Irish Tractor December 2015

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December 2015 Vol. 3 No. 11

ElectroMech Agri Ltd. Jordan Agricultural Ltd.

Daly Tyres

Kepak Group

McCullagh Machinery Ltd.

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TA R G E T

FERTILISERS

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2 Agri News

Contents

Irish Tractor & Agri is published by DG Press, Kells Business Park, Kells, Co. Meath Telephone: (046) 9241923 Fax: (046) 9241926 e mail:

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ElectroMech Agri Ltd Main distributor for BouMatic milking parlours in Northern Ireland

GDL Harford Providing a variety of vegetables to the Irish & UK markets

11 Western Farming Co-Op Ltd Celebrating its 50th anniversary

18 Jordan Agricultural Ltd.

Leading supplier of animal feeds, seeds, minerals and chemicals

23 Ballywilliam Mushrooms

A significant producer in the Irish market

26 Tommy Guing Construction Ltd

Specialists in the construction of agricultural buildings

34 Curragh Stud

Horse trainer Johnny Levins

37 Noel Delaney Agri Services Ltd

All types of agricultural contract work carried out

43 Castleisland Co-Op

One of the largest livestock marts in the country

47 Rodney Clarke Agricultural Contractors

Email: contact@lynngroupmedia.com

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Boyne Grove Fruit Farm Producer’s of Dan Kelly’s Irish Cider

60 A Cloke & Sons Ltd

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John Cummins Tyres Ltd Professional, high quality cost effective solutions

A market leader in the Irish agricultural building market

63 Craig Family Farm

Farming for a quarter of a century

66 Laurence Pierce (Wool Merchants) Ltd. Trading for over 150 years

69 Ruttle Agricultural Contractors

Synonymous with farming and contracting

72 Kepak Group

One of Europe’s foremost food processing companies

76 McCullagh Machinery Ltd. Exceptional family run business

80 Lynch Trailers

Manufacturers of high quality tractor drawn trailers

An exceptional agricultural contracting enterprise

84 Clonmel Precision Engineering Ltd

Leading dairy services provider in Ireland and the UK

88 Daly Tyres

50 Grasstec Ltd

53 Rutledge Contracts

Top quality service to a large customer base

56 MD Workman Ltd.

Specialists in livestock transport throughout Ireland, UK and Europe

Providing unrivalled industrial and agricultural machinery manufacturing and repair solutions Offering next day delivery service all over Ireland

91 Gormley Contracts

Multifaceted operation based in Co. Fermanagh

94 GA Contracts

An expert service to their loyal customers

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WANT TO SEE YOUR STORY FEATURED ON THESE PAGES? Then get in touch with us at contact@lynngroupmedia.com

Kildare farmer fits XeoBib tyres to minimise ground compaction

Athy farmer Neil Thornton has become the first to specify a combination of VF 710/60 R42 and VF 600/60 R30 Michelin XeoBib tyres on a Fendt Favorit 716 – believed to be the largest set of Michelin tyres ever fitted to this model of tractor in Ireland.

Designed to deliver minimum ground compaction, the XeoBib tyres have a 24 per cent larger footprint than a conventional tyre of the same size. Pressure is distributed across a greater area with the purpose of limiting rut formation, soil damage and wheel slip.

Farming more than 300 acres of land with his two sons David and Luke, Neil’s Fendt is one of four tractors shod with Michelin tyres and will be used primarily for seasonal work, including stubble cultivation, crop establishment, ploughing, drilling, grain Michelin XeoBib tyres transportation and contract work.

“Running our tyres at the lowest recommended pressure is key to limiting soil damage and maintaining the health of our fields. Fitting XeoBib tyres gives us the flexibility we need to make sure we are running at the optimum pressure for each application, whether we’re in the field or on the road,” Neil says.

The New Holland T7.315 tractor is a 2016 Machine of the Year The latest edition of Agritechnica saw New Holland Agriculture receive a “Machine of the Year 2016 award for its new T7.315 tractor in the Oberklasse Traktor (Large Tractor) Category.

Agritechnica is the world’s largest trade fair for agricultural machinery and equipment. It takes place bi-annually in Hanover, Germany.

The T7.315 is produced at CNH Industrial’s manufacturing plant in Basildon, United Kingdom where a new dedicated assembly line and new processes have been set up to ensure consistently high quality on every unit leaving the line. The T7.315 is one of two new larger and more powerful tractor models that extend the T7 product series. These models are designed to New Holland T7.315 meet the needs of farming operations requiring the power of a large tractor but wishing to retain the dimensions and manoeuvrability of smaller tractors.

The “Machine of the Year” awards feature 14 categories. They are administered by German Landwirtschaftsverlag (DLV), an agricultural publishing group with over 30 print titles and more than 40 websites globally. The jury panel is comprised of 21 editors from Europe’s leading agricultural publications.The selection criteria focus on innovative features, performance, productivity, cost of operation, ease of use and operator comfort. New Holland was rewarded for the T7.315’s technical innovation and the benefits it brings to customers.

“This award represents an important recognition from the industry of New Holland’s approach to product development. This is a testament to our development teams’ capacity to understand our customers’ demands and provide effective solutions that enable them to run their farming businesses efficiently, profitably and sustainably. We are particularly proud of receiving the award this year, when we are celebrating New Holland’s 120 years of innovation in agriculture,” said Carlo Lambro, New Holland Agriculture Brand President and a member ofthe CNH Industrial Group Executive Council.

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Forager X10 – the best just got better

The Forager X10 is now a well proven, life-changing piece of equipment. Designed and manufactured by Blaney Agri in Co Antrim, the Forager X10 has become the most prized tool they own, being easy on the back and the pocket, saving hours of daily back breaking labour and reducing bale waste by around 20%.

Blnaey Agri are pleased to launch the new model Forager X10.

Thanks to all design and manufacture being carried out in-house, Blaney have been The Forager X10 able to react quickly to give added assurance to customers who are concerned about this years’ silage bales being heavier given the wet harvest season. The new Forager X10 has been re-engineered and launched this autumn with a host of enhanced features, outperforming any other type of equipment on all bale types.

For many farms, a great aspect of the Forager X10 is that it is a one man and one tractor operation. Feeding a silage bale is as easy as 1-2-3, with the Forager X10 able to lift, load and feed – all from the comfort of your cab. It offers a fast and effective solution for feeding out round bales to reduce the need for manual forking, to get the job done quickly and easily for better thriving animals, less wastage and improved profits.

Blaney have enhanced the new model Forager X10 bale carriers making them 25% stronger. Drive components are capable of withstanding forces well in excess of 50000 Newton’s, and more powerful hydraulics give generous capabilities to work with the heaviest bales year after year. Innovative new feed out spikes, new bale chamber and unique side rollers are designed to deal with the most difficult bales.

The new Forager X10 is now more compact, ideal for getting into tight spaces and narrow passageways. Its unique safety guards to protect livestock from injury are now 50% stronger and more compact. The extra thick 50mm sprung tines are designed for road travel and developed to handle the heaviest bales.

The Forager X10L, a special loader/telehandler version of the bale unroller, is also being built to this enhanced specification. Fitted to any front loader or telescopic, it means that high stacked bales are no longer a problem and silage can be fed along passageways, into feeders or used to unroll into mixer wagons to speed up processing times.

Co Roscommon farmer, Sean Hannon uses the Forager X10 and is impressed with the savings it brings. “I bought my Forager X10 back in December 2011 and I can honestly say it has saved me a huge amount of time and money. Feeding used to take me up to 1 ½ hours with lots of graping, but with the unroller feeding takes me 15-20 minutes. The Forager is a strong well built machine” The Blaney Agri machinery range has been developed to tackle some of the toughest conditions that Ireland and UK can throw at it. Famed for its ample rainfall and heavy grass crops, Blaney Agri is ideally located to build and test the most high performance silage feeding machines. With innovation firmly planted in the DNA of this manufacturing firm, the relentless attitude of Blaney’s engineering and technical team results in continual improvement of designs and processes and the development and manufacture of the best machines.

Contact Blaney Agri to find your nearest dealer and find out how their innovative machinery, designed and made in N Ireland can help you feed livestock quicker with a lot less effort compared to manual work, reducing wastage and increasing profitability. Call the team, from ROI One of our youngest readers, Darren Kavanagh (left) from on 048 2587 2801, from NI on 028 2587 2801 or Oldcastle, Co. Meath with Greenmen’s Gareth Gault (Donkey) visit www.blaneyagri.com at this year’s Ploughing Championship IRISH TRACTOR & AGRI

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Michelin and ROPA receive Innovation Award at Agritechnica

Michelin and agricultural machine manufacturer ROPA have been awarded the silver medal for innovation for their R-Soil Protect project by the organisers of Agritechnica 2015.

The collaboration between Michelin and ROPA is a hydraulic three-axle chassis for harvesters which spreads the weight – more than 60 tonnes when fully loaded – preserving the soil and avoiding pressure imbalances between the machine’s axles.

Michelin’s new CerexBib IF 1000/55 R32 Cyclic Field Operation (CFO) tyres, the biggest harvester tyre Michelin has produced using Ultraflex Technology, are fitted to the chassis and are designed to work in the field at very low pressures.

Award for Michelin and ROPA

Zetor link up with Italian car designers Pininfarina leads to new tractor design concept

A link-up between legendary Italian car designers Pininfarina – stylists to Ferrari, Alfa Romeo, Rolls Royce and others – and famed Czech tractor maker Zetor has led to the creation of a new tractor design concept that already is the talk of Agritechnica and may soon be turning heads on Irish roads.

The Zetor by Pininfarina concept, as the new modular design is called, is one that Zetor says will be applied across its product range.

Carrying with it the suggestion that tractor design is about to follow style trends long evident in the motor industry, the Zetor by Pininfarina study brings emotion, dynamism and style to what traditionally has been a purely practical item of farm machinery.

The Pininfarina look With components aligned in what Zetor says is a ‘modular’ way, its most visual style features include an iconic new front-end bonnet and lights arrangement. Its tilting and gradual forward-sloping hood, gracefully shaped side panels, cooling vents and use of two-tone paint are features that Zetor claims all hint at the world of competitive motoring with which Pininfarina has long been associated.

Commenting, Zetor views the collaboration as one that commemorates its 70th anniversary in a way that, when brought into production, will strengthen the brand’s global prestige. Promised in the statements announcing the new design approach is a further expansion of the Zetor product portfolio.

WANT TO SEE YOUR STORY FEATURED ON THESE PAGES? Then get in touch with us at contact@lynngroupmedia.com 4

IRISH TRACTOR & AGRI

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New Optum CVX tractor from Case IH receives industry award

The new Optum CVX tractor from Case IH, has been recognised as a “Machine of the Year 2016 in the large tractor category. The “Machine of the Year” awards feature 14 categories and are conferred by German Landwirtschaftsverlag (DLV) an agricultural publishing group with over 30 print titles and more than 40 websites globally. The jury panel is comprised of 21 editors from Europe’s leading agricultural publications.

The awards were announced at Agritechnica 2015, the world’s largest Optum CVX trade fair for agricultural machinery and equipment, which takes place bi-annually in Hanover, Germany. Feedback from dealers and customers collected from the previous edition of Agritechnica was taken into account when designing this new tractor series, making the “Machine of the Year” win of even greater satisfaction and significance to the brand.

A new model from Case IH, the Optum CVX is manufactured at the brand’s EMEA headquarters and plant in St. Valentin, Austria.

This recognition comes just a few weeks after the first production models rolled off the assembly line and therefore serves as the first affirmation of the product’s strong impression on the industry.

“We are pleased that all the work and the efforts of our whole team have received such resounding appreciation. This new range was developed according to the requirements of our customers in Europe, so we particularly appreciate that the members of the “Machine of the Year” jury have such a high opinion of the Optum CVX”, commented Andreas Klauser, BrandPresident of Case IH and a member of the CNH Industrial Group Executive Council.

IRISH TRACTOR & AGRI

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Hundreds of cows can now be milked in one hour

It’s all about the cow 6

CONTACT DETAILS ElectroMech Agri Limited 7 Tulnagall Rd Donaghmore Dungannon Co Tyrone, BT70 3LR

Tel: 028 8776 7376 Fax: 028 8776 7034 Email: info@electromechagri.com

IRISH TRACTOR & AGRI

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Gary and Jon McLean receive an award for the best trade stand

Electro Mech have over 30 years of experience

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hese days farmers are way more conscious about animal welfare. This sees livestock receiving the proper feeds, being enclosed in a safe environment when necessary and of course for dairy farmers, the milking parlour is an area which has become a more stress free location.

Milking parlours have changed dramatically over the years as gone are the days of just milking a couple of cows IRISH TRACTOR & AGRI

at a time, to a situation where a farmer can get throughput up to 400 to 500 cows in an hour.

All the changes have been for the better for cows and indeed farmers as milk yields have increased considerably.

There are many different ranges of milking parlours, but one of the leading brands is BouMatic which is a global leader in the design, manufacture and supply of the highest quality milking systems and dairy farm equipment including milking parlours, herd

The rotary system is popular amongst a lot of farmers

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ElectroMech Agri

Best Wishes & Continued Success To

Best Wishes To ElectroMech Agri

We stock a full range of Imperial and Metric Bolts and Nuts, UNF, UNC, Grade 8.8, 10.9 and Stainless Steel Units 7-10 O’Neill’s Yard 18 Cookstown Road, Dungannon BT71 4BG

NI 028-87767981 ROI 0044 28 87767981 MOB 07774651232

Email: oliver-constructionfasteners@hotmail.co.uk www.constructionfastnersireland.co.uk

Best Wishes To ElectroMech Agri

Best Wishes & Continued Success To ElectroMech Agri, from

INDUSTRIAL AUTOMATION COMPONENTS Unit 28 Blaris Industrial Estate, Altona Road, Lisburn, Co. Antrim BT27 5QB Tel:+44 (0) 28 9267 4137 Best Wishes & Continued Success To ElectroMech Agri, from

8 Park Road, Dungannon, Co. Tyrone Tel: 028 8772 2139 www.asmaccountants.com

Associated Offices

Belfast I Dundalk I Magherafelt | Newry

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IRISH &

AGRI

IRISH TRACTOR & AGRI

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Milking parlours have advanced considerably over the years

management systems, milk cooling systems, dairy hygiene chemicals, udder healthcare products, hoof care products and dairy supplies and dairy equipment spare parts. Recognised for its innovative dairy farm products, BouMatic is dedicated to ensuring that dairy farm producers throughout the world have the ability to produce the highest quality milk

most efficiently, profitably and responsibly.

The main distributor for BouMatic in Northern Ireland is ElectroMech Agri Ltd and for this month’s edition of Irish Tractor & Agri, we profile Tyrone based company and speak to company MD Gary McLean about the success of the business.

BouMatic are one of the leading providers of Milking Parlours in the world IRISH TRACTOR & AGRI

Twenty five years ago, Gary’s father Jim began dealing in milking parlour equipment and over the years the business and indeed the customer base has grown considerably. Located in Dungannon, ElectroMech Agri Ltd not only services the 32 counties, but also have a depot in Scotland.

The company offers an extensive range of services from sales to service and they are Ireland’s premier dairy, parlour equipment supplier, service provider and support centre.

“As exclusive BouMatic dealers for Northern Ireland, we also offer dairy farmers throughout the whole of Ireland the highest levels of service, maintenance and support in all aspects of modern and traditional dairy farming for both large and small herds,” said Gary.

“Our expertise in dairy farm management and systems ensures we provide Irish Dairy Farmers with everything they require to keep their farm milking, efficient, cost effective and profitable.

“We offer a comprehensive range of BouMatic Milking Parlours and equipment, plus full installation combined with our portfolio of additional dairy products and services such as

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Stall work, Slurry handling, Dairy chemicals & Hygiene (including Mastitis advice).

ElectroMech Agri Ltd employs 16 people in total with ten of those on the road at all times, servicing, maintaining and generally looking after the customers’ needs.

At their base in Dungannon, Gary revealed that they manufacture bespoke parts for the parlours to tailor them for the Irish market.

“The milking equipment products are shipped in from Boumatic, but we do manufacture custom products to enhance the portfolio, for the Irish market.”

Gary is adamant that the The new systems allow the best milk production from each cow success of the business is not only down to the service that they provide, but to the brand they are selling.

“BouMatic are renowned worldwide for being the best milking parlour on the market.

They are a US headquartered company, but their milking machines are sold all over the world.”

When installed a milking parlour can have a life span of 20 to 30 years and Gary stressed that there is generally little maintaining in them.

“A regular service of once a year Technology has played a huge part in the advancement of milking parlours helps increase the life span of the milking parlours. They are a the most important, complicated and often overlooked aspects quality product and the customer knows that, plus we are of dairy farming. always here to help in any way that we can. We stock a wide However, with ElectroMech’s many years of experience in the range of parts, so if anything does go wrong, we will have the supply and recommendation of dairy chemicals and hygiene milking machine up and running again in no time.” products, ensuring the herd stays fit, healthy and profitable is As stated, the health and welfare of a farmer’s herd is one of no more than a phone call away.

“Although a variety of chemicals are directly available from Wishing Jimmy, Gary and all ElectroMech Agri Limited, our at ElectroMech Agri continued success BouMatic dealer status means that we’re able to offer you the latest hygiene solutions from one of the worlds leading dairy suppliers at a fantastic price.”

Gary is delighted with the direction that the business is heading and he admits that they are busy at the moment, despite the volatile nature of milk prices.

“We want to progress as a company, but we will do so when the farming community do so. The milk prices have left a bit of uncertainty in the industry at the moment, but overall, we’re pleased with the way the business is going.”

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Fifty years of agri supplies - and much more besides!

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he Western Farming Co-Op Store in Balla, County Mayo stocks a comprehensive range of agri supplies (fuel, feeds, farming accessories etc.), building & construction materials, household, hardware and gardening products at competitive prices. To mark the 50th anniversary of Western Farming Co-Op, we met up with general manager John Conway to find out more about this multifaceted operation.

Western Farming Development Co-Op was first registered as an agricultural organisation on October 22nd, 1965.

Starting out as a co-op purchasing and fattening pigs, it has evolved into retail sales, farming and forestry, catering for IRISH TRACTOR & AGRI

The new store and yard opened up in 2013

farmers, builders, pet owners and members of the general public.

Construction of a spacious new store / yard began in May 2013 and this superb, state-of-the-art facility was officially opened by An Taoiseach Enda Kenny TD on November 11th of that year. The modern, user-friendly store stocks a comprehensive range of animal feeds, animal remedies, tools, fencing equipment, household goods, clothing, footwear, pet foods, oils & lubricants, diesel & kerosene and much, much more.

A vast stock is carried on-site and supplied to customers from all over the region, with a prompt store-to-door delivery service available if required.

Since the game-changing new store opened, Western Farming Co-op has continued to go from strength to strength, opened to the public from 9am until 6pm

Mondays to Fridays and 9-5 on Saturdays.

A professional and knowledgeable team – comprising John, Enda, Michael, Shane, Padraig, Tim, Alan and Niall - provides a top-class service to customers, assisting, advising and

CONTACT DETAILS Western Farming Co-Op Ltd.,

Lognamuck, Balla, County Mayo.

Tel: 094 9365033 / 9366591 Email: infor@westernfarmingco-op.ie www.westernfarmingco-op.ie

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supporting in every way possible.

When it comes to farming and agricultural products, Western Farming Co-Operative excels with the diverse range of products on offer. Various feeds are available to suit the needs of all farmers, including Grennan, Nutrias and Erin branded feeds. Agri fuels such as diesel and kerosene are available at competitive prices, while a fine selection of tractor accessories such as top-link stabiliser bars, bolts, filters, and shackles is also offered Other farming peripherals including shears, tapes, hooks, syringes, tongs and medicines (Noromectin, Levacide, Levafas pour-on solutions, etc.) are supplied, while fencing materials stocked include Cheeta electric fencers. Meanwhile, silage wraps and square bales can also be ordered from the yard at very reasonable prices. In a nutshell, anything a farmer could want, Western Farming Co-op Store can provide.

On the building / construction side of things, steel and timber are available from the yard alongside felt, galvanised iron, sewer pipes and fittings, PVC gutters, cement, concrete blocks and much more. Abrasives and ironmongery (door hinges, household fittings) are also stocked as well as safety equipment and lighting for machinery and vehicles. An authorised weighbridge is also available for use.

