensuring both environmental and economic sustainability and is vital as we continue our journey to net zero
“I would encourage farm businesses to avail of this opportunity and engage with the Department on how best to adapt their on-farm practices to meet the targets set for the Scheme"
The College of Agriculture, Food and Rural Enterprise (CAFRE) will provide focused knowledge transfer programmes to assist farm businesses to achieve the husbandry standards necessary to meet the Scheme conditions and targets
To be eligible farm businesses must have claimed and be eligible for the Farm Sustainability Transition Payment in 2025 and the Farm Sustainability Payment from 2026 onwards. A payment rate of £100 will be made for each eligible calving event and a Northern Ireland quantitative limit of 222,000 calving events will apply in each Scheme year
Eligible farm businesses must opt in to the Suckler Cow Scheme to receive payment and can do so from 1 April 2025 via the DAERA website at: https://www2.dardni.gov uk/beefsustainability
The Farmer’s Bash Weekender Announces
http://www ticketmaster ie/thefarmer-s /artist/5229164
The Farmer’s Bash is pleased to announce its official charity partner for the 2025 event is Rural Support, the Northern Ireland based charity is crucial in supporting farming families through various challenges by providing high quality programmes and services which offer a holistic and tailored approach to complex and diverse issues affecting farming families and their businesses. They work in partnership with a range of organisations across the agri, public, private and community and voluntary sectors to deliver their services and programmes and rely on charitable donations to support as many farmers and farm families within the NI farming community as possible Kevin Doherty, CEO of Rural Support said, “We are delighted to be the nominated charity for this year’s Farmer’s Bash It’s always a great event for those of us who love live music, so we all look forward to enjoying this fantastic star-studded lineup! We are very grateful to the organisers for choosing Rural Support; it’s a great opportunity to raise the profile of the organisation as well as some much-needed funds in support of the business and personal wellbeing of our farming families across Northern Ireland The team will be there in force so if you are going and see us around, please say hello!”
“We are delighted to welcome Rural Support as the official charity partner of the Farmers Bash Weekender Farming is the backbone of our communities, and the incredible work that Rural Support does in providing vital assistance to farmers and their families aligns perfectly with the spirit of our event. Together, we want to celebrate the agricultural community while also raising awareness and support for those who need it most ” – Nigel Campbell, Promoter of the Farmers Bash Rural Support is a registered charity and company limited by guarantee established in 2002 due to the foot and mouth pandemic They provide a range of programmes and services for farmers and farm family members in support of their farm business and personal wellbeing, all accessible via a confidential Support Line which is open Monday to Friday 9am to 9pm (Freephone 0800 138 1678)
These include:
• On-farm Business Support
• Farm Business Programmes
• General Mental Health Counselling
• Bereavement Counselling
• Support for Older Farmers
• Social Farming Support Service
• Agri Sector Training
The agri sector continues to experience unprecedented challenges and by supporting their work you are helping them to deliver and develop proactive, innovative, evidence- based programmes and services, delivered by professionals who care, responding to what the farming community needs and supporting to secure the sustainability and resilience of the industry
To find out more about the work of Rural Support visit www.ruralsupport.org.uk or Freephone 0800 138 1678
A SERVICE FOR PRIVATE FARMERS, EQUESTRIANS WISHING TO SELL THEIR USED MACHINERY, LIVESTOCK OR EQUIPMENT
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Treo Eile supporting Thoroughbreds in Dressage Ireland
Treo Eile has renewed its partnership with Dressage Ireland for the 2025 competition season, reinforcing their commitment to supporting the retraining and aftercare of Thoroughbreds. This collaboration will see Treo Eile sponsoring key classes across the Dressage Ireland calendar, offering dedicated prize funds to reward the highestplaced Thoroughbreds in competition.
The sponsorship will feature prominently at major events throughout the year, including the Dressage Ireland National Winter Finals and the 2025 National Championships as well as a selection of regional summer festivals Across these events, Treo Eile will provide prize money for Preliminary, Novice, Elementary, and Medium classes, along with additional awards for young riders (18 years and under).
