Denis and Brian O’Connell, of Lisanaska, Cullen, Mallow, Co Cork, run a 48-cow herd in a father-and-son partnership that showcases a blend of tradition and modern innovation.

Brian, who returned from Australia in 2016 armed with valuable knowledge, has brought fresh energy to the farm while working in a full-time job as a maintenance fitter at Mondelez International in Rathmore, where Cadbury’s iconic chocolate crumb is produced using millions of litres of fresh Irish milk each year.

Marian, Brian’s mother, manages the administrative tasks on the farm and keeps the team motivated.

The O’Connells have made a strong commitment to sustainability, incorporating clover into their grazing system to reduce nitrogen usage.

The focus on improving their herd’s Economic Breeding Index (EBI) is central to their future plans.

In 2020, Denis and Brian invested in upgrading their farm infrastructure, constructing new buildings, and improving roadways to optimise operations.

They milk record five times per year and use heat detection collars to monitor cow activity and heat detection in real time, which has proven beneficial for herd management, keeping cows healthy and productive.

What is particularly remarkable is the herd’s health—there were no cases of mastitis last year.

Despite the low incidence of mastitis, they have a cautious approach to moving away from dry cow antibiotic therapy.

They trialled a sealant-only approach last year with five of their lowest somatic cell count cows, based on their milk recording results.

However, they are considering expanding this practice in the future.

The O’Connells are acutely aware of their environmental responsibilities.

Their carbon footprint stands at 1.18 CO2/kg FPCM (Fat and Protein Corrected Milk), and they actively promote biodiversity through several initiatives.

They use low emission slurry spreading protected urea and slurry inoculants.

The farm is rich in natural hedgerows, and the family has protected the banks of the River Blackwater, which runs through their land.

They even own a one-acre island on the river, that they have set aside as a wildlife sanctuary. Brian jokingly compares himself to former Taoiseach Charlie Haughey, noting his own private island.

Brian also stays involved in the local community, playing for his GAA club, Cullen. With a simple but effective eight-unit parlour, a focus on herd improvement, and a clear commitment to sustainability, the O’Connells’ farm is a shining example of the future of dairy farming in Ireland—balancing innovation with tradition, and family with farm life.