Reflecting on the genesis of the business half a century ago, general manager John Conway notes: “The co-op was started when farmer from around the county came together in 1965 The Co-Op offers services to a large catchment area

Western Farming Co-Op has a huge range of stock

and the first agri store was opened here in Balla in ’69. The coop has grown steadily over the years, with members from within a 20-mile radius.”

In terms of products stocked, John agrees that the store provides a bit of everything. “We have a very wide range of items, covering agri,, building, hardware and household,” he notes. “This includes feeds and fertilisers, fuel, timber, pesticides, detergents, animal heathcare and veterinary products, clothing, paints and painting accessories, power tools, fencing and gardening materials, electrical and plumbing products as well as general hardware. While the majority of our customers would be from farming backgrounds, we cater for a mixed customer base.”

Direct, gainful employment is provided to a team of six fulltime and two part-time employees – another vital contribution to the local economy. The team at Western Farming CoOperative also oversee a thriving 50-acre farm, including 40 head of beef cattle.

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Since the new store was opened to the public exactly two year ago, a significant increase in business has been recorded.

“Turnover has increased substantially over the past two years. In fact, it has risen by €1m since 2012,” John confirms. “This has been achieved by sourcing a wider range of products. We feel that we have most bases covered at this stage.

“The store is an inherent part of the local community and it’s more or less like

basis down through the years.” a family-run business. We know all of “Without their continued support, our customers and we understand their there’d be no point opening the doors in needs. They, in turn, know us. We are the morning.” here to provide them with the products It’s a classic, mutually-beneficial, and service that they require. To be fair, symbiotic relationship; one that will we get great support from our loyal continue for many more years – nay, customer base and we benefit from a decades - to come. large number of long-standing customers and their families, who have Wishing every success to been doing business Western Farmers Co-op with us on a regular

Noel McEllin Ltd Tree Services Manulla, Castlebar. Office:094-9032133 M:087-8109589

Wishing Continued Success To Western Farming Co-Op From

Tree Felling | Dangerous Tree Removal Tree Pruning / Shaping | Topping Crown Reduction | Chipping/Mulching Stump Grinding/ Removal Industrial & Domestic Site Clearance Ground Reinstatement All Debris Removed Off Site

Access Platform Hoists up to 80 Ft. Large and Small Chippers We also offer a range of other services including Round Baling | PIt Silage Slurry Spreading | Lime Spreading Hedge Cutting | Ploughing/ Seeding/ Rolling | Land Reclamation

IRISH TRACTOR & AGRI

Manufacturers of Dairy • Beef • Calf • Sheep Krunch Coarse & Cubed Feeds Pig & Poultry Diets also available A.W. ENNIS. LTD Maghera, Virginia, Co.Cavan T:049-8547588 www.awennis.ie

NM & CO Naughton Murtagh & Co

CHARTERED CERTIFIED ACCOUNTANTS

AUDIT, ACCOUNTS TAXATION FARM ACCOUNTS Contact us today at

Best Wishes To Western Farming Co-Op

Belcarra, Castlebar, Co Mayo E:naughton.murtagh@gmail.com

Tel:094-9032012

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A wide range of vegetables are grown

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Top of the range machinery is used

A family affair

he growing and harvesting of crops is big business in the coastal areas around Dublin, particularly in the north of the county where many people are involved in the farming industry.

For this month’s edition of Irish Tractor & Agri, we profile a family run farm that provide a variety of vegetables to both the Irish and UK markets.

GDL Harford is a family run business that harvests crops on 200 acres of land in the heartland of Irish farmland, Lusk, Co Dublin.

Run by three brothers Ger, Denis and Lorcan Harford, they farm and harvest the following crops as cauliflowers, broccoli, leeks, spinach, beetroot, celeriac, celery and parsnips.

Denis spoke to us about the process involved and he revealed that the family has been involved in farming crops all their lives and have picked up invaluable

Lorcan’s role involves planning the planting and harvesting

experience over the years, which has spent all his life farming and the stood them in good stead, especially knowledge he picked up was handed down to his sons. through some difficult times.

“We farm up on 200 acres of land here All their experience came from what in Lusk and we supply wholesalers they learned from their father who also including Total Produce. Our customer base would include 30 different suppliers,” said Denis.

“We have a big mixture of vegetables to harvest here, which sets us apart from other farms as many would only focus on one or two products.”

Denis revealed that each member of the family has his own area to look after and

CONTACT DETAILS

A wide variety of plants are grown

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GDL Harford Lusk, Co Dublin

IRISH TRACTOR & AGRI

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200 acres of vegetables are grown

he stressed that it is a system that works very well indeed.

“I’m one of three brothers who are involved in the business. Ger looks after the logistics, Lorcan’s role involves planning the planting and the harvesting of the crops and I’m the Operations Manager. We are all third generation farmers so it’s something which we have all grown up with and loved.”

Lusk is renowned for its fertile soil and the home of vegetable growing in Ireland, a statistic that Denis puts down to the land they work on.

“Good soil is key to a good crop, so before we plant any of our crops we test the soil to see what nutrients it contains.

We then add any nutrients to the soil that it is lacking in, in order to ensure our crops get all the nutrients they require.

After all, a happy crop is a healthy crop and as a farmer, there is no better feeling than to produce a good quality crop that people enjoy eating.”

Denis revealed that they take great pride in the vegetables that they provide and only the best quality food will leave the yard, while freshness is of the utmost importance to them. Any vegetable harvested will be with the wholesaler in no time.

“I’m very proud of the produce we grow and we work endlessly to ensure we provide our customers with the freshest produce we can, as quick as we can, from the field to your plate. That’s about as fresh as it gets!”

GDL Harford has always been a progressive farm and having harvested potatoes for over 100 years, there was no room for sentiment when the decision was made to stop growing them.

“We had been growing potatoes for over a century, but a few years back we decided that it wasn’t beneficial for us to do so anymore. We are selling low costs products, so we have to meet the supply in demand.”

Farming over 200 acres of land means that the three brothers need plenty of help to ensure that the operation runs IRISH TRACTOR & AGRI

Denis Harford helps run the family business

Crops being planted

The family farm is based in Lusk

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Best Wishes & Continued Success To GDL Harford

Best Wishes & Continued Success To GDL Harford Tel: 01-8433356 Email: info@prepveg.ie

Email: chris.bollard@goldcrop.ie

Best Wishes & Continued Success To GDL HARFORD, From

67 Dublin Street, Balbriggan, Co. Dublin.

Telephone:01-6901010 Fax: 01-8417527 16

IRISH &

AGRI

WOULD YOU LIKE YOUR COMPANY FEATURED

Call Barry now on 00353 (0) 46 9241923

IRISH TRACTOR & AGRI

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There is a wide variety of cauliflower produced

Total Produce is one of their biggest customers

smoothly and Denis is pleased with the work force that they have.

“There are about 16 people working here depending on the time of the year. Many of the lads who are here are here for years and they are very experienced at what they do.

Everyone knows their role and it works well for us. There are huge time constraints in this industry and everything has to work well.”

Of course, a lot depends on the weather and as we all know the Irish weather is as unpredictable as a rabbit with Myxomatosis as Denis stated that they have had their ups and down where the Irish climate is concerned.

“Yeah the weather plays a massive part in this. In 2010, we lost all our cauliflower due to the bad weather, but the last few winters have been mild enough. It’s just something that you have to deal with.”

Overall, Denis is very happy with the way the business is progressing, although a bit more stability in the price of vegetables would be one thing that he would like to see.

IRISH TRACTOR & AGRI

Cauliflowers are harvested

“The market is very volatile at the moment and we would certainly like to see more stability in the prices, but overall we are pleased with the direction that the business is heading.”

GDL pride themselves in growing fresh produce

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jordan agri designed_Layout 1 01/12/2015 11:17 Page 1

Speaking to farmers at the Maize Open Day

J

We’re for farmers

ordan Agricultural Ltd. in County Carlow supplies a full range of animal feeds, minerals (including the Maxammon mineral range for dairy, dry and beef cows) and chemicals as well as grass, beet and cereal seed. We caught up with founder / proprietor Eoin Jordan, who also provides a full crop consultancy service, to 18

find out more about the excellent range of products and services offered.

Jordan Agri Ltd. was established in 2003 and has since developed into a leading supplier of animal feeds, seeds, minerals and chemicals as well as all associated backup and advisory services. Founder Eoin Jordan comes from a beef and

CONTACT DETAILS Jordan Agricultural Ltd., Ratheadon, Leighlinbridge, County Carlow.

Tel: 059 9723518 Mobile: 086 3844606 www.facebook.com/jordanagriservices IRISH TRACTOR & AGRI

jordan agri designed_Layout 1 01/12/2015 11:17 Page 2

Jordan Agricultural Services was established in Carlow in 2003 IRISH TRACTOR & AGRI

tillage background, growing maize, beet, barley and some spring crops in addition to running a beef fattening unit in conjunction with his father Jimmy and brothers Mick and Niall.

Renowned as a maize crop specialist, Eoin studied Agricultural Science in UCD for four years and did his Masters with Dr George Keane in maize production under plastic and non-plastic. He then spent 18 months working in Midleton, County Cork for Southern Fuel and Farm Supplies (one of Ireland’s select few Maxammon agents).

“I forged strong links with Southern Fuel and Farm Supplies during that time and, when I came home in ’03 and set up my own business here in Leighlinbridge, I continued to deal with them, particularly for maize inputs,” he notes. When Eoin started out on his own, he’d already had a great induction into the business in terms of both education and experience.

He began to provide a crop consultancy service throughout Carlow as well as supplying an assortment of crops and seeds.

“We supply for winter barley, winter wheat, winter oats, winter oilseed rape, plus spring barley, wheat, oats and oilseed rape as well as beet, maize and grass seeds and milk powder etc.,” says Eoin. “Maxammon has become a big part of our business over the past three years, with customers treating their own grain.

We also supply our own treated grain to beef and dairy farmers.

“The Maxammon range of beef and dairy minerals helps farmers make the most out of their grain,” he stresses. “An animal is very much like a car engine and needs to be finely tuned. This mineral range helps farmers to produce their milk or beef much more efficiently and results in higher-quality yields.”

Jordan Agri has evolved into a one-stop shop for farmers’ needs.

“We supply all the inputs – seeds, chemicals and fertilisers – and I also provide a crop consultancy service where I work with the farmer on a weekly or ten-day basis. We have diversified the business significantly over the past three years to also supply minerals (bucket or bag), milk powder and the Maxammon minerals to go with feed. As crops can be seasonal, I’m now running

19

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Congratulations To Jordan Agri Celebrating Over 10 Years In Business Unit 4 a/b Fotapoint Enterprise Park, Carrigtwohill, Co.Cork T: +353 (0)22 34101 F: +353 (0)22 34102 www.tama-uat.ie DELIGHTED TO BE ASSOCIATED WITH JORDAN AGRI Best Wishes To Jordan Agri

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IRISH TRACTOR & AGRI

jordan agri designed_Layout 1 01/12/2015 11:17 Page 4

Eoin Jordan of Jordan Agricultural Ltd

a solid twelve-month business with a steady cash flow all year around,” the proprietor explains.

Jordan Agri is a close-knit operation.

Eoin’s brother Mick runs the office and oversees deliveries, which are carried out in-house by Mick’s father-in-law, Martin.

“I’ve taken on two reps – Liam Lacey and Tom Eustace - since 2013 to broaden our customer base and to supply a broader range of products to farmers, be they beef, dairy or tillage. We have had to match their demands with what we supply and that is how the business has evolved. We’ve taken on three agencies which are proving to be very successful – the Maxammon range of minerals; Lactalis, the French milk powder; and Watson Seeds from Scotland, who produce a very good range of grass seed, which we’ve been supplying for the last two years.”

IRISH TRACTOR & AGRI

Jordan Agri’s catchment area comprises counties Carlow, Kilkenny and Laois as well as parts of Wexford, Wicklow, Kildare and a substantial swathe of Tipperary. “Basically, within a 40-50 mile radius,” says Eoin. “I’ve been dealing with a lot of the same guys for ten-twelve years and have built the business up from scratch by providing them with the products and services that they demand.”

While anyone can source and supply a product, the exception level of technical service provided by Eoin helps his business to stand out from the crowd.

“We’ve built the business up by offering more than just products. We offer strong service and professional advice, walking the crops, advice on feeds and diets and alternatives to traditional methods of compound feeds – an option that has been given to us by Maxammon. At the end of the day, it’s all about finding ways

to improve the farmer’s bottom line.

“The farmer wants to become better at what he’s doing; he wants to make more money. They want to find better and more efficient ways of doing things and in Ireland they are very good at adapting to new chemicals or feeds or products.

There is nothing better than using homegrown feed and by converting that using Maxammon you end up with a very traceable and sustainable alternative to compound feeds. This treated grain, which can be grown on your own farm, will lead to an increase in proteins and butter fats as well as a live weight gain and very content animals. It’s a win-win situation for both the farmer and the animal.”

With a personal touch, an excellent range of value-added products and a superb back-up service, Jordan Agri is in a strong position going forward. But Eoin is not about to rest on his laurels: “You

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jordan agri designed_Layout 1 01/12/2015 11:17 Page 5

Best Wishes To Jordan Agri Eoin Jordan provides a brilliant crop consultancy service

have to try to keep building your business,” he reasons.

“We have some excellent niche products and the Maxammon, for example, is giving farmers a lot of options. We have a lot of customers who are at the forefront of the industry and are leaders in their field, but I’d like to find a few more key customers. You are always looking for new customers and I’m confident that we’ll find them as farmers are always on the lookout for new products that can increase their efficiency.

“I try to work in partnership with farmers as much as I can, to offer them advice on treating their feed and on turning it into beef or milk as efficiently as possible as well as consulting with them on how to best use the products.”

For as long as Jordan Agri continues to introduce its customers to innovative, cost-effective products and techniques, the ongoing success of this exceptional enterprise is guaranteed.

Best Wishes & Continued Success To Jordan Agri, From

Skateraw, Dunbar, East Lothian, EH42 1QR T. 01368 840 655 | F. 01368 840 677 See more at: www.watsonseeds.com 22

High performance DuPont Pioneer maize hybrids available from your local appointed Pioneer Dealer for 2016.

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Best wishes to Jordan Agri from

Freshford Road, Kilkenny, Ireland Tel: (056) 772 1705 IRISH TRACTOR & AGRI

ballywilliam designed_Layout 1 01/12/2015 12:32 Page 1

There are now just 56 mushroom growers in Ireland

A flourishing business T

here are many mushroom growers throughout Ireland with the majority operating under one of Europe’s leading horticultural producer organisations, CMP.

Brian and his wife Lucy have worked hard to make the business a success IRISH TRACTOR & AGRI

CMP was established in 1999 as a horticultural producers’ organisation under European Union legislation. In the 1990s the Irish mushroom industry rapidly expanded and by 1996 the number of mushroom growers peaked at almost 600. CMP was established as a cooperative by mushroom growers for mushroom growers, and to deliver stability to the market by improving quality of mushrooms, maintaining the consistency of supply and getting a sustainable margin for producers.

Former CMP CEO Brian O’Reilly operates a mushroom farm in Ballyporeen, Co Tipperary for the last 16 years having established Ballywilliam Mushrooms in 1999.

A Dublin native, Brian relocated to Co

Tipperary where he was a farm manager before deciding to establish his own business.

“I was at a stage in my life where I wanted to start work for myself and around this time a joint venture came about between Monaghan Mushrooms and the Tipperary Co-Op. So myself and my wife Lucy felt this was a great opportunity to get involved and the business has grown from there,” said Brian.

All the familiar mushrooms you see in the supermarket are grown indoors, all

CONTACT DETAILS Ballywilliam Mushrooms Ballywilliam, Ballyporeen, Co. Tipperary

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Ballywilliam Mushrooms are a real example of world class grower of premium mushrooms.

Brian’s success is due to attention to detail combined with first class husbandry techniques.

Best wishes to

BALLYWILLIAM MUSHROOMS from

MONAGHAN MUSHROOMS & CARBURY COMPOST

Tyholland, Co. Monaghan Tel: 047-38222

Units 7 & 8 Newgrove Industrial Estate, Ballinode Rd, Monaghan Tel: 047-38733 Fax:047-84832

IRISH &

Cashla, Athenry, Co Galway. Ph: 091 787221

AGRI

WOULD YOU LIKE YOUR COMPANY FEATURED

Call Barry now on 00353 (0) 46 9241923

24

www.monaghan-mushrooms.com

Best wishes to the continued success of Ballywilliam Mushrooms IRISH TRACTOR & AGRI

ballywilliam designed_Layout 1 01/12/2015 12:32 Page 3

decade now. They are all year round. During the growing highly trained and they process, mushroom growers rereceive excellent training create the conditions of a typical when they come to us first.” autumn morning. This is the time There are 56 mushroom of the year mushrooms flourish. growers in Ireland now and They carefully monitor and control although CMP do a huge the conditions inside their growing amount to support them, houses to create this perfect Brian revealed that a environment for growth horticultural forum has been The shelves are filled in growing established by stake holders houses with spawned compost, to enhance their voice at which is then topped with a layer government level. of peat. The mushroom spores “A number of stake holders begin to grow up through the involved in the fruit and veg compost over the next 3 or 4 industry have come together days. to try and get more help with The growing houses are regards price and costs. This equipped with the latest was set up a year ago and it technology in mushroom is a work in progress, but we production to ensure consistently are in it for the long haul. The high quality products. level of experience between All mushrooms are handpicked us is unreal and we feel that using a unique one touch picking our voice should be heard technique to keep mushrooms in more.” top condition. Mushrooms are Certain standards have to placed directly into punnets and be met and Brian stated that quickly cooled to help lock in Twenty thousand pounds of mushrooms are produced every week audits from Government freshness. All mushrooms are level and indeed Monaghan picked to a certain specification CMP ever since and I did ten years as a Mushrooms are a regular occurrence. and then graded to meet the standards director, while I was also CEO for a term.

“We’ve often had three audits in the of the customers. All expert harvesters It was a very interesting role, but one that one day. There are massive standards complete in the region of twelve-weeks was very time consuming also and I to be met and we have achieved them of training, to make sure that quality is decided to take a step back and we are all, but you can’t be complacent in this never compromised. just members now. industry and you have to maintain those All mushrooms are then transported in Brian played tribute to his employees standards. specifically designed refrigerated trucks who he feels have played a huge part in “The customers specifications are very to packing facilities. After the crop of the growth and success of the business stringent so we have to ensure that we mushrooms has been harvested, the over the years. produce exactly what they want. We are compost is reused as a soil conditioner.

“We have a loyal and efficient work totally influenced by the UK market The growing rooms are then washed, where the majority of our products go.” ready for a new growing cycle. force, many of who are with us over a “It is a complex process. We have eight tunnels and we produce chestnut mushrooms all of which go to Monaghan Mushrooms. Ninety per cent of these are exported to the U.K market.

“We produce 20,000lbs of mushrooms every week and we are looking to expand the business by going to phase III which allows us apply compost more often and therefore produce more mushrooms. We hope to double in production size by doing this.”

From very humble beginnings Ballywillam Mushrooms has become a very significant producer in the Irish market.

Brian admits that the backing they have received from not only CMP, but the Government through the NDP has been much appreciated.

“When we started out we were part of a small producer group in Tipperary. We joined CMP and have been with them since. I have been involved with the Mushrooms can be used for a variety of dishes IRISH TRACTOR & AGRI

25

tommy guing designed_Layout 1 01/12/2015 10:16 Page 1

A 40 unit rotary milking parlour

Setting the standards in farm buildings

T

ommy Guing Construction Ltd's prominence in the agricultural building sector has been gained through trust, service and a quality of workmanship which is the envy of its competitors. Their team of experts guarantee the skills required to deliver high quality buildings, on time and on budget.

construction company that specialises in the construction of agricultural buildings.

A family run business with over 35 years experience in farm construction, they are based in Co. Kildare and cover all of Leinster.

They specialise in all concrete forwork and laying of concrete floors and yards.

Whether it be slatted tanks, silage pits, grain stores or cattle sheds, they provide a full service from start to finish.

Established by Tommy Guing back in Tommy Guing Construction Ltd is a

26

1980, the Kildare-based company has developed into one of the province's most respected design and build companies.