Photo credit Justin Black Photography of Rebecca Hayes and Hash Brown
The total prize fund has been increased for the 2025 season to over €3,000. After its successful introduction to last year’s agreement, a special end-of-season award will be presented at the Dressage Ireland AGM, recognising the highest average score achieved by a Thoroughbred at each level over the course of the season. Last year’s winners included Rebecca Hayes and Hash Brown who recorded a double by taking both the Preliminary and Novice levels
Treo Eile Director and Co-Founder Caoimhe Doherty commented:
“We are thrilled to partner with Dressage Ireland for the 2025 season. This sponsorship reflects our core mission to create meaningful second careers for Thoroughbreds, and dressage provides a fantastic platform to showcase their versatility and adaptability. We are excited to see Thoroughbreds excel in the dressage arena and look forward to celebrating their success”
Dressage Ireland Chairperson Mark Ruddock added:
“Dressage Ireland are delighted to be involved with Treo Eile in supporting their great cause in the vision of highlighting the versatility of the thoroughbreds after they have finished in the racing industry. I’ve worked with many thoroughbreds over the years and have always found them to be very intelligent and quick learners with a willingness to improve. The sponsorship by Treo Eile is most welcomed by Dressage Ireland and look forward to seeing them at our winter finals in April held in Castle Irvine.”
Members should note that First Time registrations of a thoroughbred with Dressage Ireland are Free of Charge
April 12 and 13 th th
DI National Winter Finals – Highest Placed Thoroughbred at Prelim, Nov, Elem, Medium & U18 – €100 per section
June 7 & 8 th th
Leinster Region Festival – Highest Placed Thoroughbred at Prelim, Nov, Elem & U18 – €100 per section
Juy 12 & 13 th th
Northern Region Festival – Highest Placed Thoroughbred at Prelim, Nov, Elem & U18 – €100 per section
August 16 & 18 th th
South/North Munster Festival –
Highest Placed Thoroughbred at Prelim, Nov, Elem & U18 – €100 per section
August 29 & 31 th st
DI National Championships –Highest Placed Thoroughbred at Prelim, Nov, Elem, Medium & U18 –€150 per section
DI Awards
Thoroughbred Highest % Achieved for 2025 – Prelim, Nov, Elem, Med –€250 per section
Body
Simon McCarthy and Gotcha
Niamh McEvoy and Sevilla Van De Berghoeve Z
Two Irish in top three in Wellington two-star Grand Prix
Irish riders closed out the final competition of the 2025 Winter Equestrian Festival in strong fashion, filling two of the top three places in Sunday’s $62,500 two-star Vogel Grand Prix at Wellington International in Florida.
A 19-horse jump-off saw Tyrone’s Niamh McEvoy and Sevilla Van De Berghoeve Z owned by Greg Broderick Ballypatrick Stables go clear in 36 32 seconds to finish as runners-up
Cork’s Simon McCarthy and Gotcha, owned by Rock Ridge Farms, were close behind in third (37 27). Victory went to Alise Oken (USA) and Lady Lex in a time of 36 32.
YFCU members enjoy a day out at the Show Jumping Competition
The Young Farmers’ Clubs of Ulster (YFCU) held their Show Jumping Competition for the second year in a row on Sunday 9th March 2025 at the Meadows Equestrian Centre in Lurgan. There were over 70 members taking part from clubs across the province.
The competition was split into two age categories (Under 16 and Over 16) and there were four different height classes which included 65cm, 85cm, 100cm and 110cm.
Doagh Equestrian kindly sponsored both 65cm classes, by providing gift vouchers to the prize winners. In the Under 16 category, Caitlin Weatherup ( Coleraine YFC) received first place, Tommy Wakfer (Crumlin YFC) received second place and Rosalie Wells (Ballywalter YFC) received third place.
Headline Sponsor Mount Mills Cold Pressed Flax Oil sponsored the 85cm classes and provided each of the prize winners with one of the following gifts: 3kg Flaxeen Gastric and 4.5L Flax Oil, 5L Movesure and 4.5L Flax Oil In the Under 16 category, Rebecca Coulter (Coleraine YFC) received first place, Caitlin Weatherup (Coleraine YFC) received second place and Isaac McCarthy (Hillsborough YFC) received third place In the Over 16 category, Emma McClenaghan (Killinchy YFC) received first place and Cassie Huddleston (Ballywalter YFC) received second place.
