The farm: “We keep 24 suckler cows on 130ac along the Fermanagh-Leitrim border. My father Robert is 72 and helps out with jobs from time to time. He’s keeping well – it’s great to have the extra pair of hands and eyes around.”
Managing grass: “The cows are predominantly Limousin and Simmental. We keep a vasectomised bull and breed using AI. We calve all year round, which takes the pressure off and allows us to better manage our grass cover.”
Path switch: “I served my apprenticeship as a joiner and when the recession hit my attention turned to farming. I had trained to AI my own cows and in 2012 I decided to get the qualifications and go out on the country.”
No panic: “I take my time to AI. There’s no point rushing and being faced with repeats. I was out with a farmer last week and it took me a good half hour. People appreciate the extra patience and know time is needed to get the job done right.”
Enniskillen demand: “Charolais is the main straw I use on my own cows and on the farms I visit. The majority of the stock goes to Ulster Farmers Mart in Enniskillen. The buyers there like to see a strong golden Charolais chased into the ring.”
Suits the suckler: “I also have been scanning on the country for over two years. It’s mainly suckler herds I look after in my area. The ground can be very heavy in these parts so you wouldn’t see many dairy farms.”
This week: “There’s plenty of wee bits and pieces to get done this week with the winter fast approaching. We’re getting a couple of cameras put up and taking the autumn-calvers in.”
Steady sales: “I also work full-time in Killasnett co-op in Manorhamilton. Trade has remained steady thankfully. Farming has to keep going regardless of everything that’s going on.”
Knuckle down: “I’ve quit following the news as much recently – it’s good to give the head a rest. With lockdowns closing in, it’s time people had manners and stay apart. We will come through this eventually, that’s a fact you can be sure of.”
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