Teagasc National Beef Conference to Focus on ‘Value, Profit and Renewal’
The 2025 Teagasc National Beef Conference will take place on Tuesday, 18 November at 5pm at the Raheen Woods Hotel, Athenry, County Galway, bringing together beef farmers, industry representatives, researchers and advisors to discuss how Irish beef producers can make the most of strong market conditions and plan for a sustainable, profitable future.
Announcing the conference, Professor Frank O’Mara, Director of Teagasc, said: “Beef prices have risen sharply over the past year, creating renewed optimism right across the sector. The theme of this year’s conference, ‘Beef Farming 2025: Value, Profit and Renewal’, reflects the opportunity to build on that momentum by investing wisely in farm systems that are profitable, efficient, and environmentally sustainable.”
The opening session of the conference, High-Value Weanlings: From Breeding Decisions to Market Demand, will focus on how suckler weanling producers can increase returns through improved cow management and breeding decisions. Speakers will include Professor David Kenny, Teagasc Grange and Dr. Katie Quigley of the Irish Cattle Breeding Federation (ICBF).
The second session, Beef 2025 and Beyond: Prices, Profits and Passing on the Farm, will examine what is driving high beef prices, how farmers can manage increased profitability, and the critical challenge of generational renewal in Irish farming.
Pearse Kelly, Head of Drystock Knowledge Transfer at Teagasc, commented: “Farmers are in a unique position this year, facing challenges, not of low prices, but of managing higher returns. This conference will help them make the right choices for their farms and families.”
Pat Clarke, Teagasc Regional Advisory Manager for Galway and Clare, added: “Hosting the National Beef Conference here in Athenry will shine a spotlight on the realities and opportunities facing beef farmers in the West. With strong cattle values and positive market prospects, it’s an ideal time to share practical insights that can strengthen farm businesses for the future.”
The National Beef Conference starts at 5pm on Tuesday, 18 November, is free to attend and all are welcome.
More information and the conference programme can be found here