Kinsale man Michael Roche began harvesting silage in the late 1960s with a Fordson Major tractor, powering a 52” Taarup harvester, later upgrading to a Fordson Super Major.

After a few seasons, a Ford 5000 purchased from Cahir House Garage in Tipperary, complete with a four-wheel-drive kit, took over the frontline role.

Impressed with its performance, Ford’s flagship 7000 was purchased new in 1971. Again, in four-wheel-drive format, it took on harvester duties through the 1970s.

“The Fords were great tractors, and did us proud,” recalls Michael. “The four-wheel-drive was a great advantage for pulling the harvester and trailer in heavy or hilly ground.”

The 1980s arrived with a change of colour with the purchase of a 100hp International 1055XL and New Holland 717 harvester.

Regarded as a powerful tractor with a very comfortable cab, the 1055XL was a great performer. However, PTO pack failure, the tractor’s Achilles heel, reared its head on more than one occasion.

Roche Agri Contracting's FX38 was bought new in 2002.

In the late 1980s, a final colour change led to a Deutz 6.30 taking charge of harvesting duties.

Producing 115hp, the 6.30 was powered by a 6.1l Deutz air-cooled engine.

“The Deutz was king over the International,” explains Michael – “more powerful, great fuel efficiency and very reliable”.

Due to the dry brakes and air cooling system, keeping the tractor regularly blown down during silage-cutting was a key part of daily maintenance.

Michael made the venture to self-propelled harvesters in the early 1990s with the purchase of a New Holland 1895, 1900 and 1905 in succession over the course of the decade. All harvesters were purchased through renowned New Holland harvester expert Bob White, Co Wexford, who had sourced the harvesters from Holland and Belgium, some of which had only cut maize and had never seen grass up the chute.

In 2002, Michael made the decision to purchase a new harvester, striking a deal with Cavanagh’s of Fermoy for an FX38. Now heading into its 20th silage season, the 345hp Iveco powered harvester has hardly missed a beat.

A loyal customer base has also allowed for the progression of the Roche’s business – now spanning three generations, cutting silage for some customers for over 40 years

He reports that the harvester is “going as good, if not better, than the day we bought her”.

Praised for its mighty blow and comfortable cab, the harvester is light on diesel as well as being straightforward to work on.

Regardless of the sea air, the harvester is in immaculate condition, a testament to the maintenance and care that it receives.

The FX is supported by a fleet of Deutz tractors – with an Agrotron TTV 630 charged with front and back mowers, an Agrotron 130 and M630 on trailer duties and a Volvo L70C shovel on the pit.

Roche Agri Contracting is a family affair, with Michael’s son, Michael Jr, in partnership.

Grandsons Jack and Colin also have a keen interest and are always on hand for drawing duties.

Also worthy of mention is long-term seasonal driver Corny Whelton, who has been working with the Roches for almost 20 years.

Off season, the Roches provide lime and muck spreading services with a dairy and beef herd keeping them busy year-round.

Michael currently runs a fleet of Deutz tractors.

Looking back on his career, Michael regards the development of mainstream four-wheel-drive as a major advancement, making the job more manageable but also much safer.

According to Michael, a steady pace and regular maintenance are fundamental to the longevity of any machine. Daily checks for oil and water, plenty of grease and keeping the engine cool is key to successfully operating machinery. Michael also praises the many dependable, reliable and steady drivers, both past and present, who have contributed to the success of his contracting career.

A loyal customer base has also allowed for the progression of the Roche’s business – now spanning three generations, cutting silage for some customers for over 40 years. “It’s a disease you can’t give up,” laughs Michael.