Today, Tommy's sons, Tom junior and Alan, have taken over at the controls and they pride themselves on delivering a cost-effective product to a high standard.

“95% of our work is for farmers and the other 5% is focused around the industrial sector,” explained Alan who joined the family business in 1998. “Our main emphasis is on farm work. In the last few IRISH TRACTOR & AGRI

tommy guing designed_Layout 1 01/12/2015 10:16 Page 2

years we have witnessed a boom in the building end of the dairy sector and we have completed quite a number of milking parlours, silage pits and cubicle houses for our customers.

“We treat every job as if it's our own and every job, no matter how big or small, gets the same attention. We cover all of Leinster and a high percentage of

our work is for repeat customers. Word of mouth recommendations is the best form of advertising and we've been fortunate that our high standard of work has resulted in additional work.”

The following is a list of the construction services they provide and their most common types of work: slatted tanks, silage pits, milking parlours, cubicle beds, feed troughs, beef units, grain and meal stores, concrete yards, demolition and renovation of old buildings, all concrete formwork, cattle crushes and holding areas, rotary parlours and robotic parlours.

They also provide a service of structural steel buildings, whether you require a new project or just renovation of old buildings. Their rates are highly competitive while their standard of work remains extremely high.

In terms of Tommy Guing Construction's portfolio of completed projects, pride of place goes to a 40 rotary unit parlour in Ballindrum Dairy Farm which is situated near Athy, Co. Kildare.

“It's the biggest project we've done to date,” revealed Alan, “and Dairymaster use it as a showpiece for all their parlours. They've had clients come from as far away as France and China to view it and it's a job that we're very proud of.

It's an example of how a milking parlour should be done and the standard speaks for itself.”

A skilled workforce of four long-serving employees plus sub-contractors helps Tommy Guing Construction maintain its high standards. Plus, Alan and Tom junior are what you would describe as hands-on directors and their attention to detail is second to none.

No stone is left unturned to ensure every project, no matter how big or small, gets just as much attention and appreciation as those before and after.

Many of their customers are long term

CONTACT DETAILS Tommy Guing Construction Ltd Rahoonbeak Colbinstown Co. Kildare Phone: Tommy Guing 087 258 4623 Tom Guing 087 239 2564 Alan Guing 087 281 7222 Email: alan.guing@yahoo.ie Website: www.tgconstruction.ie Facebook: tgfarmconstruction IRISH TRACTOR & AGRI

Tom, Tommy and Alan Guing

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TG Construction From

Ray Lawler Best Wishes & Continued Success To

CONCRETE PUMPING

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Best Wishes To TG Construction, From

11/12 Basin Street, Naas, Co. Kildare P: +353 45 879 278 F: +353 45 871 356 www.conwayco.ie

Specialise In The Construction Of Agricultural Buildings

Slatted tanks • Silage pits Milking Parlours • Cubicle beds Feed troughs • Beef units Grain & Meal Stores Concrete yards Demolition & renovation of old buildings All concrete formwork Cattle crushes & holding areas Rotary parlours & robotic parlours

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28

IRISH TRACTOR & AGRI

tommy guing designed_Layout 1 01/12/2015 10:16 Page 4

Tommy Guing Construction has carved a niche for itself as farm building specialists

who have come to them time and time again.

“The Tommy Guing name is what gets us our work and we are very conscious of the need to protect that at all times. It would be very easy for us to just employ young labourers but we prefer to be hands on ourselves and by being out there on the ground we can guarantee the name and the work.

We're happy to continue going as we are into the future because that way we can stand over our work.”

Alan concluded with a bit of advice for any farmers currently contemplating any building work on their farm: “Even though the milk price is bad, now is a good time price wise because building costs and the price of materials are very competitive at the moment.”

Best Wishes & Continued Success To

TG Construction From

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29

boyne grove designed_Layout 1 01/12/2015 12:40 Page 1

B

Three generations of the McNeece family beside a shipment of Dan Kelly cider headed for the USA, l/r: Olan with his son Brody, John Paul a

oyne Grove Fruit Farm near Drogheda has been growing apples since 1962, continuing a family tradition which began in the Orchard County of Armagh well over a century ago.

Olan McNeece explains more about the family-run business which hand-picks about six million apples per year and produces Dan Kelly’s Irish Cider.

The

30

McNeece

name

has

synonymous with apple growing since the late 1880s when Olan’s great grandfather, Michael McNeece, planted a Bramley orchard as part of his small farm.

One of his sons, Patrick, went on to buy a farm of his own in Annaghmore, Co. Armagh and once again planted Bramley’s in 1933.

In 1962, one of his sons, Gerard, now 76, bought a farm on the Co. Meath side of Drogheda and planted Bramley’s just like his father and grandfather before been him. Stameen Farm is still family run by

CONTACT DETAILS Boyne Grove Fruit Farm

Stameen, Drogheda, Co. Louth.

Telephone: 041 9837333 Email: info@boynegrove.ie Website: www.boynegrove.ie www.dankellyscider.com

IRISH TRACTOR & AGRI

boyne grove designed_Layout 1 01/12/2015 12:40 Page 2

to Meath, he decided to exact retribution on the Royals by buying the farm! He was only 23 at the time and planted the first blocks by spade with help from his father. The rest of the orchard was planted by machine.

“The farm is about 200 acres in total, with 80 of that in orchard. The rest is divided between tillage and woodland. The pack house is really the heart of the whole operation. It has been upgraded over the years and houses a fully automated grading system and controlled atmosphere storage facility, which allows us to store apples for up to 12 months.

“Growing, storing and packing – that’s what we’re all about.”

While Bramley is the principal crop grown on Boyne Grove Fruit Farm, as many as 20 other varieties of dessert (eating) and culinary (cooking) apples are grown, including Grenadier, Howgate, Golden Delicious, Granny Smith, Ida Red, Discovery, Katy, Cox’s Orange Pippin, Braeburn, Elstar and Jonogold. The apples are supplied to fruit

markets and multiples as well as to pack houses and processors throughout Ireland. Boyne Grove Fruit Farm also produces a range of apple-based products, including cider, juices and vinegar.

During harvesting, which typically runs from mid-August to early December, up to 50 additional staff are taken on to help with the painstaking task of hand-picking around six million apples.

The orchard operations are based around a minimum of interference with nature’s way. A weather station is even located in the orchard to ensure that the apples are protected from disease. The McNeece’s also follow integrated pest management to allow natural predators to do away with harmful pests. Their controlled atmosphere storage is among the most advanced in the country, allowing them to store fruit better for longer using the ultra-low oxygen regime for fruit storage.

Boyne Grove Fruit Farm is involved in the Bord Bia Horticultural Quality Assurance and have a HACCP system in place. The company’s staff is fully trained in all areas relevant to its operations. The company insists on using only recyclable material for its packaging needs.

Stameen Farm provides a wonderful habitat for all sorts of wild animals and flower to thrive. On a stroll around the farm, you’re likely to encounter rabbits,

hn Paul and Gerard

his sons Olan, JP and daughter Fiona.

Olan’s children Brody and Amaia help out during school holidays. There is three full-time staff, including Henry Mallon who has been employed for the past 35 years. In fact Henry has seen four generations of the McNeece family work on this farm.

“My father was going to a match in Croke Park one Sunday when he saw the ‘For Sale’ sign,” Olan explains.

“Having played on the Armagh team that lost the 1957 All-Ireland minor final IRISH TRACTOR & AGRI

Freshly picked apples

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An old scales with Dan Kelly’s Irish Cider

hares, badgers, squirrels, foxes, pheasants, ducks, buzzards, cranes and many more animals, birds and insects as well as lots of different species of wildflower.

Boyne Grove Fruit Farm operates its farm shop on open days and during the Boyne Valley Food Series. There are millions of flowers, lots of wildlife, bees and bumble-bees for visitors to

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experience on open days. The Boyne Valley Food Series is an innovative food tourism initiative involving about 50 food and hospitalities in the Meath and Louth region hosting a calendar of around 45

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Ballymakenny Cross, Drogheda, Co. Louth T:041-9883620 M:087-2765220 | F:041-9883620 Email: ballymakennyfarm@eircom.net 32

Industrial, Commercial & Marine Refrigeration Installers Of Low Oxygen Equipment For The Apple Industry

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boyne grove designed_Layout 1 01/12/2015 12:40 Page 4

events each summer celebrating all that the Boyne Valley has to offer in terms of great farming and food production, cooking and good old-fashioned hospitality.

The McNeece’s introduced Dan Kelly’s Irish Cider to the market in 2013.

Currently available in bars and offlicences nationwide and exported to 6 different countries, the craft cider is named after Olan’s great grandfather, Dan Kelly, who drove a train for the Great Northern Railway. The main Dublin-Belfast line runs through Stameen Farm, The orchard at Boyne Grove Fruit Farm and Dan would have time the current express passes through. passed regularly driving ‘The Enterprise’ express train. He lived “We just had to do it,” Olan says of bringing Dan Kelly’s Irish to the ripe old age of 91, and the McNeece’s think of him every Cider to the marketplace.

“We have, along with our staff, always made some cider for personal consumption. We have the apples and we love cider, so it made perfect sense.”

Blended with Bramley and dessert fruit grown and handpicked on Stameen Farm, Dan Kelly’s Irish Cider is a refreshing and natural drink that is perfect for any occasion. The cider is free of acid, artificial colours and sweetners. The McNeece’s simply press the apples and let wild yeasts do their thing. They then add some juice before pasteurising to allow the crisp, fresh and refreshing flavour to develop.

Gerard McNeece checks out the blossoms IRISH TRACTOR & AGRI

The beautiful apple blossom

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johnny levins designed_Layout 1 01/12/2015 11:21 Page 1

2016 promises to be another busy year for Johnny Levins

I

Out in front

n the short space of three years, Johnny Levins has become one of the premier young horse trainers at the Curragh. Irish Tractor & Agri caught up with the Kildare native to find out more.

It’s commonly known that the horse racing industry is up there with the toughest to try and translate initial endeavours into success. Johnny Levins knows this better than most and has been pouring his heart and soul into training horses professionally

34

since 2013.

Since then, the results from the Curragh Stud stable have steadily improved and this past year, which was Johnny’s second full season, there were some triumphs to savour for the Kildare man and his dedicated staff.

It’s no stretch to say that J.F. Levins Racing’s stock has been on the rise and it’s no surprise to see when you consider some of the talent that they’re putting out on the track.

To put it plainly, Johnny has lived for horse racing since he was a teenager and has

CONTACT DETAILS Curragh Stud Melitta Road, Kildare

Tel: 086 1940241

IRISH TRACTOR & AGRI

johnny levins designed_Layout 1 01/12/2015 11:21 Page 2

One of the 28 horse at the Curragh Stud Stable

established a career for himself in his beloved sport, which looks set to span decades, all going well.

“I would have started working from when I was 15 with a local trainer and I just fell into it. I got a bit of a bug for it and went to England,” Johnny explained.

“I got an amateur license and it took off from there – I rode some horses and at one stage I was the second jockey to Charlie Swan.”

From summer stable worker to jockey, Johnny’s rise in racing grew rapidly, especially when you consider that his family has no real background in the sport as such.

“My father was an army man and my mam was a house wife and they had no real interest in horse racing. I just got a summer job helping out a trainer and fell into it. I’m a Kildare town man after all.

Kildare’s such a racing stronghold – we love it here.”

IRISH TRACTOR & AGRI

On the way up, Johnny had help from some notable names that he’d consider to be up there with the best in the business.

Brendan Powell, in particular, was a big influence on his career and considers the ex-Grand National winner to be up there with the elite trainers in racing.

“Brendan Powell was another trainer I worked under and I was always fascinated by the way he trained his horses,” said the Kildare man.

“I would have learned an awful lot from him during my time there and I was also an assistant trainer to Shane Broderick, so they were definitely two good men to be working under and they taught me a lot.”

Johnny’s jockey career started when he turned 18 and he’d ride his first winner within two years.

His time on the saddle is not something he dwells on overly, as he has been solely focusing on training horses ever since he hung up the whip.

“The biggest races I would have rode in were mostly Grade 3 races, so it was nothing huge,” he stated modestly.

Now his stables are opened for business and in the short space of two years the horses have been coming in and out by the dozens at the Curragh Stud. Next year promises to be the busiest to date for Johnny and co, with the good word about their stable having obviously spread.

“We’ve 28 horses at the minute and we’ll hopefully have a lot more on the way next year,” he said.

“We’ve four staff working there at the minute, including myself, and we’ve had runners in the Bronze Cup and we’re shortlisted for Dubai at the minute.

“We’ve had entries in the past and have been willing to travel as far as the US for some races.”

One of the most prominent runners to pass through the stable for Johnny has been ‘Aye Aye Skipper’ – a handicap

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winner at both Killarney and the Curragh.

Owned by a syndicate, Johnny took him on in May and since then the five-year-old has been blossoming on the flat surface.

"He has thrived since we got him,” said Johnny. “We had to iron out a few issues he had, but I think the main secret with him was just to freshen him up more than anything.

The cheekpieces helped him too and he has really turned the corner, winning two races in a week for us.”

There has been one crucial ingredient to the success of ‘Aye Aye Skipper’, according to his trainer, who says that it’s one that applies to each and every mare he takes on.

“Henry Cecil, the great flat trainer, once said that you need three things in horse racing – ‘patience, patience, patience’,” said the trainer.

“It will only be rewarding for you if you have the patience, if you have that you will get the results. If you’re holding on to that one horse and you believe in it, you have to have patience and the results will eventually come then.”

With back-to-back wins in August via their stable star, the results are definitely coming for Johnny but the burning question for all punters is who’s next to cross the finish line in first?

Predictions aren’t easy to get right every time, but there is one horse in his stables which stands out to him at the moment.

“His name is Lex Talinonis and it means ‘Law of Retaliation’ in Latin,” said Johnny.

“He started off in Grade 2 and he’s the most beautiful horse you can ask for. He’s a promising three-year-old and I’m very excited about him.”

Next year could be a breakthrough year for ‘Lex Talinonis’, after making his debut at the Group 2 Futurity Stakes at the Curragh in August.

Johnny is looking forward to 2016 with a lot of enthusiasm and plans to invest the money he made this year with a wise head.

“This year I’d a different agenda. We sold two horses as part of a syndicate and got €600,000 for them,” he said.

“That makes us much stronger for buying next year. 2015 was about building for next year in a lot of ways and hopefully we can hit the ground running in 2016.”

The way the form’s been going, the odds are certainly in his favour.

The Curragh Stud Stable

J.F Levins Racing has been up and running since 2013

Liam McDonald Best Wishes & Continued Success To

Johnny Levins From

HAY AND STRAW SUPPLIERS Tel:086-3715098

Knockshaugh House, Kildare Town, Co. Kildare

MICHAEL BARCOE

Best Wishes To Johnny Levins, From

Continued Best Wishes To Johnny Levins

TRANSPORT

31 Moorefield Drive, Newbridge, Co. Kildare Telephone: 087-294 3311

36

IRISH TRACTOR & AGRI

noel delaney designed_Layout 1 01/12/2015 14:50 Page 1

Still going strong after 40 years

F

Noel Delaney Agri Services are based in Kilmanagh, Co. Kilkenny

or the past 40 years, Noel Delaney Agri Services Ltd has been carrying out all types of agricultural contract work from its base in Kilmanagh, Co. Kilkenny.

Noel is joined by his nephew Edward Delahunty, who explains more about the family-run operation.

IRISH TRACTOR & AGRI

Noel set up his contracting business in 1975 to cater for the needs of local farmers.

Over the years, it has grown to provide a complete agricultural contracting service, including all forms of precision-chop silaging, corn, maize and beet harvesting, baling and wrapping, reseeding, dung spreading and excavation work. Noel Delaney Agri Services also supplies washed beet, maize and straw to farmers in the area.

Noel and Edward have a wide range of machinery to carry out your work quickly and efficiently, providing you with value-formoney and an alternative to investing in your own expensive equipment.

Edward, who came on board about 20 years ago, also runs a busy dairy and beef farm in nearby Freshford. With the help of his parents Martin and Jenny, and brother Eoin, he milks 115 British Friesian cows twice a day. The milk is supplied to Glanbia in Ballyragget. Edward believes the excellent working relationship he enjoys with Noel has been a big factor in the contract company’s success.

The knowledge, skill and expertise of its staff, as well as the quality of its equipment,

are other reasons why Noel Delaney Agri Services is a leader in its field. The business delivers the value and quality farmers expect from their agricultural contracting partner.

Noel and Edward have a fleet of eight tractors dedicated to their contracting work.

Seven are John Deere with the other being a Leyland 272 Synchro, which is used for rolling corn. The John Deere models are R150 (x2), R140, R210, 7920, 6610 and 6330.

Other plant / equipment operated by the uncle-and-nephew include a John Deere 77 forage harvester, a Volvo L705 loading

CONTACT DETAILS Noel Delaney Agri Services Ltd Kilmanagh, Co. Kilkenny.

Telephone: 086 2771487 or 086 2750398

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noel delaney designed_Layout 1 01/12/2015 14:50 Page 2

shovel, a John Deere 9580 combine harvester, a JCB TM300 loading shovel, a pair of Welger round balers (one combi), a new set of Krone butterfly mowers, front and back Taarup mowers, a Claas rake, a John Deere 740I sprayer, a JCB JF130 track machine, a Bunning dung spreader, two five-furrow Kverneland ploughs, a new three-legged sub-soiler, a Rabe disc harrow, a Riecam beet harvester, a 26ft tri-axle trailer used for drawing beet and five Dooley silage trailers (four 20ft and one 22ft). Two new Dooley 22ft trailers have been ordered for next year.

It goes without saying that all machines are upgraded on a regular basis to avoid breakdowns and downtime.

Reflecting on the 2015 silage season, Edward says: “We weren’t as busy as last year. The cuts were back because many farmers had silage left over from the previous year. I would put that down to the relatively mild winter we had.”

The company has a large and loyal client-base in the Kilkenny area, with most of their customers being beef or dairy farmers.

“Many of our customers have been with us for the last 40 years. They have struck with us through thick and thin because we offer a professional, clean, reliable and

flexible service. We are always prepared to go the extra mile to look after their needs.”

Noel and Edward are busy all year round with their agricultural contracting business.

In the early part of the year, the focus is on reseeding and dung spreading. The silage season, which typically runs from May to September, is a particularly hectic time for the team who will work around the clock to

Best Wishes & Continued Success To Noel Delaney Agri Services From

Continued Best Wishes To Noel Delaney Agri Services From

Agent & Transporter Of Livestock

FDC Accountants & Tax Consultants

DOLLAIR TRANSPORT

FDC House, Woodbine Business Park, New Ross, Wexford

Cullohill, Co. Laois Email: 1transstock@eircom.net 38

Tel: 051- 421115 Email: newross@fdc.ie www.fdc.ie IRISH TRACTOR & AGRI

noel delaney designed_Layout 1 01/12/2015 14:50 Page 3

keep their clients happy. Corn, maize and beet harvesting takes centre stage at the backend of the year.

The business partners, who have one full-time employee in Mario and take on additional staff at peak times, grow between 4,500 and 5,000 tonnes of beet every year which they wash and supply to local farmers. They also grow barley and wheat which is supplied to Charles R Wynne Ltd in Moone, Co. Kildare. A leading agriculture merchant with a second branch in Tullow, Co. Carlow, Wynne’s service all sectors of farming from feed to tillage. Their nutrition and

agronomy experts are always on hand to guide and advise farmers on feeding strategies and growing crops.

Additionally, Noel Delaney Agri Services supplies straw and maize to the local farming community.

“We won’t grow maize unless there is a demand for it,” Edward explains.

“Because it’s such an expensive crop to grow, we need to know at the start of the year the exact amount our customers need. They know there and then how much it’s going to cost them. Maize is a popular crop with dairy farmers in

particular. But for many farmers, beet represents better value for money.”

Edward, who is married to Lucy and is father to Conor (five) and Olivia (two), concludes by saying: “We would like to take this opportunity to thank all of our customers for their support down through the years, and we look forward to continuing to serve them for many more years to come.”

For all your agriculture contracting needs in and around Kilmanagh, look no further than Noel Delaney Agri Services.

