This is Dairying Photo Competition captures Generational Bond
The beauty and wonder of dairy farming have been impeccably captured in the extraordinary entries of the This is Dairying Photo Competition which was run in the lead up to the 2023 Teagasc Moorepark Dairy Open Day.
The Moorepark Dairy Open Day is a biannual event outlining research on all aspects of dairy farming including grassland management, animal genetics, animal health, environmental sustainability, farm infrastructure and the theme of this year’s event was ‘Irish Dairying – Securing a Sustainable Future’.
Today we are thrilled to announce the winners of this competition which invited entrants to upload a photograph illustrating what they love about Irish dairying. The purpose of the photo competition was to encourage farmers to share positive images of what they love about dairy farming to show the many reasons why dairy farming is an attractive career.
We received an overwhelming number of submissions, each one showcasing the connection between farm families, their herds and the Irish landscapes which serve as their backdrop.
Teagasc People in Dairy Programme Manager, Conor Hogan said; “This competition is a reminder that amidst the hustle and bustle of our modern world, there is still a profound connection to nature and a deep rooted respect for the land. Each image tells a story of the tireless efforts that sustain our dairy industry. Thank you to all the participants for capturing the heart and soul of dairy farming and congratulations to the winners”.
Over 370 entries were received and after meticulous deliberation by the panel of judges, the following photographs were chosen as winners with their images epitomizing the passion, dedication and authenticity that define the Irish dairy farming industry.
The overall winning photograph was taken and submitted by Brid Doherty, Co. Kerry.
Brid told us the photo was taken in a little botharín on a spring evening this year. While walking behind her father and nephew, Brid was struck with a sense of deja vu as she watched her nephew experience one of her favourite memories from her childhood, hand in hand with her dad. In that moment I thought "This is the closest thing I will ever get to a time machine."
Brid said: It was a moment of peace, nostalgia and togetherness, found in this small but precious daily routine that's been present my whole life.
The second prize winner chosen was Marguerite Crowley from Co. Cork.
There were five runners up also chosen. They were:
Kevin Murray, Co. Clare
Elvina Rothwell, Co. Tipperary
Maighread Barron, Co. Waterford
Declan Lally, Co. Galway
Bruce Thompson, Co. Laois
All entries were displayed at the National Dairy Open Day at Moorepark23 on 4 July and can now be viewed at www.teagasc.ie/thisisdairying