It’s one of the most prestigious awards in the Irish agriculture sector and Macra na Feirme is pleased to announce that the search has begun for the 2017 FBD Young Farmer of the Year.
Young farmers involved in sectors such as beef, dairy, sheep and others (including horticulture, pigs, poultry, tillage) are encouraged to enter and the winner of each sector will compete to be crowned the 2017 Macra na Feirme/FBD Young Farmer of the Year.
Macra na Feirme National President James Healy said, ‘The Young Farmer of the Year competition has gone from strength to strength since the inaugural competition in 1999 thanks in no small part to sponsors FBD and our partners, the IFA. The competition is a fantastic showcase of the enormous talent and potential that exists within the Irish agriculture sector. It also provides recognition and encouragement for young farmers at the beginning of their careers. I would encourage all our young farmers to put themselves forward for what will be a very rewarding and educational experience.’
IFA President Joe Healy encouraged young farmers to participate and test their training and capabilities among the best in the country.
“Based on the increased numbers going through the agriculture colleges in recent years, we have a wealth of talent in the sector. The great thing about the Young Farmer of the Year competition is that it provides an opportunity to get involved and it allows entrants to pit their farming skills and vision against others.”
The winner of the 2017 Macra na Feirme/FBD Young Farmer of the Year will receive a travel bursary and the opportunity to experience farm practices abroad while developing their skills.
There will also be a new ‘Future Farmer’ award this year for an emerging young farmer under the age of 23. As in previous years, county winners will also receive an award.
You can nominate a young farmer for Young Farmer of the Year or you can enter yourself by visiting macra.ie/youngfarmer.
The closing date for applications is 1st September.
CAPTION: Pictured at the launch of the 2017 Macra na Feirme/FBD Young Farmer of the Year, l-r: Joe Healy IFA President; Carolyn O’Hara FBD; Kevin Moran 2016 Macra/FBD Young Farmer of the Year and James Healy, Macra na Feirme National President.
