2017 rural dispatch · events & programmes officer [email protected] hannah mckeown...

RURALDISPATCHTHE OFFICIAL MAGAZINE OF THE YOUNG FARMERS’ CLUBS OF ULSTER

SUMMER2017

YFCU AGM & CONFERENCE

PAGES 14 - 16

BALMORAL SHOW

ROUND UPPAGES 20 - 22

CORRINA FLEMING Events & Programmes Officer

[email protected]

HANNAH MCKEOWN Events & Programmes Officer

[email protected]

CONTENTS

002

Published in association with DALE FARM, Northern Ireland’s

leading dairy company.

YFCU Rural Dispatch Sponsor

EVENTS TEAMGILLIAN MCKEOWN Events & Programmes Manager

[email protected]

• Group Debating

• Exchange Programme

• Arts Festival

• Arts Gala

• AGM

• Floral Art

• Tug of War

• Swimming Gala

• Choir Festival

• 10 Pin Bowling

• Ulster Young Farmer

• Member of the Year and Top Officials

• 3 Act Drama

• 1 Act Drama

• Sheep Shearing

• Machinery Handling

• Beef & Sheep Stock Judging

• John Bradley Challenge

• Fencing Competition

• Public Speaking

• Home Management

• Silage Making

• NI Quiz

• Photography Competition

• Demonstration Presentation

• Dairy Stock Judging

• Girls Football

• Home Management

• Build It

03 PRESIDENT’S FOREWORD

04 HQ NEWS- Seán’s Safety Tips

- The Farm Safety Foundation Standing Up for Ulster’s Young Farmers

- Danske Bank continues support for YFCU European Rally Team 2017

- YFCU announce UFU Exchange Programme bursary recipients

- Be your personal best with YFCU

- Next Generation Development Forum kicks off

08 MOY PARK- ‘Rules the Roost’at Balmoral Show!

09 SPOTLIGHT ON OUR STAFF- We chat to new YFCU Events Manager Gillian McKeown

10 FIRST TRUST - Farmer Focus

12 EVENTS ROUND UP- Randalstown YFC snap top prize in Photographic Competition

- Donaghadee YFC Gain Top Marks at NI Quiz

- Demonstration Presentation Final

- YFCU Arts Festival Gala a huge success

- YFCU AGM & Conference

- James McKay wins Ulster Young Farmer Competition

- Hannah celebrates YFCU Member of the Year Title

- Top Club Officials

- Andrew celebrates YFCU Junior Member of the Year Title

- Gareth named Junior Ulster Young Farmer

- YFCU Dairy Stock Judging County Heats Results

- YFCU Silage Assessment County Results

- YFCU Celebrate Drama Winners at Annual Dinner

- YFCU Girls’ Football Final at Balmoral Show

- County Tyrone secure YFCU Machinery Handling Title

- YFCU sheep shearing competitors display talents at Balmoral Show

- Tug of War Finals at Balmoral Show

- Floral Art Finals

23 CLUB NEWS

30 SPOTLIGHT ON OUR MEMBERS- We chat to with Junior International Sheep Shearer Iain Wilson from

Gleno Valley YFC

PRESIDENT’SFOREWORD

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For those who attended the 2017

YFCU AGM & Conference in April,

I’m sure you will all agree what a

fantastic weekend it was. A special

word of thanks must go to the

Armagh City Hotel and also to

our Headquarters staff in making

everything run so smoothly.

On the Presidential team we

welcome a lot of new faces, Zita

Blair (Moneymore YFC) elected as

Deputy President and David Oliver

(Dungiven YFC), Harry Crosby (Spa

YFC), Peter Alexander (Glarryford

YFC) and William Beattie (Finvoy

YFC) all elected as Vice Presidents.

I congratulate them all in their new

roles, a dedicated team that will offer

the YFCU so much.

I must pay tribute to my predecessor

Miss Roberta Simmons for her time

as President. Roberta has been an

excellent example to the entire YFCU

membership and a fantastic role

model for all members. We must also

pay tribute to Brooks Allen in his time

as Vice President. Brooks has and will

remain to have young farmers in his

blood; he has been a great servant

for this organisation in his central role.

As you all know I have set my theme

for the incoming year as ‘Members

Success’. With this theme I am

encouraging all members to evaluate

and look at their practices of being an

YFCU member.

This involves grabbing every

opportunity that YFCU has to offer,

I want members success recognised

and rewarded for their participation

as an YFCU member. Everything

from holding an office bearer post

in your club or county to competing

in a competition to gaining new

skills and training. As a member led

organisation I am continually aware

that our dedicated members

achieve so much through their

involvement, I want each member

to be proud to achieve success

within their time as an YFCU

member.

As we enter the summer months

I hope all clubs and committee

members will be visible at your local

agricultural shows, spreading the

YFCU message wide and far. This is

also important within your clubs as

you start to plan ahead for the new

club year starting in September.

As President I am keen to take on

board every member’s views, I want

to continue to hear your thoughts

and feedback, so together we can

move our organisation forward, so

please don’t hesitate to contact me

at any stage.

James Speers

As your new President, I am delighted to write my first foreword for Rural Dispatch. I am extremely humbled and honoured that the YFCU membership has bestowed me to represent and lead this 88 year old organisation. I look forward to serving the entire membership across Northern Ireland as your President while working as a team to build a stronger voice for rural young people. I thank all the members for allowing me this amazing opportunity and I hope I shall live up to your expectations.

Rural Dispatch

Editor: Lisa Sykes Email: [email protected] Telephone: 028 9037 0713

YFCU Headquarters 475 Antrim Road Belfast BT15 3BD

Designers: www.pagesetup.co.uk Printers: GPS Colour Graphics

For all editorial and advertising queries please contact the editor.

Next issue due out October 2017

Copy deadline 15th September 2017

Front Cover: Members of Spa YFC during

the Tug of War Ladies Competition at

Balmoral Show 2017.

CONTACT DETAILS

www.ufeeds.com028 9075 9000

Driving performancecoast to coast

First Trust Bank is a trade mark of AIB Group (UK) p.l.c. (a wholly owned subsidiary of Allied Irish Banks, p.l.c.), incorporated in Northern Ireland. Registered Office 92 Ann Street, Belfast, BT1 3HH. Registered Number NI018800. Authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and the Prudential Regulation Authority. +Call charges may vary please refer to your service provider.

Supporting clubs. Supporting communities.Call into any branch • 0845 6005 925+ • www.firsttrustbank.co.uk

The recent Balmoral Show offered award-winning charity the Farm Safety Foundation an opportunity to announce their continued sponsorship of the Young Farmers Clubs of Ulster. Newly elected President James Speers joined the Foundation’s Chair of Trustees Gina Fusco on the opening day of the show to announce the ongoing partnership.

The charity, which was set up in 2014 by rural insurers NFU Mutual, aims to raise awareness of farm safety among young farmers, by educating and promoting safer ways to farm in the hope of challenging and changing the risk taking behaviour that gives agriculture the industry the poorest safety record of any occupation in the UK.

Speaking at the Show, where the charity shared a stand with YFCU, Stephanie Berkeley commented: “We are delighted to continue our support of YFCU. By giving YFCU members access to information and practical resources we

Seán Keogh from the Health and Safety Executive for Northern Ireland shares some advice on keeping safe when working with round bales.

SEÁN’S SAFETY TIPS

Over the years the use of round bales has become a common practice on many farms in Northern Ireland, whether for hay, straw or silage. Round bales carry a very real risk and over the last 10 years 4 fatal accidents have been the result of bales falling on someone or someone falling off a stack of bales.

Storage• Round bales should be stacked in a pyramid

shape on their curved side.• Outside bales on the bottom row should be

supported to stop them moving, e.g. chocks.• The maximum height of the bales should be 3

bales. If the bales are of a less dense material it should only be 2 bales high.

When deciding where to store the bales you should use a site that is:• Uncluttered.• Near to where you are going to use them.• Firm, level, smooth and if possible well drained

ground. • Away from overhead power lines.

If your tractor contacts the overhead electricity wires phone Northern Ireland Electricity Networks, on 03457 643 643.

TransportationMoving round bales from the field to the farmyard must be done safely.

• Bale handling equipment, tractors, telehandlers and trailers must be well maintained and in good condition.

• Tractors used to move bales should have a safety cab to provide falling object protection.

• The driver should be trained and experienced to safely operate the machinery and take into account potential dangers, e.g. slopes, overhead powerlines, securing the load safely.

• When moving bales keep the bale as low as possible, avoid sudden movements and travel at a speed appropriate to suit the terrain.

• Trailers should not be overloaded. Bales should be securely loaded with suitable straps and not overhang the edges of the trainer.

• Take care when releasing the straps used to secure the load as the bales may have moved during transportation.

