Macra na Feirme’s 2017 Young Farmer of the Year will be announced this evening (Tuesday, November 28) at the Breaffy House Hotel in Castlebar, Co. Mayo, with the shortlist of six finalists revealed earlier today.
Described as one of the most prestigious awards in the Irish agriculture sector, young farmers involved in all sectors compete for the title on an annual basis.
Speaking ahead of the ceremony, Macra na Feirme national president James Healy commented on the event, saying: “The Young Farmer of the Year competition has gone from strength to strength since the inaugural competition in 1999 – thanks in no small part to sponsors FBD and our partners, the IFA.
The competition is a fantastic showcase of the enormous talent and potential that exists within the Irish agriculture sector.
“Last year’s winner Kevin Moran has been a fantastic ambassador for the competition and I look forward to greeting his successor.”
This afternoon, a tour of 2016 winner Kevin Moran’s farm has been organised – where he will take guests around his 79ha dairy enterprise.
The winner of the 2017 FBD / Macra na Feirme Young Farmer of the Year will receive a travel bursary and the opportunity to experience farm practices abroad while developing their skills.
Kevin Moran, winner of the FBD Young Farmer of the Year 2016
There will also be a new ‘Future Farmer’ award this year for an emerging young farmer under the age of 23. As in previous years, county winners will also receive an award.