For the 100cm class of the Under 16 category, Bailey’s Horsefeed kindly donated a £5000 voucher for the winner of second place and Rowan Haylage gifted some haylage and a Hat to the winner of third place In the Under 16 category, Emily Bothwell (Lisbellaw YFC) received first place, Zara Reid (Hilllhall YFC) received second place and Georgina Cunningham (Hillsborough YFC) received third place.
For the 100cm class of the Over 16 category, Clonkeen Equestrian kindly donated three gift vouchers to the prize winners In the Over 16 category, Sophia Bingham (Lylehill YFC) received first and second place and
Emma Brow (Hillsborough YFC) received third place
In the 110cm class for the Over 16 category and Under 16 combined, Old Stone Veterinary sponsored a vaccination voucher, Bailey’s Horsefeed sponsored a £5000 gift voucher and Rowan Haylage sponsored some haylage and a hat Ellie Bingham (Lylehill YFC) received first place, Zo Keys (Trillick & District YFC) received second place and Lucy Morton (Bleary YFC) received third place.
Dan McAuley kindly donated gift vouchers to present to the judges as a token of appreciation from YFCU Chief Executive Officer for the organisation, Derek Lough, thanked all the sponsors for their generous support of the event “We couldn’t be without the support of our sponsors, they allow us to continue providing opportunities for our members to develop their skills and knowledge”
The Equine Committee thank Dara McCracken Photography for her professional photos taken at the event.
Richard Beattie (President) also thanked the judges, stewards and Meadows Equestrian Centre for the use of their premises, all of which played a crucial role in the smooth running of the competition.
Accepted Entries
Susie Berry with Clever Trick
Clever Trick - 2012 mare by Financial Reward (IRE)(TB) out of Bonnie Dolly (ISH)
Breeder: Unknown Owners: Sue Wilkinson and Ann Marling
Daragh Byrne with Kilcannon Ramiro
Kilcannon Ramiro (ISH) - 2012 gelding by Ramiro B (BWP) (App) out of Flick Princess (ISH)
Breeder: Mary Bolger Owner: James Byrne
Sarah Ennis with Grantstown Jackson
Grantstown Jackson (ISH) (TIH) - 2011 gelding by Clover Brigade (ISH) out of Winning Lass (TB)
Breeder: Caroline Widger Owners: Susanna Francke and Peter Cole
Georgie Goss with Feloupe Feloupe (KWPN) - 2010 mare by Ustinov(KWPN) out of Zappaloupe
Breeder: Unknown Owners: Nicky Cooper, Suzanne Doggett, Lucy Fleming, Joanna M Spence
Jenny Kuehnle with Sammy Davis Junior Sammy Davis Junior (ISH) 2009 gelding by Imperial Hights (ISH) out of Cornasaus Connie(ISH)
Breeder: Amanda Vogan Owner: Margaret Kinsella
Irish Entries for 2025
7th to 11th May 2025
Lucy Latta with RCA Patron Saint RCA Patron Saint (SHB) - 2011 gelding by Grafenstolz (TRAK) out of Summers Mist
Breeder: Mr R Ames Owner: Lesley Crampton
Joseph Murphy with Calmaro Calmaro (DSP) - 2011 gelding by Carpalano out of Elster W
Breeder: Hartmut Shack Owners: Richard Ames, Joseph Murphy, Annette O'Callaghan, Claire Mayne and Charlie Mayne
Austin O’Connor with Colorado Blue Colorado Blue - 2009 gelding by Jaguar Mail (SF) out of Rock me Baby
Breeder: Kate Jarvey Owners: The Salty Syndicate
Sam Watson with Ballyneety Rocketman Ballyneety Rocketman (ISH) – 2014 gelding by Diamond Discovery (TB) out of Ballyneety Macrocket (ISH)
Breeder: James Hickey Owners: Hannah & Sam Watson
Wait List:
Ian Cassells with Master Point, Joseph Murphy with Belline Fighting Spirit, Fred Scala with Everon Vivendi and Patrick Whelan with Ikoon Lan
Aiming for the Eventing Youth European Championships?
