The achievements of a number of young leaders from across the country were recognised at the 2018 Macra/ABP National Leadership Awards (NLAs) in Dublin.

The winners were:

  • Sean Wallace, Donoughmore Macra, Muskerry, Co Cork.
  • Sarah Condren, Johnstown/Coolgreany Macra, Co Wicklow.
  • Jennifer Hall, Ashford Macra, Co Wicklow.

    • The other finalists were:

  • Paul O’Regan, Kinsale Macra, Seandun, Co Cork.
  • Una Ryan, Ballinahinch/Killoscully Macra, north Tipperary.
  • Charlie Smyth, Ramor Macra, Cavan.
  • Cormac Lehane, Carrigaline Macra, Seandun, Cork.

    • Newstalk presenter Bobby Kerr gave the keynote speech on the night, telling the finalists: ‘‘Leadership is about getting stuck in, changing your style as challenges and circumstances change and keeping it simple because being a good leader is not about making things complicated.’’

    Macra na Feirme president, James Healy, said: ‘‘Congratulations to this year’s NLA winners. Our national chair Eamon Cassells brought the very first NLA handed out by Macra with him tonight. Back in 1983, it was awarded to his father so it shows the longevity of these awards and their importance. They continue to recognise the future leaders of our communities. I would also like to thank ABP Food Group for its continued support of these awards and for helping to make this event memorable for all our finalists.’’

    The NLAs recognise the leadership skills of Macra members within their clubs and the wider community. The competition raises the level and standard of leadership in Macra and provides an incentive for the development of club programmes.

    This year’s six finalists were judged by a panel comprising:

  • Deirdre O’Shea, Agri Aware.
  • Matt Dempsey, former editor of the Irish Farmers Journal and chair of The Agricultural Trust.
  • Colm Dore, ABP Food Group.

    • The three winners were presented with specially commissioned commemorative trophies.