Pictured: Tim McEllistrim KHFBC, Geraldine Harty KHFBC, Noel Scanlon Dairymaster, Peter Kennelly KHFBC, Katie Kennelly KHFBC, Pat Ryan Dairymaster, Mary Mulvihill Dairymaster, Mark and Cora Corridon KHFBC, Roisin O’ Regan Dairymaster. Photo By: Domnick Walsh – Eye Focus LTD – 087 2672033
The Kerry Holstein Friesian Breeders Club has officially launched its annual Herds Competition, proudly celebrating the club’s 50th anniversary this year. The launch took place at the scenic coastal farm of Peter and Eileen Kennelly in Akeragh, Ardfert, with main sponsors Dairymaster.
Dairymaster representative Noel Scanlon said at the launch, “It’s a pleasure to be involved once again with the Herds Competition, especially in a milestone year for the club. The dedication and enthusiasm shown by its members is what makes this event so special. It not only celebrates excellence in dairy farming but also brings the community together. We’re proud to support that spirit and wish all competitors the very best.”
The competition is divided into spring and autumn calving categories, with each section split into senior, intermediate, junior, novice and new entrants, offering 1st, 2nd and 3rd place prizes. This year there will be a greater emphasis on conformation. Awards include:
• Best overall cow based on protein KG
• Highest herd protein percentage
• Lifetime production cow
• Best conformation & production herd
• Best overall heifer, junior cow & senior cow
• Lowest Somatic Cell Count
• Highest overall EBI herd
• Cow families
This year’s judges are Andrew and Jane Whittaker, Knowlesmere Herd from the U.K. for Senior and Intermediate sections, and Tommy Screene, Windfield Herd, Co. Galway for Junior, Novice and New Entrants.
Tim McEllistrim, Club President commented, “We’re excited for another fantastic year. It’s great to see the club continue to grow with new members. We encourage more people to get involved — there’s so much to learn about your herd through feedback from our expert judges. We’re also very grateful for Dairymaster’s ongoing support as we keep raising the bar.”
The awards ceremony takes place on Friday, 27th June at the Ballyroe Lodge Hotel. The club’s Open Day will be held on Sunday, 1st June on the farm of Ronan Sugrue, Dingle.
The competition is open to pedigree herds. Entries should be sent to Geraldine Harty, Herds Competition Coordinator, Ballylongane, Ballyheigue, Co. Kerry, (087) 816 8281.