Best Wishes To Noel Delaney Agri Services, From

Best Wishes To Noel Delaney Agri Services, From

DOOLEY BROS. ENGINEERING WORKS LTD. • All types of Agricultural Tractor Trailers • Jeep. Car and Van Trailers • Truck Bodies • Repairs to Trailers & Truck Bodies

Clonard, Ballycallan, Co. Kilkenny Tel: 056- 7769198 Fax: 056- 7769497

www.dooleybros.ie

IRISH TRACTOR & AGRI

SPECIALISE IN AGRICULTURAL & TRACTOR TYRES TYRE SUPPLY & REPAIRS TO ALL TRUCK & AGRI VEHICLES

Ballyda, Danesfort, Co.Kilkenny Email: philipireland@live.ie

Best Wishes & Continued Success To Noel Delaney Agri Services 39

john cummins designed_Layout 1 01/12/2015 10:28 Page 1

The superb mobile fleet comprises three fully-stocked units

O

An unbeatable tyre service

perating out of Tullaroan, County Kilkenny, John Cummins repairs, sources and fits a full range of tyres for all vehicle types, from passenger cars to the largest agricultural machinery.

He provides professional, high-quality, costeffective solutions and this is why John Cummins Tyres Ltd, has gone from strength to strength since its inception some 16 years ago.

Service and quality are at the very heart of John Cummins Tyres Ltd. The eponymous founder / proprietor offers his customers thoroughly-professional, punctual and value-for money solutions that will get them back on the road (or field, or quarry) as quickly and safely as possible.

John uses only the highest quality materials and workmanship and has developed a stellar reputation for himself as one of the leading tyre repairers / fitters in the greater Kilkenny area.

He has been involved in tyres for all his working life, accumulating a great

40

knowledge of the trade during this time. “I set the business up in 1999, having worked in tyres before that,” he reflects. “There was nobody in this area mending tyres or giving a service in this direction. People were getting onto me and asking if I’d be able to help them out and eventually I decided to just set up the business. It has worked out well for me and we’re still here today.”

John started off initially with one van and he had a second one on the road within a year. During the peak times of the boom, he had five mobile units on the road. At present, he runs three vans out on the road every day and all the indications are that he will soon add a fourth.

Regarding the mobile units, he adds: “They’re all Transits – the older Transits. I don’t like the new ones; they give far too much trouble. The older ones don’t break down or give any hassle whatsoever. I had them in Poland for a-year-and-a-half when I was doing a lot of work over there and had no bother with them.” The Kilkenny man has been back in Ireland on a full-time basis since September / October 2012.

Like many others, he started out from a

garage at the side of his house. “I then rented a facility in an Industrial Estate close to Urlingford before purchasing this premises on a half-acre site in 2005,” he continues.

The well-appointed, spacious facility is well stocked with tyres of all description, to suit everything from cars, vans and trucks to tractors, tankers, earth movers and diggers. Indeed, the agri market is a very important one which accounts for a significant percentage of John Cummins Tyres Ltd.’s overall business: “I do a lot of vulcanising / repair work on tractor and agri tyres that have been cut or

CONTACT DETAILS John Cummins Tyres Ltd., Tullaroan, County Kilkenny.

Tel: 056 776 9855

IRISH TRACTOR & AGRI

john cummins designed_Layout 1 01/12/2015 10:28 Page 2

John Cummins Tyres provides an excellent mobile service

damaged,” he confirms. “This is a very popular service as it can save farmers a lot of money and we attract customers from as far away as Galway, Nenagh, Tipperary town and Waterford.”

The power of positive word of mouth ensures a steady stream of new customers seeking to avail of John’s superb services. When it comes to large tyres on agricultural equipment, the difference in price between a repair and replacement can be eye-watering… “It could cost on average as much as €2,500 for a new tyre and we can repair it for around €150-200 and it will be like new,” John points out. “That’s a massive saving and it makes sense for owners to have the tyre fixed in this case. For example, Irish Cement in Limerick recently had a new tyre cut, which was only two days old. The tyre was worth €15,000 and we fixed it for a small percentage of that. Agricultural / plant tyres can get nipped or slashed at gates or coming in or out of sites and there are big savings to be made by having them professionally mended. I’ve been mending tyres since I started out and it remains a key part of the business.

“The agri side of things has actually been busiest for me this year. I’d say we’ve done around 60% agri / 40t% car tyres.

Especially when farmers are busy, they don’t really have time to be working on tyres themselves so we look after them and let them get on with their work.

“On the agri end of it, we do everything from tractors and slurry tanks to ploughs etc. – anything that moves. “We also do a lot of plant and quarry equipment.” Of course, some of these tyres are very, very big… “The biggest one I’ve fitted is 875x65x29. This isn’t like fitting a conventional tyre – I have a HIAB on one IRISH TRACTOR & AGRI

John’s business has gone from strength to strength over the last 16 years

of the crew cabs, which I use to fit those.”

John imports tyres himself directly from the continent and insists on only the highest-quality products. He stocks all the premium brands, including Bridgestone and Michelin etc., but also sources more affordable alternatives with the emphasis always on quality and safety. In my opinion, Barkley are making the best agri tyres these days and we fit a lot of those.

“We’re busy all the time, which is encouraging,” he comments. “The mobile vans are out on the road every day and we also have a lot of work going on in the

workshop, so we can’t complain.”

Customer service is first and foremost in this line of work. “We give the service and that’s the bottom line. When a customer is having trouble with his tyre, he wants to be sorted out as conveniently and painlessly as possible. If a lad wants a tyre fixed, then we will do it, no problem, and get them back up and running again. If he wants tyres replaced, we will do that too.

Whatever the customer wants or needs, that’s what we are here to provide. We’ll also give them professional advice on the best course of action to take.

Tyres for a full range of vehicles are sourced and fitted, while vulcanising is a speciality

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Dreelingstown Agri Hire Best Wishes To JC Tyres From

Silage | Baling | Slurry Spreading | Dung Spreading | Hedge Cutting | Fertilizer/Lime Spreading | Plant Hire Dreelingstown, Rathmoyle, Co. Kilkenny Michael 087-6445902 Email: michaelm66@gmail.com

KEOGHS GARAGE Wishing Continued Success To JC Tyres, From

Tullaroan, Co.Kilkenny

CAR - COMMERCIAL - AGRI Service & Repairs Hydraulic Hose Repairs Tel:056-7769550 Mobile: 086-2521898

RS TULLAROA O T O M L N L I H NCT & DOE Preparation Best Wishes & Continued Success To JC Tyres, From

Tullaroan, Co.Kilkenny Email: hillmotorstullaroan@hotmail.com Tel:056-7769266

T:086-2649944 T:086-2003449

O’Shea Plant Hire Best Wishes & Continued Success To JC Tyres From

ALL TYPES OF DIGGING WORK CARRIED OUT

Tullaroan, Co.Kilkenny

Contact Chris 087-2495750

Pat Costigan Agri Continued Success To JC Tyres From

Slurry Spreading Round Baling | Pit Silage Hedge Cutting | Spraying Trail And Shoe Ploughing & Reseeding

Johnstown, Co. Kilkenny

Contact Pat on 087-2520036

Dunphy Agri Continued Success To JC Tyres From

Ploughing • Tilling • Sowing • Corn Cutting • Baling • Pit Silage Dama, Ballycallan, Co.Kilkenny

Contact John on 086-2713867

WS Earthworks Ltd Best Wishes & Continued Success To

IRISH &

AGRI

WOULD YOU LIKE YOUR COMPANY FEATURED

Call Barry now on 00353 (0) 46 9241923

42

JC From Tyres

ALL GROUNDWORKS & EARTHWORKS CARRIED OUT

Contact John 085-2291333 27 The Stables, Kill, Co. Kidare

IRISH TRACTOR & AGRI

john cummins designed_Layout 1 01/12/2015 10:29 Page 4

Tyres are provided / repaired for all types of agricultural machinery

Another job successfully completed by John Cummins Tyres

“It’s all down to service. We give a very good service and we stand over our work. We fit a quality tyre and make sure that everything is right before the customer drives off.”

Four-wheel alignment and balancing services are also provided as well as a truck balancing service for commercial vehicle owners.

Gainful employment is provided to a team of four – John and his wife Valerie in addition to two tyre fitters. A 24/7 service is offered.

“You can get calls at any time of the day or night and you have to look after the customer. I never switch the mobile off,” John confirms.

“Generally speaking, the business is going very well and expansion is on the cards,” the affable Kilkenny man concludes. “I buy in bulk to keep the unit costs down, importing from the continent twice a month. When it comes to tyres, quality is everything. Some of them are too thin or have no sidewall and I won’t touch those ones. I go for quality brands that I know are going to serve their purpose and I stand over them.

No job is ever considered too big or too awkward.

John has particular expertise in agri tyres IRISH TRACTOR & AGRI

John has customers from all over the country.

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castleisland designed_Layout 1 01/12/2015 14:42 Page 1

The mart first opened its doors in 1959

L

Castleisland Co-op still at the top

ivestock Marts are a part of Irish heritage and an important section of the agricultural industry that have been running for many generations.

Ireland’s livestock mart sector today consists of over 60 co-operative mart centres across the country. Marts provide many services to the farmer shareholders, in addition to the primary function of a transparent method of selling and guaranteeing payment for livestock.

In recent years, we have seen the emergence of farmer producers coming together regionally to promote and cultivate marketing opportunities with geographically pasture-grazed stock.

Not only are Livestock Marts a place to sell and buy cattle, sheep and pigs, but there is a social aspect to it as well as many farmers gather to discuss the trials

44

and tribulations of their livelihood.

One of the largest livestock marts in the country in the Kerry based Castleisland Co-op Livestock Mart Ltd which has been the focal point of the Kingdom’s farming community and indeed surrounding counties, since it first opened its doors in 1959.

Castleisland Co-op was the first such mart to be set up in Munster and was established as a result of the foresight of a group of individuals who came together in the late 1950s to put a stop to the situation where livestock were sold privately and give farmers an opportunity to have stock weighed publicly and sold at public auction.

This farmer-owned co-operative sees farmers not only travel from within the county, but come from west Limerick, north and west Cork also.

With so many dairy and suckler farms in the region, the mart plays host to a top

class range of suck calves from all breeds, while some of the finest suckler weanlings can also be sought there.

There is a huge selection of store cattle and cows for further feeding, while finished stock are also a common sight at

CONTACT DETAILS Castleisland Co-op Convent Street, Castleisland, Co Kerry

Tel: (066) 7141247 Fax: (066) 7141881

Email: info@castleislandmart.com

IRISH TRACTOR & AGRI

castleisland designed_Layout 1 01/12/2015 14:42 Page 2

the mart.

It serves a vast hinterland, attracting cattle from the counties mentioned. The cattle in these areas are renowned for their quality and ability to thrive after purchase.

Castleisland Co-op concentrates solely on the sale of cattle and operates every Monday and Wednesday, while there are seasons dairy sales held on Fridays from November to May. “We would have suck calves and weanlings in on a Monday and then a general cattle sale on Wednesdays. This is generally adult cattle which includes heifers, cows, bullocks, bulls and sucklers,” said Castleisland Co-op Livestock Mart Ltd General Manager Richard Harnett.

“During the Spring time, we would hold a number of breeding bull sales and this would see every major breed covered in that.”

Richard revealed that major investment has gone into the mart over the years in order to maintain its mantle as being one of the best in the country.

“We are operating here since the late 1950s and all through that time, there

Cattle come from all over the province to the mart

has been a lot of investment into the mart, which would have run into a couple of million euro over the years.

“There are eight people employed here full time, while we would also have 15 part time staff who would come in on sales’ days when we are at our most

HALLISSEY

busiest.”

From its humble beginnings, the mart premises has continued to be enhanced, expanded and updated on a regular basis, delivering a first-rate service to buyers and sellers alike.

Quality livestock has always attracted

Best Wishes To Castleisland Co-Op, From

LIVESTOCK EXPORTS All types of livestock supplied Mark Hallissey

Mobile: +353 (0)87 2849167

FOSSA, KILLARNEY, CO.KERRY Tel:+353(0)64 6632544 Fax:+353(0)64 6635259 Email:hallisseylivestockexports@eircom.net

MICHAEL BROSNAN

Best Wishes To Castleisland Co-Op, From

49/51 Main Street, Castleisland, Co. Kerry Phone: (066) 7141296 Fax: (066) 7142288 E:info@kelos.ie www.kelos.ie

Agent for Water Pumps, Manus Dairy Equipment, Karcher Pressure Washers Best Wishes & Continued Success To

Castleisland Co-Op 10 College Rd., Castleisland, Co.Kerry T:066-7141246 E:brosnanpumps@eircom.net

IRISH TRACTOR & AGRI

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castleisland designed_Layout 1 01/12/2015 14:42 Page 3

some of the country’s best buyers to Castleisland Coop. Better marketing and merchandising of the product together with the modern facilities have ensured complete customer satisfaction to a very high level.

Of course health and safety and animal welfare are two important aspects of running the mart as Richard stated that no stone was left unturned in that regard.

“The department of agriculture have set regulations that must be adhered too and we are very much up to date on that front. Animal welfare is of the utmost importance and all cattle that are brought here are housed in a safe environment.”

With so many livestock trucks using the premises every week, Richard added that access to the mart is well controlled and operated accordingly.

“We would have many dealers here on Mondays and Wednesdays, so there would be a good few lorries around. In fairness to the drivers, they are all very experienced and they can get in, get loaded and move out fairly Best Wishes To Castleisland Co-Op, From

Castleisland Co-Op is owned by the farmers

Top livestock can be sourced at Castleisland Co-Op

promptly.”

Richard revealed that even though there are no plans to expand the mart further in the near future, they are dedicated to maintaining the high standards that they have set for themselves.

“We continually strive to improve our service to ensure our customers have the best market place to sell and buy livestock in terms of price, quality and choice.”

Castleisland Tyre Centre Best Wishes To Castleisland Co-Op, From

Market Cross Castleisland, Co. Kerry

Email: niallctc@gmail.com Tel:

087-2788816 46

The sales have been held on the same days for many years IRISH TRACTOR & AGRI

Rodney Clarke designed_Layout 1 01/12/2015 14:34 Page 1

Rodney’s immaculate machinery goes a long way

A

Rodney Clarke runs an exceptional agri contracting enterprise

superbly-maintained fleet of machinery lies at the heart of Rodney Clarke’s exceptional agricultural contracting enterprise.

We travelled to Bessbrook, Belturbet and met up with the personable Cavan man to discuss the history of his business and the extremely impressive fleet.

You have to take your hat off to Rodney Clarke. The Belturbet man has never bought a new tractor or machine in his life, yet he operates a magnificent fleet of equipment, all of which he buys second hand, reconditions and maintains / services / repairs himself. He invests so IRISH TRACTOR & AGRI

much time, effort and expertise into the machines that he has at his disposal one of the best fleets that an agri contractor could wish for.

The money that’s saved by not spending lavishly on shiny new gear with go-fast stripes is passed onto his customers in the form of substantial savings. In the end, everyone is a winner.

Machinery is very much a vocation for Rodney, an area he has been attracted to all his life. “I was always into machinery,” he reflects. “I worked in a local garage from I was able to walk and I also grew up on a family farm, so there were always tractors – Massey Ferguson Copperbellies and 165s - and machinery around the place.”

Rodney runs the family farm today and

he has also been operating as a contractor for approaching 20 years. “I started contracting in 1996 when I bought a hedge cutter. I started off doing mainly hedges at the start and then began doing round baling. I bought my first baler in ‘97

CONTACT DETAILS Rodney Clarke Agricultural Contractors Bessbrook Belturbet, Co, Cavan

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Rodney Clarke designed_Layout 1 01/12/2015 14:34 Page 2

and went from there.”

A comprehensive, prompt, reliable and cost-effective service is provided to a large number of customers around the border in the greater Belturbet, Cavan, Killeshandra, Ballyconnell areas and anywhere in between. “I do nearly everything,” he confirms. “Slurry, hedges, grass, aerating, muck spreading, baling – a bit of everything, really.”

Considering that his tractors and machinery are so finely-tuned and dependable, it’s hard to believe that Rodney effectively does all the work himself after sourcing quality, pre-owned equipment at a reasonable price. “I’ve never bought anything new,” he continues. “Since I started out, I’ve always bought second hand and fixed them up and kept them going. And that’s how I mean to continue. I never took out any big loans and that has stood to me.

I’d buy them cheap, get them going and gradually build up the stock. For a good few years, any money we got went back into the business and there were a lot of hours and long days.”

Rodney’s fleet would make any classic tractor enthusiast’s eyes water. He operates New Holland 8160, 8260, 8360 and 8560s (ranging from ’95 to ’00-reg) as well as an ‘01 ts115, two 7840s (1994 and ’95), a ‘93-reg 7740 and an ‘02 tm165. He also runs a 10145 Zetor and a 10540 as well as old Massey Ferguson 165 and 135s plus a Ferguson copperbelly 35 and a Moffet 390 tractor.

“The 101 45 Zetor was the first one I ever bought, with a circular saw built onto it, and it’s still working 100% fine today. It’s a 1990-reg and there’s not

Rodney has never bought a new tractor or machine

much can go wrong with them; it’s all manual. I would have no interest in replacing it with the new stuff. They are gone too computerised and I don’t like the common rail engines, which are giving people a lot of trouble. We’ll stick with what we know.

“I also have three silage wagons and have front and back mowers on the tm165 with another trailed mower, plus a round baler and wrapper, three slurry tankers, a Redrock loading shovel, a couple of rakes, a tedder and a Keenan orbital dung spreader. For the slurry, I use an umbilical pipe system and dribble bar.”

Rodney – who buys everything private - has gradually moved up through the years, always improving the general age profile of his gear. “Over the years, I’ve had a lot of older machinery, which I fixed up and then sold on. That way you can keep renewing your own fleet. I’m buying a bit fresher now. The freshest

wagon I have is an ’08, which I bought last year, when it was six years old. I also bought an Alstrong aerator last year, which is 2012-reg and is the newest thing I’ve ever purchased. It was a great investment because it’ll last a very long time.”

Economically, it makes perfect sense … being a dab hand at mechanical work coming in extremely handy, of course!

The straight-talking Belturbet man doesn’t know how he’d survive if he was buying new stuff: “I don’t envy having the repayments,” he confides. “We can do just as much with these and we have very small repayments. We’re not under the same strain as somebody who had over-borrowed and I never have to go to a garage, which is another saving There are still a lot of bills to be paid, though – men, diesel, parts etc. – but at least by cutting back on one of them it gives you a fighting chance.”

Rodney employs a couple of men on a

All gear is reconditioned, repaired, maintained and serviced in-house

48

IRISH TRACTOR & AGRI

Rodney Clarke designed_Layout 1 01/12/2015 14:34 Page 3

part-time basis and staff numbers go up to four during peak times. “During the winter time, I’d be working away at the hedges on my own,” he says.

With the family farm also to look after, there’s rarely a dull moment. “We have 60 hectares of our own and rent another ten. We do sucklers to beef and sheep, with roughly 100 head of cows and 50 ewes. My father still looks after the cattle and keeps an eye on the stock – only for that I’d have to cut back on the contracting. You’re always kept going and I suppose that’s not a bad complaint.”

While he’s ticking along nicely, Rodney is hoping 2016 is a better year than the current one: “It wasn’t a great year,” he concludes. “Farmers seemed to be just doing the bare essentials and with the way the weather was, it was a tough year. The weather spoiled it. You were doing nothing for long spells and then there was a mad burst and they all needed you at the same time. Compared to that, 2014 was a godsend – there was no pressure and you could plan your days and get everything done. We could do with another year like that.”

Whatever happens, Rodney Clarke’s trusty fleet will be tuned up and ready to roll into action!

Rodney keeps all his equipment in optimal running order

Rodney Clarke has provided a keen contracting service for nigh on two decades

MULVANEY’S

Some of the highly-efficient Rodney Clarke owned and operated fleet of tractors

Best Wishes & Continued Success To Rodney Clarke, From

Best Wishes To Rodney Clarke, From

DEAD ANIMAL COLLECTION SERVICE Kilduff, Redhills, Co. Cavan Tel: 049-4338133 Mobile: 086-3890479/8293284 Email: harefort@eircom.net

IRISH TRACTOR & AGRI

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Farmyard Design Engineer Simon Hennessy processes some survey data

Work in the mapping department being carried out by Siobhan O’Connell and Kevin Cashman

Sound advice

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Farmyard design ideas being discussed by from l/r: Bertie Troy, John O’Callaghan and Simon Hennessy

he farming industry has certainly moved with the times and as the technological age continues to develop so too does the way that farmer’s approach land and livestock.