If so Horse Sport Ireland are now inviting applications for the 2025 Pony, Junior, and Young Rider Eventing High Performance programmes
So if you are aiming for the Eventing Youth European Championships at Pony, Junior or Young Rider level, you will need to register for the relevant level
Use the link to the online form below to send in your expression of interest Please note there is a nonrefundable application fee of €50 for each athlete payable.
If you have any queries before you apply please contact acartwright@horsesportireland.ie
https://forms.horsesportireland.ie/250912345761355
Dag Albert Appointed as High Performance Manager for Eventing
Young Riders and Senior Athletes
Horse Sport Ireland is pleased to announce the appointment of Dag Albert as High Performance Manager for Eventing Young Riders and Senior Athletes.
A highly respected figure in international eventing, Albert brings a wealth of experience to the role, having previously held the position of High Performance Manager for the HSI Senior Eventing Programme and the eventing youth programmes.
A former Olympian, Dag Albert has represented Sweden at the highest level of the sport, competing at the Olympic Games in both 1996 and 2008. Over the years, he has developed a strong reputation not only as a competitor but also as a coach and performance leader, guiding athletes across Europe and the UK to success on the international stage
Albert’s appointment for 2025 will see him lead the development of Ireland’s senior eventing
athletes while also expanding his focus to include the vital Young Rider cohort, supporting Ireland’s pipeline of emerging talent as they transition toward senior ranks.
Dag Albert added:
“I’m delighted to continue in the role as HP Manager. Last season was a tremendous success for the senior eventers, and I look forward to working with them as we build towards the Europeans this year.
I’m also excited to be involved once again in the youth program and to support their development throughout 2025”.
The 2025 High Performance Eventing Programme will commence with campaigning across key national and international competitions as Ireland continues its preparations for the FEI European Championships 2025
Sue Shortt appointed Youth High Performance Eventing Manager
Horse Sport Ireland (HSI) is delighted to announce that Sue Shortt will lead the National Equestrian Federation’s Eventing High Performance Pony and Junior programme into the European Championships season in 2025.
Shortt has been at the helm for multiple Youth European Championships team and individual medal wins in recent years and will take up the role of Pony and Junior High Performance Manager
Shortt is a decorated event rider who has competed at the very highest level, representing Ireland at the 2000 and 2004 Olympic Games, as well as at the 2002 World Equestrian Games
She has previously managed Pony, Junior and Young Rider teams to European medal success, including last year when the
Junior Eventing team won silver at the FEI European Championships in Stzregom, with Tom Nestor also winning individual silver on board Cooley Diamond Dancer (ISH)
Upon accepting the role, Shortt said: “I am looking forward to working with Horse Sport Ireland, the National Federation and the Pony and Junior Youth Squads for the 2025 season.
“We have a group of very talented riders in both the Pony and Junior Squads, who will be supported by a highly experienced team of HSI coaches
We will be focused on developing these riders over the coming months aiming for podium success at European level and providing a platform for them to achieve success in the future”
Anne Marie Dunphy appointed Youth and Senior Dressage High Performance Manager
Anne Marie Dunphy will continue her successful tenure as High Performance Manager for Senior and Youth Dressage, Horse Sport Ireland (HSI) is delighted to announce HSI Level 3 Dressage coach Dunphy is recognised as one of Ireland’s leading equestrian coaches, having progressed through the HSI Coaching Programme, and she will pick up where she left off with Ireland’s athletes at senior and youth level
The Kilkenny woman has played a huge role in the progression of Ireland’s youth dressage programme since she took the role at the programme’s inception in 2014 and is responsible for devising the high-performance pathway and structures for the development of
Irish youth dressage athletes to international and European Championship level
Dunphy has had a successful career as one of Ireland’s top dressage athletes and brings a wealth of experience to the role but as an athlete and as a coach