To find out more about farm safety, including the ongoing ‘Stop and Think SAFE’ campaign, please contact the HSENI helpline on: 0800 0320 121 or visit: www.hseni.gov.uk/farmsafe

hope to continue increasing the knowledge of safer

working practices to the farmers of the future and

reduce the risk-taking behaviours that are currently

so rife in the industry. Farming and food production

play a crucial role in the life and economy of

Northern Ireland - it is the bedrock of our food

and drink industry. More than ever, we should be

looking after our farmers and keeping them safe.

We need to understand why they are still taking

risks so farm safety is a topic that needs to appear

at the top of any agricultural agenda. We are

grateful that James Speers and the energetic and

committed team at YFCU support our messages

and ask members ‘Who Would Fill Your Boots?’ if

they were to suffer a life changing accident at work.

Once again, this has been a year of tragedies in the

industry but we know that working in partnership

with YFCU, along with the support of the NI Farm

Safety Partnership we can make a difference and

bring about a change in behaviour.”

THE FARM SAFETY FOUNDATION STANDING UP FOR ULSTER’S YOUNG FARMERS

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Annaclone & Magherally YFC’s Jonathan Sleator has been picked for the YFCU European Rally 2017 team along with fellow YFCU members David Oliver from Dungiven YFC, Melanie McClean from Holestone YFC and Danielle Black from Coleraine YFC who attended the launch along with YFCU Deputy President James Speers who will join the rally as team leader.

The European Rally will be held in Latvia from 6th - 13th August 2017 and the theme for this year is ‘AIR’ which stands for Active, Inspired and Rural. The rally is organised by Rural Youth Europe which functions as an umbrella for youth organisations working to promote and activate young people in the countryside and will celebrate its 60th anniversary this year.

During the launch Robert McCullough, Head of Agri-Business at Danske Bank congratulated the YFCU members who

The Young Farmers’ Club of Ulster (YFCU) is pleased to announce the continued support of the UFU in its Exchange Programme. This year two YFCU members will be supported by a bursary and part of the sponsorship package involves them reporting back on a subject with an agricultural theme.

Recipients of the bursaries are Christina McCollam from Lylehill YFC who will travel to Canada and Kaitlyn Martin from Ballywalter YFC who will travel to Kansas to both stay with host families throughout their exchange.

The Exchange Programme has been offered through YFCU for over 60 years and forms many international lifetime friendships.

were successful in gaining a place on the European Rally team. On behalf of Danske Bank he wished Jonathan, David, Melanie, Danielle and James well and commented that they would be excellent ambassadors for their clubs, the Association and Northern Ireland.

The launch was also attended by other Danske Bank representatives including Seamus McCormick, Senior Agri-Business Manager, North, Danske Bank and Carol McMullan, Agri-Business Manager, North, Danske Bank.

Robert McCullough from Danske Bank said; “We have been proud to support the YFCU European Rally team for almost 40 years giving over 150 members the opportunity to participate in this important annual event. We are delighted, as a Platinum Sponsor of the YFCU, to again support the European Rally which will be held in Latvia this year

Members compete for places, are interviewed by a panel and receive intensive training before heading off to their foreign destinations.

Ulster Farmers’ Union CEO Wesley Aston said, “Sponsoring the YFCU Exchange programme is a way for the UFU to support the next generation of farmers. We are helping young people to learn more about agricultural practices and cultures in other parts of the world. The experience and ideas gained from these travels will benefit the industry here at home.”

Young Farmers’ Clubs of Ulster CEO Michael Reid added, “We are grateful to have UFU on board to support this key area

allowing the Association to showcase all that is good about YFCU and NI rural youth. I have no doubt that the team members will enjoy and benefit from this cultural, educational and sporting exchange with lasting friendships made across all of the participating European rural youth groups.”

YFCU Deputy President James Speers thanked Danske Bank and commented, “We are indebted to Danske Bank for their continued support and commitment to YFCU as one of our key Platinum sponsors. With their kind generosity we are able to be represented at the European Rally this year in Latvia. The rally will give the team the opportunity to share best practice, attend workshops and learn more about the other young farmer clubs that are attending from across Europe.”

The YFCU would like to extend a note of thanks to Danske Bank for the bank’s ongoing support of the Association.

of the Association. This partnership allows the UFU to gain from the expertise Christina and Kaitlyn will encounter in their travels abroad. We wish our members well as they plan for their trip and trust they get as much out of the experience as previous members have found.”

DANSKE Bank announced their continued support of the Young Farmers’ Clubs of Ulster (YFCU) European Rally team at the launch which was held in April outside the iconic Titanic Building in Belfast.

YFCU ANNOUNCE UFU EXCHANGE PROGRAMME BURSARY RECIPIENTS

DANSKE BANK CONTINUES SUPPORT FOR YFCU EUROPEAN RALLY TEAM 2017

Pictured at the announcement of the sponsorship are Christina McCollam from Lylehill YFC and Kaitlyn Martin from Ballywalter YFC who have received places on the 2017 YFCU Exchange Programme, alongside UFU CEO Wesley Aston.

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Your DofE/JAI Award will be fun, challenging and full of memorable experiences. You can try something new, meet new people and learn new things. Once you have achieved your Award your DofE/JAI will leave you with more than just amazing memories.

It will help equip you with a whole host of skills that will help you throughout your life, from keeping calm in challenging situations, to organising your time. Not only are these skills that are crucial to success in everyday life, they are also extremely attractive to employers.

YFCU is a DofE Licensed Organisation and you can enrol to do your DofE/JAI programme with us.

Award levels and timingsThere are three levels of programme you can do which, when successfully completed, lead to a Bronze, Silver or Gold Award. The main differences between them are the minimum length of time they take to complete, how challenging they are and the minimum age you can start. You can choose from a Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Certificate, a Gaisce – The President’s Award Certificate or a Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award Certificate.

Award sectionsAdventurous, caring, sporty, creative… however you might describe yourself, the DofE/JAI is for you. Many of the activities

you are doing through YFCU will also count towards your Award so you can start planning your own personal and unique journey.

Have you already started your DofE but are now stuck on what to do next?

• Having trouble with eDofE?• Not sure what you need to do to

complete your DofE/JAI? • Get in touch so that we can help you

complete!

For more information please contact Corrina Fleming or Jemma Robinson at YFCU on 028 9037 0713.

What is a DofE/JAI Award?The DofE is the world’s leading youth achievement award, giving millions of 14 to 24-year-olds the opportunity to be the very best they can be.



BE YOUR PERSONAL BEST WITH YFCU

The group kicked off its first meeting by hearing about the success of a similar forum run by the NFU Cymru. “This format has proven successful in other UK regions and we want to replicate it here. The focus of the forum will be driven by its members but we expect there will be a mixture of

both business and practical sessions. The group complements our existing policy committee structure and will help to shape the UFU for future generations,” said Mr Bell.

The Union sees the forum as a tool to help identify future organisation and industry

NEXT GENERATION DEVELOPMENT FORUM KICKS OFFThe Ulster Farmers’ Union, with the support of the Young Farmers Clubs of Ulster, held the first meeting of the new Next Generation Development Forum in May. UFU president Barclay Bell said that he is impressed by the calibre of the group and has high hopes for what it will achieve. “We have brought together 24 farmers, all under the age of 40, who are some of the most innovative in the industry. Our aim is to help develop their leadership, communication and business skills while encouraging them to become more involved in the Union’s activities.”

leaders. The UFU president said, “These young people are the future of our industry. We are facing uncertain times ahead and our industry needs capable young leaders. We see this as an important investment for the industry’s future.”

Members of the Next Generation Forum gather for the group’s official launch.

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Visitors to the company’s stand had the opportunity to enjoy food samples courtesy of Moy Park’s innovative food development team and the chance to win a range of prizes including goodie bags, recipe books and an iPad through its ‘Spin and Win’ wheel and ‘Grab a Golden Ticket’ booth.

Moy Park hosted a reception at its stand welcoming many of its suppliers and customers, along with other industry leaders, and Janet McCollum, Moy Park Chief Executive, delivered the key note address at this year’s Ulster Bank Lunch at the show.

The Balmoral Show is the ideal opportunity to engage with Moy Park’s farming partners, suppliers and local community each year and update them on the team’s latest innovations supporting our thriving agri-food industry.

MOY PARK

Moy Park was delighted to take part once more in Northern Ireland’s largest agriculture and food event, the Balmoral Show. With an extra day added to this year’s festivities, Balmoral Park saw a record number of visitors in attendance to celebrate Northern Ireland’s diverse agriculture, food and drink industry.

Photo Captions1. Moy Park’s innovative food development team treats guests to culinary delights at the Moy Park Corporate Reception.