There is certainly a lot more decisions in farming than was the case in the past and sometimes farmers may feel the stress of making such decisions on their own.

However, there is one such company in Ireland that is there to advice farmers in every aspect of farming and they are There is a lot more science involved in Mallow based company Grasstec Ltd. Established by Bertie Troy in 1996, the type of feeds given to both cattle and sheep as every detail is now scrutinised Grasstec Ltd is the leading dairy services down to the finest detail. provider in Ireland and the UK. Hailing

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CONTACT DETAILS

Grasstec Ltd, Kilpatrick, Ballyclough, Mallow, Co Cork, Ireland. P51 V5RK T: +353 (0)22 27610 W: www.grasstecgroup.com E: info@grasstec.ie

IRISH TRACTOR & AGRI

grasstec designed_Layout 1 01/12/2015 10:37 Page 2

An image of farmyard plans

from a farming background, Bertie completed college and then spent nine months in New Zealand where he saw an opportunity to set an advisory service to the farming community back home.

“We started out mapping farms for farmers and this was to draw up accurate maps in a user friendly manner.

Now our range of services include GPS farm mapping, livestock sourcing

Farm mapping being carried out by Denis O’Connor on Conor Murphy’s farm in Castlemanger, Mallow, Co Cork

specialists, infrastructural farmyard design, paddock & roadway designs, grassland consultancy, planning permission and the supply of a range of useful products for dairy farms,” said Bertie.

Grasstec Ltd now comprises of 18 experienced personnel there to offer their expertise to farmers throughout Ireland, the U.K, France, Luxembourg

and Belgium.

“Improving productivity is a challenge for farmers in Ireland and the UK. Grasstec Ltd offer a number of proven key services and products that enhance the productivity of modern farms.

Grasstec works with individual farmers to ensure that they are achieving their maximum potential from their farm.

“Our customer base has grown

The Livestock Service is run by from l/r: Pat Carroll, Aileen Carter, Noel Gowen, Eugene Casey IRISH TRACTOR & AGRI

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significantly over the years and in the U.K alone, we would have 500 customers and it is something that is growing all the time.”

The grassland consultancy service provided by the company is aimed at targeting the maximum potential for grassland management practices on farms.

“The service consists of regular visits by our consultant to the participant’s farm where the three steps of measurement, budgeting and management are put into action. The regularity and number of visits in the year is tailored towards the expertise of the farmer and all levels of expertise are catered for.”

Denis O’Connor in deep conversation with Conor Murphy about how best to map the latter’s land Grasstec Ltd’s Farm Mapping Service provides “We source, supply and deliver quality livestock for your accurate and user friendly maps to farmers. The majority of needs. Our livestock services focus on assisting farmers who maps that farmers have were first created in the middle of the are looking to source suitable dairy stock for their farm and 19th Century. Since then many changes to the layout of farms supporting farmers in sourcing Irish cattle for the UK and have occurred. The maps Grasstec Ltd provide reflect the European markets. All stock has been viewed and categorised current layout of a farm and all the measurements are adjusted by our experienced livestock agents. areas.

“Our on farm Livestock Services are designed for farmers to For those looking to increase herd sizes Grasstec provide a source and sell their livestock where both parties are happy service that will create a plan showing how paddock sizes can with the outcome. Sourcing the correct animals for your farm be increased to suit a future herd size. Improving access to is vital to achieve high levels of performance and in turn fields on a farm can be looked at in terms of adding new profitability. This is why with our extensive customer base we roadways. Also new water systems can be designed to support have access to large volumes of animals in Ireland and we the delivery of adequate water supply for increasing herd sizes. listen to your needs.”

Dimensions are provided to locate all new features.

Bertie revealed that there is a lot of repeat custom amongst Farmyard design is another service provided by the company. their customers and he stressed that it is their aim to deliver an “We assist farmers who are looking to expand their facilities excellent service to these clients. within the farmyard such as building a new milking parlour, “We are happy with the direction of the business, but we know adding additional cubicles & slurry storage. We help take the that we have to try and improve on our standards and increase guesswork out of what are the most effective solutions for any the business. Looking at the future, we are hoping to expand, proposed building project. There are huge benefits to planning but we will only do so, if it is the right decision for us and our any development on paper first before starting into any building customers.” work. A team of Civil Engineers who reared on farms create plans that will maximise potential and minimise cost over runs.”

Specialists In Farm Water Systems Grasstec go that extra mile for their customers and they even Supply & Install Or Supply Only Of Piping, take the strain of applying for planning permission away for the Fittings, Valves & Troughs farmer.

“We submit planning permission applications especially for Agricultural Projects. There are a number of benefits to this including understanding the planning process. We specialise in agricultural based planning applications. We help simplify the land application and we eliminate the stress with the For further information contact process. Our design and planning team work closely to achieve Padraig - 087-2165374 Tom- 086-8510872 successful application results.”

Moone Lodge, Moone, Athy, Co. Kildare Grasstec Ltd are experienced livestock agents who deliver cattle from farm to farm. This takes the hassle of farmers taking Best Wishes To Grasstec time out from their busy schedule to go to sales.

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IRISH TRACTOR & AGRI

rutledge designed_Layout 1 03/12/2015 11:28 Page 1

Baling is just one of the services provided

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Contracting at its best

gricultural Contractors have benefitted greatly from the evolution of technology, but there is one thing that cannot be surpassed and that is experience.

From a time when everything was hands on, the machinery available these days allows operators to get through at least ten times as much work on a daily basis.

Being able to know what a customer wants and giving them the service that they require cannot only be achieved through a modern fleet of machinery.

Agricultural contractors are an integral part of the farming industry and without them; many farmers would not be able to get their work done.

There are many overheads in agri IRISH TRACTOR & AGRI

contracting as machinery doesn’t come cheap, but in order to carry out their duties to the highest standard, nothing but the best will do.

There are many agricultural contractors on the island of Ireland and in Co Antrim, Rutledge Contracts services the needs of farmers in the Ballinderry area.

For the last eight years, Darragh Rutledge has provided a top quality service to a large customer base as the agricultural contractor has built up a reputation for reliability and efficiency.

Rutledge Contracts not only concentrates on silage harvesting, but other services include slurry, baling, hedge cutting and plant work.

The company's customer base covers just a ten-mile radius, but within that catchment area are a lot of clients.

Established in 2007, this family run business has grown over the intervening years and so too has the customer base as word of mouth has been the best for of advertising for the firm.

Darragh Rutledge runs the business with the help of his father David who farms over 150 acres of land with sucklers and cereals being their main area of expertise.

CONTACT DETAILS Rutledge Contracts Ballinderry, Co Antrim Tel: 07720888818

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Darragh decided to set up the agricontracting business and he admits that he is pleased with the progress they have made in recent years.

“We’d provide a wide range of services including silage, slurry, ploughing, hedge cutting, baling and other work,” said Darragh.

“Silage is the big thing during the summer months and there is a small window of opportunity to get the work done.”

The adverse weather conditions in Ireland mean that cutting silage is not a procedure that can be achieved at the same time every year, but when we do get ‘dry spells’, it is essential for agricultural contractors to move quickly.

To do this, they need a modern and efficient fleet of machinery that will stand up to the demands of this hectic period.

However, this year’s weather has certainly favoured farmers and contractors alike.

“We’ve been fortunate with the weather this year. I have two silage wagons and depending on the amount of cutting we have to do, we can split into two crews.

We would pick up on average of 80 acres of silage in a day, but we have picked up as much as 140-150 acres in a day.”

Having grown up on a farm, Darragh knows what his customers wanted and this helped him no end when it came to attracting new business over the years.

“We know what farmers want and that is to ensure customer satisfaction by ensuring the importance of getting the job done to as high a standard as possible.

“The main aim is to get in and get the job done as quickly as you can. With the weather being so unpredictable, there is only a small window of opportunity to make silage, so it is a case of working 24/7 during that period.

"Fortunately, this year has been not too bad weather wise and it makes life so much easier when you have a bigger window to work through."

Darragh added that having a top quality fleet and work force enables him to get through large quantities of work at one time.

“I have a modern fleet of machinery that which is very up to date and this avoids any unnecessary breakdowns that may occur. All the workers have a lot of experience in operating machinery and I have to say that there is a great crew of seasonal workers here."

Darragh revealed that the machinery is upgraded on a regular basis and he added that he receives a great service from the dealers that he deals with in this

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The majority of the customers are in a ten-mile radius

A track machine is available for hire IRISH TRACTOR & AGRI

rutledge designed_Layout 1 03/12/2015 11:28 Page 3

When the weather is good, the work has to be done

regard.

“I would buy my machinery from John McElderry, Kennedy’s of Ballymena and Erwins Agri Care and they all give a very good service.”

The customer base is within a ten mile radius of their homestead in Ballinderry and Darragh admitted that this had its advantages.

“There is little travelling to be done and

The fleet is kept in excellent condition

that allows us to get from one job to another in good time, so we can get through a lot of work very quickly.”

Another service provided by the company is fire wood as they have a fire wood processor in their possession and transform any large hedges into firewood that is then sold on to customers.

“We are kept busy most of the year, the silage is obviously the big thing during

the summer, but we also do a lot of baling and that is something that we are looking to push more. I’ve a Lely Tornado, which helps us get through a good bit of work.

“The hedge cutting and firewood keep us going during the winter, while we would do a lot of maintenance work and ensure that the fleet is ready for next summer.”

Darragh uses a state of the art fleet to carry out the silage harvesting

Best Wishes To Rutledge Contracts, From

103 Culcavey Road, Newport, Hillsborough, Co. Down BT26 6HH

t (028) 9268 2617 f (028) 9268 9522 e sales@northernexcavators.com

www.northernexcavators.com

IRISH TRACTOR & AGRI

SIMPSON Best Wishes & Continued Success To Rutledge Contracts From

CONTRACTS

SQUARE BALING - ROUND BALING SOWING - PLOUGHING - SLURRY SPREADING 70 Ballycreely Road, Comber, Newtownards, Co, Down BT23 5PX

Contact Ian: 0044 78 02494971

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T

“Animal welfare is a huge issue with us”

ake the stress out of transporting your pedigree livestock by contacting MD Workman Ltd. The welfare of your animals is the Monaghan based company's number one priority when it comes to their international livestock transport service.

Transporting live animals requires special attention and MD Workman always live up to their promise to ensure that, during collection and transport, animals are handled carefully without causing them unnecessary distress.

Set up in 2003 by husband-and-wife duo Malcolm and Hilary Workman, they are a family run transport company specialising in livestock transport throughout Ireland, the UK and Europe.

With their fleet of three Volvo Globetrotters, complete with the company's green and white livery, hey have been at the forefront of the humane transport of livestock and with their extensive experience as livestock hauliers you can rest assured of professional movement of your livestock.

They above all try to ensure that every customer they deal with is 100% satisfied and if there is any problem, large or small, they have always tried to resolve it to the best of their ability to the customer’s satisfaction.

Because offering the highest standard of service is at the core of MD Workman's business, Hilary Workman explained.

“We offer an import and export service, specialising in pedigree stock,” she outlined to Irish Tractor & Agri magazine. “We spend a lot of time with our customers, planning

56

and setting up jobs. It's a specialised service we provide and we take our time at it, making sure everything is right.

Because we value their custom, we will do whatever it takes to cater for their needs. Other hauliers don't do that.

“We pride ourselves on our good service and reliability, that's what separates us from our competitors.

We're fortunate in that we have a high number of loyal customers and a lot of business is repeat business and word of mouth referrals.”

MD Workman Ltd's vehicles and trailers are specially designed to ensure that the animals are kept in peak condition. They boast fully approved vehicles and three professional, trained drivers and a personal service with each carriage individually organised.

To further demonstrate their commitment to providing a high quality service to their customers, all their vehicles are satellite-tracked for security and accurate timing while all their vehicles have transit insurance cover.

The same careful attention is given to all animals in their care whether travelling short or long distances.

“Transporting pedigree stock is completely different to transporting pigs.

We are breeders of pedigree sheep, cattle and poultry ourselves, so we understand the business. Because the breeders invest

MD Workman are specialists in transporting live animals

CONTACT DETAILS M.D. Workman Ltd

Drumhirk House Monaghan Co. Monaghan Phone: 00 353 47 81463 Mobile: 00 353 86 8211847 0044 77931 25453 E-mail: hilaryworkman@hotmail.com IRISH TRACTOR & AGRI

MD workman designed_Layout 1 01/12/2015 10:58 Page 2

animals

IRISH TRACTOR & AGRI

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MD workman designed_Layout 1 01/12/2015 10:59 Page 3

Best Wishes To M.D. Workman

P&B Costello Pig Farming

Best Wishes To M.D. Workman

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Best Wishes To M.D. Workman, From

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&

AGRI

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MD workman designed_Layout 1 01/12/2015 10:59 Page 4

Their vehicles and trailers are specially designed to ensure that the animals are kept in peak condition

“The internet has opened up these markets but working across different borders is not without complications. It throws up a lot of challenges and cost is the biggest one.”

Not content to rest on their laurels, Hilary and Malcolm have plans to expand the business in the future. “We're currently looking to recruit drivers,” she revealed. “We're looking for skilled drivers who have experience in operating vehicles and trailers carrying a high value stock. We need reliable staff we can trust.”

If you would like further information about MD Workman Ltd's services, feel free to contact Hilary at the numbers above.

The Monaghan-based company are an approved long-distancelivestock transporter

a lot of time and money in their stock, there is extra responsibility on us to make sure their cattle or sheep get the best possible treatment.

“We bring in Limousine cattle from France to the UK and Ireland and the bulls carried can cost up to €30,000, so there is a lot of money at stake.

“As you could imagine, animal welfare is a huge issue with us.

We follow all the guidelines and regulations in this regard. Our purpose-built Pezzaioli trailers have automatic ventilation and automatic watering systems. They are cleaned thoroughly after every trip. We go out of our way to ensure each journey is as stress-free as possible for our livestock.”

As an approved Long-Distance Livestock Transporter, MD Workman has an extensive list of requirements to meet as Hilary outlines: “Each journey has to be approved by the Department of Agriculture in the countries we are travelling in.

“Most loading has to be carried out under veterinary supervision.

Having a GPS system on your trucks is another requirement for long-distance livestock transport. Under EU law, you have to be able to show rest stops and door openings. Our drivers also have to undergo livestock training.”

She continued: “What we've noticed in the last two years is that there is a large amount of movement of pedigree animals throughout Europe. People now sourcing pedigree animals from further afield and they are quite adventurous when looking to buy and sell their animals.

IRISH TRACTOR & AGRI

Best Wishes To M.D. Workman

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paul cloke designed_Layout 1 01/12/2015 14:32 Page 1

Putting the finishing touches to Tegral’s stand for the National Ploughing Championship 2015

F

“We do good buildings cheaply”

rom the construction of Agricultural Sheds and Storage Solutions through to Industrial Units, A Cloke & Sons Ltd's impressive portfolio showcases build projects at their very best.

A Cloke & Sons Ltd's background in agricultural buildings spans back to 1979 when Andy Cloke established the business and since then they have developed an envious reputation as a market leader within the Irish Agricultural Building market.

The Enniscorthy based business fabricates, delivers and erects all types of Agricultural and Industrial buildings.

In addition, they stock all types of steel: Angles, Flats, RSJ's, Channels, Plates, Box & Circular Hollow Sections, Mesh, Round and Square Solid; manufacture all types of Gutters, Flashings etc, Standard or One-Off's and carry one of the largest stocks of Flat Sheets in the Southeast.

They also supply all types of sheeting: Insulated Panel, Grant and Non Grant Agricultural Sheeting, PVS Cladding, Fibre Cement and Roof lights to match.

Today, Andy is joined in the running of the business by this three sons, Paul, Ciaran and Alan, and, speaking to Irish Tractor & Agri magazine, eldest son Paul revealed the secrets of their success: “We won't do a cheap building. We do good buildings cheaply!

“We'd walk away rather than do substandard work. Our theory is if it's not right,

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A new grain store

we won't do it. We only use the best material and every effort is put in to ensuring that we finish every job right. We are always proud of a building when we walk away from it.”

Paul, who joined the family business in 1986, continued: “It's a small market and we depend a lot on repeat business to stay running. We have many loyal customers, many of whom have been with us since the beginning. Naturally, we are always looking to pick up new customers as we go along but we appreciate the importance of maintaining our reputation as a company that our customers can trust.”

As a result, it should come as no surprise to learn that their services has been in demand in recent times and things can only get better as eligible young farmers start to secure funding under the first tranche of the Young Farmer Capital Investment Scheme.

The scheme has been highly anticipated by young farmers with grant aid of 60% available for eligible investments, such as the construction of new animal houses and the provision of nutrient storage facilities.

“We can't complain,” replied Paul when asked how business is going lately. “It has mostly been industrial work in recent times.

The last couple of years were relatively quiet in the agricultural sector but it is picking up. A lot of farmers were waiting on news of grants which are coming on stream now and that should result in a substantial pick up over the next couple of years.

“In general everything is picking up little bit, in the industrial sector too. The wait on the farming grants were holding the agricultural sector back but now people have decisions to make and we should see a spread across the sector.”

Work currently lined up includes various grant approved agricultural buildings, two structural steel and decking extensions to two hotels, fitting large scale solar installation to new and existing warehouses and a new industrial bodyshop.

What are the main challenges A Cloke & Sons Ltd face in the day-to-day running of their business?

“They're the same as they are for everyone else. Market prices the big thing at the minute. A big issue is that there are people out there prepared to do substandard work cheaply. That approach normally catches up on them but the

CONTACT DETAILS A Cloke & Sons Ltd Cloheadon, Enniscorthy, Co. Wexford, Ireland.

Tel (line 1): ++353 (0)53 92 55245, Tel (line 2): ++353 (0)53 92 55800 Fax: ++353 (0)53 92 55455 Email: andycloke@gmail.com IRISH TRACTOR & AGRI

paul cloke designed_Layout 1 01/12/2015 14:32 Page 2

Another new building ready for dispatch

An extension to a medical devices facility

problem is there is always someone else following behind them.

“As I said our policy is to do it right or don't do it at all and that stood us in good stead during the bad times.”

And you don't have to take Paul's word for that as A Cloke & Sons successfully gained CE approval recently. The aim of CE approval is to harmonise the safety performance of construction products across the EU and they apply as mandatory to anything placed on the market, whether imported or manufactured in the EU.

Since July 2014 Structural Steelwork and aluminium now fall under the CPR and therefore must carry CE marking to demonstrate that they comply with EN 1090-1:2009 +A1:2011 Execution of Steel Structures and Aluminium Structures – Part 1: Requirements for conformity assessment of structural components, which involves a number of steps that culminate in certification by a third party, known as a notified inspection body (NB).

“We've been working on that for a number of months and, as far as CE approval goes, you are now required by

law to be approved or to be in the process of getting approved to fabricate structural steel. Unfortunately, there is a large proportion of people not in it so it comes down to a level playing field.

“If enforced it's a good system but our

The framework for a new grain facility IRISH TRACTOR & AGRI

A completed grain facility

fear is that it will not be enforced properly and if that's the case it will have serious consequences for the people who went of the extent of implementing it. Basically, it means that all work has to be signed off by a Structural Engineer.”

The Cloke family also have another string to their bow in Stagecoach stage hire which is Ireland's leading portable and mobile stage hire company. They rent moveable stages to all counties in Ireland for festivals and other events. They can supply sound and lighting as an inclusive package with their stage units, and only used qualified and experienced personnel.

“Almost 20 years ago we became aware of the need for mobile outdoor stages in Ireland to cater for the growing amount for festivals and events. Scaffold and built-up stages are slow to erect and disassemble.

Curtainside artic trailers are unprofessional looking, and have serious electrical and other safety risks.

“With this in mind we designed and built our own first purpose made stage unit. Its overall length is 12.2 meters. With an ever increasing market we decided to build 3

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more units: 2 are 12.2 meters in lenght, and the other is 9 meters long. Since expanding our range we have hired our stages in every county in Ireland. Our fleet includes three tractor units in addition to our four stages.�

If you require any assistance with your requirements, feel free to contact Paul and the team at A Cloke & Sons Ltd at the numbers above.

