Limerick discussion group has become one big family
THE BALLYBROWN dairy discussion group founded three decades ago has changed lives for the better on and off the participants’ farms.
They celebrated their 30th year together as a group in the Woodlands House Hotel in Adare. Located just outside of Limerick city on the Shannon Estuary, the group welcomed current group members, retired members and many of the Teagasc facilitators and advisors that worked with the group over its 30 year history.
Joe Kelleher, Teagasc organic specialist based in Newcastle West, said the Ballybrown dairy discussion group held their first meeting in May 1993.
“Present on that day were Alister Rayne, a New Zealand dairy farm consultant, the late PJ Woulfe, of Teagasc, and about 20 local dairy farmers. The Hannon family at Kiltemplan hosted the event which is in the parish of Patrickswell and Ballybrown, roughly seven miles west of Limerick city,” said Mr Kelleher.
The current chairperson, John Holton, said the group’s members over the past 30 years have benefited economically, socially and have become firm friends.
“Some people have stepped back and have been replaced by younger family members. As a group we meet monthly on each other’s farms, and we often travel to open days around the country, and have made trips as a group to the UK, Netherlands, Sweden and Switzerland.
“The Ballybrown group owe a debt of gratitude to all the Teagasc facilitators and advisors that were involved with us over the years and it was great to meet so many former group members and advisors at our 30th celebration dinner,” said Mr Holton.
The Ballybrown group is a perfect example of a successful discussion group in an industry that can often be isolating. They give farmers the opportunity to share ideas, solve problems and acquire technical expertise.
There is also a social aspect where farmers find support, encouragement and new friendships. Farmers get the opportunity to see and experience ideas on members' farms and validate information with their adviser.
To join a discussion group contact the Teagasc offices in Kilmallock, 063-98049, or Tralee, 066 7125077.