2. Mia Gilmore (2) from Dungannon is pictured after taking part in Moy Park’s ‘Spin and Win’ game.

3. Pictured at the Moy Park Corporate Reception at the Balmoral Show is Moy Park Chief Executive Janet McCollum with Derek Martin, Deputy Chairman of H&J Martin and Sian Land, Moy Park Chief Financial Officer.

4. Pictured at the Ulster Bank Lunch at the Balmoral Show is Moy Park Chief Executive Janet McCollum with Ulster Bank’s Richard Donnan (left) and Cormac McKervey

5. A lucky contestant lines up to try her hand at Moy Park’s ‘Spin and Win’ game.

6. Pictured with Moy Park’s cuddly mascot is Lucy (10) Isaac Campbell (8) from Killinchy.

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‘RULES THE ROOST’ AT BALMORAL SHOW!

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O N O U R S T A F F

SPOTLIGHT



How did you enjoy Balmoral Show?Having been at Balmoral Show before as a member of the public, it was a great opportunity at the beginning of my new role to be involved and see how it all works behind the scenes. I really enjoyed the opportunity to meet so many of our members, put faces to names and start building new relationships. As an organisation, YFCU set objectives of attending Balmoral Show, including an opportunity to showcase the organisation, hold successful competition finals and engage with the public and attract new members. I loved seeing so many members getting involved, through volunteering at the stand, demonstrating their skills and competitive edge at our competitions and cheering on their club at the finals! We are now approaching the start of a new club year, what will you be focusing on to encourage the President’s Theme of ‘Members Success’?I can’t wait to get started with the new competitions and will be focusing on encouraging clubs to join us in seeing the full potential of James’ theme ‘Members Success’. I will be encouraging clubs to help the theme reach its full potential by:

• Encouraging new entries and increased numbers to each competition within your club and county

• Encouraging members to try something new, developing skills and confidence

• Encouraging members to ask HQ and other clubs for advice if they are unsure about what a competition involves – we are all one big community who need to work together, to increase numbers and see YFCU at the best it can be!

As well as competitions, there will also be a big focus on training activities available for clubs to include in their programmes; ranging from mental health and drugs and alcohol, to road and farm safety. These are extremely important to ensure members are exposed to all training available, but also vital for us to reach any targets set by DAERA and the Education Authority. These programmes are a club opportunity not to be missed, with some on a first come, first served basis!

We speak to the new YFCU Events Manager Gillian McKeown about her new role and what

she is most looking forward to as part

of the biggest rural youth organisation in

Northern Ireland.

How are you settling in to your new job as our Events Manager? What have been your favourite parts of the job so far?I feel that I have been very lucky to start at such a busy time of the YFCU year, as I definitely prefer to hit the ground running. Getting to see the AGM, Balmoral Show and snippets of the drama and football, has given me a great opportunity to meet so many members and get an understanding of the YFCU competitions.

Everyone at HQ and all the members have been extremely welcoming and I can’t wait for what is to come in my role as Events Manager!

Tell us about what you were doing before YFCU?After completing my BA Hons degree in Marketing and Management, I have been working in the Events and Fundraising industry for over 11 years, including the Corporate, Hospitality and Weddings and Charity sectors. Most recently, I was the Corporate Fundraising Manager for Action Cancer, responsible for all events, sponsorships, partnerships and corporate fundraising.

What do you hope to bring to the organisation?I am looking forward to using my skills and expertise to help YFCU increase efficiency and competition participation numbers, which in turn, will hopefully encourage even more members to join such a great organisation.

What events are you most excited for? I can’t wait to see all of the competitions and events that YFCU has to offer. I am looking forward to getting to see events that are completely different to what I have worked on before, including the agricultural competitions and Arts Gala. It is great to be part of an organisation that offers so many opportunities and experiences for young people across Northern Ireland.

What do you enjoy outside of work? Having recently got married in April, I am looking forward to starting work on our house, as I love DIY, crafts and a bit of gardening! I enjoy travelling, going to the gym (when I find the motivation) and love getting outside for long walks and exploring new places when I get a chance with my adorable pet dog, Ralph! Show him a tennis ball and he is your friend for life!

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Kyle, tell us a bit about yourself and your interest in agriculture. I live in Lack in Co Fermanagh on our family farm where we have 120 ewes and 40 suckler cows. We are mainly focused on breeding and rearing, with a lot of our time spent on animal nutrition and welfare as well as land management.

Like a lot of young farmers, I got involved in farming at an early age – as soon as I was fit to be outside really! While helping feed and move animals, I watched as my father and grandfather before him, did what I considered to be the more exciting jobs of bringing in silage and working with machinery. Now however I have a very hands-on role in managing the farm. Outside of the farming life, I enjoy clay pigeon shooting – well trying to hit the clay anyway!

You joined CAFRE as a student at a young age, what do you enjoy most about studying there? I left school after my GCSEs to gain a more in-depth knowledge of agriculture and farming practices. I decided to do a three year Extended Diploma in Agriculture which aims to provide students with a good grounding in the agri-food sector. It included modules covering a wide spectrum of issues from agricultural environments and animal health to beef, sheep and dairy production as well as livestock husbandry. What I enjoyed most about the course was its focus on gaining real-world experience outside of the classroom. As part of the programme, I had a yearlong placement on a large sheep farm in Banbridge which provided me with invaluable insight on to how to manage lambing and land.

Farmer Focus!

I am due to complete CAFRE’s two year Foundation Degree in Agriculture and Rural Studies shortly and I am currently out on placement again before graduating this summer. While this course also includes practical work, the degree programme aims to deepen and hone your knowledge of the sector and in particular teaches you what is involved in the business of actually running a farm. Like most of my classmates, I come from a farming background and felt I had a good understanding of animals and agriculture but I wasn’t as strong on the economic and business side. For me, the business and farm management element of the degree programme has been hugely beneficial.

Tell us more about your Farm Business Management Plan and taking part in the competition. While many students devised a plan that would change the focus of their farm or expand their operations, my farm business management plan looked at our current business model and considered how to make it more efficient and effective. In particular, I looked at how to improve our calving intervals and synchronize breeding times as well as re-seeding with a view to taking more from grass.

With feedback and advice from my tutors and the First Trust Bank judges, I was able to refine my business plan and, at home on the farm, we have started putting many of the recommendations into action and plan to do more over the coming year.

What are your plans for the future? I am lucky enough to have been offered a job with my placement company, Genus AI. They are a world leading provider of bovine genetics and reproduction services and use cutting edge technology to maximise the potential of beef and dairy farms. As with my course, I enjoy working outside and being hands-on, so Genus AI is a good fit as it is a farm based role where I help heat detect cows. While farming and agriculture is often thought of a traditional industry based on heritage and skills, it is also a very innovative sector so I am pleased to be working for a company that is utilising technology to help farmers grow their business.

Kyle Weir, a 21 year old Fermanagh farmer, recently placed in the top 3 of First Trust Bank’s prestigious Farm Business Management Competition. He talks to Rural Dispatch about his time studying at CAFRE, taking part in the competition and what it’s like to be a young farmer. While farming and

agriculture is often thought of a traditional industry based on heritage and skills, it is also a very innovative sector.

The degree programme aims to deepen and hone your knowledge of the sector and in particular teaches you what is involved in the business of actually running a farm.

Terms, conditions and eligibility criteria apply, contact us for further details. First Trust Bank is a trade mark of AIB Group (UK) p.l.c. (a wholly owned subsidiary of Allied Irish Banks, p.l.c.), incorporated in Northern Ireland. Registered Office 92 Ann Street, Belfast BT1 3HH. Registered Number NI018800. Authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and the Prudential Regulation Authority.

WE SEE THE POTENTIAL TOO.

PHONE. ONLINE. BRANCH.

At First Trust Bank we have finance available to cover assets such as tractors, trailers, combine harvesters, balers, diet feeders and 4x4 vehicles.

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Terms, conditions and eligibility criteria apply, contact us for further details. First Trust Bank is a trade mark of AIB Group (UK) p.l.c. (a wholly owned subsidiary of Allied Irish Banks, p.l.c.), incorporated in Northern Ireland. Registered Office 92 Ann Street, Belfast BT1 3HH. Registered Number NI018800. Authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and the Prudential Regulation Authority.

WE SEE THE POTENTIAL TOO.

PHONE. ONLINE. BRANCH.

At First Trust Bank we have finance available to cover assets such as tractors, trailers, combine harvesters, balers, diet feeders and 4x4 vehicles.

Donaghadee YFC were crowned the winners of the quiz which consisted of ten rounds of ten questions and included a picture and music round. The North Down club received the top prize of £300 for their club. Their team was made up of Kelsie Crawford, Philip Donaldson, Jane Kilpatrick and Stuart Rea.

