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AgriLife P1-20
call for all unregistered
Farm businesses across Northern Ireland are now invited to register for the final year of the Soil Nutrient Health Scheme (SNHS). Online registration will open on Monday 16 June and close on Monday 1 September 2025
Farm businesses in Zone 4 (Co Antrim), and unregistered farm businesses from Zones 1, 2 and 3 who previously expressed an interest in the Scheme, will be contacted by the Agri-Food Biosciences Institute (AFBI) in advance of registration opening. They will be provided with details about how to sign up online through a simple online process using the Government Gateway platform: https://www.daera-ni.gov.uk/services/daera-online-services.https://www.daerani.gov.uk/services/daera-online-services.
It is important to note that taking part in the Scheme and completing the training is planned to be a conditionality for the new Farm Sustainability Payment from January 2026
Farm businesses are strongly encouraged to take this final opportunity to join this groundbreaking scheme. The data captured from the SNHS will provide farm businesses with vital information on soil nutrient levels for each field on their farm as well as an estimate of the amount of carbon stored in the soils, hedgerows and trees and nutrient run off risk maps.
Online training by CAFRE will help farms to make use of the results, to enable farms to be more nutrient efficient and profitable. Register for the training at: www cafre.ac.uk/snhs-training
As the Scheme will generate a lot of important information unique to each farm business, DAERA wants to reassure farmers that their information will be protected under the SNHS Privacy Notice: https://www daerani.gov uk/publications/soil-nutrient-health-scheme-privacy-notice and the General Data Protection Regulations.
Data collected in the SNHS will not be used for any enforcement purposes. It will be shared only with AFBI for research purposes, and with third party contractors who collect and analyse the soil samples
Further guidance on the Scheme is available on the DAERA website: : https://www.daera-ni.gov.uk/publications/soil-nutrient-health-scheme-frequentlyasked-questions
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Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs Minister
Andrew Muir MLA has announced Executive approval for the introduction of a new Dilapidation Bill to the Assembly.
The Bill is designed to equip district councils with consistent, modern powers to tackle the blight of dilapidated and dangerous buildings, as well as neglected sites across Northern Ireland. It aligns with enforcement powers already in place elsewhere in the UK and aims to create cleaner, safer neighbourhoods.
Minister Muir said dilapidated sites are not only an eyesore but can also pose significant risks to public safety. “This legislation will enable councils to issue enforcement notices to those responsible and, where necessary, carry out remedial work themselves,” he explained. The Bill will also strengthen cost recovery options for councils, ensuring such action is more practical.
The Dilapidation Bill is expected to be introduced to the Assembly before the summer recess
CAFRE Greenmount Campus students recently traded their workwear for elegant attire at the annual Greenmount Campus formal, held at the Tullyglass House Hotel. The event brought together students from Agriculture, Floristry, Horticulture, Landbased Engineering, and Veterinary Nursing disciplines for a night of celebration
The hotel provided a perfect setting for an evening of dining and dancing, with laughter and music filling the room. For many, it was an opportunity to reconnect with friends, share stories, and create lasting memories before the pressures of exams and coursework set in
A highlight of the evening was the return of Clare Gowell, a student who had studied at Greenmount Campus as part of a student exchange program with Michigan State University (MSU) in the autumn. Clare attended the event with current MSU student Mariah Palazzola, both having completed Agriculture and Horticulture modules during the 2024-2025 academic year (pictured left)
The night was further enriched by the generous support of local agri-food businesses, which donated a fantastic array of prizes for a charity raffle. The event successfully raised £1,246 for the Student Council’s nominated charities, Friends of the Cancer Centre and Kidney Research.
This memorable evening not only celebrated the students' achievements but also highlighted the strong community spirit at CAFRE Greenmount Campus As students approach their forthcoming assessments and final exams, the event served as a reminder of the support and camaraderie that define the CAFRE experience.
For those considering a career in the landbased sector, CAFRE offers a range of courses designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge needed for success Discover more at www.cafre.ac.uk.
