Helping shape the future of dairy farming with FarmElevate

We are proud to launch FarmElevate, a new five-year programme developed in partnership with Teagasc, and to announce the eight dairy farm families selected as our inaugural Lighthouse Farms. The programme is designed to support farm families in improving productivity, profitability and sustainability through practical, farmer-led learning and knowledge sharing.

Launched at the Murphy family farm in Bennettsbridge, Co. Kilkenny, FarmElevate brings together some of the most progressive dairy farms across our catchment area. The selected farms were chosen for their strong farm management, innovation and commitment to sharing their experiences with fellow farmers.

Together, they showcase best practice in areas including grassland management, breeding, labour efficiency, nutrient management, renewable energy, technology adoption and business resilience.

Meet Our FarmElevate Lighthouse Farms

• Brian and John Buckley, Glenville, Co. Cork
• Linda O’Neill, Old Parish, Co. Waterford
• Patrick Fortune, Adamstown, Co. Wexford
• Michael and Joe Murphy, Bennettsbridge, Co. Kilkenny
• John Dwyer, Cashel, Co. Tipperary
• Harry and Joe Lalor, Ballacolla, Co. Laois
• Declan and Tina Bollard, Baltinglass, Co. Wicklow
• Alan Meade, Slane, Co. Meath

FarmElevate is built on the belief that some of the most valuable learning happens when farmers can see practical solutions working on farms like their own. By opening their farms and sharing their experiences, these families will help fellow suppliers adopt proven practices, strengthen their businesses and build resilience for the future.

Over the next five years, the Lighthouse Farm network will create opportunities for farmers to learn from one another, helping accelerate the adoption of technologies and management practices that deliver both economic and environmental benefits. Alongside the wider FarmElevate programme, it will support a stronger, more profitable and sustainable future for dairy farming across our catchment.

The first FarmElevate farm walk will take place on Patrick Fortune’s Lighthouse Farm in Adamstown, Co. Wexford, where farmers will come together to explore topics including nutrient management, feeding strategies and milk recording.