Second place went to Glarryford YFC which was made up of Ben King, Cathy Reid, Mark McAuley and Lydia Simpson. They were awarded £200 for their club.

In third place, Holestone YFC who received £100 prize money for their club was made up of Dan McAuley, Amy McKillen, Amber Allen and Gareth Cummings.

The Young Farmers’ Clubs of Ulster would like to take this opportunity to thank Martin Convery, Business Development Manager from sponsor Ulster Bank for attending and supporting the quiz, Magherafelt High School who provided the superb venue, past YFCU President Roberta Simmons for her services as quiz master on the night, William Wilson, Harry Crosby, Martyn Blair and Clarence Calderwood for setting the testing questions and everyone who helped with the stewarding and marking on the night.

Over 160 YFCU members took part in the popular YFCU NI Quiz sponsored by Ulster Bank at Magherafelt High School.

Members of the YFCU took up the challenge to capture an image that would scoop them a prize in the Young Farmers’ Clubs of Ulster annual photographic competition sponsored by Emerald Isle Recycle. The theme for this year was ‘Reduce, Reuse & Recycle’

The winners were announced at the NI Quiz on Friday 3rd March at Magherafelt High School. Judges were very impressed with the quality of photos submitted by members and based the winners on the theme as well as looking for images that told a story and showed some thought and effort as well as an understanding of the basic composition rules.

The winning entry was by Georgia Nicholl from Randalstown YFC. Second place was awarded to Jack Galway from Ballymiscaw YFC and third place was awarded to Rebecca Mulligan from Clogher Valley YFC.

DONAGHADEE YFC GAIN TOP MARKS AT NI QUIZ

The Donaghadee YFC team who were awarded 1st place in the NI Quiz, Kelsie Crawford, Philip Donaldson, Jane Kilpatrick and Stuart Rea receiving their prize of £300 from Martin Convery, Business Development Manager, Ulster Bank and Roberta Simmons, past YFCU President and quiz master for the evening.

The 1st place winning photograph in the YFCU annual photographic competition was taken by Georgia Nicholl from Randalstown YFC.

Winner of the YFCU annual photographic competition Georgia Nicholl from Randalstown YFC is pictured with YFCU past President Roberta Simmons.

RANDALSTOWN YFC SNAP TOP PRIZE IN PHOTOGRAPHIC COMPETITION

ROUND UPEVENTS

MAR

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Sponsored for a number of years by NFU Mutual Insurance Society Limited, the Arts Festival Gala evening saw the top five clubs from the YFCU’s arts festival perform to a sold out crowd. A VIP reception sponsored by Chestnutt Animal Feeds was also held before the performances.

The clubs that took to the stage were Finvoy YFC, Kilraughts YFC, Kilrea YFC, Glarryford YFC and Spa YFC who performed a short drama piece which the members wrote and produced themselves. The outstanding performance of the night award went to Kilrea Young Farmers.

Compare for the evening was Adrian Logan and guest speaker was UFU President Barclay Bell who presented the awards following the performances.

The YFCU woukd like to thank NFU Mutual and Chestnutt Animal Feeds for their continued support of the organisation.

The Young Farmers’ Clubs of Ulster (YFCU) popular Arts Festival Gala took place at the Millennium Forum in Londonderry.

The results were as follows:

Most amusing moment: Collone YFC

Most innovative musical moment: Spa YFC

Most imaginative theme: Newtownards YFC

Best choral piece: Spa YFC

Best choreography: Glarryford YFC

Best newcomer: Derg Valley YFC

Outstanding Performance of the Night: Kilrea Young Farmers

Awards of Special Merit: Finvoy YFC, Kilraughts YFC, Kilrea YFC, Glarryford YFC and Spa YFC

YFCU members took part in the popular demonstration presentation final which was held in March at Magherafelt High School.

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MAR

12 - 14 Age Group1st Victoria Currie, Kilraughts YFC2nd Francesca Boyd, Coleraine YFC3rd Robbie McNeill, Kilraughts YFC 14 - 16 Age Group1st Matthew Ney, Annaclone & Magherally YFC2nd Connor Woods, Annaclone & Magherally YFC3rd James Currie, Kilraughts YFC 16 - 18 Age Group1st Alan Fleming, Cappagh YFC2nd Rebecca Rankin, Kilraughts YFC3rd Troy Booth, Cappagh YFC

18 - 21 Age Group1st Lynne Montgomery, City of Derry YFC2nd James Bates, Moneymore YFC3rd Naomi McCullen, Straid YFC 21 - 25 Age Group1st Ross Beattie, Finvoy YFC2nd Cathy Keatley, Derg Valley YFC3rd Nathan Moore, Artana YFC 25 - 30 Age Group1st Robert Sloan, Kilrea YFC2nd Zita Blair, Moneymore YFC3rd Andrew Ritchie, Ballywalter YFC

Competitors were able to present or demonstrate a topic, item or skill of their choice for a minimum of 5 minutes up to maximum of 10 minutes to a judge. YFCU would like to extend its thanks to the judges Fiona Cromie, Jane McCollam, Maura Ellis, Linda Davis, Trevor Woods and William Wilson.

YFCU DEMONSTRATION PRESENTATION FINAL

YFCU ARTS FESTIVAL GALA 2017 A HUGE SUCCESS

All the 1st place winners in the Demonstration Presentation Competition pictured with past YFCU President Roberta Simmons.

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Over 300 young farmers attended the Young Farmers’ Clubs of Ulster Association’s AGM and Conference, sponsored by Massey Ferguson, one of the world’s leading tractor brands. The event was held at Armagh City Hotel in April.

The YFCU put together an informative morning programme for members as well as delegates from sister organisations Macra na Feirme, the Scottish Association of Young Farmers’ Clubs and Welsh Young Farmers to take part in.

Before embarking on the day’s proceedings, members had an energising workout provided by Armagh City Hotel staff. Outgoing President Roberta Simmons then welcomed members to the conference.

Ulster Wildlife’s Grassroots Challenge delivered one of the two workshops at the morning session of the YFCU AGM & Conference. The project officers Shona and Andrew gave an overview of the project and how to get involved with either a Club Night Challenge or a Wild Idea Project. They had some bird themed ice breakers and they brought along a long eared owl called Otis. The second workshop was provided by Alison Armstrong from Ascert who delivered an informative drug and alcohol awareness talk to the members.

During the AGM in the afternoon, the presidential team for 2017/18 was announced. James Speers, (Collone YFC) was elected into the position of President of the Association and Zita Blair,

(Moneymore YFC) was elected to the position of Deputy President.

The positions of Vice President went to re-elected members Harry Crosby, (Spa YFC) and David Oliver, (Dungiven YFC) while Peter Alexander (Glarryford YFC) and William Beattie (Finvoy YFC) were elected for the first time as Vice Presidents. Brooks Allen (Collone YFC) stepped down as Vice President after two years in the role and President James Speers thanked Brooks for all his hard work and wished him well in the future.

James also paid tribute to outgoing President Roberta Simmons. James commented, “Throughout the past two years Roberta has led the organisation from strength to strength. Her endless commitment and hard work to the organisation has been recognised by the members and appreciated by the wider Agri Industry in NI.”

During the AGM, the new President also announced that his theme for the coming year will be entitled ‘Members Success’. James commented, “I strongly believe that everyone deserves recognition for any small part they play in promoting the success of the YFCU through their club, their community or themselves as an individual. I want to champion

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YFCU AGM & CONFERENCE

The Association’s most eagerly awaited competition took place just prior to the AGM. Four clubs had made it through to the final of the Club of the Year competition sponsored by Power NI. Dungiven YFC, Donaghadee YFC, Randalstown YFC and Holestone YFC took part in a quiz to determine the winner. After a nervous wait, Dungiven YFC were announced as winners and received the Club of the Year trophy. The Club of the Year competition was established in 2012 in memory of former YFCU General Secretary Arthur McAllister.

everything we do in the lead up to our 90th anniversary. Join me and capture ‘Members Success’ within YFCU in every way possible, from competing in your first competition as a new member to achieving an award in your club, County or at the NI finals. In the year ahead I challenge you and your club to embrace my theme, go the extra mile and enjoy the ‘Members Success’ through your participation in this exceptional rural youth organisation.”

The YFCU would like to thank Massey Ferguson for their sponsorship of the AGM and Conference, Armagh City Hotel staff for the energising workout and to Ulster Wildlife and Ascert who delivered the workshops to the members.

DUNGIVEN YFC CROWNED YOUNG FARMERS’ CLUBS OF ULSTER - CLUB OF THE YEAR

Winners of Club of the Year sponsored by Power NI were Dungiven YFC. Pictured are (L-R) YFCU President James Speers, Alan Egner from Power NI and James Purcell and David Oliver from Dungiven YFC.

