The Toberfort Herd impressed large crowds who gathered at the first 2024 IHFA Focus Farm Open Day on Thursday, August 29 in Effin, Co. Limerick.
The event was hosted by Edward Fitzgerald, who manages a herd of Holsteins. It drew over 200 attendees, marking a significant milestone in celebrating the diversity and excellence of IHFA member herds.
It proved to be an ideal location for the event, with its stunning surroundings and immaculate setup providing a perfect backdrop for showcasing pedigree breeders.
The event kicked off with insightful presentations by MSD’s Billy Heffernan and Emma Beirne. They introduced the crowd to MSD’s latest technological advancements.
IHFA Focus Farm
Three of the IHFA’s 2024 Focus Farmers shared their individual farming experiences and systems with the audience.
Fitzgerald, the host farmer, was joined by James O’Keeffe from the Clover Herd in Co. Cork, and Oliver Dempsey, a pure Friesian breeder from the Barrowvale Herd in Co. Laois.
Their presentations provided a deep dive into diverse farming practices and strategies, offering invaluable insights for all attendees.
The event also featured a comprehensive classification talk by IHFA classifier, John Kirby.
Using three exemplary cows from the Toberfort Herd, Kirby illustrated the importance of good conformation for the longevity of cattle, emphasizing the critical role classification plays in herd management.
Dr. Patrick Kelly from the IHFA delivered a thought-provoking presentation on his research findings, exploring the correlation between conformation, longevity, and differing fertility indexes in dairy cattle.
The herd
Fitzgerald, a fifth-generation dairy farmer, has taken the Toberfort herd to new heights since taking over in 2008.
The farm, originally established in 1876 and transitioned from Dairy Shorthorns to British Friesian under Fitzgerald’s grandfather, before evolving into the high performing 90-head Holstein herd it is today.
Attendees were treated to a walk-through of the impressive Toberfort Herd, allowing them to see firsthand the results of Fitzgerald’s dedication to excellence in breeding.
Fitzgerald said his ideal cow is ‘an invisible one’, one that is problem free and easily managed. Although he admits he strives for a more holistic approach, a herd of invisible cows is the aim.
Genetics play a huge part in the success of the Toberfort herd, and Fitzgerald’s sire selection criteria are meticulous.
The event was complemented by the presence of 10 trade stands, offering a variety of products and services that catered to the interests of visitors.
The second IHFA Focus Farm Open Day is scheduled for September 12, 2024, at the Copperbeech Herd in Co. Meath and will be hosted by Joe Healy.
The event will feature guest speakers Ian McKeague from the Innisowen Herd, Co. Donegal, and Seamus Knox, Co. Kilkenny, as well as Healy.
Visiting the different Focus Farms gives breeders and farmers an opportunity to see what works for other breeders and what doesn’t, which can be hugely beneficial in developing your herd profile forward.