Galway farmers given preview of BEEF 2026
By Catherine Egan
Teagasc Beef Specialist, Athenry
A GROUP of progressive beef farmers recently travelled to Teagasc Grange, Meath, to get a first-hand look at the research, innovation and practical demonstrations that will be on display at the upcoming BEEF 2026 Open Day next Wednesday, 1 July.
Located in the heart of the Royal County, Teagasc Grange is Ireland's leading beef research centre and plays a vital role in developing profitable and sustainable production systems for the Irish beef sector.
The visit provided farmers with an opportunity to see the latest research in action and gain valuable insights into the technologies, management practices and breeding strategies that are helping shape the future of beef farming.
Representing Galway on the day were Colm Reilly, Brian Audley and Ed O'Toole, accompanied by their Teagasc advisor John Kilboyle.
They joined fellow farmers and advisors from Leitrim, Cork and Wexford for a comprehensive tour of the research facilities and ongoing projects at Grange.
For many of the visiting farmers, the scale of the operation and the breadth of research underway came as a surprise.
They engaged directly with researchers and specialists throughout the day on topics ranging from suckler breeding and dairy calf-to-beef systems to methane reduction, grassland management and future sustainability challenges.
Suckler Breeding and Maternal Performance
One of the key stops on the tour focused on the suckler beef systems at Grange, including both the renowned Derrypatrick Herd and the Maternal Herd.
Researchers outlined how ongoing work on breeding strategies, grassland management, age at first calving and finishing performance is delivering valuable information that can be applied directly on commercial farms.
Farmers were particularly interested in discussions around genetic selection and the increasing role that genomics is playing in improving herd performance.
Specific attention was given to traits linked to fertility, maternal ability, calving ease and growth performance. The role of genes such as myostatin and their impact on muscle development and animal efficiency generated considerable discussion among the group.
Dairy-Beef Systems Continue to Evolve
The growing importance of dairy-beef production was another major focus during the visit.
Farmers toured the new calf-rearing facilities, where researchers explained the design principles behind the purpose-built shed and demonstrated how housing, ventilation and management practices contribute to calf health and performance.
The importance of genetics and the Commercial Beef Value (CBV) index featured prominently throughout the discussions, with researchers highlighting how selecting calves with superior genetic merit can have a significant impact on profitability and finishing performance.
Galway farmer Colm Reilly, who operates a dairy calf-to-beef enterprise, emphasised the importance of investing in infrastructure and management systems.
"I built a purpose-built calf shed in 2023. When you see this shed here it looks expensive, but the reduction in health issues, labour and stress makes it worthwhile,” said Colm.
“I installed an automatic calf feeder last winter and it has been one of the best investments I've made. It has reduced labour requirements, improved feeding management and simplified the system, particularly as I also work off-farm.
“A strong herd health plan cannot be underestimated – it's combining all of these things that makes the difference."
Grassland and Clover Delivering Results
Grassland management and clover-based systems generated significant interest among the visiting farmers.
Researchers demonstrated how extending the grazing season and improving grass utilisation can have a major impact on both animal performance and farm profitability.
Current research is showing significant improvements in animal performance from grass-clover systems, including heavier weaning weights and increased carcass weights, while also reducing overall Nitrogen inputs.
The farmers felt that the visual demonstrations planned for BEEF 2026 would be particularly valuable in helping farmers understand.
Brian Audley from Galway highlighted the importance of seeing key grassland management principles demonstrated in the field
"Grass management is a major focus on my farm. I regularly measure grass covers and remove surpluses when necessary. I think it's important to explain concepts like days ahead visually and allow farmers to see the differences for themselves. Events like BEEF 2026 are ideal for that,” said Brian.
Practical Infrastructure and Labour Efficiency
Another recurring theme throughout the day was the importance of simplicity.
Many of the farmers commented that one of the most impressive aspects of Grange was not necessarily the advanced technology, but rather how practical systems and infrastructure had been designed to improve efficiency, reduce labour requirements and simplify day-to-day management.
Methane Reduction and Future Sustainability
Climate and environmental sustainability also featured strongly during the visit.
Researchers showcased ongoing work examining how breeding strategies, genetics, feeding systems, silage quality and feed additives can influence methane emissions while maintaining animal performance and profitability.
Galway suckler farmer Ed O'Toole said he found the breeding research particularly interesting.
“It is interesting to look at different genotypes with Terminal and Maternal traits to see the impact selecting maternal traits can have on weanling quality,” said Ed
Teagasc advisor John Kilboyle noted the practical value of the research being carried out at Grange.
"The extensive use of AI and genetic selection at Grange demonstrates what can be achieved on commercial farms. Using the best available genetics can improve performance, reduce age at slaughter and ultimately lower emissions while improving farm profitability,” offered John.
Looking to the future
The discussion also turned to the future of the beef sector and the challenge of attracting the next generation into farming. However, concerns were also raised about access to land, rising costs and difficulties securing finance for young farmers entering the industry.
"There are a lot of young people interested in farming, but many simply don't have access to land," Brian Audley commented.
An Event Not to Be Missed
As the visit concluded, there was agreement among the farmers that BEEF 2026 on Wednesday 1st July will be a valuable opportunity for farmers to learn, network and bring home practical ideas that can improve farm performance.
BEEF 2026 is a free event and open to all, at Teagasc Grange. Meath. It is easily accessed on the Dublin-Trim R154 road, 20km from Navan and 40km from Kinnegad located at Eircode C15 PW93.