The YFCU Presidential team for 2017/2018. Pictured (L-R from back row) are YFCU Vice Presidents Peter Alexander (Glarryford YFC), William Beattie (Finvoy YFC), David Oliver (Dungiven YFC) and Harry Crosby (Spa YFC). YFCU President James Speers (Collone YFC) and Deputy President Zita Blair (Moneymore YFC).

Outgoing YFCU President Roberta Simmons is presented with a gift from new YFCU President James Speers.

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Ulster Young Farmer Competition Results

Countryside Management

1st Place & The Clarke Black Trophy

Peter Boyd, Straid YFC

2nd Place TIE Bryan Fleming, Clanabogan YFCIan Walker, Collone YFCMegan Patterson, Dungiven YFCRobert Keatley, Derg Valley YFC

Sheep Section

1st Place & McCausland Trophy

James McCay, Cappagh YFC

2nd Place Robert Keatley, Derg Valley YFC

3rd Place Peter Boyd, Straid YFC

Beef Section

1st Place and Ulster Farmers’ Mart Trophy

Bryan Fleming, Clanabogan YFC

2nd Place TIE James McCay, Cappagh YFCJoanne Smyth, Coleraine YFC

Pigs/Poultry Section

1st and Pigs Marketing Board Trophy

Sam Patterson, Dungiven YFC

2nd Place TIE Ross Beattie, Finvoy YFCPaul Cottney, Hillsborough YFC

Grass Section

1st Place Tie and Peter Fitzpatrick Trophy

Paul Cottney, Hillsborough YFC

2nd Place James McCay, Cappagh YFC

3rd Place Jonathan Bristow, Ahoghill YFC

Arable Section

1st Place and Noel Sufferin Trophy

Timothy Savage, Annaclone & Magherally YFC

2nd Place Stephen Moore, Coleraine YFC

3rd Place Jessica Pollock, Derg Valley YFC

Dairy Section

1st Place and Milk Marketing Board Trophy

Paul Cottney, Hillsborough YFC

2nd Place Claire Adams, Coleraine YFC

3rd Place Ian Walker, Collone YFC

Farm Safety Section

1st Place and NI Machinery Dealers Assoc. Trophy TIE

Paul Cottney, Hillsborough YFCClaire Adams, Coleraine YFC

2nd Place Megan Patterson, Dungiven YFC

3rd Place Jessica Pollock, Derg Valley YFC

Finance Section

1st Place and Northern Bank Cup

Robert Keatley, Derg Valley YFC

2nd Place James McKay, Cappagh YFC

3rd Place Steven Moore, Coleraine YFC

Best Under 21

1st and Golden Plough Trophy

Megan Patterson, Dungiven YFC

2nd Place Laura Kennedy, Cappagh YFC

3rd Place Jeffrey Hamilton, Newtownhamilton YFC

James McKay from Cappagh YFC has been named Ulster Young Farmer of the Year.

JAMES MCKAY WINS ULSTER YOUNG FARMER COMPETITION

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Sponsored by United Feeds, Hannah was one of six finalists for the award. The County winners were: County Armagh, Judith McCombe, Collone YFC; County Down, Matthew Patterson, Spa YFC; County Tyrone, Lynsay Hawkes, Seskinore YFC; County Londonderry, Danielle Black; County Fermanagh, Rebecca Ryan, Lisbellaw YFC and County Antrim, Hannah Kirkpatrick, Kilraughts YFC.

Hannah has been selected as the club’s senior member of the year as she is a brilliant member who always has the club’s best interests at heart.

Hannah Kirkpatrick from Kilraughts YFC was named the Young Farmers’ Clubs of Ulster Senior Member of the Year at the association’s Annual General Meeting and Conference which took place at Armagh City Hotel.

She has held many positions within the club and will be stepping into secretary in the new young farmers’ year. Hannah throws herself into all aspects of the YFCU at club, county and Northern Ireland level, from helping out or taking part in events, competing in all competitions and representing Kilraughts YFC and YFCU in Canada on her international exchange.

Courtesy of United Feeds, Hannah received a commemorative plaque as well as £100 worth of vouchers for the shop of her choice.

Sponsored by Danske Bank, the Ulster Young Farmer of the Year competition is one of the most prestigious competitions in the Association’s calendar.

After qualifying through two preliminary rounds, James made it through to the final, which took place in CAFRE Greenmount campus earlier this year. During the final stage he had to answer questions on a series of topics including finance, countryside management, beef, arable, machinery, sheep and dairy.

Awards are given to the member who scores the highest in each of the sections and James took one of these individual titles as well gaining the top spot in the Sheep Section.

Mark Forsythe, Danske Bank’s Senior Agri Manager for the East Region, presented James with the McCausland Trophy and the other prize winners with their awards.

Overall second place in the Ulster Young Farmer competition was awarded to Timothy Savage from Annaclone & Magherally YFC and 3rd place was awarded to Jessica Pollock from Derg Valley YFC.

The Ulster Young Farmer Best Under 21 results were also delivered at the AGM and conference with Megan Patterson from Dungiven YFC taking the top spot in the Under 21 category and receiving the Golden Plough Trophy.

The Ulster Young Farmer 25-30 years old award was also presented. Taking top spot in this category and winning the Roberta Simmons shield was John Porter from Annaclone & Magherally YFC. In second place was Alexander Currie from Kells & Connor and in third place was Michael Woodrow from Spa YFC.

Hannah Kirkpatrick from Kilraughts YFC receives the Senior Member of the Year trophy from the event sponsor United Feeds representative, Jenny Hamilton and YFCU President, James Speers.

Ulster Young Farmer 25-30 years old winner John Porter from Annaclone & Magherally YFC is presented with the Roberta Simmons shield by Mark Forsythe from sponsor Danske Bank and YFCU President James Speers.

Best Under 21 Ulster Young Farmer of the Year, Megan Patterson from Dungiven YFC pictured with Mark Forsythe from sponsor Danske Bank and YFCU President James Speers.

Pictured are section winners of the Ulster Young Farmer of the Year competition with Mark Forsythe from sponsor Danske Bank and YFCU President James Speers.

Ulster Young Farmer of the Year winner James McKay YFC, Cappagh YFC pictured with Mark Forsythe from sponsor Danske Bank and YFCU President, James Speers.

HANNAH CELEBRATES YFCU MEMBER OF THE YEAR TITLE

At this year’s YFCU AGM and Conference sponsored by Massey Ferguson, the Top Club Officials across the six counties in the Young Farmers’ Clubs of Ulster (YFCU) were announced.

TOP CLUB OFFICIALS

Andrew has worked as Mountnorris YFC’s club treasurer this year, and has helped to organise some of the club’s events to date. First, Andrew was able to secure a grant of £5,700 for the club and this grant is helping to lift the club and to facilitate events such as their tractor run in memory of Andrew and Mark which Andrew was also proactive in organising. Andrew has set an example to new members this year, attending competitions such as Public Speaking and Floral Art, all part of helping to increase Mountnorris YFC’s participation in competitions this year. Andrew has also a role in the County; holding assistant treasurer and attending County events such as the ‘Apple Challenge’ within County Armagh, and attending the County Dinner.

Courtesy of United Feeds, Andrew received the William Wilson Cup and £100 worth of vouchers from a shop of his choice.

Andrew Porter from Mountnorris YFC was named the Young Farmers’ Clubs of Ulster Junior Member of the Year at the association’s Annual General Meeting and Conference. Sponsored by United Feeds, Andrew was one of six finalists for the award.

Elizabeth Adair from Randalstown YFC who was awarded Top Club PRO is pictured with James Speers, YFCU President.

Robert Shannon from Kilraughts YFC who was awarded Top Club Leader is pictured with YFCU President James Speers.

Stuart Mills from Moneymore YFC who was awarded Top Club Treasurer is pictured with James Speers, YFCU President.

Kerry Rea from Cappagh YFC who was awarded Top Club Secretary is pictured with James Speers, YFCU President.

These awards are highly anticipated and show the commitment and work that goes into running the clubs. It also gives drive and motivation for this year’s incoming club officials to strive to meet the standards of last year’s club officials.

Robert Shannon from Kilraughts YFC, was awarded Top Club Leader at this year’s AGM taking home the Harper Adams Trophy. In 2nd place was Adam Wilson from Cappagh YFC and in 3rd place was Zita Blair from Moneymore YFC.

Top Club Secretary was awarded to Kerry Rea from Cappagh YFC who took home the B&M Blair Cup. In 2nd place was Lynne Montgomery from City of Derry YFC and in 3rd place was Elaine Crozier from Collone YFC.

Top Club Treasurer this year was awarded to Stuart Mills who took home the Reg Gray Shield. Judith McCombe from Straid YFC took the 2nd place position and in 3rd place was Gillian Henderson from Kesh YFC.

