Sustainable farming know-how
Sustainable farming know-how
Tirlán and Baileys are celebrating 50 years in partnership.
Tirlán and its dairy ingredients customer Baileys Irish Cream Liqueur are celebrating 50 years in partnership by opening applications for their third successive Sustainable Farming Academy.
Now in its third year, the course offers 20 fully-funded places on the Level 7 Diploma in Sustainability, Environment & Climate delivered by UCC.
The programme is an educational initiative delivered through University College Cork to support Irish farming communities in addressing environmental challenges by giving them the knowledge, skills and know-how to farm more sustainably.
Please let our farm family suppliers know that applications are open until Friday, 28th June. Any supplier interested in applying will need to submit an expression of interest via the UCC portal before this date.
For more information
For more information visit: Sustainable Farming Academy – Diploma Overview | Tirlán CountryLife
Thanks to Brindley, Caroline Moylan, Matthew and colleagues for the great team work and living our ‘Collaborate for Success’ value.
Sustainability on show
Sustainability on show
Tirlán was proud to host the Sustainable Agriculture Initiative (SAI Platform)
We were delighted to co-host the spring meeting of the Sustainable Agriculture Initiative (SAI Platform) Dairy Working Group alongside Kerry Co-op from Tuesday 23rd-Friday 26th of April. SAI Platform’s Dairy Working Group takes a comprehensive industry approach to key sustainability issues, incorporating global dairy buyers (including some of our key customers), international processors, retailers and farmers’ representatives, accounting for over 30% of the global milk supply.
The international group, traveling from as far as New Zealand, the US and Europe, gathered in Kilkenny over four days. The week commenced with a warm welcome to the 60+ participants in Abbey Quarter and throughout the week, they enjoyed two Tirlán farm visits. The first visit was to the farm of Tirlán suppliers Bryan and Gail Daniels, where Bryan shared insights into the brilliant sustainability initiatives implemented on his dairy farm. On Friday, they visited the farm of Tirlán suppliers Eamon and Lois Sheehan, showcasing best practices and innovation in herd health and technologies.
Another highlight of the week was the Irish Co-op Farmer Showcase at Kilkenny Castle. During this collaborative event, Tirlán suppliers Gillian and Neil O’Sullivan and Eamon Sheehan, along with suppliers from Carbery, Kerry and Lakeland Dairies, provided valuable insights into how they implement environmental, economic and social sustainability on their farms. Insights from Bord Bia and Teagasc UCD on Irish grass-based dairy and Origin Green were also shared. The showcase concluded with a fantastic panel discussion where farmers candidly discussed their efforts to enhance sustainability on their individual farms, touching on essential topics like farmer mental health and succession.
A massive thank you to all the Tirlán colleagues who contributed to such a fantastic week. Our international visitors left extremely impressed by Tirlán and the collaborative spirit of the Irish dairy industry!
Avonmore Summer Sensation
Avonmore Summer Sensation
Avonmore launches Raspberry and White Chocolate whipped cream
We are thrilled to announce the arrival of our newest Avonmore flavoured whipped cream, ‘Raspberry and White Chocolate’, now available in stores. Our dedicated team has crafted a robust communication campaign, emphasising in-store promotions, street sampling and social media engagement. The primary goal is to heighten awareness of this new flavour, enticing customers to try it and consider making a purchase.
The journey of developing this innovative product began last November, with members from R&D, Marketing and Commercial teams collaborating closely. Traditionally, we release a special edition cream for the summer season and after 3-4 years, this new flavour marks a significant addition to our lineup.
This exclusive flavoured whipped cream will grace the market throughout the summer months, promising a delightful addition to your shopping list. Don’t miss the chance to savour the unique blend of this Avonmore whipped cream!
GAIN Champion Collection kicks off
GAIN Champion Collection kicks off
The prestigious series highlights the partnership between The Curragh and GAIN Equine Nutrition
The GAIN Champion Collection is a prestigious series in Irish horse racing, providing an exciting platform for two-year-old competitors to showcase their talent. With an impressive prize pot of €220,000, the series offers substantial rewards for participants, attracting top-tier talent.