Minister Muir Launches Consultation on Puppy and Kitten Sales in Northern Ireland
DAERA Minister Andrew Muir has launched a public consultation on proposed new rules for the sale and supply of puppies and kittens in Northern Ireland
Key proposals include a version of Lucy’s Law, which would ban third-party sales Under the new rules, anyone selling a puppy or kitten must have bred the animal themselves. The plans also include a registration system to improve traceability and transparency, helping the public identify the true source of animals
Minister Muir said animal welfare is a top priority: “These proposals will provide greater protection for puppies and kittens and ensure they get the best start in life.”
The consultation is part of the Minister’s wider Animal Welfare Pathway and is open until 11:59pm on 25 August 2025.
Full details and how to respond are available at: www daerani gov uk/consultations
DAERA is reminding livestock keepers that all ‘UK’ prefixed identification tags must be used by 30 June 2025. After this date, only ‘XI’ prefixed tags will be valid for identifying newborn cattle, sheep, and goats in Northern Ireland. A DAERA spokesperson explained: “A 12-month transition period was provided to allow time to use existing ‘UK’ tag stocks. This period ends on 30 June 2025, after which these tags will be obsolete and cannot be used.”
Keepers are advised to use ‘XI’ tags for any animals that may be exported outside the UK in the future to avoid the need for reidentification. Animals already tagged with ‘UK’ identifiers before the deadline do not need to be reidentified if remaining within the UK. However, export rules to the EU may vary.
For full guidance and FAQs, visit: www daera-ni.gov uk/articles/introduction-identification-registration-andmovement-animals
The Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) has launched the 2025 Northern Ireland Farm Census and is encouraging all farmers and growers to take part by completing the survey before 30 June 2025
This year’s census introduces a new digital survey platform, Blaise, which offers enhanced functionality and improved user experience. The platform allows respondents to pause and resume the survey and provides the option to save or print a copy of their responses upon submission. Access to the survey now requires a 12-digit unique code. Your progress will be saved automatically, so you can return and complete at your convenience.
The annual farm census is a vital tool in shaping agricultural policy and supporting our rural economy. The Department urges all farmers to take part and ensure their voices are heard. With the introduction of the new survey platform, it is easier than ever to complete the census securely and efficiently. Your input will help to inform the building of a more sustainable and resilient future for Northern Ireland’s agriculture sector
The 2025 census continues to collect essential data on land use, livestock numbers, and workforce composition as of 1 June 2025. In response to evolving policy needs, this year’s questionnaire also includes questions on cattle housing and the use of low emission slurry spreading equipment (LESSE).
The data collected will be used for statistical and research purposes and will help to inform Departmental decisions and policies supporting Northern Ireland’s farming industry. It will not be used for cross-compliance or enforcement. Farmers can access the census at: www.daera-ni.gov.uk/farm-census using their unique code. Support is available via email at: DAERAsurveys@daera-ni.gov uk or by calling: 028 9081 6556
Comber Farmers’ Market returns in 2025 with more vibrancy and variety than ever, bolstered once again by the continued support of local homebuilder Hagan Homes. Now in its eleventh year, the award-winning market is proud to welcome Hagan Homes back as its principal sponsor for the fourth year.
Founded by the Comber Regeneration Community Partnership (CRCP) to revitalise the town and support local growers and producers, Comber Farmers’ Market has grown into a major attraction, drawing thousands of visitors each year and playing a vital role in putting Comber on Northern Ireland’s food tourism map
Held on the first Thursday of every month, the market now features up to 26 regular traders offering an impressive range of artisan goods including fresh produce, baked items, meats, cheeses, preserves, plants, and non-food items.
Joan Cowan, Chair of Comber Regeneration Community Partnership, expressed gratitude for the renewed sponsorship:
“Comber Farmers’ Market has grown so much since the first event in July 2014. Thanks to Hagan Homes' continued support, we now have a monthly artisan food event that attracts thousands of visitors annually. Their sponsorship enables us to grow even more and extend a warm welcome not only to the local Comber community but also to new and returning visitors, offering them the chance to experience the finest food and produce Northern Ireland has to offer."
Hagan Homes is currently constructing the largescale Enler Village development in Comber – the company ’ s largest-ever project. The 112-acre site will include 900 homes, a business park, nursing home, retail units, a creche, and linked pedestrian access to the town centre.
