Current FBD Young Farmer of the Year, dairy farmer, John Buckley, from Cork, told the Macra na Feirme/FBD Young Farmer Springboard to Successful Farming day in Laois, yesterday.
“Don’t limit yourself, if you want to achieve talk to someone who has been successful. Be the best farmer you can be,” he said.
The workshop provided an interactive and novel approach to farming, with Brian Purcell, of the Apprentice fame, and Irish and Leinster rugby legend, Seán O’Brien. Sean talked about motivation and strategy behind success, both on the rugby field and in the farming field. The 50 participants had a chance to question the successful rugby player about his goals, strategy for success and advice to young farmers while basking in the glorious sunshine in Laois.
Four former FBD Young Farmer of the Year winners and the Chair of Macra’s Agricultural Affairs committee then facilitated break out groups and answered questions on their approach. Bryan Daniels, former winner of the FBD Young Farmer of the Year and a dairy farmer in Kilkenny said, “People that are here today are of the right mind set for planning for their future.”
A panel discussion, facilitated by Tim O’Leary, IFA Deputy President, took place after lunch with Rowena Dwyer, IFA Chief Economist, and Zoe Kavanagh, CEO of the NDC.
Enjoying the FBD Young Farmer Springboard event in The Heritage Hotel, Killenard, Co. Laois on Tuesday, the 29th April are facilitator, Brian Purcell of The Apprentice; CEO of organisers Macra na Feirme, Edmond Connolly; Head of Farm and Business of sponsors FBD, Christy Doherty; IFA Network Manager, Celine Reynolds of IFA Farm Business Skillnet; Macra na Feirme National President, Kieran O’Dowd with FBD Brand Ambassador, Ireland and Leinster rugby legend, Seán O’Brien. Photo Kevin Byrne NRF