Elizabeth Adair from Randalstown YFC received the first place position for Top Club PRO and was awarded with the prestigious Guild of Agricultural Journalists Trophy. In 2nd place was Andrew Sleator from Annaclone & Magherally YFC and in 3rd place was Laura Smith from Garvagh YFC.

ANDREW CELEBRATES YFCU JUNIOR MEMBER OF THE YEAR TITLE

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Gareth Baird from Straid YFC has been named Junior Ulster Young Farmer of the Year for 2017.

Sponsored by Danske Bank, the Junior Ulster Young Farmer of the Year competition attracted over 300 entrants.

After qualifying through two preliminary rounds, Gareth made it into the final, which took place in CAFRE Greenmount campus earlier this year. During the final stage he had to impress the judges with his knowledge of practical farming.

GARETH NAMED JUNIOR ULSTER YOUNG FARMER 2017

Junior Ulster Young Farmer winner Gareth Baird from Straid YFC receives the Robin Swann Trophy from Mark Forsythe, Danske Bank’s Senior Agri Manager for the East Region, and James Speers YFCU President. 16

Co Tyrone

12-14 Age Group1st Joanne Clingen, Seskinore YFC2nd Joshua Keys, Seskinore YFC3rd Mark Buchananah, Derg YFC4th Josh Hamilton, Derg YFC

14-16 Age Group1st Ellen Crawford, Seskinore YFC2nd Janice Clingen, Seskinore YFC3rd Gavin Short, Seskinore YFC4th Adam Hawkes, Seskinore YFC

16-18 Age Group1st Alan Fleming, Cappagh YFC2nd Victoria Allen, Clogher Valley YFC3rd James McKelvey, Newtownstewart YFC4th Claire Allen, Clogher Valley YFC

18-21 Age Group1st Michaela Short, Castlecaufield YFC2nd Graeme Monteith, Seskinore YFC3rd Samuel Hunter, Derg Valley YFC4th William Smyth, Trillick and District YFC

21-25 Age Group1st Nathan Moore, Cappagh YFC2nd John Edgar, Trillick & District YFC3rd Bryan Fleming, Clanabogan YFC4th Stuart McIvor, Castlecaufield YFC

25-30 Age Group1st Victoria Ross, Newtownstewart YFC2nd Adam Crockett, Derg Valley YFC3rd Iain Fleming, Cappagh YFC

Co Antrim

Age Group 12-141st Robyn Marshall, Holestone YFC2nd Aaron McNeilly, Randalstown YFC3rd Christy Hill, Randalstown YFC4th Leanne Nicholl, Randalstown YFC

Age Group 14-161st Annalea Crooks, Lisnamurrican YFCJoint 2nd Stuart Adams, Lisnamurrican YFC, Robbie O’Neill, Lisnamurrican YFC, Ewan Johnston, Glarryford YFC

Age Group 16-181st Philip Beattie, Finvoy YFC2nd Jack Patterson, Holestone YFC3rd Michael Forsythe, Straid YFC4th Ben Martin, Lisnamurrican YFC

Age Group 18-211st Mitchell Park, Glarryford YFC2nd Andrew White, Kells & Connor YFC3rd Cathy Reid, Glarryford YFC 4th Alan Adams, Lisnamurrican YFC

Age Group 21-251st Ross Beattie, Finvoy YFC2nd Jason Clyde, Finvoy YFC3rd Ross Lorimer, Lisnamurrican YFC4th Paul Allen, Randalstown YFC

Age Group 25-301st David Dunlop, Finvoy YFCJoint 2nd Stephanie McCollam, Lylehill YFC, Robert Weatherup, Gleno Valley YFC4th Christina McCollam, Lylehill YFC

Co Londonderry

Age Group 12-141st Francesca Boyd, Coleraine YFC2nd Amy McCollum, Coleraine YFC3rd Amy Smyth, Coleraine YFC4th Alex Lamont, Coleraine YFC

Age Group 14-161st Lauren McFarlane, Dungiven YFC2nd Matthew McCorkell, City of Derry YFC3rd Chloe Millar, Coleraine YFCJoint 4th Kirsten Henry, Moneymore YFC, Rachel Boyce, Garvagh YFC

Age Group 16-181st Chloe Millar, Dungivan YFC2nd Zara Fulton, Dungiven YFC3rd Joanna Mullan, Dungiven YFC4th Alistair Black, Garvagh YFC

Age Group 18-211st Ruth Adams, Coleraine YFC2nd Lynne Montgomery, City of Derry YFC3rd Louise Conn, Dungiven YFC4th Thomas Millar, Coleraine YFC

Age Group 21-251st Steven Moore, Coleraine YFC2nd Claire Adams, Coleraine YFC3rd Ryan Adams, Coleraine YFC4th Andrew McNaughter, Garvagh YFC

Age Group 25-301st Philip Henry, Coleraine YFC2nd Stuart Mills, Moneymore YFC3rd John Cochrane, Coleraine YFC4th William Bolton, Curragh YFC

Co Down

Age Group 12-141st Lucy Rodgers, Spa YFC2nd Alexander Mitchell, Annaclone & Magherally YFC3rd Daniel Ross, Newtownards YFC4th Henry Thompson, Annaclone & Magherally YFC

Age Group 14-161st Anna Clements, Spa YFC2nd Danielle Connelly, Spa YFC3rd Nicola Mitchell, Annaclone & Magherally YFC4th James Stephens, Moneyrea YFC

Age Group 16-181st Jill Stewart, Ballywalter YFC2nd Matthew Cleland, Spa YFC3rd Joanne Rankin, Newtownards YFC4th Samuel McMurray, Annaclone & Magherally YFC

Age Group 18-211st Robert Stewart, Newtownards YFC2nd Courtney Fee, Spa YFC3rd Rachel McMurray, Annaclone & Magherally YFC4th Rachel Carlisle, Spa YFC

Age Group 21-251st Samuel Carlisle, Spa YFC2nd Robert McCrory, Hillsborough YFC3rd David Young, Spa YFC4th Stuart Hanna, Annaclone & Magherally YFC

Age Group 25-301st David Dodd, Spa YFC2nd Andrew Patton, Newtownards YFC3rd Michael Woodrow, Spa YFC4th Criag Carlisle, Spa YFC

Co Fermanagh

12-14 Age Group1st Jack Armstrong, Kesh YFC2nd Jordon Ellis, Kesh YFC3rd Andrew Elliott, Lisbellaw YFC4th Evan Thompson, Kesh YFC

14-16 Age Group1st Tom Rooney, Lisbellaw YFC2nd Jill Belfour, Lisbellaw YFC3rd Darragh Walker, Kesh YFC4th Andrew Humphreys, West Fermanagh YFC

16-18 Age Group1st Christopher Balfour, Lisbellaw YFC2nd Hannah Birney, Kesh YFC3rd Daniel Dunne, Kesh YFC

18-21 Age Group 1st William Parkinson, Lisbellaw YFC2nd Edward Allan, West Fermanagh YFC3rd Craig Cowan, Lisbellaw YFC4th Sarah Little, West Fermanagh YFC

21-25 Age Group1st George Irvine, Kesh YFC2nd Rebecca Brunt, Lisbellaw YFC

25-30 Age Group1st Gillian Henderson, Kesh YFC

Co Armagh

Age Group 12-141st Clarise Crozier, Collone YFC2nd Karen Walker, Collone YFC3rd Samuel Phillips, Collone YFC 4th Joseph Porter, Mountnorris YFC

Age Group 14-161st Adam Hamilton, Collone YFC2nd Jessica Acheson, Collone YFC3rd Bobby Wilson, Collone YFC4th Emma Greer, Bleary YFC

Age Group 16-181st James Berry, Collone YFC2nd Abby Morton, Bleary YFC3rd Tamara Pollock Mountnorris YFC4th Harry Chambers, Collone YFC

Age Group 18-211st Chris Hamilton, Bleary YFC2nd Natasha Kennedy, Newtownhamilton YFC3rd Sam Marshall, Mountnorris YFC4th Matthew Livingstone, Collone YFC

Age Group 21-251st Ian Walker, Collone YFC2nd Thomas Chambers, Collone YFC3rd Stuart Williamson, Mountnorris YFC4th Christopher Fletcher, Collone YFC

Age Group 25-301st Benji Allen, Collone YFC2nd Joseph Black, Collone YFC

YFCU DAIRY STOCK JUDGING COUNTY HEATS RESULTS

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The YFCU’s annual dairy stock judging county and area heats sponsored by Ulster Bank took place at farms throughout Northern Ireland in April. The final will be held at Greenmount on Thursday 6th July.