Jim Burke, Managing Director of Hagan Homes, reinforced the company ’ s commitment to the community:
“Construction at Enler Village is progressing really well, and we ’ re proud to support Comber not only through development but also through community initiatives like the Farmers’ Market
When Hagan Homes builds in a community, we
invest in its future. We’re delighted to continue our support and look forward to seeing the market grow. ”
Event Details:
�� St Mary’s Parish Church Car Park, The Square, Comber
�� First Thursday of each month
�� 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM
Visitors can expect a bustling atmosphere with stalls offering everything from bread, cheeses, vegetables, traybakes, and local meats to flowers, oils, and gourmet treats. St Mary’s Church catering committee will also serve homemade refreshments
19th July 2025
Sharon Woods, Laura Browne and Gerard Nicholl from CAFRE Enniskillen Campus are preparing to welcome visitors during Bank of Ireland Open Farm Weekend Enniskillen Campus will be open on Saturday 14 June 2025 (10:30 am– 4:00 pm)
Enjoy a free, fun and educational day out at CAFRE’s Enniskillen and Greenmount Campuses during Bank of Ireland Open Farm Weekend.
Enniskillen Campus (Saturday 14 June, 10:30am–4:00pm):
Explore equine trails and simulators, enjoy riding displays, and visit Fermanagh Beekeepers. Kids can plant pollinator-friendly seeds and try milking Daisy the cow! Bring a picnic or enjoy refreshments on site.
Greenmount Campus, Antrim (Saturday 14 & Sunday 15 June, 11:00am–4:00pm):
Watch sheep shearing, milk Clover the cow, try tractor simulators, and explore farming, floristry, and horticulture displays. The Walled Garden hosts family fun, and the RSPB and Ulster Beekeepers offer conservation insights
CAFRE staff will be on hand for anyone curious about future study options. This event is part of Bank of Ireland Open Farm Weekend, led by the Ulster Farmers’ Union with support from NFU Mutual, Asda, LMC NI, Pilgrim’s Europe, Thompson’s and the Irish Farmers’ Journal.
Plan your visit at: www.openfarmweekend.com Assistance dogs only. No admission charge.
The Health and Safety Executive for Northern Ireland (HSENI) and the Farm Safety Partnership NI (FSP) have launched the 2025 "Be Aware Kids – Child Safety on Farms" poster competition Now in its fifth year, the initiative encourages primary school-aged children across Northern Ireland to illustrate vital farm safety messages through drawings The competition aims to raise awareness about the dangers on farms and promote safety among young individuals
Children are invited to create handdrawn or painted posters focusing on the four key dangers on farms: Slurry, Animals, Falls, and Equipment (SAFE). While these are the primary themes, HSENI and FSP welcome innovative ideas and illustrations of other potential hazards children may identify on farms. Entries should be submitted in portrait orientation on plain A3 or A4 paper
The competition is open until 4 July 2025. Twelve winners will be selected, each receiving a £50 gift voucher and having their artwork featured in the 2026 farm safety calendar. Winning entries will also be used in HSENI's publicity materials to promote farm safety messages.
For more information, including competition terms and conditions and downloadable child farm safety colouring sheets, visit the HSENI website: https://www hseni gov uk/articles/beaware-kids-child-safety-farms-campaign
Suzuki GB is enhancing the ownership experience for new KingQuad ATV customers with a special VIP care package, available from June to August 2025.
With every new KingQuad purchased during this period, customers will receive:
Lifejacket Skincare Kit – Includes SPF30 Sun Gel and SPF50+ Mineral Sun Stick to help protect against prolonged sun exposure.
Branded Overalls – Durable and comfortable workwear featuring Suzuki branding High-Performance Headtorch – Worth £145, perfect for early starts or late finishes.
Suzuki GB understands the tough demands of agricultural life and is committed to supporting riders beyond just providing market-leading ATVs. This care package delivers practical tools to help customers stay safe, protected, and productive in the field.
After purchase, customers simply register online using their ATV’s serial number to receive the package direct to their door.
Limited time only
Visit atv suzuki co uk/care or speak to your local Suzuki dealer to learn more.