Dunphy said:
“I am delighted to continue in the role as High Performance Manager for Dressage
“Following on from Paris as we head into the new Olympic cycle I look forward to working with our talented athletes, their support teams, Horse Sport Ireland and Sport Ireland to develop more strength and depth in our squads and progress the conversion of our youth athletes to senior level ”
Fibrus Broadband returns as headline sponsor for Down Royal’s Family Race Day
Down Royal Racecourse is thrilled to welcome back Full Fibre broadband provider Fibrus as the title sponsor of the highly anticipated Fibrus Family Race Day, taking place on Sunday 13th April 2025
Following a fantastic debut last year, Fibrus is reaffirming its support for this special event, ensuring another day of thrilling National Hunt racing and exciting family entertainment This continued partnership cements the Fibrus Family Race Day as a key fixture in Down Royal’s annual calendar, bringing the total number of race meetings in 2025 to twelve
Families can look forward to an action-packed day, featuring top-class horse racing alongside a variety of family-friendly activities, including bouncy castles, face painting, balloon modelling, a pony rides, and much more
As a leading broadband provider founded in Northern Ireland, Fibrus is committed to delivering ultrafast Full Fibre Broadband to rural homes and businesses across NI and GB Their support of the Family Race Day reflects their dedication to connecting communities – not just online, but in real life too
Commenting on the sponsorship, Dominic Kearns, Founder and CEO at Fibrus said: “We’re delighted to return as the sponsor of the Fibrus Family Race Day at Down Royal Racecourse for a second year Communities are at the heart of everything we do, shaping every decision we make, and giving back is a key part of our mission “Last year’s event was a resounding success, and we’re proud to continue our partnership, bringing families together for another fantastic day of fun, excitement, and top-tier racing We look forward to welcoming racegoers back for another memorable day of sport and entertainment ”
Chloe Ferris, Commercial Director at Down Royal Racecourse added: “We are thrilled to welcome Fibrus back as the headline sponsor of our Family Race Day The success of last year’s event proved that there is huge demand for an accessible and exciting day out for families, and we’re delighted to build on that momentum “With general admission, children under 14 can attend for free with a ticket-holding adult, making this a great value day out for everyone We look forward to welcoming families and racing fans alike to another fantastic event ”
Irish Horse Board collaborate to Launch Exclusive Equi-Tourism Experience
Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Martin Heydon TD pictured at the launch of an exclusive Equi-Tourism Experience with Irish Horse Board Director General Alison Corbally (left) and Founder & CEO of Good Food Ireland Margaret Jeffares (right) at the Anantara Marker Hotel in Dublin.
The Irish Horse Board (IHB) is proud to announce the launch of an exclusive equestrian tourism initiative, unveiled on March 25, 2025, by Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Martin Heydon TD, at the Anantara Marker Hotel in Dublin This groundbreaking program offers international buyers and equestrian enthusiasts an unparalleled opportunity to immerse themselves in Ireland’s rich equine heritage while exploring the possibility of purchasing top-quality Irish horses and ponies
The initiative aims to provide a bespoke, luxury experience for visitors attending prestigious equestrian events, auctions or seeking to acquire horses in Ireland Participants will enjoy behind-the-scenes access to Ireland’s premier equestrian facilities, including renowned stud farms and high-performance training centres This innovative approach not only showcases the excellence of Irish horses and ponies but also highlights Ireland’s status as a world-class destination for equestrian pursuits The Irish Horse Board extends its gratitude to Margaret Jeffares,
founder and CEO of Good Food Ireland, for her invaluable collaboration in bringing this unique equi-tourism experience to fruition Speaking at the launch event, Alison Corbally, Director General of the Irish Horse Board, said:
