Focus on breeding performance at Newford Open Day
The countdown is on to a major beef breeding event, as the Newford Farm Open Day takes place on Wednesday, 22nd April at 4pm, Catherine Egan tells us more.
This practical, on-farm event will provide valuable insights for farmers aiming to improve herd performance while reducing labour demands through smarter breeding strategies and management practices.
The event will focus on the key drivers of suckler herd efficiency, offering attendees the opportunity to see proven systems in action. With the breeding season fast approaching, the timing is ideal for farmers looking to fine-tune their approach and maximise results in the months ahead, particularly those considering AI.
A central theme of the day will be breeding efficiency, with a strong emphasis on the genetics behind the Newford herd. Farmers will gain an understanding of the terminal sires being used to deliver both performance and profitability. The importance of selecting the right genetics to meet farm objectives will be explored, helping farmers make more informed breeding decisions.
On the day, speakers from Teagasc, Dawn Meats and ICBF will outline how good management, nutrition, grassland management and careful planning can improve breeding performance to deliver more efficient, profitable and sustainable suckler systems.
The use of a synchronisation programme to breed replacement heifers calving at 24 months will also be discussed. Practical guidance will be provided to help farmers overcome common challenges associated with earlier calving without compromising animal performance.
Body condition scoring will also feature as a vital management tool, with demonstrations showing how it can be used to optimise cow performance and fertility. Understanding and managing body condition at key stages of the production cycle can have a major impact on conception rates and overall herd efficiency.
Nutrition planning will be another key focus, highlighting how feeding strategies can support both cow and calf performance, particularly in the lead-up to and during the breeding season.
Fertility management and heat detection will also be explored in detail, with a strong emphasis on practical solutions that can be implemented on farms of all sizes. The event will showcase how modern technology, including heat detection aids, can reduce labour requirements while improving accuracy and outcomes.
In addition, the benefits of compact calving and improved handling facilities will be demonstrated, highlighting how thoughtful farm design and organisation can significantly reduce workload and stress during busy periods.
Grazed grass remains the cheapest feed, with efficient utilisation central to farm productivity and profitability. On the day, it will be outlined how grass is managed through early turnout, maintaining good soil fertility, effective grazing infrastructure, and the strategic use of clover.
Speaking ahead of the event, Newford farm manager Shane McGuinness said: “Using AI allows farmers to access superior genetics and tailor breeding to the farm’s goals, while also reducing the need for handling bulls on-farm and increasing overall efficiency and labour productivity.”
Newford Demonstration Farm is part of the Future Beef Programme, which aims to demonstrate how beef farmers can produce a quality product as efficiently as possible, improving profitability while enhancing environmental and social sustainability.
Whether you are looking to improve breeding performance, reduce workload or future-proof your suckler enterprise, this event offers a valuable opportunity to learn and see best practice in action. A number of industry stakeholder stands will be present, where farmers can meet and ask questions.
The event takes place on Wednesday, 22nd April at 4pm at Newford Suckler Demonstration Farm, Scrine, Co. Roscommon, Eircode: F42 AH57.
Newford Farm is a joint partnership between Teagasc, Dawn Meats and McDonald’s.