The Irish Holstein Friesian Association (IHFA) will host two Focus Farm events over the coming weeks, giving farmers an opportunity to see leading pedigree dairy operations in action and hear first-hand how genetics, management, and technology are driving herd performance.

The walks will take place on the farms of two of the 2026 Focus Farmers, each showcasing a different approach to achieving profitability and sustainability through pedigree breeding.

The first Focus Farm Walk will be held on Wednesday, August 26, at the Watchorn Herd of Brian, Hazel and Mark Grey near Naas, Co. Kildare.

The second event will take place on Thursday, September 3, at Denis O'Leary's Clochrua Herd near Blarney, Co. Cork.

Talks at both events will commence at 11:30am and all are welcome to attend.

Watchorn Herd blending tradition and innovation

The Watchorn Herd has been an important part of the local farming community since 1937 and is now managed by Brian and Hazel Grey alongside their son Mark.

Operating a split-calving system, the family places a strong emphasis on milk solids production while maintaining a focus on fertility and labour efficiency.

Beyond the milking parlour, the Grey family has diversified through Graze Dairy, a value-added enterprise that includes milk vending machines and artisan dairy products.

Cork focus on efficiency and grass utilisation

The second Focus Farm Walk will move to Co. Cork where Denis O'Leary will open the gates of his Clochrua Herd to visitors.

Pedigree breeding has formed a key part of the farm's strategy since 2000, with breeding decisions guided by milk solids, fertility, health traits and functional type.

Rather than pursuing expansion for its own sake, Denis focuses on improving efficiency, profitability and sustainability.

Opportunity to learn from leading dairy farmers

The IHFA Focus Farm programme aims to showcase practical examples of dairy farming excellence.

We look forward to seeing you all there to meet our 2026 Focus Farmers and hear their stories.

Our other four Focus Farmers include:

Paddy and Michael Quealy - Pure Friesian herd;
Ronan Siochru - coastal herd, strong genetics;
Shane, Gerard and Roseann McHugh - 89-cow herd, spring calving;
Melvin and George Masterson - genetics-led, embryo transfer.