Best Wishes To A Cloke & Sons, From

A new three storey staircase for an industrial building

Part of the workshop and store area with the fleet

PE Cert & Training Solutions

PE Cert & Training, Dublin Rd, Portlaoise, Co.Laois

Tel:057-8635318 Mobile: 087-9426081 E: percertandtrain@gmail.com www.percertandtrain.com

A new machinery shed

For all your Structural Steel EN1090 CE Marking

Continued Best Wishes To A Cloke & Sons Best Wishes To A Cloke & Sons, From

Commercial Vehicle,Industrial & Agricultural Paints IK&2K Primers & Finishes • Metallic Basecoats and Lacquers Oxides & Machinery Enamels Tullamore, Co. Offaly

Telephone:057- 9351583 NATIONWIDE DELIVERY www.castlepaints.ie 62

30 Years

In Business Est 1985

IRISH TRACTOR & AGRI

Craig Farm designed_Layout 1 01/12/2015 14:58 Page 1

The farm fleet is made up of nine tractors and four teleporters

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A family affair

he Craig family have been now, so Irish Tractor & Agri felt it some 400 acres of land dedicated to its farming from their base up was time to catch up with a continued growth. They also have between 100 and 200 acres dedicated to in Newtowncunningham, Co member of the clan. potato growth.

Donegal for a quarter of a century

From right to left are Ian Craig’s wife and children: Myrna, Thomas and Abbie IRISH TRACTOR & AGRI

Farming and family is a combination has always gone hand in hand together in this country like no other and for 50 years now the Craig family have been making it work with a certain degree of success.

Since taking over the reins of the business from their father, Ian Craig and his brothers have been endeavouring to make sure that things continue to thrive for their farm in the midst of tough economic times.

Down through the years, the Craig name has gained a glowing reputation for their beef and grain trade, with the latter being the primary focus in the family with

“We’re based here in Newtowncunningham, Lifford in Co Donegal,” explained Ian. “We’re established 50 years and my father (Robin) would have started up here first.

“There’s four full-time working here and a few others part-time along with that during the busy periods. I’ve two brothers working with me, Robert and Colin, and my father is still involved with the company as well.”

When Robin Craig snr first started his agri business in the mid-1950s with no land, he worked hard and with the help of

CONTACT DETAILS Craig Family Farm

Newtownmountcunningham Lifford Co. Donegal

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Calf to beef started two years ago

his sons he now built up the farm to over 800 acres.

Ian has been involved in the agricultural industry most of his life now, having left school at 16, along with his brother Colin, to do placement work in all different parts of the country before taking on the responsibility of his own agricultural outfit.

“We own about 800 acres of land and

rent another 500 on top of that,” Ian explained.

“Approximately 180 of those acres would be potatoes and then we have between 200 and 400 acres of grain, which would consist of spring barley and spring oats. Beef is just doing ok at the minute. We finish every year with somewhere in between 2,000 and 2,500 bulls, so beef is just about covering cost.

Grain, on the other hand, would be very busy for us.”

As things stand, the Craigs’ farm are currently killing upwards of 1,500 cattle on an annual basis and those high numbers go a long way in explaining why they have to employ up to four staff during their peak times.

The Craigs have earned a glowing reputation over

The Craigs’ farm are currently killing upwards of 1,500 cattle annually

The sheds at Ian Craig’s farm in Co Donegal

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The Craig family have been in the agricultural industry for 50 years now

the last two-and-a-half decades for the efficiency they carry out in their work and it has seen their numbers rise across the board – whether it be acres owned, cattle killed or grain purchased. The latter has become a huge part of the business and it’s no surprise to see Ian having invested strongly in his grain over the past 12 months.

“We purchased 1,800 tonnes of grain this year and we’d be crushing anything between 4,000 and 6,000 tonnes here,” he said.

“We started calf to beef two years ago as well and it has been going ok for us – we started it with 350 calves in 2014 and in 2015 it rose to 600. Hopefully that will pick up more in the next few years.”

2015 was a marked improvement on last year, according to Ian. A mixture of poor weather and businesses going under off the back of the economic downturn made things that bit more challenging but they’ve certainly felt a turnaround 12 months on.

The overall picture is brighter now than it was then and Ian is looking forward to 2016 with enthusiasm, having experienced some rare mild weather in October and November which helped to make up for a damp summer to some degree.

“Last year was very difficult with bad bull and potato prices. The weather was poor enough this summer as well, but it’s very good now at the moment,” said Ian. “Donegal gets a lot of different weather all year round and it has been a good improvement lately, but there are still a lot of crops that aren’t ready yet.”

Different aspects of the business see IRISH TRACTOR & AGRI

Craig Farm designed_Layout 1 01/12/2015 14:58 Page 3

Ian and his brothers kept busy all year round, however. Between cattle feeding, two mobile mills for crushing grains and boxing potatoes during the winter months, their services are demanded 12 months a year – which any agricultural contractor would be happy to report.

The farm’s fleet is made up of nine tractors and four teleporters and over the last 15 years, the Craigs have put much of their trust into two of the most reliable brands in the industry.

“We’ve a fleet of six John Deere, three

Some of the fleet in full flow

New Hollands and four teleporters here at the moment,” said Ian. “We had all Massey Fergusons in our fleet up until 2000 and changed to John Deere and New Hollands. John Deere are a reliable brand and even though New Hollands are a bit sharp on diesel we still like to use them for the work that we do here. We’ve bought New Hollands mostly in the last three years here.”

Ian’s brother, Robert, runs a potato chipping outfit called Craig Fresh

James Dunne Livestock Haulage

Best Wishes To Craig Family Farm

Chips, while the youngest brother Colin specialises in bulls under 16 months old.

Colin himself would have a herd of between 600 and 700 continentals.

Ian and his brothers will no doubt be hoping for more of the same busy times – across all fronts – again next year, and you can be sure that more heady times are ahead with all shoulders set to go to the wheel again in 2016.

Goudie Bros Transport Ltd

Best Wishes & Continued Success To Craig Family Farm

Drumatoland, St. Johnstone, Co. Donegal

Tel: 087-2544083

Best Wishes & Continued Success To Craig Family Farm From

Best Wishes To Craig Family Farm From

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Engineering solutions for over 150 years St. Johnston, Co. Donegal Tel: +353 (0) 74 9148234 NI: +44 (0)28 71342949 www.flemingltd.com 65

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David Pierce installing insulation

Sorting Merino at the company's plant in Belarus

L

Wool merchants par excellence

aurence Pierce (Wool Merchants) Ltd has been trading for over 150 years and is currently headed up by father-and-son Vincent and David Pierce. Based in Rathdrum, Co. Wicklow, the family-run business has expanded its operations in recent years with the acquisition of Ilyich Wool Washers Ltd in Belarus and wool intake points in Croatia and Greece.

farmers in the area.

In 1980, Vincent set up Laurence Pierce (Wool Merchants) Ltd and had a wool depot in nearly every town and village in Ireland, in addition to 20 wool depots in England. Since then, the number of sheep in Ireland has fallen dramatically, and the company has reduced the number of its intake depots accordingly.

Currently, there are 25 intake depots conveniently located around Ireland as well as a packing station in Tuam, Co. Galway, which is run in partnership with Originally established in the mid-1800s as an agricultural merchant, the company the UK-owned H Dawson Sons & Co now specialises in the sourcing, Wool Ltd, which complements the classification, sale and export of fleece wools throughout the world. The business had been based in Tinahely before Vincent’s father, Laurence, bought Walsh’s Hotel in Rathdrum and starting buying wool from the many sheep

packing station in Rathdrum.

Wool producers can bring fleece wool to these depots for weighing, inspection and usually payment on the same day. Each packing station handles approximately 1,500 tonnes of wool per year. Despite the reduction in sheep, Laurence Pierce (Wool Merchants) continues to have a very strong and loyal customer-base and remains one of a handful of wool merchants in Ireland.

Operating in the UK market for the past 14 years, the company runs another packing station in Bradford, West Yorkshire in conjunction with Curtis Wool

CONTACT DETAILS Laurence Pierce (Wool Merchants) Ltd Unit 1, Railway Business Park, Rathdrum, Co. Wicklow.

Telephone: 0404 46410 Fax: 0404 46452 Website: www.wool.ie

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Vincent Pierce

Bela IRISH TRACTOR & AGRI

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Shaking on a deal in Pakistan

Wool ready for shipping

Holdings Ltd, which is the largest wool merchanting and processing company of its kind in the Northern Hemisphere and the largest buyer of wool through the British Wool Marketing Board auctions system.

Approximately three million kilograms of wool is supplied to Laurence Pierce (Wool Merchants) Ltd in Ireland each year, and a further one-and-a-half million kilograms in the UK. Laurence Pierce (Wool Merchants) Ltd exports Irish wool all over the world.

Among the countries it trades with are Russia, Belarus, Ukraine, Pakistan, Croatia, Kazakhstan and China.

Irish wools have always been renowned for their unique properties which allow them to be used in carpet and construction materials alike. This has enabled the company to operate a number of spin-off businesses, namely Heather Wools, Sheep Wool Insulation and IMPET JV. Heather Wools was set up 40 years ago by Vincent to supply knitting yarn, patterns and accessories.

David set up Sheep Wool Insulation 15 years ago as a way to make use of black wool by turning it into insulation for

Belarus chief of operations Ivan Davydik IRISH TRACTOR & AGRI

houses. Used as a building insulator, the wool is an environmentally-friendly alternative to standard insulation. It also has great sound proofing qualities and has been used in Windmill Lane Studios in Dublin.

“Black wool is poor quality compared to other wool types, but it can be used as

thermal and acoustic insulation in buildings. It works as well on a house and it does on a sheep,” Vincent explains.

The company’s willingness and ability to diversify has been crucial to its success. Its range of products now includes everything from greasy and

Polly Lacey, overall chief of operations

John Collier and Grace Kelly, controllers of the UK operations

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scoured wools, knitting wools and finished garments to thermal and acoustic wool-based insulation products.

“When sheep numbers started to decline in this country, we had to come up with new ideas to stay in business. There are different grades of wool which we have established different markets for.

For example, about 90 per cent of our greasy wool is exported to China, with the remaining 10 per cent going to UK carpet mills,” Vincent says.

The family business’ expansion into the huge Chinese and Russian markets has been made possible by the purchase of the Ilyich Wool Washers facility in the Jasna and Dragon buying in Croatia Belarussian village of Ilyich seven years ago. because we’re after two or three good years out there. The First opened in 1963 with the objective of providing the light wool business has always had its ups and downs, so we’re industry enterprises of Belarus with a wide range of scoured used to fluctuating prices,” the affable managing director adds. wool, the facility reached its peak in the mid-1980s when it Between all of its enterprises in Ireland, the UK and Belarus, produced more than 10,000 tonnes of scoured wool per year.

Laurence Pierce (Wool Merchants) employs 250 staff. At its However, production fell dramatically thereafter until the peak, the main office and depot in Rathdrum employed a lot of takeover by Laurence Pierce (Wool Merchants), who took workers from the area, while the increased trade in the summer several measures to increase the load of the enterprise and when sheep were shorn also saw hundreds of students being achieve its economic stability. The facility employs 170 highlytaken on over the years. qualified specialists in the field of world sorting and scouring, As well as providing employment in the area, the longwhile the laboratory is equipped with the necessary tools and established company has been a great supporter of local equipment for determining the quality indicators of wool and organisations and events down the years. It is proud to support assurance quality certificates. the Rathdrum Rugby club, which is one of Leinster’s fastest Another Belarus-based business Laurence Pierce (Wool growing clubs.

Merchants) is involved in is IMPET JV, which specialises in knitting garment manufacturing and software development and design.

“Ilyich Wool Washers has a great name in China, which has become our biggest market. The Chinese economy is struggling a bit at the moment, but we can’t really complain

David Norris visits during his presidential campaign

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IRISH TRACTOR & AGRI

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There are seven tractors in the Ruttle fleet

F

Born to farm

or some, farming is second nature. It flows through the veins; it’s part of the DNA. Limerick brothers Alan and Shane Ruttle are two such individuals.

Although aged just 32, Alan has already accumulated decades of experience working the land, having started farming when he was a young boy. We travelled to Askeaton in County Limerick to find out more about Ruttle Agricultural Contractors and the family’s successful dairy / cereal enterprise.

“Shane joined him and then I came on County Limerick are synonymous with farming and contracting, providing an board. We have been at it all out lives; exceptional contracting service and also I’ve never done anything else. All I know overseeing a thriving dairy enterprise on would be machinery and farms – and the home farm. Like their father before them, Alan and Shane Ruttle have been immersed in farming all their working CONTACT DETAILS lives. Their knowledge is complemented by a true passion for the work and this is patently evident in the solutions provided.

Ruttle Agricultural Contractors Reflecting on how he first got involved in contracting, Alan notes: “My father, Askeaton Edward, was contracting back in the Co. Limerick 1970s and he gave it up for a few years to concentrate on farming – taking over Tel: 087 9188414 the family farm from my grandfather – but he got back into the contracting again in The Ruttles from Ballingrane, Askeaton, the late ‘80s.

IRISH TRACTOR & AGRI

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The contractor is every bit as skilled as the photographer!

Shane would be the exact same. I remember when I first started farming I was so young I couldn’t drive yet. For the first four years, I used to have a man driving me around! We have a third brother, Colin, who is also involved in match ploughing.”

Clearly, it’s a family vocation.

Everybody plays their part. “On the dairy farm at home, we have 85 cows, which are half and half spring / winter calving.

We milk all year around and all the milk goes to Kerry Co-op. We also grow cereal. My mother Marion is also involved in the farm, as is my wife Linda.

Everybody chips in and it’s a great team effort.”

With help at home, this frees the boys up to go out and provide one of the finest contracting services in the west! “On the contracting end of it, harvesting would be the main thing,” Alan continues. “We cut a lot of miscanthus [the energy crop, also known as elephant grass, which is synonymous with the Limerick / Cork region], starting in February / March and going right through the year.

“We also do whole crop and maize as well as a lot of slurry and reseeding and a bit of hedge cutting.”

To provide these services, the Ruttles operate a fantastic fleet of machinery, including seven tractors – mainly New Hollands (alongside Case and John Deere). “We got two new 151-reg tractors this year. We hire them for a twelve-month period and then they go back. That arrangement works best for us because you have a quality tractor all the time and you know your costs. And the drivers are happy driving them! We have three hired at the moment and we own the other four.”

Machinery-wise, Ruttle Agricultural Contractors operate a superb fleet of specialist gear including a New Holland FR9080 silage harvester; a Krone Big M; a Komatsu 320 loader; two Deutz Fahr combines; a McHale F550 round baler; three power harrows; a ring roller, grain crimper, trail sprayer; a one pass for sowing grain; a Moore Unidrill for stitching grass seed; a Samco maize drill; dump trailers; seven silage and

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Farming is second nature to Alan and Shane Ruttle

grain trailers; two vacuum tanks; a dung spreader; and a Hyundai 140 digger (doing land drainage and general farm work).

All the equipment is maintained in immaculate running order at all times, with most of the work carried out inhouse. “One of our men, Barry Naughton, is a full-qualified mechanic.

He drives in the busy times and he also runs the workshop, doing all our servicing and maintenance. We try to do as much as we can ourselves to keep the costs down,” Alan notes.

The catchment area covered is generally within a 15-40 mile radius. “For grass silage and general run-of-the-mill

Ruttle Agricultural Contractors operate a superb fleet of specialist gear

work, we don’t go any further than 15 miles,” Alan explains. “For maize and elephant grass, we’d go 40 miles and we could also travel up to 40 miles for whole crop and combine work.”

Alan is delighted to be able to rely upon a large number of repeat customers each year. “I’ve been harvesting since ’03 and we still have 99% of the customers my father had. We tend to have the same customers year in, year out. They stick with us, so we stick with them.

“It all comes down to providing as good a service as you can. It’s not easy and I suppose we all have our bad days, but you work hard to keep the whole thing

All the machinery is maintained immaculately at all times

Work is carried out within a 15-40 mile radius of Askeaton IRISH TRACTOR & AGRI

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superb A familiar sight in and around Ballinagrane!

going as best you can. We’re very lucky to have good staff on our books - and good seasonal staff as well - and they play a big role in keeping the wheels turning. We are fortunate too in that we are one of only a few tillage contractors in this region and that’s what we’re renowned for.”

While a combination of bad weather and low milk prices impacted negatively on the agricultural sector as a whole in 2015, the Ruttles remained relatively busy throughout. Alan is hopeful that next year will be at least as busy: “We’ll stick with our customers and hope that they stick with us,” he concludes. “We’ll keep working hard and try to keep the kit as modern as we can. There are no big changes on the way.

We’ll stick to what we know. We’ll probably modernise the equipment again and we’re also planning to gradually expand the dairy herd. After that, it’s all about working hard and providing a good service.”

Two things the Ruttles know all about! There’s plenty more life left in this impressive third-generation family operation!

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Eamon

Frank Clarke (Athleague)

irty-five years of the Kepak Group

T

he Kepak Group is one of Europe’s foremost food processing companies.

Celebrating 35 years in business in 2016, the Group has grown to employ 2,000 staff.

Manager is Jonathan Forbes, whose role involves managing the procurement team and the overall sourcing of livestock to the processing sites in line with customer requirements and specifications.

Jonathan is also responsible for the delivery of the Group Procurement Kepak has come a long way since the Strategy – sourcing, availability, pricing late Noel Keating, who had a butcher and projects. He is also responsible for shop in The Liberties in central Dublin, the Group’s Agriculture initiatives. formed the company in Clonee, Co. Kepak Procurement Team Meath in 1981. Kepak is still owned by the Kepak’s procurement team work with Keating family, with the family involved in farmers suppliers nationwide. the day-to-day running.

Kepak is a young, professional and Frank Clarke, Athleague, 0872551665 dynamic business that continues to grow Eamon Phelan Kilbeggan 0866076555 and prosper. At the core of this success Graham Murphy Clonee 0860431513 has been a commitment to developing & Brian Delaney Clonee 086/0288941 strong customer relationships through a Alan Connaughton – Cork 0868268614 partnership approach. The Group prides & Peter O’Keeffe Cork 086 7970023 itself on its dedication to innovation, brand Bertie Mannion- Athleague management and consumer focus.

0862572512 Kepak’s Irish processing facilities are Aine Mulvihill Kepak Group located in Athleague, Cork, Clonee, Procurement Kilbeggan, Ballymahon, Ballybay and Cavan (McCarren Meats), while it has Forbes comments that the procurement another facility in Kirkham, Lancashire. As team all come from farming backgrounds well as in Ireland and the UK, Kepak has and actively farm their own enterprises – a sales presence in all major EU and sheep, suckling and beef farms and this international markets. has proven a very solid foundation for all The Group’s Livestock Procurement of their chosen career paths. ‘We all enjoy

72

what we do and that’s really important’ Forbes reflects about the changes in beef farming, consumer demands and customer profile over the last 15 years and indeed how this impacts on the livestock procurement function“strategically this role is now very important to the business to ensure that our team are fully enabled, knowledgeable, trained, and capable to deliver for the needs of the business. The focus on development of procurement skill sets to meet a changed and expanding customer environment and portfolio has been paramount to support farmer suppliers and customers /consumers. Coupled with the practical farming background knowledge of the procurement team, we have also pursued personal development of our Procurement Officers through training courses- ECDL, Department Grading License, Animal welfare and handling courses, training on Customer specific audit criteria, Internal and External Technical and Commercial training, Health and Safety training, and more recently some of our Procurement Officers have completed Supply Chain Management training so that the team are fully enabled to deal off all tasks that arise within the role. LEAN Manufacturing is IRISH TRACTOR & AGRI

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Brian Delaney (Clonee)

Eamon Phelan (Kilbeggan)

assurance, weights, ages, conformation and fatscore, production guidelines to meet particular market specification is one of the tasks of the procurement team.”

“A major forte of ours has been Supply chain integration- Most notably we were first processor to establish slaughtering of Angus cattle with the Certified Irish Angus Producer Group back in 1995 and grain fed cattle in 1997 for supply to specific end customers. We still work closely with CIA to market and promote the breed and have established very efficient and coordinated pre booking opportunities for suppliers to maximise

Bertie Mannion (Athleague)

Alan Connaughton (Cork)

Peter O’Keeffe (Cork)

core to our business at Kepak and all functions within the business, including procurement, have received training in this area in order for the business to work with maximum efficiency, minimising waste and optimising customer value principles.”

