The 2026 Tullamore Show and FBD National Livestock Show launch took place recently on the Holloway family farm, home to Gageboro Herefords, a family steeped in their love of farming, now spanning four generations.

Hugh Holloway started the Gageboro Hereford herd in 1927, which was carried on by his son John and the tradition is continued today, brought forward by John's daughter Lisa, her husband Niall Daly and the next generation – Cillian, Alannah and Conall.

Gageboro Herefords remains firmly rooted, with a strong focus on producing commercially viable livestock for all markets and high-performing cattle, placing strong emphasis on careful selection, ensuring cows remain productive, fertile and structurally sound.

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Each animal is expected to deliver a quality calf annually, with a focus on performance, fertility and longevity.

Celebration

At the launch, Tullamore Show secretary Chelsey Cox McDonald expressed her enthusiasm for the upcoming event: “We are delighted to celebrate 35 years of the Tullamore Show and FBD National Livestock Show.

"Our partnership with FBD Insurance has stood the test of time and we are incredibly grateful for their continued support. As we look ahead to August, we are especially excited to highlight a strong focus on generation renewal and future proofing our farming industry and challenges that lie ahead.”

FBD’s national head of branch strategy Emer O’Byrne said: “FBD is delighted to once again sponsor Tullamore Show.

"We have a long-standing relationship with this event that goes right back to its inception 35 years ago. It is always a huge highlight in our annual calendar.

"We look forward to another fantastic day on 9 August, celebrating the very best in Irish agriculture. Wishing everybody involved the very best.”

At the launch, Lisa Daly of Gageboro Herefords shared some fond memories: "Show days have always been special to us.

"It started with my granddad going with my father to the RDS, where they enjoyed meeting other breeders and seeing the quality of stock each year.

"It’s also great for the next generation to enjoy these events and take the winning with a smile and losing with a smile."

Today, Gageboro Herefords continues to grow as a pedigree herd, with a clear focus on maintaining the high standards that have defined the farm for nearly a century.

Tullamore Show and FBD National Livestock Show returns to the Butterfield Estate on Sunday 9 August 2026, which provides the perfect setting for what is expected to be a standout event in the agricultural calendar, drawing exhibitors, competitors and visitors from across the country and abroad.

This year’s show places strong emphasis on generational renewal within Irish agriculture, recognising the vital role of succession planning to help shape the future of farming survival.

With a packed programme featuring top-class livestock competitions, trade exhibitions and family entertainment, the 2026 show is set to honour its proud legacy while looking strongly to the future.