Irish Hereford Prime has this week launched a calf to beef competition offering two farmers the chance to win 15 Hereford cross (HEX) calves each.

As a condition of entry, applicants must be willing to rear at least another 15 HEX calves, bringing the total number on-farm in spring 2014 to at least 30 calves.

The competition, run in conjunction with ABP, ICBF and Teagasc, aims to use the most up-to-date research and production efficiencies to help the winning farmers maximise returns. All calves will be genomically tested by ICBF and weighing of animals throughout their lifetime will also be provided to monitor performance. Teagasc will aid farmers in planning the most efficient production system with ongoing trials in Johnstown Castle used as blueprints for successful production.

Interested applicants should apply in writing stating 10 reasons as to why they and their farm are suited to winning the competition. Entries should contain the applicant’s name, address, contact number and herd number. Applicants must also be members of the Bord Bia Quality Assurance Scheme. As listed above, they must also be willing to commit to rearing 15 Hereford calves along with the prize of 15 calves.

Entries will be scored on selection criteria and suitable candidates will be visited by an Irish Hereford Prime field officer. A final short-list of suitable candidates will be assessed by a panel of judges. Further terms and conditions are listed below.

NOTES

  • Weighted scoring will be awarded as selection criteria
  • “The winning farmer must carry the HEX calves through to slaughter with Irish Hereford Prime in an ABP plant
  • The successful farmer will have their system geared to finishing some calves at off-peak times (1 June and mid November) and be willing to follow a similar grass-based production system to that in Teagasc Johnstown Castle.
  • Irish Hereford Prime will source all 30 Hereford calves for each winning farm and the winning farmer must pay the average price for 15 of them with the other 15 being free
  • All calves will be weighed and genomically tested by ICBF.
  • Teagasc will provide planning & monitoring advice.
  • Entries to be sent to Irish Hereford Prime, Coldblow, Shinrone, Birr, Co Offaly, by Friday 28 February 2014

    • Winners of Irish Hereford Prime Christmas Gift

    The winners of the Irish Hereford Prime Christmas Gift of two Hereford cross calves are Stephen Burke, Kells, Corofin, Co Clare, and Patrick Briody 10 Growtown, Dunsaughlin, Co Meath. Stephen, 16, is pictured receiving his calves from Michael Cleary of Irish Hereford Prime. The calves will be reared on his father’s farm. Patrick Briody will rear his two calves on his Uncle’s farm in Co Meath.