“We also appreciate that a significant communication onus lies with our procurement team to our farmer suppliers and this knowledge transfer is also supported through our own Agri Initiatives and involvement at stakeholder level in other Industry Projects to ensure that guidance and important technical information transfer is being communicated to our farmer suppliers. Informing and supporting producers and cattle breeders to efficiently produce target market specification animals, to understand importance and value of quality IRISH TRACTOR & AGRI

Jonathan Forbes, Kepak Group Livestock Procurement Manager

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IRISH TRACTOR & AGRI

kepak designed_Layout 1 01/12/2015 16:00 Page 4

value and premium from their cattle.

More recently in 2013, we partnered with Irish Hereford Prime and have produced a very high quality product offering that consumers have responded very well towards. Kepak and Irish Hereford Prime also offer structured premiums year round. The Irish Hereford Prime Producer Group also has a field officer inspecting livestock on farm and offers a weighing service to farmer members.”

An innovative new project which Kepak are stakeholders in is the Beef Health Check Programme in collaboration with Animal Health Ireland. Kepak will be rolling out the project across the four Beef abattoirs this winter. The project aims to assist farmers to control losses due to liver fluke and pneumonia through capturing data on the line, analysis and reporting of abattoir data to farmers.

Liver Fluke and Pneumonia are critical factors on Irish farms and by capturing this data Kepak hope to assist farmers in making health related decisions on farm.

Forbes who also has responsibility for the Kepak Farm, which is located close to Kepak Clonee, comments that the farm is utilised to host farm events based around the key technical focus areas that all beef farms need to be concentrating on. “We highlight key look

Graham Murphy (Clonee)

outs, previous mistakes made on the farm, and the opportunities for improvement. We openly welcome groups to the farm to hear presentations from our own Vet, Nutritionist, Farm Manager, and also with regard to our tillage operation. Most recently, we welcomed over 230 Irish Hereford Prime members and looked at the performance of Hereford on our own farm – finished off by having a very nice Hereford steak sandwich, but we can’t promise that every day!”

Kepak welcome all suppliers to contact

their local site to speak with one of the procurement team for quotes, advice and information.

Frank Clarke, Athleague, 0872551665 Eamon Phelan Kilbeggan 0866076555 Graham Murphy Clonee 0860431513 & Brian Delaney Clonee 086/0288941 Alan Connaughton – Cork 0868268614 & Peter O Keefe Cork 086 7970023 Bertie Mannion- Athleague 0862572512 Aine Mulvihill Kepak Group Procurement

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The premises have been extended to cater for an increase in business

Southern sales soaring for McCullagh Farm Machinery

A

quarter of a century after its inception, County Fermanagh based McCullagh Farm Machinery continues to go from strength to strength. We dropped into their well-stocked, recently-expanded facility at Bellanaleck, Enniskillen and touched base with managing director Lloyd McCullagh to find out about the latest developments in this exceptional family-run business.

For 25 years, McCullagh Farm Machinery has been supplying customers north and south of the border with an unrivalled range of high-quality, value-added, new and second-hand agri and plant

76

machinery. Southern trade has proven to be the backbone of the business since it was established by father and son Robert and Lloyd McCullagh in 1990 – and this remains very much the case today.

“We’ve seen another huge increase in southern sales for Quarter 3,” the latter confirms. “The Euro has continued to strengthen as the year has progressed and this has had a significant impact on business. For example, in the first week of August, we sold in excess of €190,000 worth of machinery to Southern Irish customers.”

Convenient proximity to the border allied to the fact that McCullagh Farm Machinery source and supply an excellent range of equipment at unbeatable prices means that the

CONTACT DETAILS McCullagh Machinery Ltd., Derrylin Road, Bellanaleck, Enniskillen, Co Fermanagh, BT92 2BA. Tel: 028 6634 8213 Fax: 028 6634 8013 From Republic of Ireland: Tel: 048 6634 8213 Fax: 048 6634 8013

Email: sales@McCullaghMachinery.com www.mccullaghmachinery.com IRISH TRACTOR & AGRI

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Republic of Ireland market has always been much more than an afterthought.

“During the boom times, cross-border sales peaked at €5.5m one year. It’s a very important market for us,” says Lloyd. “The general talk in the South has been about the drop in the value of the Euro against Sterling. There was a 9% drop in January, which was a massive shift inside a one-week period, but it has gradually recovered some of that ground.”

McCullagh Farm Machinery went that extra mile to ensure that they held onto their customers in the Republic: “We held our Euro prices all year because our southern customers are too important to us and we didn’t want to lose them. An item that was priced at €20,000 in 2014 was still priced at €20,000 in 2015. There was no change in the price. While we lost money on that, it was worth doing because we showed out commitment to people who have been the lifeblood of the business for many years. The Euro price freeze has certainly paid off if our Q3 figures are anything to go by and we can see the southern business picking up even further in the coming years.

“We have also dropped our Sterling prices drastically because prices in the mainland UK have gone down in line with the Euro, which is now the dominant currency in Europe.”

There has also been a welcome pickup in the sales of plant machinery, with encouraging signs that the worst of the slump is now behind us. “Construction is becoming busy again,” Lloyd adds.

“We’re edging back into construction equipment because word coming down from Dublin is that there is demand again for good, clean used gear. We have quite a good selection of diggers etc. back in stock again and they are moving well.”

Another important recent development at McCullagh Farm Machinery saw the directors invest a large amount of money into extending the premises. “The expansion was finished in July, 2014 and increased the yard to a two-acre site, filled with machinery.”

McCullagh Farm Machinery have also taken on three exciting new agencies.

They are now an agent for Concept Flail Toppers, OBE low-centre-of-gravity tankers; and the new Lely Welger Tornado combi-baler, which has a fantastic ability to pick up Ireland’s heaviest crops to the lightest 3rd-cut grass.

Combining the proven RP 245 Profi fixed-chamber baler with the fastest IRISH TRACTOR & AGRI

Southern sales continue to soar at McCullagh Farm Machinery

Robert and Lloyd McCullagh established the business in 1990

The superb Lely Welger RPC245 Tornado

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wrapping system in the market place, the Lely Welger RPC 245 Tornado does not waste a second when picking up the crop, compacting it, transferring it to the wrapper and wrapping and discharging it. The time the Tornado takes to wrap a bale is so short that the output of the fixed-chamber baler can be maximised.

“We have demoed that machine and there is huge interest in them. Already this year we’ve sold a good few of them and the customers who bought them have been extremely happy,” Lloyd points out.

From tractors to lawnmowers and combine harvesters to front loaders as well as sprayers, hedge cutters, grassland equipment, power harrows, trailers, slurry equipment etc. etc., McCullagh Machinery is a one-stop shop for all farm machinery needs. The ongoing success of this business has been built on understanding – and meeting - customer needs, with a superb range of quality tractors, agri and plant machinery available to meet every budget.

Trade is split roughly half and half between new (including Kuhn, Malone, McHale, Taarup, Strautmann, Ifor Williams, Nugent, Belmac, Hi-Spec, Conor, Fleming etc.) and second hand machinery, with all used equipment leaving the premises in tip-top condition and carrying a warranty. McCullagh Farm Machinery Ltd. pride themselves on their reputation throughout Ireland for sourcing and selling quality equipment, with the ability to cater for everything from the most basic requirements right through to the discerning needs of the professional operator.

A huge increase in southern sales was recorded during Q3

A great range of new and second-hand equipment is stocked

McCullaghs have been providing an unrivalled range of machinery for 25 years

Nothing stays for long in the McCullagh Farm Machinery yard IRISH TRACTOR & AGRI

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Lynch Trailers’ state-of-the-art 10,000 sq ft manufacturing facility

Specialising in trailers since 1959

F

rom its well-appointed, state-of-the-art facility, County Cork based Lynch Trailers manufacture an impressive range of high quality tractor drawn trailers as well as providing a superb after sales and repair service of all trailer types including jeep drawn livestock trailers, plant trailers etc. We met up with DĂłnal Lynch to get an insight into this exceptional family business which boasts an exemplary track record going back more than five-and-a-half decades.

Reflecting on how his father came to

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A pair of heavy duty farm tippers with hydraulic rear doors awaiting delivery IRISH TRACTOR & AGRI

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set up Lynch Trailers, Donal reveals that the business began almost unintentionally in 1959 when Dan Lynch made a tractor trailer from the remains of a Commer lorry and advertised it on the Cork Examiner.

There were few telephones at the time, so the advert simply read ‘New 9ft x 6ft tractor trailer for sale, contact Dan Lynch, Coolea, Ballyvourney, Co. Cork’. As Dan used to say himself ‘the road was black with cars’ as people came from far and near to buy the trailer. Realising then that a huge demand existed, Dan began to manufacture various tractor trailers and the business grew from there.

Whilst non tipping flat trailers were the norm at the start, the tipping trailer was quickly introduced which paved the way for larger grain and silage trailers etc...Since then, without interruption, Lynch Trailers have been manufacturing trailers in Coolea village. Now known as Lynch Trailers, in times gone past they often referred to in the Cork – Kerry region as the ‘Coolea Trailer’.

In 2001, Dan’s son, Dónal took the reins and set about both expanding the product line and establishing Lynch Trailers as a national brand. For a while the company expanded into the smaller jeep drawn trailers as well as tractor drawn trailers. Dónal says ‘In my earlier years here, our product range consisted mainly of the smaller car & jeep trailer ranges and a lot of farm tipping trailers’. In 2002 the company manufactured its first tractor drawn aluminium cattle trailer and in the intervening years this product range has developed to be a very into a large part of the business. ‘By 2008 cattle trailers had become a significant part of the business but I still felt that our cattle trailer didn’t really stand out from other trailers on the market. It was at this stage that we moved to the all aluminium trailer and introduced features such as the seam welded floors, galvanised slurry tank, galvanised dividing gates etc. I wanted to differentiate our trailers from those of our competitors and we certainly succeeded in that. Although some other companies have since copied some features such as the galvanised slurry tank, the Lynch cattle trailer is still the only trailer on the market where slurry doesn’t come in contact with painted steel. The slurry only comes in contact with either aluminium or galvanised steel – both of which resist corrosion’ It is obvious from our conversation that the long life of his IRISH TRACTOR & AGRI

A 20ft beet, grain and silage trailer

A 16ft aluminium cattle trailer

trailers is a key design characteristic.

‘Yeah, I have traded in trailers that were made here over 40 years previous. I’d like to think my son or daughters will be able to say the same. ‘ Looking around the factory yard I notice an array of trailers ready for delivery including bale trailers and various tractor or farm tipping trailers. Donal says ‘We make a lot of bale trailers all year round.

The demand for bale trailers has increased significantly in recent years.

We also make a lot of farm tipping trailers. Our farm tippers are a good bit stronger than most other trailers of that type on the market. I suppose we have always specialised in farm tippers more than other manufacturers. I think most people now realise that a well made trailer is almost a lifetime investment.

Trailers with the right specifications that are well designed, well built, and well finished lose very little value over their

lifetime and continue to perform for decades’ The recent development of a brandnew manufacturing facility leaves the business in a very strong position going forward - a veritable one-stop shop for all trailer needs: “We had been adding to the old workshops as we went along but in 2014 we took the plunge and built a new state-of-the-art facility on the same

CONTACT DETAILS

Lynch Trailers,

Cúil Aodha, Macroom, County Cork.

Tel: 026 45044 Mobile: 087 2775752 Email: sales@lynchtrailers.ie www.lynchtrailers.ie

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site here in the Gaeltacht village of Coolea. It was a difficult project as we had to take down some of our existing buildings to allow the building of the new workshop to proceed whilst still trying to maintain production and more importantly - income!’ The original building that was built in 1966 was our main welding and fabrication area up to 2014, almost 50 years!’ The new building covers 10,000 sq ft and incorporates purpose built sandblasting and painting areas alongside a hugely impressive manufacturing workshop that’s neatly laid out into different manufacturing areas and is also fitted for an overhead crane. ‘It came to the stage that we just had to invest in our facilities in order to grow the business.’ Donal says that paint quality has become a big factor in recent years with all machinery manufacturers and he realised that any new building would have to include a sandblasting facility to prepare trailers for priming and painting. ‘Sandblasting is a dirty, expensive and time consuming process but the results are phenomenal. It is only when you see how clean the steel is after sandblasting that you realise how critical it is to the overall value of the trailers.’

The new building is highly insulated and is very comfortable to work in. More importantly it also provides a temperature controlled painting environment during the winter months.

As I arrived, a truck was just leaving the factory towing a large silage trailer. “We have developed an exceptionally good grain and silage trailer range over the past number of years and these are fast becoming a significant part of our business.’

Donal explained that

although development of this range began in 2008, it is only now – following investment in the new premises - that they are in a position to produce them in numbers. We’re very excited about this trailer range going forward because we have put a huge amount of time and effort put into developing this range. All the feedback we have received from existing customers over the past number of years has been extremely positive, especially in terms of trailer stability and ease of towing. At this year’s ploughing championship in Ratheniska, the positive feedback both from existing and potential customers was really encouraging. Customers especially loved the quality of finish on the trailer.

“All our trailers are CE-certified and comply with the new 2016 regulations for

A 26ft aluminium cattle trailer

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A 20ft grain trailer on 560 tyres with air brakes

agricultural trailers. To be truthful, we had to make very few changes in order to comply with the new regulations because most of the requirements of the new legislation were standard features on our trailers anyway.” Equipped with a Mechanical Engineering Degree, Donal is ideally placed to ensure the company’s products are compliant with all relevant legislation. ‘I concentrate on trailer design and sales, and we have 5 full time employees working in the manufacturing. Any business is only as good as the people that work within it, and I am very fortunate to have a good team of lads here that give it their all every day. Attention to detail is key, and the lads are just as committed to getting the product right as I am myself. We expect to hire two additional employees next year’.

There are two things in particular that separate Lynch Trailers from the chasing pack. Firstly, the quality of workmanship is really exceptional and compares favourably with even the best finished trailers on the market in terms of design, build quality, and finish. Secondly, all their trailers are surprisingly well priced.

By dealing directly with the end user, Lynch Trailers is able to consistently guarantee the highest-quality trailers at the best-possible price. ‘We have always dealt direct with the end user and I like that aspect of the business. I like to get to know our customers and try and match the trailer with the customer’s specific needs. I have built up some very good friendships with customers over the years. Dealing direct also keeps you closer to the market in terms of knowing what the market likes and wants. It’s the IRISH TRACTOR & AGRI

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feedback from your customers that shapes your products for the future’. This business is 100% customerfocussed and the back-up service is a vital part of that, he concludes. “We service all kinds of trailers and we keep a full stock of parts here as well.

When asked if the company can expand further without agents or nationwide distributors, Donal responds ‘Look around you, those two trailers are going to different customers in Cork, that cattle trailer there is going to Killimer, Co.Clare, the one next to it is going to Kells in Co. Meath. We have trailers on order at the moment for Cork, Kerry, Limerick, Tipperary, Offaly, Laois, Roscommon and Mayo. We deliver nationwide with our own truck. In time we may look at appointing a small number of dealers in Ireland but it’s not a huge priority for us at the moment. We have one dealer in across the

This 34ft tri-axle bale trailer made its way to Tipperary early in 2015

water in Wales and we will certainly be looking for more dealers throughout the UK in 2016.

So what’s next? Donal is very optimistic about the future. What else would be next only build more trailers, he says! A new website is also coming soon – not just packed full of information on their trailer products, but

Wishing Continued Success To Lynch Trailers From Structural Steel Buildings | Sliding Steel Gates Concrete Works We are also a supplier of flat packed structural steel buildings including accessories.

Droumree, Macroom, Co. Cork.

Mobile: 087- 947 1273 Mobile: 087-901 8699 Email: info@timlyonsengineering.ie www.timlyonsengineering.ie

hopefully full of relevant information for all trailer users! He tells me that there will be some exciting additions to the product range in 2016 as well.

Fifty-six years since its inception, Lynch Trailers is experiencing a second wind, a new lease of life so to speak. “I love it, it’s in my

blood. It’s not the easiest way to make a living and everyone connected with this business work exceptionally hard. Hopefully the next generation will carry it on again but it’s a bit early to tell yet’ said the smiling Corkman as he holds his 6-month-old son, Danny! Will he be the future? Only time will tell!

Best Wishes & Continued Success To Lynch Trailers, from

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CONTINUED BEST WISHES TO ALL AT LYNCH TRAILERS

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MOWING/ TEDDING/RAKING SELF PROPELLED HARVESTER/MC HALE FUSION BALERS SUPPLY & DELIVERY OF HAY/SILAGE/STRAW MUCK/SLURRY- TANK OR UMBILICAL/FERTILIZER SPREADING GRASS RESEEDING/HEDGE CUTTING

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The company HQ on Clonmel’s Cashel Road

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To be precise

lonmel Precision Engineering Ltd. provides unrivalled industrial and agricultural machinery manufacturing and repair solutions. We dropped into the company’s state-of-the-art facility on Clonmel’s Cashel Road to find out more about this exceptional, cutting-edge operation from founder / proprietor Michael Burke.

For more than a quarter of a century, Michael Burke of Clonmel Precision Engineering Ltd. has been providing agricultural and industrial machinery owners / operators with a superb parts remanufacturing / repairs service, putting his vast experience and unique expertise to maximum use and ensuring that equipment is restored to optimal running order.

Indeed, Michael’s uncanny knack for providing incredibly high-quality solutions precedes him; his reputation has spread

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far and wide throughout the agri and industrial sectors and his services are in big demand with farmers, contractors and other machinery operators the length and breadth of Munster and into parts of Leinster. Amongst other things, Clonmel Precision Engineering is synonymous with premium cast iron and cast steel welding solutions, facilitating the best machinery and parts remanufacturing, refurbishing and repairs service that money can buy. The bottom line is money: Michael’s ability to recondition equipment to a like-new status can result in substantial savings for his customers.

Reflecting on the genesis of his business, the Waterford man notes: “I set the business up in 1989. After finishing college in Dublin, I worked for several engineering companies, including a good bit of work on the continent. This included some big contracts for the likes of Shell and Eircom. For example, I worked on an injection system for Shell, which was fitted on their trucks here in Ireland, north

and south.

“In ’89, I started remanufacturing and refurbishing parts and machines for local farmers and contractors. We also do a lot of industrial work for pharmaceutical companies etc. It’s probably 50/50 between agri work and industrial at the moment. We can do literally anything.

Once it involves a machine, we’ll take it on…”

In the agricultural sector, Clonmel Precision Engineering Ltd. has the

CONTACT DETAILS Clonmel Precision Engineering Ltd., Cashel Road Industrial Estate, Cashel Road, Clonmel, County Tipperary.

Tel: 052 6125579 E: clonmelprecisioneng@eircom.net

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The parts remanufacturing / repairs service provided by Clonmel Precision cannot be bettered

capacity to fix or remanufacture parts for the full range of machinery, right across the board from tractors to combine harvesters, balers, ploughs, silage wagons, hedge cutters, tankers etc. etc.

“Anything you can think of, we can repair it,” Michael confirms. “We work for a lot of contractors and individual farmers as well as a lot of agri machinery garages.

We’d have accumulated vast experience of welding in cast iron and cast steel. We also do surface grinding and we’d do a lot of work repairing and refurbishing shafts and gears.

“We can either repair or build up the troublesome part or we can manufacture and install a whole new part. A large percentage of our work would involve hydraulic cylinders – we can make any part of it, repair it or make it complete.

“We can repair the housing and motors in vacuum pumps as well as working on everything from gearbox bearings to flywheels.” One of the many areas in which Clonmel Precision Engineering Ltd. has earned an exceptional reputation in recent years is the reconditioning, checking, balancing and repair of flail shafts on hedge cutters to make them complete. The feedback on this work has been incredibly positive, with most customers reporting that their repaired / reconditioned hedge cutters are actually working better than they had done when they were new!