The Rural Youth Europe Awards 2025 celebrate the outstanding achievements of young people, clubs, and projects that make a positive impact in rural communities across Europe The awards shine a spotlight on inspirational individuals and innovative initiatives from RYE member organisations
Award Categories
Eligible for work carried out between June 2024 and July 2025:
Rural Youth Project of the Year – Recognising collaborative volunteer-led projects that benefit rural youth or their communities
Inspirational Person of the Year – Honouring a young person who has made a notable impact through leadership, innovation, or service
Inspirational Club of the Year – Awarding a club that has shown exceptional commitment to rural youth and their community
How to Apply
Submit your application online by Monday 7th Julyhttps://www.ruralyoutheurope.com/rural-youthproject/ Prizes
Winners receive:
A place at a 2026 RYE event
An RYE Awards certificate
Features on the RYE podcast and social media Selection Process
Winners will be chosen by internal panels and, for the project category, partially by public Instagram voting. Winners will be announced at the European Rally in July 2025.
At this year’s Balmoral Show, the NI Agri Rural Health Forum, held a celebration event to highlight the importance of cross-sector collaborative working across health and agriculture The event and forum activity throughout the show was generously made possible through funding from the Public Health Agency
The collaboration event was chaired by Dr Rebecca Orr, and included an address from Minister of Health, Mr Mike Nesbitt who encouraged members in their work Last year, the forum was proud to partner with Northern Ireland’s leading, local cancer charity Action Cancer Farmers are necessary outdoor workers and at a greater risk of UV exposure The partnership therefore first chose to raise the awareness of skin cancer symptoms and the vital importance of treatment It is estimated that 15 (7%) had a malignant melanoma, 5 (2%) a Squamous Cell Carcinoma and circa 100 (45%) a Basal Cell Carcinoma These figures include a number of cancers picked up early detection The charity’s skin cancer detection service, which was established in 2023, provides a unique service delivered by no other charity in the UK or Ireland. ‘You Check Your Stock, You Check the Weather but Do You Check Your Skin’ message was shared millions of times across the globe through partner social media, TV and hard press
In the latter half of the year, the partnership chose to raise awareness of bowel cancer asking the question ‘What’s your Gut Instinct’ Knowledge of optimal calf gut health was shared by leading veterinary surgeons alongside human red flag symptoms to be aware of The Mission:FarmStrong events, organised by Rev Kenny Hanna, the Rural Chaplain, solidified both messages at various mart roadshow events across Northern Ireland These events fundraised £4,556 in aid of Action Cancer as well as spreading awareness of its vital services
Thanks to these collective efforts during 2024/2025, Action Cancer referred 219 people for further during the 2024 Balmoral Show.
After a warm welcome from Mr John Henning OBE, RUAS President and generous supporter of the forum, two expert panels were hosted. Farmer speakers Mr George Doherty, Farm Community Network and Mr Dee Heron gave their views of dealing with ill health due to cancer. Mr Jonathan Tuft outlined the practical steps he takes to prevent respiratory ill health as a poultry and beef farmer. Mr John McClenaghan, UFU Deputy President also shared how UFU will be raising awareness of skin cancer over the summer months also.
Gareth Kirk, CEO of Action Cancer commented, “The excellent 'Taking Stock: Power of Collaboration' event held at the Balmoral Show once again showcased the power and impact of collaboration across and within sectors. The event itself was a simple reflection of all of the great partnership work undertaken by many, for many, throughout 2024/2025 by the Agri Rural Health Forum. The Forum provided an excellent platform for Action Cancer to help raise awareness of the importance of early cancer detection, specifically in relation to
skin and bowel cancer There is also no doubt that by working together we achieved a much greater output and impact than we could ever have achieve by working alone and, that it is probably fair to claim that through the collective efforts of all lives have or will be saved.”
The forum will now join forces with the successful Farm Safety Partnership, facilitated by Health & Safety Executive NI and expert charity partners Asthma + Lung UK. In conversation with Mr David Wright (IFJ), Specialist Respiratory Nurse Mrs Frances Barrett, gave a clear take home message: ‘Breathlessness is not something you should be sitting on’. Producer Services Director at Dale Farm, Mr Neville Graham reiterated ‘it is our duty, as a cooperative, to help get the message out there about personal health’. Mrs Lauren Finlay, NFU Mutual Regional Manager closed the event with thanks and a call-to-action reiterating ‘we all have a responsibility to raise the importance of human health in agriculture’.
