The winning group undertook a research project exploring a ‘holistic approach to improving animal performance’.
Photo Chris Bellew / Fennells
Four students from Dunshaughlin Community College in Co Meath have been crowned the overall winners of the 2024 Certified Irish Angus School’s Competition.
At an awards ceremony in Croke Park, it was announced that students Eoin O’Sullivan, Eric Allen, Liam Byrne, and David Malone secured the win after impressing the judges with their data-led approach to the cattle-rearing competition, which is now in its 10th year.
The winning group undertook a research project exploring a ‘holistic approach to improving animal performance’.
From the outset of the project, the students used data to inform how their calves would be reared.
They used the Alltech ECO2 assessment tool to predict an outcome for their calves of 8.5kg CO2 per kg beef which is significantly lower than the national average.
The group conducted on-farm trials, soil analysis and used supplements in animal diets to lower CO2 emissions.
The team also made sure to involve their school community in their competition experience.
They developed and circulated a monthly newsletter in which updates were shared about the calves’ progress.
‘Passion and love for farming’
Announcing the winners, general manager of Certified Irish Angus Charles Smith said: “These young men displayed an immense passion and love for farming.
“They had a huge drive and quest for knowledge that drew them further and further into the science of farming.
Working closely with their equally enthusiastic and committed teachers and parents, the boys developed a deep understanding of every aspect of livestock production.
“Their investigation of soil health and its impact on the production cycle of beef cattle was very impressive, in particular its impact on vaccination uptakes and ultimate animal health.”
The competition in association with meat processors ABP and Kepak challenges students to rear five Irish Angus calves for beef production for two years.
It aims to promote the Certified Irish Angus brand while communicating the care and attention required to produce quality beef for consumers.
The number of students applying continues to grow each year with nearly 520 students from rural and urban backgrounds applying from 24 counties in 2023.
Runners-up
The runners-up in the 2024 competition were Sinéad Bracken, Chloe McDermott, Trása Bracken, and Mary Ellen Colton from Mercy Secondary School Kilbeggan, Co Meath.
The students researched the topic “exploring the opportunities of low carbon beef’ and created a five-point plan covering all aspects of the animals’ journey from farm to fork.
The group also fundraised over €4,000 for Crumlin children’s hospital in a raffle as part of the project.
Gráinne Callanan from Ursuline Secondary School Thurles, Co Tipperary received an outstanding achievement awarding her contribution to the competition.
The judges said she “showed exceptional ability as a communicator.”
“She captured the attention of the audiences she addressed with confidence. Most notable was her address to MEP’s in the European Parliament visit. Her ability to explain the disconnect between the data on farm accidents that exists between member states caught the attention of all attendees.”
