Members of Irish Hereford Breed Society (IHBS) were surprised and indeed shocked to learn that Denis Collins, Raheen, Limerick, and late of Tullig South, Templeglantine, had passed away at the weekend following a short illness bravely borne.

For over 25 years, he was the automatic choice to carry out the onerous task of chief steward at the society’s National Hereford Show at Tullamore, a task which gave him much enjoyment and satisfaction. He was meticulous with the records, ensuring the multiplicity of classes ran smoothly throughout. International judges presiding at the event have all been high in their praise for his help, assistance and efficiency. His preparation for the event knew no bounds. Whatever the weather, rain or shine, Denis was prepared. He missed the Tullamore show once only over that 25-year period and that was to welcome the birth of his first-born daughter on show day. He also acted as chief steward at other major Hereford shows including Nenagh, Trim and Beef Expo.

His Templeglantine herd was developed through the careful use of top AI bulls used on selected females. He produced Templeglantine Monarch Champion at Bandon in 1996 before selling for the then very satisfactory price of 2,020gns. However, the best-known bull bred in the herd was Templeglantine Boxer (TGB), the very successful Sligo AI bull noted for ease of calving and the quality of his progeny. Six of the 10 heifers offered at the society’s premier sale in May 1996 alone were by Boxer.

A past president of the Irish Hereford Society, Denis was first elected to council in 1988. He represented the Munster region on the society’s council for six consecutive terms (18 years), including two as chair of its finance committee. As president, he represented Irish Herefords at the European Hereford Conference in Finland and Estonia in 1997.

A founder member and director for several years of the fledgling Hereford Prime Ireland, he was very influential in the formation of the company which has now grown to be a prestigious brand name and a most important aspect of Hereford breed promotion, which this year celebrates its 20th year.

Denis was a key member of the society’s planning committee for the very successful European Hereford Conference held in Ireland in 2005, the largest ever held in Europe. His catering skills, developed at Aer Rianta, Shannon, looking after the needs of international travellers, were honed to perfection and an important element of the conference’s success.

For his honesty, integrity and longtime commitment and dedication to the breed, the Irish Hereford Society had no hesitation in nominating him for the Hall of Fame Award in 2012.

Ar dheis De go raibh a anam.

Council, staff and members of the Irish Hereford Breed Society