The series kicks off on May 6th with the GAIN First Flier Stakes, setting the stage for an exhilarating competition, followed by the Group 3 GAIN Marble Hill Stakes on May 25th, known for its high level of competition and excitement.
The series reaches its climax on Dubai Duty Free Irish Derby Day, June 30th with the Group 2 GAIN Railway Stakes, a historic race dating back to 1851. The Railway Stakes holds a special place in the racing calendar as one of the oldest races, highlighting the rich heritage of horse racing.
The series offers additional incentives for participants, with the winning horse of the GAIN Railway Stakes earning an automatic entry into the prestigious Group 1 Keeneland Phoenix Stakes, further enhancing the prestige of the series.
Once again, the GAIN Railway Stakes will be part of the Tote World Pool, providing increased international exposure for the race and attracting attention from racing enthusiasts worldwide.
“In 2023, the success story of ‘Bucanero Fuerte’, trained by Adrian Murray, winning the GAIN Railway Stakes and subsequently the Group 1 Keeneland Phoenix Stakes was truly remarkable,” said Philip Gilligan, Irish Country Manager, GAIN Equine Nutrition.
“It reinforces that the GAIN Champion Collection series plays a vital role in the development and progression of young horses, providing a pathway to Group 1 success and cementing its position as a cornerstone of the racing calendar.
“We look forward to following the season closely and eagerly await the unfolding of yet another exciting chapter in the GAIN Champion Collection Series,” said Philip.
GAIN’s association with the series further strengthens its relationship with The Curragh, building on a partnership that began in 2012 and highlighting its commitment to supporting and promoting horse racing.
Evan Arkwright, Racing and Sponsorship Manager, The Curragh said: “The GAIN Champion Collection is now firmly established as one of the leading series of races in the international racing calendar, consistently attracting some of the very best juveniles in training and has further helped to develop the long standing and very positive partnership between the racecourse and GAIN Equine Nutrition.”
Adrian Murray, Racehorse Trainer said: “We were thrilled with the success we had last year in the GAIN Champion Collection Series. It’s a very important series for us. We have several nice 2 year olds that we hope will do well this year and hopefully be good enough to go on to win a Group 1.”
Overall, the GAIN Champion Collection Series represents a pinnacle of excellence in horse racing, offering top-class competition, substantial rewards and opportunities for international exposure and recognition for participants.
CountyLife Fethard gets a refresh
CountyLife Fethard gets a refresh
The newly refurbished CountyLife Fethard branch officially opens
We have officially opened our newly refurbished and extended branch in Fethard, Co Tipperary.
The free, family-focused and fun opening event featured competitions and give-aways, store discounts, food and drinks, as well as live demonstrations with the in-store horticulturist.
Cutting the ribbon at the official opening of the branch, John Murphy, Tirlán Chairperson, said that investing in the local branch network is very much part of Tirlán’s Living Proof sustainability strategy and encouraged farmer suppliers and members of the wider community to continue to support the branch.
“Tipperary is of major importance to our farmer-owned Co-operative. Tipperary dairy farmers are our fourth biggest suppliers and we paid €168 million in milk cheques to farm families in Tipperary in 2023.
“This branch has been completely redesigned to improve the customer experience and allow us to extend our stock range. Our garden centre has been extended by 30%, Fethard now has a dedicated farm equip area carrying an extended range of farm hardware and machinery and we’ve added a new bagged feed store and more.
“The foundation of our Fethard store dates back to the early 20th century. From small beginnings as a privately owned creamery, it emerged as a progressive business servicing the needs of farmers in south Tipperary.
“Fethard amalgamated with several local creameries over the years including Coolmoyne, Cloran and Killerk. As part of the South Tipperary Co-op group, they joined Avonmore Creameries in 1973.
