I farm: “A mixed farm enterprise consisting of pedigree and commercial cattle as well as spring and winter cereals. We are located about 10 minutes outside Limerick city. The land is exceptionally fertile and dry; we soil test to keep it that way.”

Last year: "We started the Lemonfield Pedigree Angus Herd and moved into heifer beef from grass. We used to solely finish Quality Assured steers from grass."

Tillage: “This year we tilled winter barley and spring wheat. Tilling long-term grassland took a bit of time, but we had the barley finished by 1 October and the wheat was in on 23 March. The barley is exceptionally clean and I hope to get the final fungicide out this week if winds ease. The wheat is doing very well - we have only sprayed it for weeds once. Red shank was a problem, however. Limerick is generally a buoyant market at harvest time as there are not many tillage enterprises.”

Pedigrees: “The volatility of the beef finishing system led to diversification. We chose Angus for a number of reasons. They are hassle free, easy fleshed and the meat has a great flavour.

The first heifer we bought is on the farm for nearly a year. We have expanded since then and are trying to select females from proven herds. This has brought us to all corners of the country, purchasing privately and at elite sales.”

Business: “I run a health and safety consultancy and training company called Aldatus Healthcare and Safety. We are a provider of training and consultancy to many industries including the exploration, healthcare and Agricultural sectors. Farm injuries and fatalities continue to scar our communities. I firmly believe farm payments and safety should be linked, only then will we see change.”

Family: “My wife Jane and I got married last year and were blessed with our first child Conor McCarthy on the 11 March this year.”

Quotable quote: “When dealing with cattle, I find if you become familiar with the normal then the abnormal will become very apparent.”