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Co Antrim

12-14 1st Emma Galloway, Randalstown YFC 2nd Fraser McComb, Lylehill YFC3rd Kathryn McMaster, Lisnamurrican YFC Joint 4th Jayne Kirkpatrick, Kilraughts YFC, Kerry Jamison, Kilraughts YFC, Victoria Currie, Kilraughts YFC, Morgan Keegan, Lylehill YFC

14-16 1st Andrew Paisley, Gleno Valley YFC 2nd Alexandra McConnell, Holestone YFC 3rd Robyn McConnell, Holestone YFC 4th James Currie, Kilraughts YFC

16-18 1st Jack Patterson, Holestone YFC 2nd David McConkey, Straid YFC 3rd Michael Forsythe, Straid YFC, Laura Galloway, Randalstown YFC

18-21 1st Jack King, Crumlin YFC 2nd Alison Minford, Crumlin YFC 3rd Mitchell Park, Glarryford YFC 4th Christopher Collier, Crumlin YFC, Mark McConnell, Straid YFC

21-25 1st Paul Thompson, Lylehill YFC 2nd Jonathan Bristow, Ahoghill YFC 3rd Teresa Connon, Lisnamurrican YFC, Daniell Marshall Holestone YFC, Gavin Murray, Crumlin YFC

25-30 1st Eamon McGarry, Crumlin YFC 2nd Peter Alexander, Glarryford YFC 3rd Elaine Paisley, Straid YFC 4th Stephanie McCollam, Lylehill YFC

Co Down

12-14 1st Ryan Rodgers, Annaclone & Magherally YFC 2nd Ellie Macauley, Rathfriland YFC 3rd Andrew Brown, Ballywalter YFC 4th Colm McNamee, Mourne YFC, Alexander Mitchell, Annaclone & Magherally YFC

14-16 1st Daniel Sherry, Hillsborough YFC 2nd Glyn Surgenor, Hillsborough YFC 3rd Ben Jamison, Annaclone & Magherally YFC, Lauran McMurray Annaclone & Magherally YFC

16-18 1st Joshua Moore, Artana YFC, Olivia Hayes, Killinchy YFC 2nd James Boyd, Annaclone, Magherally YFC, Emma-Jayne Donnelly, Annaclone & Magherally YFC

18-21 1st Yasmin Erwin, Hillsborough YFC 2nd Jessica Lee, Ballywalter YFC, Zoe Faulkner, Ballywalter YFC 3rd Rachel McMurray, Annaclone & Magherally YFC

21-25 1st Robert McCrory, Hillsborough YFC 2nd Graeme Warden, Newtownards YFC, Andrew Sleator, Annaclone & Magherally YFC 3rd Stephen Tordon, Rathfriland YFC, Rebecca Connor, Mourne YFC

25-30 1st George Shaw, Spa YFC 2nd David Dodd, Spa YFC 3rd Nathan McFarlane, Ballymiscaw YFC 4th Jonathan Sleator, Annaclone & Magherally YFC

Co Tyrone

12-14 Jack Rankin, Derg Valley YFCKyle Young, Derg Valley YFCCraig Keatley, Derg Valley YFCAlistair Crawford, Seskinore YFC

14-16James Vance, Trillick & District YFCNathan Graham, Trillick & District YFCZara Preston, Cappagh YFCThomas McConnell, Newtownstewart YFC

16-18Victoria Allen, Clogher Valley YFCClaire Allen, Clogher Valley YFCAlan Fleming, Cappagh YFCJames McKelvey, Newtownstewart YFC

18-21 Gemma Hetherington, Newtownstewart YFCSamuel Hunter, Derg Valley YFCAshleigh Hamilton, Derg Valley YFCGraeme Monteith, Seskinore YFC

21-25Robert Keatley, Derg Valley YFCJamie Brown, Seskinore YFCJessica Pollock, Derg Valley YFCKyle Smyth, Clanabogan YFC

25-30 Victoria Ross, Newtownstewart YFCAdam Crockett, Derg Valley YFCIain Fleming, Cappagh YFC

Co Armagh

12-141st Clarisa Crozier, Collone YFC 2nd Ian Kennedy, Collone YFC 3rd Sarah Belshaw, Newtownhamilton YFC, Alexander Hawthorne, Collone YFC

14-16 1st Jessica Acheson, Collone YFC 2nd Kathryn Morton, Bleary YFC 3rd Hannah Gibson, Newtownhamilton YFC 4th Amy Kinnear, Bleary YFC

16-181st Abby Morton, Bleary YFC 2nd Rachel Coleman, Bleary YFC 3rd Tamara Pollock, Mountnorris YFC 4th Claire McAnearney, Bleary YFC

18-211st Emma Malcomson, Bleary YFC 2nd Karla Fitzpatrick, Collone YFC 3rd Ashleigh Johnston, Collone YFC 4th Zoe Maguire, Bleary YFC

21-251st Ian Walker, Collone YFC 2nd Brooks Allen, Collone YFC

25-30 1st Joseph Black, Collone YFC 2nd Benjamin Allen, Collone YFC

Co Londonderry

12-14 1st Rebecca Nicholl, Dungiven YFC 2nd Jenna Mullan, Dungiven YFC3rd John Baird, Dungiven YFC4th Peter Cunningham, YFC

14-161st Chloe parker, Garvagh YFC 2nd Claire Young, Dungiven YFC 3rd Gareth Henderson, Dungiven YFC 4th Taylor Jackson, Dungiven YFC

16-18 1st Zara Fulton, Dungiven YFC 2nd Joanna Mullan, Dungiven YFC 3rd Lauren McFarlane, Dungiven YFC 4th Niall Hutton, Moneymore YFC

18-211st Lynne Montgomery, City of Derry YFC 2nd Matthew Gordon, Kilrea YFC 3rd Alison Mullan, Dungiven YFC, Dylan Clarke Moneymore YFC

21-251st James Purcell, Dungiven YFC 2nd Matthew Gault, Dungiven YFC3rd Adam McCormick, Kilrea YFC, Michael Torrens, Garvagh YFC

25-30 1st David Oliver, Dungiven YFC 2nd William Bolton, Curragh YFC 3rd Geoff McNeill, Garvagh YFC 4th Ian Brown, Moneymore YFC

Co Fermanagh

12-14Jack Armstrong, Kesh YFCEvan Thompson, Kesh YFCJames Johnston, Kesh YFCLisa Belfour, Lisbellaw YFC

14-16 Harry Havers, Kesh YFCTaylor Simpson, Kesh YFCOlivia Weir, Kesh YFCDara Walker, Kesh YFC

16-18 Christopher Belfour, Lisbellaw YFCHannah Birney, Kesh YFCDaniel Dunne, Kesh YFC

18-21 Craig Cowan, Lisbellaw YFCHannah Vance, Lisbellaw YFCRebecca Ryan, Lisbellaw YFCSarah Little, West Fermanagh YFC

21-25 George Irvine, Kesh YFCRebecca Brunt, Lisbellaw YFC

25-30 Gillian Henderson, Kesh YFC

The YFCU’s Silage Assessment competition sponsored by John Thompson & Sons Ltd took place across Northern Ireland in April.

Over 600 members took part and the top four competitors from each County will go through to the NI Final which will be held on Thursday 6th July at Greenmount.

YFCU SILAGE ASSESSMENT COUNTY RESULTS 2017

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Sponsored by the NFU Mutual Insurance Society Limited,

the YFCU One Act and Three Act drama festivals took place

in venues throughout Northern Ireland and showcased the

talent that exists within the association. Each of the evenings

were a great success and well supported by the public.

Certificates of Merit for ActingJason Clyde, Finvoy YFCCharlotte McKeeman, Finvoy YFCRobert Shannon, Kilraughts YFCRachel Rankin, Kilraughts YFCRachel Livingston, Randalstown YFCJonathan Gillespie, Randalstown YFCJames Robson, Holestone YFCRobyn Marshall, Holestone YFCRoss Lorimer, Lisnamurrican YFCHannah O’Neil, Lisnamurrican YFCZara Townley, Newtownards YFCJoy Dalzell, Newtownards YFCPhilip Henry, Coleraine YFCRuth Adams, Coleraine YFCGillian Hunter, Straid YFCJane Kilpatrick, Donaghadee YFCAdam Alexander, Kilrea YFCMelissa Millar, Kilrea YFCMatthew Wilson, Cappagh YFCZara Preston, Cappagh YFCJudith McKinley, Trilick YFC

Most Promising Actor Andrew Patton, Newtownards YFC for his performance in ‘The Strawberry’

Most Promising ActressEmily Moore, Newtownards YFC for her performance in ‘The Strawberry’

Certificate of Merit for ProductionRandalstown YFC for ‘The Church Meeting’

Best Set Randalstown YFC for ‘The Church Meeting’

Best Moment of Theatre Kilrea YFC for Adam Alexander in ‘My Best Trifle Dish’

Certificates of Merit for Acting Judith McConaghie Jenny Mairs Rebecca Stewart Mark McAlister

Most Promising Actress Lorraine Lyons, Moycraig YFC as Lucy McGarry

Most Promising Actor Niall McCracken, Moycraig YFC as Ernest Gillespie

Certificate of Merit for ProductionMoycraig YFC for ‘Widows Paradise’

The Young Farmers’ Clubs of Ulster drama dinner took place at the Tullyglass House Hotel in Ballymena in May to celebrate the success of the Association’s 2017 drama season.