“The 80’s saw a period of great change for Fethard, with the old creamery building knocked and in 1983 a new store was built. This comprised a grocery and hardware shop, along with two warehouses on this very site.”
Congratulations to all involved!
Cool for Cats
Cool for Cats
Win a GAIN Pet Nutrition cat hamper
To celebrate GAIN Elite Cat 20% OFF for the month of May and our updated formula, we are giving one lucky staff member a chance to win a GAIN Pet Nutrition cat hamper packed full of goodies for your four-legged friend.
How to enter
All you have to do is share a photo on Viva Engage of your furry friend, using the hashtag #GAINCatSnap to be in with a chance of winning. The competition closes Friday 31st May and the winner will be announced Tuesday 4th June😻. Double entry if you tag @gainpetnutrition on your social media sharing a photo of your cat! 📷 #GAINTheAdvantage
Empower and Go
Empower and Go
We continue with our values spotlight series focusing on ‘Empower and go’ for the quarter ahead, while also taking a look back at activities showcasing ‘Celebrate Individuality’ for quarter 1
A thriving initiative
A thriving initiative
GAIN The Advantage Series continues for 2024 at nine racecourses
GAIN Equine Nutrition is pleased to announce the continuation of the GAIN The Advantage Series in partnership with Horse Racing Ireland for its fourth consecutive year.
Last year, the trainer league of the GAIN The Advantage Series was clinched during the final leg by Tipperary-based trainer Andrew Slattery. Building on three successful years, the 2024 series includes nine races which will be run for points over a variety of conditions to cater to different trainers and horses throughout the Flat season. All races in the series will continue to benefit from a 50% increase in prize money.
The series will begin at Cork on Friday, April 26 and continue at Leopardstown, Navan, Ballinrobe, Tramore, Down Royal, Tipperary and Killarney. The series finale will be hosted at Naas Racecourse on Thursday, September 19 where the winning trainer of the series will be determined.
The GAIN The Advantage Series is committed to recognising the contributions of all those involved in horse racing. The trainer who tops the GAIN The Advantage Series will win €5000 worth of GAIN Equine Nutrition products. Grooms will be included in a draw to win an overnight hotel stay in Ireland. Additionally, breeders of winning horses from each race will receive a framed photograph of the horse they bred and each winning breeder will be entered into a draw for a chance to win one tonne of GAIN Equine Nutrition products.
Philip Gilligan, Irish Country Manager, GAIN Equine Nutrition, said: “I am thrilled to announce our continued partnership with the GAIN The Advantage Series, and I’m particularly excited to see the addition of Down Royal Racecourse to this year’s line-up. This initiative has truly thrived over the past three years, becoming an integral part of our commitment to supporting the thoroughbred racing and bloodstock industries, which are vital to our business.
“The series’ success stems from its inclusive recognition of all stakeholders involved. Not only does it offer increased prize money for owners, but it also acknowledges the hard work of trainers through the league table, as well as breeders and the dedicated stable staff.
“On behalf of our team, I extend our heartfelt best wishes to all connections involved. Here’s to an exciting and successful year ahead!”
Vicki Donlon, Commercial Manager, HRI Racecourses, commented: “The GAIN The Advantage Series is now a well-established feature of the Irish racing calendar during the Flat season and there is significant aspiration from all industry stakeholders that it continues. We are very grateful to GAIN Equine Nutrition for enabling this and delighted that it is evolving annually to suit the needs and feedback from the industry. We commend the recognition of everyone involved in the journey of a racehorse, from breeder, owner, trainer and stable staff, each play a critical role and our industry are dependent on them.”
Cormac O’Flynn, racehorse owner and breeder, commented: “The GAIN The Advantage series is such a brilliant initiative. Winning the last leg at Leopardstown with Yuzu last year was a real highlight. She’s onto her breeding career now. I was drawn to the series because of the boosted prize money, especially after purchasing Yuzu a few weeks prior to the race, but what really seals the deal for me is how it supports everyone involved, from the stable staff to the breeders, alongside the trainers’ league. It just shows how much GAIN values every aspect of the industry.”