If you would like more information on the NI Agri Rural Health Forum, please contact forum secretariat Rural Support on 028 8676 0040 or visit their website www.ruralsupport.org.uk
Northern Ireland has made history, with over half of its schools 563 in total now proudly flying the prestigious Eco-Schools Green Flag. This year alone, 305 schools will be awarded the flag, making Northern Ireland just the second country in the global Eco-Schools network to reach this landmark Eco-Schools, run in 79 countries by the Foundation for Environmental Education, is locally managed by Keep Northern Ireland Beautiful. Charlene McKeown, Environmental Education Manager, praised the achievement as a "huge milestone" and a reflection of the dedication of pupils, teachers, and school communities especially given the current challenges in the education
sector.
To earn a Green Flag, schools complete a rigorous sevenstep process, led by a student Eco-Committee, involving environmental reviews, action plans, and ongoing monitoring. Each flag remains valid for two years
Bocombra Primary teacher Emma Craig, named Eco-Teacher of the Year in her council area, expressed pride in her school’s fourth Green Flag, highlighting how environmental education fosters resilience, life skills, and student wellbeing.
DAERA Minister Andrew Muir and FEE’s Dr. Pramod Kumar Sharma also praised Northern Ireland's leadership, calling it an inspiration to Eco-Schools worldwide
With the haylage all in and the fields in perfect condition, it’s time for some summer fun at Gransha Equestrian Centre!
We're excited to announce a Pop-Up Derby this Sunday 29th June, giving riders the chance to enjoy a fantastic course combining six show jumps followed by approximately 18 crosscountry/working hunter fences
Whether you ' re a pony or horse rider, there's a class to suit everyone – from 50cm to 1m It's the perfect opportunity to get back out into the field, build confidence, and enjoy some friendly competition in a relaxed setting
Entries are open now and must be submitted via the Gransha Equestrian App by Thursday at midnight Times will be posted on Friday, so don’t delay – we’d love to see as many of you there as possible!
Entry is £20 per class Let’s make the most of the summer and have a great day of Derby fun!
We’re excited to announce a brand-new event the Treo Eile Thoroughbred Eventing 3-Day Challenge making its debut at Ballindenisk International 2, from 24–28 September 2025 This unique class will run as a national EI100 over three days, offering competitors the rare chance to experience the excitement and prestige of an international competition while celebrating 50 years of Eventing at Ballindenisk.
Proudly supported by the Irish European Breeders Fund, the class is exclusively open to Thoroughbreds registered with Treo Eile Registration is free and simple via www.treoeile.com.
Horses must also be named on their passports
Treo Eile can assist with this process for Weatherbys passports.
To Qualify:
Earn two MERs at EI100 or BE100 level at Eventing Ireland or British Eventing events by 21 September 2025.
Combinations may compete on Day Tickets no EI membership required!
Eligibility Criteria:
No more than one MER at EI110 or above in the current and past five seasons
Rider/horse combinations must not have competed above EI110.
Riders must be aged 14 or older (in the calendar year)
Horses must be at least 4 years old, ponies 5 years, and a minimum of 143cm ERQI must be green or amber at EI100
Horses must be Treo Eile registered and named.
What qualifies as an MER: Dressage: 45 penalties and below
Show Jumping: 16 penalties and below
Cross Country: Clear jumping, under 30 time penalties
Training class results are not eligible.
Time is running out to book your place at the exclusive BHS Ireland Camp with Mark Robinson BHSI and Brendan Bergin BHSI at RDA Causeway Coast & Glens near Coleraine, from Saturday 5 July to Sunday 6 July 2025. Book your place now https://buytickets.at/bhsireland/1651834
A £50 deposit is required.
Arrive on the morning of Saturday 5 July and leave on the afternoon of Sunday 6 July Bespoke semiprivate lessons and talks all tailored to suit you and your horse.
