Over a year has passed since Jo-Ann McComish started sheep farming in Meath with her husband, and, by her own admission, it’s been a steep learning curve.

“We started from scratch over a year ago and it was very difficult,” she says. “We didn’t know where to start, but we’re getting there.”

Jo-Ann, who is originally from Newbridge in Kildare, grew up with sucklers but opted to keep sheep on her own farm, called The Cairns.

“We felt that sheep would be the best animal to start with,” she explains. “However, lambing last year was tough. I would have been lost without my family and neighbours and I learned how important it is to stay close to them.

“Our flock has grown from 12 ewes to 28 and a ram, and we’re now feeling much more settled.”

Jo-Ann used to work in pharmaceuticals and the Irish Equine Centre, but she now farms full-time while looking after her two children.

“I think people are surprised that a woman can be anything other than a farmer’s wife,” she says.

“Some think I’m a hobby farmer, but they don’t understand it’s a business. I work hard and juggle farm work with minding two small children.

“I think there should be more respect and inclusion for women as farmers. We shouldn’t be treated any differently.”

Jo-Ann is a member of Meath-East IFA and also communicates with farmers through Twitter.

“The community on Twitter is great. There is always a farmer to talk to,” she says. “The social aspect is great but there is also a serious side to it. I’ve received some great advice from farmers and I’ve applied this to my own land.”

Jo-Ann has some advice for female farmers starting out: “You can do it, just be strong and try your best,” she says. “Look for advice when you need it, but don’t let people talk over you and be firm about what you want to do.”