IRISH TRACTOR & AGRI

Clonmel Precision have developed their own hedge cutter head

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SAS

Slievenamon Agri. Services

CELTIC HOSE AGRICULTURAL SPARES & HYDRAULIC HOSE

Drangan, Thurles, Co. Tipperary Richie White 086-1742587 John White 087-2596282 Martin White 087-7982479 E: richiewhitesas@gmail.com

Continued success to Clonmel Precision Engineering, from

JIM RYAN

Ballylynch, Waterford, Carrick on Suir, Co. Tipperary Tel: 051 645678

T Prendergast

Best Wishes To Clonmel Precision Engineering

Best Wishes To Clonmel Precision Engineering, From

Contracting Services Ltd

Agri Contractors LTD

Best Wishes & Continued Success To

Clonmel Precision Engineering Knockeevan, Clerihan, Clonmel, Co. Tipperary

Dangan, Golden, Cashel, Co. Tipperary Tel: 062-72238 Fax: 062-72692

Tel:052-6135113 Mobile: 087-2586115

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O’Reilly

Clonmel Precision Engineering From

Email: jrcsl@eircom.net

Meadowrock Ltd Best Wishes & Continued Success To

Clonmel Precision Engineering From

Engineers Ltd

052-6122915

CAHIR RD., CLONMEL, CO. TIPPERARY E:oreillyeng@eircom.net

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Not surprisingly, Clonmel Precision Engineering Ltd. regularly draws a steady stream of both new and repeat customers from near and far. “The majority of customers come from counties Waterford, Tipperary, Kilkenny and parts of Cork and Limerick but they also come from much further away, from all over Ireland really,” says the driving force behind the state-ofthe-art workshop.

Michael is a 100% independent technician and as such is not restricted in any way in terms of the machinery he can work on. “We do our own thing here and we can repair any make or model of machinery, old or new. It makes no difference to us.”

As well as providing an unrivalled service, Clonmel Precision Engineering Ltd. also offers a prompt one. “It’s normal for us to be called out at any hour of the day by customers in trouble and we always do our absolute best to keep them Better than new! It’s quite amazing what Clonmel Precision can do with a hedge cutter going. This especially applies to our qualified than anybody else to carry out the work. We are regular customers – we do everything in our power to get them professional and competitively-priced and our track record back up and running as quickly as humanly possible. speaks for itself.”

“We are prepared to go out and look at any machine and tell Michael points out that once you have a good grasp of the the customer what needs to be done. Once we’ve told them mechanics of machinery, the work isn’t as daunting or complex what the problem is, I’d be very confident that we are better as some might believe: “We’re working with the hardware, not the software, so things haven’t changed a great deal.

Once it’s metal of any type, we’ll look at it. It’s mostly metal and plastics that we work on.

“There are four of us working here at the moment, as well as my daughter, Gayle, in the office, and we’re fairly busy.

We’re seeing an increase in the workload again and we’re starting to do more cylinder heads on cars again, for example, which we weren’t doing much there for a while.

The market seems to be picking up.

“Same with the hedge cutters and agri machinery in general – we’re very busy. We have developed what I would consider to be the best head that you can put on a hedge cutter. We can manufacture a brand-new one to go on any hedge cutter, which is made from heavy material, balanced 100% and runs very smoothly and efficiently.

This head is of a very high quality and what we’re hearing back is that it is excellent in every way, with improved performance and also not as hard on bearings etc. We’re proud of the success of that product.”

In many ways, that part typifies the spirit and proficiency of Clonmel Precision Engineering Ltd. “We don’t copy anything. Everything we use is manufactured from my own experience and derived from what I’ve learned about machinery over the years.”

Michael also told us about another exciting new product that’s coming on stream in the not-too-distant future. He’s keeping the finer details under wraps for the time being but suffice to say that – some 26 years on – the future of Clonmel Precision Engineering Ltd. looks extremely bright!

Michael Burke established Clonmel Precision over 25 years ago IRISH TRACTOR & AGRI

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Daly Tyres’ headquarters in Rathkeale Industrial Estate, Rathkeale, Co Limerick

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Leading the way

elebrating 30 years in business, Daly Tyres Ltd offers a next day delivery all over Ireland and same day service to certain locations. General Manager Robert Nelligan told Irish Tractor & Agri all about the company which is headquartered in Rathkeale and an undoubted success story.

Seeing your company through four different decades is no simple feat, but then again the work which Eamon Daly has done with Daly Tyres Ltd since 1985 is something special.

After starting the business from scratch 30

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years ago, Eamon has saw his venture blossom to become sole agents in Ireland for tyre giants such as Cooper (USA), Kenda (Taiwan), Infinity (Dubai) and Rotalla (China). Daly Tyres are also now sole agents for Teco garage equipment.

On board with the company for 15 years now, General Manager Robert Nelligan has been a part of the day-to-day running of business from its headquarters in Rathkeale.

“We’re based in Rathkeale Industrial Estate, Rathkeale, Co Limerick,” explained Robert.

“The company was established by Eamon Daly in 1985 and there are 72 employees

CONTACT DETAILS Daly Tyres

Rathkeale Industrial Estate, Rathkeale, Co Limerick Tel: 069 64899

Web: dalytyres.com E-mail: info@dalytyres.com

IRISH TRACTOR & AGRI

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here across all of our retail outlets. We have two businesses here - the wholesale division was started 30 years ago and two years after that Eamon opened his first retail shop in Rathkeale and from there it has grown.

“By 2002 we had more than a dozen retail shops throughout Munster and we cover every segment of the market now and make every brand of tyre available to our customers.”

The central warehouse in Rathkeale holds stock of more than 120,000 tyres to serve the Irish market via next day delivery.

The retail side of the company trades under the name ‘Tyrestop’ and now has 19 stores located throughout Munster, selling tyres and doing mechanical work for the consumer.

This business is run on the model of a franchise designed in-house. The Group is Irish-owned and operated and source many of its products locally.

They employ local people and hope to continue, with the help of their customers.

Infinity is a brand which still remains popular for the company from back in the days when Robert first started with them.

“We started carrying their brand in 2000 and we’re now distributing them throughout Ireland,” he said.

“We’ve had a successful life with them so far and they’ve very good warranties with their tyres.”

Ten years on from first carrying their brand and Daly Tyres were travelling across the world to look into Infinity’s tractor and truck products.

“In 2010, we decided to take another look at things. A Dubai-based company owns Infinity but the first proto-type was produced in China in 2012, so we travelled out there to take look at it,” explained Robert.

“Ireland was the first country in the world to take delivery of the Infinity tyre, so we were looking for a way to test it.

So we knew the Shanahan Brothers, who are an agricultural contractor, might be interested. They fitted a couple of tyres for us and they were beyond our expectations, but for me the ultimate proof of their quality was when we tested them again in 2014.”

Over the last two years, the Infinity brand has proved hugely popular to the point

where it can be difficult to keep up with the high demand at times. Infinity is available through our Key Dealers located throughout the Country.

“So from 2013 to 2015 we’ve placed 5,000 tyres on the market,” said the General Manager “Price-wise they’d be around €2,000 per set for a small tractor and they got up to €3,500, depending on the size you’re looking for.”

He continued: “You can save anything up to €1,000 from what you would pay for the next brand up. We made sure to be extremely competitive with the price and it has got to a point now where we actually have a demand for them.

“We have 500 customers throughout Ireland and sometimes it can be difficult to keep up with the demand, which isn’t a bad complaint I suppose.”

Next behind infinity in popularity at the minute for Tyrestop is the Cooper brand, which leads the way across the Atlantic when it comes to 4x4 tyres.

“The Cooper 4x4 tyre is another popular tyre for us,” said Robert “Cooper is the number one tyre brand in the US when it comes to 4x4s. The ST MAXX is another specialist tyre that they produce which is popular. They are pulling up to 2.5 tonnes on the back and it can put up with the off road conditions.

“The only disadvantage is with 19 retail shops throughout Munster, sometimes you hear back that ‘the product is too bloody good’”.

Tyrestop have locations in five of Munster since counties and they are as follows: Abbeyfeal, Michael Street, Eastway Business Park, Newcastle West, Rathkeale (Limerick), Charleville, Douglas, Bandon, Pouladuff, Ballincollig (Cork), Kenmare, Tralee, Killarney, Listowel, Kilorglin (Kerry), Tulla Road, Ennis, Quin Road, Ennis (Clare) and Cahir in Tipperary.

“We run a delivery service which operates six days a week and it covers all 32 counties. We’ve six Mitsubishi trucks and four drivers that are working full-time,” said the GM. Tyrestop currently manages many National Fleet accounts and has a proven

Some of the company fleet IRISH TRACTOR & AGRI

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Eamon Daly employs 72 staff across all of his retail outlets

track record in delivering value for money with a top class service.

For the Fleet operators, they provide full coverage and support in all parts of the country. This service is for car, van and heavy commercials. They also provide a dedicated reporting which is unique to each fleet account.

The company’s products can also be seen on display every year at the National Ploughing Championships, which Robert sees as a perfect platform to display many of their brands and put people in contact with a Key Dealer in their area.

“We’ve been taking part in them for the last four years and it’s great to display your company at them. You get plenty of feedback from it and when you’ve a good product, the word tends to spread,” he said.

Eamon Daly started Daly Tyres in 1985 after studying architectural engineering at Moylish College in LIT. His son Mark has recently joined the company.

Continued success to Daly Tyres, from

Best wishes to all at Daly Tyres, from

3 Old Market Lane, Killarney, Co. Kerry Tel: +353 64 66 26398. Fax: +353 64 66 26408 General enquires: sales@jmacos.ie Accounts: accounts@jmacos.ie

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An exceptional service is provided all year around

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A first-class construction service is offered to farmers

High-quality agri contracting and construction

ormley Contracts provides an exceptional agricultural contracting service and also manufactures and erects agricultural buildings for customers across Fermanagh, Tyrone, Leitrim, Sligo and Donegal.

We dropped into their Belleek, County Fermanagh base to find out more about this multifaceted operation from founder / proprietor Jamie Gormley.

Fermanagh man Jamie Gormley isn’t going to be caught with all his eggs in one basket.

As the driving force behind Gormley Contracts in Belleek, he provides customers with a wide range of services that comprises excellent agri contracting solutions as well as the building of sheds, they carry out all types of shuttering and structural steel work.

Jamie, who hails from a farming background, has been contracting for 13 years. Reflecting on the inception of Gormley Contracts, he notes: “I’ve been at it since 2002. I was reared on the family farm in Belleek, where we reared suckler beef.

IRISH TRACTOR & AGRI

“In ’02, I went out on my own and started from scratch contracting with a second-hand Massey Ferguson 6180 and a Vicon 130 baler.”

From the get go, Jamie became synonymous with excellent baling and silage solutions and that still accounts for a large percentage of the overall business. Today, he operates a fleet of modern New Hollands in conjunction with a Welger round baler, Strautmann silage wagon, John Deere loading shovel, front and rear Krone mowers and a 30foot Claas rake.

For slurry, Gormley Contracts offers a 1000-metre umbilical pipe slurry system and also run two 2250 Abbey slurry tanks with sludge pumps. A number of other services are also provided, as Jamie reveals: “I also run a Spearhead 565 telescopic hedge cutter as well as doing dump trailer / low loader hire with two 14-tonne dump trailers and a 13-tonne digger with saw head and mulcher attachments.”

While the contracting end of the business is going from strength to strength, the agri building / shuttering / steelwork services also offered to customers in Fermanagh and the surrounding counties

mean there is rarely a quiet day for Jamie and his team!

CE-approved for all structural steel, Gormley Contracts provides a firstclass construction service to farmers and those in the commercial sector. “We build a lot of sheds and do a lot of shuttering,” the Belleek man notes. “We provide a full service from start to finish. We can take on a greenfield site and fabricate a shed to the customer’s needs as well as shuttering for slatted tanks, silage pits and retaining walls etc. We fabricate and erect sheds for both agri and commercial customers.”

CONTACT DETAILS Gormley Contracts, Dulrush, Belleek, Enniskillen, County Fermanagh.

Tel: 0(044)7765331881 Email: jamiegormley1@hotmail.com www.facebook.com/ GormleyContracts1

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Gormley Contracts build high-quality sheds in Fermanagh and surrounding counties

Between all aspects of the business, gainful employment is generated for three people full time as well as another three or four part time workers. “The contracting is mostly silage and slurry,” Jamie continues.

“I’m at it 13 years now and have a good, solid customer base built up at this stage.

I’m doing between 10,000 and 12,000 bales per year and up to 800 acres of grass. We go from midJanuary until the end of March with the slurry.

“We’re very lucky in that 95% of our customers are suckler beef men and the beef man is no worse off now than he was ten years ago. While the dairy farmers have been hit hard by falling prices, the beef man is still tipping away nicely.”

At the heart of the operation is an excellently well-maintained fleet of machinery and equipment. Jamie keeps the gear as fresh as possible and continuous investment makes sure that customers consistently receive the highest level of service possible. In 2015 alone, the fleet was enhanced by the addition of a Krone mower and a fresh New Holland tractor.

“I tend to source fresh second-

All Jamie’s tractors are maintained in excellent condition

hand tractors from England and buy all the machinery new,” he reveals.

Regarding his approach to managing the business and running it as a viable, selfsustaining commercial enterprise, Jamie says hard work and discipline have been the key components of his success to date: “I run a very tight ship. You have to be

efficient in order to offer a good service.

There are plenty of 24-hour days that go in during the peak season and you have to be prepared to do that.

“I’m fortunate, too, with the timing of the work in that we have a lot of silage that’s cut in the last week of May and the first two weeks of June and we then have time to do

Best Wishes To Gormley Contracts From

A round baling service that’s second to none

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Jamie Gormley runs a tight ship

the first cut of silage for the sheep men in early August before the rush of the second cut starts in mid-August.

“Of course 2015 was a hard year with the bad weather but you battle through it and you hope for better weather the following year.

“Thankfully, we are busy all year around and – between the contracting and building - I have a steady flow of income over the year now, which is important. If we’re not contracting, we are building and that allows me to keep the men on over the winter etc.

The services offered are varied and flexible

Indeed, I often find that winter can be busier!”

At home, Jamie also farms just over 300 acres alongside his father, James. “We keep between 180 and 200 sucklers. We kill around 25% of them and the rest would be sold as weanlings in the local marts,” he states.

Looking to the future, Jamie will continue to provide the same stellar service for which he has become renowned in the border counties of the north west. Further investment is also on the cards: "I am in

the process of getting started on the construction of a new purpose built 5000 square foot workshop to expand on our engineering services.

“I’m also hoping to buy a new digger in the near future to run the mulcher and the saw head, as the existing digger is tied up a lot of the time doing construction work,” he concludes. “At the moment, I’m trying to source a digger with high flow auxiliary hydraulics for the mulcher and saw .”

At Gormley Contracts, nothing is left to chance.

Continued Best Wishes To Gormley Contracts Fuels for commercial and domestic customers throughout Belleek and surrounding areas Outstanding machinery is at the heart of the operation

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IRISH TRACTOR & AGRI

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Some of the company’s superb fleet

GA Contracts are based in Cullybrackey, Co Antrim

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Reliable and efficient

elebrating 15 years in business, GA Contracts in Cullybackey, Co Antrim have been providing their loyal customers with an expert service to the point where they keep coming back. Irish Tractor & Agri spoke with Managing Director Geoff Aitcheson to find out the secret to success.

Making a success out of your company is never an easy feat and in the agricultural contracting game almost anything can happen. Busy times come and go, whether it comes down to the economy or the weather – or both – and Geoff Aitcheson knows this better than most.

Having first set-up GA Contracts around the turn of the millennium, the Co Antrim man has seen plenty of changes in the industry but has always managed to keep his customers with that same feeling of satisfaction once the job’s done.

Geoff’s love for farm machinery and loyalty to his customers are two of the main reasons why GA Contacts will soon be entering into its 16th year in operation, having come through some recent tough economic times unscathed for the most part.

“We’re based in Cullybackey, Co Antrim and I’ve have three working here at the minute,” explained Geoff.

“My wife Julie Ann and I started the company together 15 years ago and I look after the farm end, while she looks after the finances.”

GA Contracts provides its customers with most any service that you can think of for an agricultural contractor, specialising in slurry spreading, in

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Geoff Aitcheson’s love for farm machinery brought him into the industry

particular.

“We do everything between hedge cutting and silage cutting to round baling, but the main part of the business would be slurry spreading,” “The weather hasn’t been great as of late and milk prices have been down, so farmers are just doing enough. We’d have a strong customer base here and we’ve always loyal customers from when we started.”

Two years into his new venture, Geoff decided to invest in what would unravel as the core part of his business and 2002 saw him purchase a new system with ultimate low ground pressure.

Umbilical slurry spreading had been getting more and more popular at the time

because of how much easier it is on land and Geoff felt it was the only way forward.

He combined the umbilical system with ferry tankers and it allowed the team at GA Contracts to ferry slurry to out-farms, or pump directly onto nearby land, thus providing a unique service that meets the needs of all farmers.

CONTACT DETAILS

GA Contracts

Address: Cullybackey, Co Antrim Tel: +44 7771 541869

IRISH TRACTOR & AGRI

GA Contracts designed_Layout 1 02/12/2015 10:27 Page 2

GA Contracts operate mostly with John Deeres

“We’re very pleased with the slurry tankers we have here and we’d like to think we do a good efficient job and I think we’ve a good reputation for that. I think that has kept the customers coming back to us,” he said.

The fleet Geoff operates with is largely made up of John Deere – a brand he has found very trustworthy down through the years.

His love for farm machinery brought him into the industry and he has made some recent modifications to his impressive fleet.

“We do round bailing and recently upgraded the tyres on out fleet. We’re using Michelin tyres now and they are a lot better on soil,” he explained.

“We’ve five John Deeres and two of those would be 140Rs and another is an A125R. They may not be the cheapest brand but they are very reliable and we have a very good relationship with our dealer, Stephen Muir from Coleraine.”

Geoff’s approach has always been one that prioritises his customers and he puts them first even when making new additions to the fleet.

“Basically, we keep all of our machinery up to date and it’s the reason why we kept going down through the years. I buy the machinery to suit the customers, not to suit myself,” he illustrated.

Two years ago, GA Contracts branched out into digger work and the move has their work grow throughout the winter to the point where its workers are now kept busy 12 months a year.

Geoff has been happy to report good news from the new expansion and expects another busy few months heading into the spring.

“Agricultural contracting is very spontaneous work, so you have to IRISH TRACTOR & AGRI

broaden your horizons a bit because doing the same kind of work isn’t going to keep you busy 12 months a year,” he said.

“I would sub-contract out some of my work and the digger keeps us fairly busy in the winter time. I do more on site work and we try and keep the men we have busy because they’d be self-employed themselves.”

Along with contracted work, Geoff has a farm of his own to look after - one which he purchased himself, as he explained: “I’ve five acres of land that I farm here by myself. I’m not from a farming background but I always loved the machinery, so that’s where my interest would have originated and, like I said, my wife looks after the financial end of the business and deals

GA Contracts is celebrating 15 years in business

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GA Contracts designed_Layout 1 02/12/2015 10:27 Page 3

with a lot of the customers.

“I’ve two very good lads working with me here too, which always helps. It is a struggle with the weather at the moment, but we create a good working environment here, with decent hours so as we’re not working late into the night.”

Decent hours were hard to come by this past summer for many farmers given the wet weather, with cutting and baling going during the wee hours.

Geoff and his workers endeavour to work around that when they can, but sometimes conditions make it unavoidable.

However, the most recent addition to the fleet often makes mowing a pleasure, so that the job is carried out to perfection whilst also having some plus side to working late hours.

“I would be particularly pleased with one piece of machinery that we have here.

I just got a Krone Big M selfcompelled mower this year and I’m very impressed with it. It’s a great machine,” Geoff enthused.

A specialist in versatility, the Krone Big M takes care of all mowing applications and in many ways capsulate what GA Contracts are about given its versatility and efficiency.

Expect plenty more of those qualities to keep coming from Geoff and co as they near closer and closer to the 20year mark.

Best Wishes To GA Contracts, From

103 Culcavey Road, Newport, Hillsborough, Co. Down BT26 6HH

t (028) 9268 2617 f (028) 9268 9522 e sales@northernexcavators.com

www.northernexcavators.com

96

Two of the company fleet in Cullybrackey

Ready for another day’s work

Wishing Continued Success To GA Contracts From

DARRAGH AGRICULTURAL CONTRACTS Specialising in Round Baling & Umbilical Slurry Systems 35 Ranaghan Road, Randalstown, BT41 3JR Tel: 078-02552624

IRISH TRACTOR & AGRI

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