Lessons will start on the Saturday morning – with two lessons a day on Saturday and Sunday. Don’t miss this opportunity to be taught by two highly qualified BHS Instructors (BHSI)
There are a variety of booking options available. Note this camp is available to BHS Gold Members only.
Glebe Equine is a dedicated centre for optimizing the health, happiness, and performance of horses Established in February 2025, this relatively new venture has quickly positioned itself as a provider of state-of-the-art equine fitness and rehabilitationservices.
Glebe Equine, Glebe Road, Hillsborough, offersacomprehensivesuiteoftherapies andprogramstailoredtomeetthediverseneedsofequineathletesandcompanions alike Whether a horse is recovering from an injury, undergoing fitness training, or simply requiring therapeutic care, Glebe Equine provides a supportive environment andadvancedmodalitiestopromotetheirwell-being.
ServicesOfferedatGlebeEquine:
Glebe Equine boasts an impressive array of services, focusing on innovative and scientificallybackedapproachestoequinecare:
·ECB Water Treadmill - The ECB Water Treadmill is a highly effective and fully customisable piece of equipment designed tosupporteachhorse’sindividualneeds.With adjustable water height, incline, and speed, wecantailoreverysessiontotargetspecific goals whether it’s improving overall fitness, rebuildingstrengthafterinjury,oraddressing muscle weakness and asymmetry. The buoyancy of the water reduces concussion onthejointsandlimbs,makingitasafeand low-impact way to develop topline, improve stride length, and enhance cardiovascular health It’s a brilliant tool for both performance horses and those in rehabilitation.
InstantCryo - Instant Cryo is a fast-acting coldtherapythatdeliverstargetedpainrelief, reduces inflammation, and minimises swelling. It can reach difficult-to-access areasanywhereonthebody,makingitideal for treating acute injuries, managing chronic conditions,andaidingpost-exerciserecovery atGlebeEquine.
·KLaser - The K-Laser is a high-powered therapeutic laser that uses specific wavelengths of light to relieve pain, reduce inflammation, and accelerate healing.AtGlebeEquine,weuseitforeffectivepainreliefandrecoveryincases of tendon and ligament injuries, joint issues, wounds, and muscle soreness supportingyourhorse’scomfort,recoveryandperformance
Combi-Floor: This cutting-edge platform combines vibration therapy (for improved circulation and muscle relaxation), Pulsed Electromagnetic Field (PEMF)therapy(tosupportcellregenerationandreduceinflammation),and an optional weigh scale to monitor progress. It aids in injury recovery, reducesstiffness,supportshoofgrowth,andisbeneficialforpreandpostexerciserecovery
BEMER Therapy: This technology enhances circulation and supports the body'snaturalrecoveryprocesses.
Solarium&WashBay:Facilitiestoaidinmusclerelaxationandgeneralwellbeing
Private Treatment Room: A dedicated space for veterinary, physiotherapy, andothertherapysessions.
AFocusonHolisticWell-being:
GlebeEquine'sphilosophyappearstocentreonaholisticapproachtoequine care, recognising the interconnectedness of fitness, rehabilitation, and overall well-being.Byofferingavarietyofadvancedtherapiesunderoneroof,theyaim toprovideacomprehensiveandconvenientsolutionforhorseownersseeking tooptimisetheirequinepartners'healthandperformance.
GlebeEquineiswell-positionedtoservehorseownersinthesurroundingareas of County Down and further afield. The facility's investment in modern technologies and its focus on tailored programs suggest a commitment to providingahighstandardofcarewithinthelocalequinecommunity.
Forthoseinterestedinlearningmoreorbookingservices,EllaatGlebeEquine canbecontacted07801448269orseewww.glebeequine.co.uk
The Organising Committee of Castlewellan Agricultural Show hosted its supporters and sponsors recently to officially launch this year ’ s Show, which takes place on Saturday 19 July in the beautiful setting of Castlewellan Forest Park, Co. Down. th
A highlight of the summer, the Show promises a fun-filled day for all the family, celebrating farming, food and rural life. Visitors can enjoy a wide range of livestock classes from beef and dairy cattle to sheep, horses, donkeys, pigs, poultry and more.
