Ann Marie and Stephen Butterfield run the 480ac Butterfield Estate in Blueball, Co Offaly, and Stephen says he’s used AAA Golden Maverick “for as long as I can remember”.

Home of the Tullamore Show

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The Butterfield Estate is well known locally as the host farm for the Tullamore Show.

“We’re delighted to host it each year,” says Ann Marie Butterfield. “It’s lovely to see so many people about. It does put a bit of pressure on us to have the field in top condition beforehand – but we enjoy it. It’s a great day out.”

From Beef to Dairy

“Back home in Cavan, when I was growing up and my family were milking cows, we always used AAA Golden Maverick,” says Stephen. “I can still remember the TV ad from the 80s. So right from the start, it’s been the milk replacer I’ve trusted – and that hasn’t changed.”

Ann Marie and Stephen, who previously kept beef and suckler stock, moved into dairy in 2022. They currently milk 130 predominantly – Friesian cows through two Lely robots, while also finishing Hereford and Angus-cross cattle for beef. They plan to add a third robot by 2027, when they aim to be milking 170 cows.

With around 130 calves born each spring, alongside a flock of 600 ewes, it’s all hands on deck.

“We’ve great help from our lads and our farmhand Josh Huddlestone, as well as Ann Marie’s parents, Johnny and Maureen Butterfield,” the duo explains. “Springtime is full-on, but with everyone pulling together – and the reliability of Tripple AAA Maverick – everything runs a lot smoother.”

Getting the Basics Right

Stephen emphasises the importance of getting basics right during the calving season.

“Getting colostrum into newborn calves as soon as possible is critical,” he said. Each calf receives 4l of colostrum within the first four hours, followed by another 2l within 12 hours to support early health and immunity. After 10-14 days of whole milk, we move them on to AAA Golden Maverick through the automatic feeder."

Trusted from the Start

“I first used Maverick back home in Cavan when my family were milking,” he explains. “Then, when the team at Midland Veterinary in Tullamore recommended it again, pointing out the amino acid balance, strong growth rates, and overall reliability, we didn’t need convincing. The calves thrive on it. The powder runs perfectly through the automatic feeder – no lumps, no clumps, no clogging – just a consistent mix every time.

“You can tell it’s a good-quality mix, It’s balanced for the calves’ needs, so the calves are growing well and have great condition. You can see it in their coats and how lively they are – they’re strong and healthy from the start. Their coats are shining, they’re drinking up and they’re full of life. You know yourself – a happy calf will run to meet you in the pen. When calves are content, they’re relaxed and comfortable, and that’s what we see day in, day out now.”

Support Makes the Difference

On advice for other farmers thinking about switching, Stephen is clear: “If you’re new to it, talk to other farmers rearing a hundred calves or so and see what works for them. And speak with your Volac Milk Replacer Ireland rep – my rep, Tomás O’Reilly, is always on hand with advice and helped us get the feeder set up and running right. That kind of support really makes a difference.

“Ad lib feeding works best for us – the calves drink what they want when they want it. And if you can, go for the automatic feeder from day one. It’ll pay for itself in time – especially when you’re selling strong, healthy calves. It’s stood the test of time for a reason – I wouldn’t use anything else.”

Whether you’re just starting out or looking to improve your calves efficiency, Feed for Growth is your partner for performance. For further details, visit feedforgrowth.com, or call 046-9212950.