“The Irish Horse Board has facilitated a concierge service for international horse buyers, offering tailored visits to premier events like the Dublin Horse Show or Clifden Pony Show However, this new partnership takes our offerings to another level by providing a fully bespoke luxury product that combines equestrian tourism with sales opportunities and equestrian excellence This diversification reflects the IHB’s commitment to innovation in promoting Irish horses and ponies globally”
The 2-Day Equine experience is a premium product tailored to international buyers, equestrian enthusiasts, and high-value tourists Participants will enjoy:
Private tours of Ireland’s leading equine facilities, including the Irish National Stud, Coolmore Stud, Ballypatrick Stables, and Karlswood highperformance training centre
Behind-the-scenes access to breeding operations and training facilities that highlight Ireland’s expertise in producing world-class sport horses
Gourmet dining experiences at iconic establishments such as Cashel Palace Hotel, Barberstown Castle, Mikey Ryan’s Kitchen & Bar in Cashel and The Bishop’s Buttery
Luxury accommodation and transportation throughout the experience
Available though Good Food Ireland’s website and this bespoke offering can be customised for larger or smaller groups, ensuring a personalised and unforgettable experience
This collaboration with Good Food Ireland aligns seamlessly with the Irish Horse Board’s strategic objectives to promote the Irish horse industry The fusion of equine excellence with Irish hospitality elevates Ireland’s global reputation as both “the land of the horse” and an excellent destination for equestrian customers By attracting high-value international visitors who are potential buyers of Irish horses, this initiative also supports rural economies
The partnership was officially launched during the Good Food Ireland Conference 2025 at Anantara The Marker Hotel in Dublin an event focused
on driving cross-sector collaboration between Ireland’s agri-food, tourism, and hospitality sectors The conference highlighted how initiatives like this can foster sustainable growth while enhancing customer experiences across industries
Margaret Jeffares, Founder & CEO of Good Food Ireland, commented:
“We are thrilled to partner with the Irish Horse Board on this unique offering that celebrates two of Ireland’s greatest strengths – its horses and its hospitality This collaboration is a perfect example of how cross-sector partnerships can create innovative products that resonate with international audiences”
Alison Corbally concluded:
“This is an opportunity to showcase the best of what Ireland has to offer – from our Irish horse industry supporting the agricultural sector while creating lasting connections with international buyers who value quality and tradition”
Two new High-Performance Stallions approved
Horse Sport Ireland, on behalf of the Irish Sport Horse studbook, are delighted to announce the Approval of the highperformance stallions Rock ‘N Roll Ter Putte (BWP) and Double Pleasure (BE/SIES) for breeding in Ireland.
The 8-year-old stallion Rock ‘N Roll Ter Putte is owned by GBBS International Ltd. and is currently competing with Leah Stack. The pair recently jumped their first 1.50m together at CSI4* Sunshine Tour in Vejer De La Frontera (ESP).
By Diamant De Semilly (SF) and out of by Ukase Ter Putte (BWP) by Darco (BWP), Rock ‘N Roll Ter Putte is a full brother to Elvis Ter Putte (BWP) who competed at 1 60m level with Karline de Brabander (BEL), and is a half brother to Favorit ASK (BWP) ridden for Denmark by Karen Møller Rohde, and MOM’s Isaura (BWP), the 1 60m jumping mare of Peter Devos (BEL). For his performance at 1 40m CSI4* level, Rock ‘N Roll Ter Putte has been awarded the 3* SJ OP merit in the Irish Sport Horse Studbook
Double Pleasure (BE/SIES), the mount of the reigning European Showjumping Pony individual Gold Medallist Jack Kent, has also been awarded full approval and the 5* SJ OP Gold Merit in the Irish Sport Pony Studbook
Speaking on the Approval, Olive Broderick of Co. Galway’s Kylemore Stud where Double Pleasure will stand in 2025 had the following to say:
“We were delighted to be able to bring a pony of this calibre to Irish breeders. Achieving a 5* rating from HSI is very rare for any horse in Ireland, not to mind a pony. He has an unbelievable record in the very top of Pony showjumping, being the current European individual Gold Medalist, jumping the whole of the Europeans with zero faults! He is a most beautiful pony, so athletic, so blood but yet so rideable. He has a wonderful temperament, and an exceptional trot and canter. His pedigree is proven on every side, and so he really is a complete package. He joins Tyson, and Womanizer, both 5* stallions, so that makes 3 5* stallions available at Kylemore Stud!”