There’s plenty of entertainment too, including showjumping, dog agility, pony games and a family pet show. Children will love the bouncy castles, face painting and fun activities throughout the day.
The Craft Village will showcase local handmade goods and original artwork, while the bustling Food Village offers
delicious local produce and live cookery demos by top chefs. Don’t miss the expanded Eco Village, Home Industries marquee, and trade stands ranging from fashion to farm machinery.
Discounted tickets available now at castlewellanshow.com.
This year’s attractions include Mourne Alpacas, sheep shearing, vintage displays, and music and dance on the main stage — plus a new Jiving Competition and the return of the Vintage Tea Marquee, supporting RNLI Newcastle.
www.reallygreatsite.com
Eventing Ireland is delighted to announce that the 2025 National Championships will be held in Barnadown, Co Wexford, on 4-5 October
Classes will run from EI80 - EI110, and will include Grassroots Competition at EI80 - EI100 Eligibility and qualification criteria for all classes will be released in the coming weeks.
The EI120 National Champion was crowned at Millstreet Intl, where Patrick Whelan and Altitu took top honours. The EI115 National Champion will be crowned at Lisgarvan Intl in August.
We're grateful for the support of Maurice Cousins, Derek Hamilton, Will Kearney and the organising committee and are excited to deliver a fresh and exciting revamp of our showcase event!
Keep an eye on www.eventingireland.com/natchamps for more information
Joanne Jarden is a highly respected Horse Sport Ireland (HSI) Level 3 Eventing Coach based in Glenavy, County Antrim. With a wealth of experience across eventing, dressage, and show jumping, she has successfully transitioned from competitive riding at FEI level to become a leading coach, mentor, and educator in Irish equestrian sport.
Joanne is also an FEI Level 1 Judge in both Eventing and Dressage, and serves as a coaching tutor, helping to guide and certify new generations of equestrian coaches. Through her business, MJI Irish Sport Horses, she combines her practical horsemanship with expert coaching and horse production. Known for her insightful training clinics and contributions to HSI coaching programs, Joanne continues to play a vital role in raising the standard of equestrian coaching in Ireland.
Treo Eile is delighted to announce our next clinic taking place at the Meadows Equestrian Centre with Joanne Jarden and Debbie Byrne This clinic is kindly sponsored by Randox Health Ireland
This will run across on the 3rd July and will commence at 4pm The clinic with cater for thoroughbreds beginning their training right up to the thoroughbred in competition
Attendees can book a flatwork and a show jumping lesson to maximise their evening if they wish. There will be three groups with each coach as follows:
Early Flatwork Training with Joanne Jarden (4pm)
2 x Flatwork with Joanne Jarden (5pm & 6pm)
80cms Show Jumping with Debbie Byrne (4pm)
90cms Show Jumping with Debbie Byrne (5pm)
1m Show Jumping with Debbie Byrne (6pm)
Debbie Byrne is a Horse Sport Ireland (HSI) Level3 International Coach and former High Performance Team Manager for Ireland’s junior and young rider eventing programmes. Holding an honours degree in Sports Science, she has harnessed her experience as PE teacher and competitive participant on junior and young rider teams to shape Ireland’s next generation of event riders.
Under her leadership between 2011 and 2017, the Irish junior eventing team flourished—achieving team silver in 2012 and back-to-back team golds in 2013 and 2014, alongside individual medals. Celebrated twice as “Coach of the Year,” Debbie also serves as a coach developer, mentoring fellow trainers and leading HSI coaching courses across Ireland.
Bookings will be available https://www itsplainsailing co m/org/te and will open on Friday, June 20th, at 8pm
The cost to book a place is €30
You can book a flatwork and a show jumping lesson with the same horse
Spaces are limited, so be sure to secure your place early!
Tuesday 1st July 2025 | Time: 9:30am – 1:30pm | Cost: £30
This exciting half-day course is perfect for young riders aged 13–15 who are interested in becoming jockeys or improving their riding skills. Led by professional jockey and coach Paddy Flood, participants will benefit from expert guidance and the use of the cutting-edge Mark 10 horse racing simulator
The session includes hands-on training with real-time race scenarios, giving participants the opportunity to develop vital racing techniques such as controlling horse speed and direction, improving balance, and building muscle memory. Riders will also learn about correct starting posture, race starts, and how to navigate corners
while maintaining speed. This course is designed to build confidence and racing awareness through personalised coaching and state-ofthe-art technology. It’s an ideal introduction to the techniques and discipline required in professional horse racing.
