On Wednesday 29 April, over 4,000 people flocked to Grass 2026, a live silage-making demonstration hosted by the Irish Farmers Journal. Supported by FBD Insurance, this event took place in Cuffesgrange, Co Kilkenny. The new initiative was aimed at farmers, contractors, machinery operators and enthusiasts.

On the day, leading grass machinery manufacturers and importers showcased their latest grass equipment involved in the cutting and ensiling of grass.

This started with mowers, moved on to tedders before progressing to rakes. After this, the forage wagons were put to work, followed by balers, wrappers, and bale chasers, which led on to the highly anticipated forage harvesters.

A general view of proceedings at Grass 26 in Cuffsgrange, Co Kilkenny. \ Donal O'Leary

From here, the wagons and silage trailers unloaded at the pit, and a selection of wheel loaders were put to work on the pit, in sync with two rear-mounted silage compactors.

After this, we held a bale handling demo, showcasing the different methods and machinery involved in the handling of bales.

The demonstrations started at 10.30am and ran throughout the day, with live commentary until 6pm.

Visitors were treated to a first glimpse of several machines, which were seen working in Ireland for the first time.

This included the new Claas Jaguar 1100 forage harvester, the new John Deere F9 forager, the new Krone HDP 165XC Combi baler and the Case 721G X+ Agri wheel loader.

Also put to work on the day for the first time in Ireland were the Samasz P12, 12-rotor trailed tedder, the Smyth SC50 Supercube Pro fitted with an electro-hydraulic steering system, the new Kverneland 9472 twin-rotor central delivery rake and the Schaffer 8620T-3 pivot steer loader.

Show attendees also got the most from a lively trade village with 104 stands, which was jam-packed with machines and services from all industry players, even beyond grass equipment.

Many exhibitors reported a surprising amount of last-minute silage equipment deals agreed on at the event.

The Irish Farmers Journal would like to thank all the exhibitors, attendees and all who made this event possible.