The Silage Extravaganza 2015 organised by the Coolmoyne and Moyglass Vintage Club at the Trehy farm in Mobarne, near Moyglass, Fethard, Co Tipperary last weekend was a resounding success with a massive attendance estimated to be close to 7,000 people. In addition, two new machinery record attempts were achieved.

The event broke the record for the most double-chop silage harvesters working in a field and also the highest number of Lee trailers in action. It also set a new high standard for the running of such events.

The event was superbly organised from beginning to end. All machines were vetted for safety before being allowed on the field. The management of the spectators was safe, orderly and courteous by the voluntary members of the Coolmoyne and Moyglass Vintage Club under the direction of local chairman Matty Tynan. The organisation of the machines was led by tractor enthusiasts Kieran O’Donoghue from Mitchelstown, Co Cork and Jimmy Cotter from Ballinamult, Co Waterford.

The double-chop record was well smashed as 62 harvesters went to work one after the other. The atmosphere was amazing as the machines started up and the crowds gathered four deep against the fence to see the spectacle. Within an hour the field was cleared, each machine got its chance to perform and the crowd was ecstatic.

The organisers report that they have more than 48 Lee trailers at the event. Paddy Lee, founder of Lee Trailers was delighted with the true recognition for his 60 years trailer manufacture, his skills were truly recognised on the day.

There was a display of single chop silage harvesters in action before that. On the day 34 machines took part, including early Massey Ferguson models along with machines from Gallagher, JF, Kidd, Krone, Spraglese, Taarup and Ugelose.

Highlight

The precision chop display was highlighted by the giant Hesston Field Queen owned by Martin O’Sullivan of Innishannon, Co Cork. The novel machine from the 1970’s went through its paces on the field and showed its versatility.

The team at Coolmoyne and Moyglass Vintage Club have set a new standard; we can only imagine what can come next year. Across these pages the photographs give you some insight into the extent of this impressive event. We have more photographs and videos on our Facebook page Irish Farmers Journal Machinery & Vintage, so that’s also worth a look.