Spaces are limited and early booking is strongly recommended.
Age restriction: Only open to those aged 13–15. Take your first step towards the world of horse racing book now to avoid disappointment! https://cafre-olint civicarems co uk/Basket
What a fantastic day of showjumping with brilliant performances across all classes! A huge well done to everyone who took part, and special congratulations to our prize winners.
In the Xpoles class, we had some lovely clear rounds from Faith O'Connor with Dolly, Derbhla Kelly on Angel, Charlotte Curran riding Daisy and Alfie Service with Diamonte.
Moving up to the 50cm, Abby Cumiskey produced a super round with Stevie.
In the 60cm class, top honours went to Emma Turley on Diamond, taking 1st place with a strong performance.
In the 80cm section, William Steele took the win on Reggie, followed by Darcy Turley in 2nd and 3rd with Maisie and Cookie respectively. Orlagh Massey placed 4th on Norris.
The 90cm was hotly contested, with Aoife Davis and Old Town Starling taking 1st, Katie Walton and Darcy in 2nd, Emma Morrison with Rosie in 3rd, and Emily Turley on Legend in 4th.
Finally, in the 1m class, Christine Findlay claimed victory on Dolphin, with Emma Irwin and Darcy 2nd, and Emily Turley again placing 3rd with Legend.
By Equine Science Matters™
While horses don’t usually eat sand on purpose, they can accidentally ingest it especially when grazing on short grass, sandy soil, or eating hay from the ground. This is more common during dry summers or wet winters. Most ingested sand passes through the digestive system harmlessly, but over time, it can build up, irritating the gut lining and causing issues like diarrhoea, weight loss, or colic.
Sand tends to settle in the lower gut, particularly at the sharp bends and narrow sections of the horse’s 30-metre digestive tract. As it accumulates, it can slow gut movement, eventually leading to impaction or serious colic. Symptoms vary and may include loose stools, bloating, reduced performance, changes in behaviour, or no visible signs at all.
To check for sand accumulation, perform a simple dung test. Mix a double handful of droppings in a bucket of water, stir, let settle, and examine the residue. Finding more than half a teaspoon of sand may indicate a problem. Weekly testing, feeding off the ground, and monitoring field conditions can help prevent serious health issues linked to sand colic. Prevention and early detection are key to keeping your horse healthy.
What a fabulously stylish day it was at the Down Royal races!
A huge entry made for tough compeition in the Best Dressed competition – you truly brought your A-game and made it a day to remember.
This year’s winners:
Best Dressed Lady – Faith Amond
Best Dressed Male – Robert McGrath
Best Dressed Couple – Alistair and Lady Bridget Hamill
Each of you dazzled with elegance and flair!
A heartfelt thank you goes to the wonderful sponsors – Younique Aesthetics, Freddie Hatchet, and Lough Erne Resort – for their generous support and fantastic prizes
With such an incredible display of fashion and fun, we’re already looking forward to seeing the style statements next year will bring!
The 105th Clogher Valley Show Press Night was a warm and vibrant evening held at the welcoming Valley Hotel, bringing together sponsors, committee members, and local supporters to mark the countdown to this year’s show. The event provided a fantastic opportunity to meet and thank the many generous sponsors, and to highlight this years chosen charity for 2025—Diabetes NI.
Inspiring talks were delivered by Chairperson, representatives from Diabetes NI, and members of the MidUlster Council, all emphasizing the show’s strong community roots and charitable commitment. Guests enjoyed a delightful spread, kindly sponsored by the Valley Hotel, with delicious homemade tray bakes by Joan Boyd and fresh fruit generously donated by S. Frew and Sons, Dungannon.
The evening not only celebrated the upcoming show on the 30 July but also showcased the unwavering support and camaraderie that makes the Clogher Valley Show a cherished tradition.
