FBD Young Farmer of the Year, PJ O’Keeffe plans to invest in the business again this year by building a calf shed, silage pit and underpass on his farm in Callan, Co Kilkenny.

“The cows are doing 26.5l at the moment. We peaked at 28l because they’re on poorer-quality silage now. Protein is at 3.26 and butterfat at 4.53. Solids are at 2.12kg, which we are quite happy with,” PJ told the Irish Farmers Journal, after launching the 2018 FBD/Macra Young Farmer of the Year competition.

PJ plans to replenish silage stocks by leasing extra ground, to ensure that five months’ worth of silage is in the yard by the end of summer for the 525 milking cows, plus followers. Grass growth is at 8kg DM/day.

He is quick to praise his contract feeders, Sean and Liam Davis of All Seasons Agri, for their work feeding all stock over the winter period.

“This was a big step for the farm and probably the best decision all year,” he said.

He is switching away from cross-breds to a mix of high-EBI Friesians “because I believe the Friesian has closed the gap and is ahead of the crossbred cow. I need a cow that when she is housed in more adverse conditions can respond to feeding and go out into the paddock and perform too. Bull calves that no one wants are extra pressure during the pinch point that is spring”.

PJ is encouraging young farmers to enter this year’s competition.

“It is an acknowledgement for everyone involved on the winning farm, be it the vet, contractor, ag adviser, nutritionist or accountant.

“It’s also a really good opportunity to evaluate the farm performance and personal achievements outside farming.”