Agri Aware Walk & Talk Series
Agri Aware Walk & Talk Series
Tirlán graduates connect with future talent to educate them on pursuing careers in the agri-food sector
In Tirlán, we are proud of the work that we and our farmers do every single day to bring our produce to tables all over the country and further afield.
Working along with Agri Aware, as part of their Walk & Talk Farm Series, we were wonderfully represented in Tullamore farm by three of our ‘Unearth your Future’ graduate programme participants – Ella Kennedy, Orlaith Moore and Niamh Murphy – who spoke to students interested in pursuing careers in the agri-food sector.
Tirlán also ran a farmer webinar in collaboration with Agri Aware, providing insight and advice into hosting a group of school pupils to their farm, further promoting the crucial role that farming plays in the Irish economy and creating great awareness among young people about where the food they eat comes from.
Watch back:
Chewing the cud with… Caoimhe Murphy
Chewing the cud with… Caoimhe Murphy
Each month, we put the spotlight on a Tirlán employee and for our April newsletter, we’re talking to Caoimhe Murphy, Ruminant Business Manager
The prolonged wet weather means Caoimhe Murphy’s skills and expertise are in high demand at the moment.
The Ruminant Business Manager serves customers across Carlow and Wexford and the fact that cattle in large swathes of her sales area are still housed and not out in the fields means there are extra calls from under pressure farmers trying to manage fodder need, the nutritional needs of their herd and optimise dairy output.
“I’m a direct contact for farmers and manage feed sales to them, give them advice on managing the dietary needs of cows and help solve lingering problems about how to optimise production on farm as the wet weather lingers on.
“The mood among farmers is low, it’s absolutely not ideal that cattle are still in most of the time. They’re definitely under pressure. The fact that we can do absolutely nothing about the weather can be frustrating. Grass is definitely the best feed for cows and when they do get out to grass, the mood will lift. But it is a tough time.
“In lots of instances, farmers are running low on fodder and silage. I work with them to find the best nutritional plan for the herd in such circumstances and get their energy requirements right. It’s brilliant when you work with a farmer and find a solution. It’s incredibly rewarding,” the UCD Animal and Crop Production graduate said.
Caoimhe grew up on and still lives on a dairy and beef farm in Kilmanagh, just outside Kilkenny city, so she lives and breathes farming 24/7. “We’re milking about 180 cows at home at the moment, so I know exactly what it’s like for farmers in the current climate. Farming really is a labour of love and it’s 24/7. I’m our farmers’ direct contact so I could get a call after evening milking looking for something to be ordered.
“Orders are always coming in. You could get a text late in the evening, some early in the morning, at weekends even. To try to balance things out, I make direct calls to farmers at the start of the week after I go through my list, see who might be running low by the end of the week. It helps me to try to keep one step ahead.
“I started out with Tirlán when I graduated during Covid in 2020. I got a place on the Graduate Programme and worked first on the Ruminant East team, based out of the Bunclody branch. It also involved some telesales work. A year later, I got my own list of customers in Carlow and Wexford, based out of the Graiguecullen and Bunclody branches. I absolutely love my role in sales.
“I love being in direct contact with farmers, helping find solutions to any problems they may have. Farming is rapidly changing and they’re facing greater sustainability challenges now more than ever. It’s very rewarding to work with them. They’re very passionate about what they do, but there’s a lot of new legislation coming at them so they do need support.
“I’m happiest in sales and have found that there are definite career paths in Tirlán for those who want to progress within the company. The opportunities are absolutely endless and there’s a great spirit of cooperation and support.”
Caoimhe likes to keep active and as well as playing golf, she enjoys playing camogie with the local club in Kilmanagh and getting in hikes at the weekends.
“I’m very lucky to have a role in Tirlán that I love, that is close to friends and family. Farming is in a bit of a flux at the moment with so much change happening. But we have solutions and farmers are more than willing to adapt, so there’s always plenty to do. I wouldn’t have it any other way.”