Each month, we put the spotlight on a Tirlán employee and for our May newsletter, we’re talking to Elaine Brady

Ruminant Nutritionist Elaine Brady came straight to Tirlán after she completed her PhD in Early Lactation Dairy Cow Nutrition and is revelling in the role which sees her continue her research work, but also enjoy time in the field with the co-op’s business managers and farmers.

“I’m here a year and a half now. It has absolutely flown by. There was a time when spring would be a busy time but it’s busy year-round now. Last year, we had the fodder crisis and the fall-out from the drought and fertiliser prices. This year, it’s all about helping find sustainable solutions to help farmers after the long winter and struggles with grass growth.

“It’s great to be in a solutions-driven role and to be able to help our teams and our farmers get the results they need, particularly in a more sustainable manner. I’ve noticed an even stronger focus on delivering for our farmers and working closer than ever with them since we went back to our cooperative roots. There is so much regulation coming down the line that it’s crucial that we work closely together.

“When this role came up, I jumped at it. It is the perfect fit for me. I get to focus on the academic and research parts of my job and be outside, working with discussion groups, with our farmer facing teams and on Tirlán events. I grew up on a dairy farm in Westmeath so I also love being out of doors, getting stuck in.

“I enjoy my work on the technical development team and I provide technical updates to our farmer facing teams and farmers. My work also involves reviews and research into any new feed additives such as VistaMilk projects in Moorepark, with a focus on finding solutions to reduce methane emissions. I also work on projects that involve grass-fed substantiation and verification, responsible sourcing of soya and bringing the GAIN Momentum programme to life.

“My work is predominantly desk-based, but at different times of year I get to do dual calls with our business managers and regular training events with them. Lately, I’ve also started doing Discussion Groups with Teagasc which are great.

“Sustainability is at the heart of everything we do today. It is key. We are working hand in hand with our farmer members to drive sustainability in animal nutrition, to increase efficiency and profitability on farms.

“Our farmers are very progressive, very open to help and support. They are enthusiastic and interested in taking on board the advice we give. It makes all the difference when you can get out and see what is happening on the ground and see the research and advice being put into action on farm.”

Elaine has now moved to Kilkenny and makes the two-hour journey back to Westmeath when she can to help out at home. “It made sense to move to Kilkenny and I’m really enjoying it. I’ve taken up running and run twice a week with my work colleague. I like to be outdoors, to run, walk or hike. It recharges the batteries, particularly after a week when you spend lots of time in front of a screen. There’s nothing like it.”