Shannon’s developing her knowledge and passion for horses
My name is Shannon McCann, and I am studying on the City and Guilds Level 3 Advanced Technical Extended Diploma in Equine Management at Enniskillen Campus What I love most about the course is the practical based lessons We get a variety of horses to work with daily and cover a bit of everything which is great to enable us to grow further to meet the different industry needs Lecturers always work very hard, teaching us using different techniques, for example through quizzes, posters and booklets I love the variety of experiences that I get at CAFRE
I got into horses at a young age, starting with riding lessons, to owning my own horse at 16 Members of my family are into horses, so I was always around them. I heard about CAFRE through friends that previously went to and some that are still studying at CAFRE Following CAFRE on Facebook, I found out about all the events they do and courses available I attended an Open Day and found it to be well organised, and everyone was really nice When I applied I was invited to a ‘Taster Day’ It showed me what the day-to-day routine is like at CAFRE We had a practical lesson with the horses and got to groom and find out what the horses are like We also had a session in the laboratory I was a bit apprehensive on my first day at CAFRE. However, the activities that the lecturers and student services organised really helped ease the situation The induction programme helped us settle in before our timetable kicked in the following week
For my work placement I am going to Castle Irvine to work for five weeks I’m really looking forward to learning more about the event management side of the industry It will helped me prepare for my second year ‘Contribute to Managing an Equine Event’ module
I really enjoyed our class trip where we visited Claire Abbott Eventing, Danescroft Equestrian and Rowan Equestrian. It was interesting to see different yards and to see how their routine is different to our college yard We also got to meet some high-level riding horses and horses potentially going to the Olympics. I loved hearing about the horses and their journey to get to that level.
After I complete my two years with CAFRE I would like to take a year to travel, working at different yards, to gain more experience. I would then return to study on the BSc in Equine Management Alternatively, I could go straight on to the BSc (Honours) Degree and make use of the optional Diploma in Professional Practice year in the third year of the course
If you are interested in studying Equine, visit the https://www.cafre.ac.uk/study/equine/ CAFRE has courses suited to those leaving school with GCSE or equivalent qualifications (Level 2 and Level 3 programmes). Foundation and Honours Degree courses are on offer for those with A-Level or equivalent qualifications
Exciting News!!! Four BHS Ireland Adult Camps for Summer 2025
Amongst the coaching line up are Tim Downes FBHS, Eric Smiley FBHS, Liz Eaton FBHS, Mark Robinson BHSI and Brendan Bergin BHSI.
Camp 1
Thursday 19 June to Sunday 22 June 2025
Tim Downes FBHS at Maddybenny Equestrian Centre, Portrush
For more information and to book click on the link https://buytickets.at/bhsireland/1643797
Camp 2
Saturday and Sunday 5 & 6 July 2025
Mark Robinson BHSI & Brendan Bergin BHSI at RDA Causeway Coast & Glens, Coleraine
For more information and to book click on the link https://buytickets.at/bhsireland/1651834
Camp 3
Saturday and Sunday 19th & 20th July 2025
Eric Smiley FBHS at Gransha Equestrian Centre, Co Down
For more information and to book click on the link https://buytickets.at/bhsireland/1643846
Camp 4
Friday 22 August to Sunday 24 August 2025
Liz Eaton FBHS at Castledillon, Co Armagh
For more information and to book click on the link https://buytickets.at/bhsireland/1643881
Love your Library day celebrated with royalty in Banbridge
Banbridge Library was full of excitement recently as it welcomed Her Majesty The Queen for a special visit celebrating books, reading and library services
The highlight of the visit was a lively Storytime session featuring Peanut Gets His Sparkle Back by local author Kate Russell Banbridge Library Assistant Jacqui Torrens read the book to the Primary Three pupils from Abercorn Primary School The Queen chatted to them about the story and their own experiences with horses Her Majesty then listened to them sing nursery rhymes to round off the session.
The Queen was later presented with a signed copy of Peanut Gets His Sparkle Back by Author Kate Russell Kate comments “I am delighted to be part of this very special occasion and can’t quite believe that Her Majesty The Queen has a signed copy of my book ”
If you would be interested in finding out more about the work that takes place at Tobi and Peanut Therapy Ponies please contact Kate
MEET SOME OF THE PONIES
Peanut is a real sweetheart and has a lovely inquisitive nature Peanut loves life and enjoys a good gallop around the field He loves to annoy the big horses.
Bingo is the tallest of the herd and is very sweet and gentle Bingo has a wonderful nature and loves people he has extremely good manners – he is a real gent!
Gingernut is a rescue pony & has come from a harder background than the rest so we have nicknamed him the 'fighter ' He is learning now that he doesn't have to fight & has a very sweet & curious personality which is starting to shine through!
Coconut is the smallest of the herd and also the youngest Coconut is the only mare & a total 'diva,' loves getting groomed and her mane plaited. She has a mind of her own & you have to ask her not tell her
