The competition is part of the Grass10 campaign and it is open to all grassland farmers from the dairy, beef and sheep sectors. A significant prize fund of €30,000 is available to the winners. There are seven categories, with one winner from each of the three regions, Munster, Leinster and Connaught/Ulster.

In addition to this, there will be one winner from each sector, dairy, beef and sheep. There is also a development category for a farmer under 30 years of age. Each of these winners will receive €4,000 in prize funds with the overall winner receiving a €2,000 top-up.

The judging panel will consist of members of the Grass10 stakeholders; AIB, FBD Trust, Grassland Agro, Department of Agriculture, Teagasc and the Irish Farmers Journal. The judges will be looking for farmers who are excellent at managing grass, have a good handle on how much grass is being grown and have the infrastructure in place to utilise it.

ADVERTISEMENT

The closing date for applications is 5 July. Application forms are available from local Teagasc offices or from the stakeholders. Judging is expected to take place in early September.