YFCU CELEBRATE DRAMA WINNERS AT ANNUAL DINNER

One Act Awards & Certificates

Best Set Moycraig YFC for ‘Widows Paradise’

Best Producer Emma-Jayne Anderson, Moycraig YFC for ‘Widows Paradise’

Newtownards YFC 1st place winners of the One Act Drama Festival and the Perpetual Challenge Cup. Also pictured are the winners of the Best Producer award Karen Patton (far left in back row) and Lynda Girvin (far right in back row). Winners of most promising actor, Andrew Patton (far right front row) and Most Promising Actress, Emily Moore (middle, back row with plaque), YFCU President James Speers and Judge Paul Bennington are also pictured.

Best Producer

1st place - Perpetual Challenge Cup & PlaqueKaren Patton and Lynda Girvin, Newtownards YFC for ‘The Strawberry’2nd place John Galloway, Randalstown YFC for ‘The Church Meeting’3rd placeElaine Adams, Coleraine YFC for ‘Glen’s House’

Overall One Act winnersNewtownards YFC for ‘The Strawberry’

Three Act Awards & Certificates

YFCU President James Speers is pictured with Three Act Drama Festival winners, Moycraig YFC at the YFCU Drama Dinner.

At the drama dinner, the adjudication of all the plays too place and the prizes were read out by YFCU President James Speers.

The results of the One Act and Three Act Drama Festival are as follows:

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Overall Three Act winnersMoycraig YFC for ‘Widows Paradise’

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County Tyrone members Adam Wilson from Cappagh YFC and Henry Giles from Seskinore YFC, were celebrating at this year’s Balmoral Show after winning the YFCU machinery handling competition.

The competition, held in association with long term sponsor Johnston Gilpin & Co, saw a large crowd of spectators at the Cattle Lawn, where they cheered on the teams.

Johnston Gilpin & Co have supported the YFCU machinery handling competition for many years and provide the machinery for the young farmers to use during the event. Working closely with the Health and Safety Executive Northern Ireland (HSENI), Johnston Gilpin & Co assist with the planning of the designated course to test the competitors’ tractor skills and safety knowledge.

Two members from clubs in each of the six counties, selected from county heats, made up the teams and the team who

completed the course with the most points won the competition. Second place was awarded to County Down which included members Sam Graham from Killinchy YFC and Simon Agnew from Rathfriland YFC.

Points were awarded for successfully making it through the course and driving through the posts, however teams were penalised for a variety of reasons including if they did not comply with safety regulations, touching markers and unnecessary damage to the ground. This competition was designed to test both the drivers’ tractor skills and safety knowledge.

YFCU would like to thank Johnston Gilpin & Co for their continued sponsorship and support of this event. The Association also extend their gratitude to Sean Keogh & Paul Kelly from HSENI. YFCU would also like to thank Stuart Orr and Keith Dixon from Spa YFC who helped design the course.

The YFCU’s popular girls’ five-a-side junior and senior football final took place at Balmoral Show.

Senior teams and junior teams enthusiastically took to the cattle rings to battle it out for a place in the final. Both junior and senior teams played in their own league with each team playing each other. At the end of each league, the top two teams from the junior and senior tournaments played against each other.

In the junior competition, Dungiven YFC and Spa YFC played against each other in the final. Spa YFC then triumphed to take home the junior title.

Randalstown YFC and Gleno Valley YFC finished top in the senior tournament and played against each other in the final. Following a tense match, Gleno Valley YFC defended their title coming in first place with Randalstown YFC being awarded second place. The Fair Play Award was presented to Moycraig YFC.

The YFCU would like to extend a note of thanks to all the stewards for their help in coordinating and refereeing the matches.

YFCU Girls’ Football Final at Balmoral Show 2017

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BALMORAL SHOW

Pictured are the team from Gleno Valley YFC who were crowned senior champions coming first in the YFCU’s girls’ football final held at Balmoral Show 2017. Congratulating the girls on their achievement is YFCU President James Speers.

County Tyrone secure YFCU Machinery Handling Title

Pictured receiving their first place prize in the YFCU Machinery Handling competition are County Tyrone members Adam Wilson from Cappagh YFC (pictured front right) and Henry Giles from Seskinore YFC (pictured front left) with YFCU President, James Speers; Paul Kelly and Sean Keogh from HSENI and Gethin Jones from Sponsor Johnston Gilpin & Co. Also pictured are representatives from Johnston Gilpin & Co and HSENI.

Pictured receiving their second place prize in the YFCU Machinery Handling competition are County Down members Sam Graham from Killinchy YFC (pictured front right) and Simon Agnew from Rathfriland YFC (pictured front left) with YFCU President, James Speers; Gethin Jones, sponsor from Johnston Gilpin & Co and Paul Kelly & Sean Keogh, HSENI. Also pictured are representatives from Johnston Gilpin & Co and HSENI.

Pictured are team members from Spa YFC who were crowned junior champions at the YFCU’s girls’ football final held at Balmoral Show 2017. Congratulating the girls on their achievement is YFCU President James Speers.

Members of the YFCU displayed their skills at the association’s annual sheep shearing competition that took place on the Wednesday morning of Balmoral Show 2017.

The competition was held in association with the British Wool Marketing Board (BWMB), The Northern Ireland Sheep Shearers Association (NISSA) and Lister Shearing Equipment Limited and consisted of two sections – novice and advanced.

In the novice competition, judges named Andrew Rea from Straid YFC as the YFCU sheep shearing novice winner for 2017 and he received a trophy from David John, Lister Shearing. Second place went to Stephen Wilson, Gleno YFC and third place went to Alexander Butler, The Glens YFC.

In the final, Jason McNeice, Collone YFC, secured the top place and was presented with the Lister hand piece trophy by David John from Lister Shearing. Second place went to Sean McCollum, The Glens YFC and third place went to Jonathan McKelvey, Derg Valley YFC.

Jonathan McKelvey was also awarded the prize for best shorn pen of sheep and received a cash prize from Patrick Allen, Moira Equestrian Centre.

The Association would like to thank The Northern Ireland Sheep Shearers Association (NISSA), British Wool Marketing Board (BWMB) and Lister Shearing Equipment Limited for their ongoing support of the YFCU sheep shearing competition. The YFCU would like to extend their thanks to the sheep shearing committee at the Royal Ulster Agricultural Society for ensuring the smooth running of the competition on the day.

Co Tyrone club Derg Valley YFC proved their strength to win the Advanced Tug Of War competition sponsored by John Thompson & Sons Ltd at this year’s Balmoral Show. Second place in the Advanced Tug of War section was awarded to Spa YFC.

In the female Tug Of War competition Derg Valley YFC were awarded first place after pulling against the Cappagh Clougher Valley female team. In the novice section, BMWR YFC were awarded first place after battling it out against Spa YFC.

The build up to the Tug Of War began at the YFCU stand on Thursday afternoon when the draw took place to decide which teams pulled against one another in round one. The YFCU would like to thank everyone who helped with the tug of war, including Barrie Barr for all his help and advice and all those who helped to steward the event.

Special thanks must also be paid to John Thompson & Sons Ltd for their continued support of this highly popular contest.

YFCU sheep shearing competitors display talents at Balmoral Show 2017

Winners of the 2017 Female Tug of War competition, Derg Valley YFC, pictured with Denise Rafferty from sponsor John Thompson & Sons Ltd and YFCU President James Speers.

Tug of War Finals at Balmoral Show 2017

Winners of the YFCU Novice Sheep shearing competetiton.

Winners of the 2017 Advanced Tug of War competition, Derg Valley YFC, pictured with Denise Rafferty from sponsor John Thompson & Sons Ltd and YFCU President James Speers.

Winners of the 2017 Novice Tug of War competition, BMWR YFC pictured with Denise Rafferty from sponsor John Thompson & Sons Ltd and YFCU President James Speers. 21

Winners of the YFCU Advanced Sheep shearing competition.

The finals of the YFCU 2016-2017 floral art competition, supported by Tesco, took place at Balmoral Show on the Wednesday morning. Competitors put together a display with the theme of ‘A Far Away Place.’

Under the watchful eye of Judge Karen Frew, competitors showed off their creativity and flair as they delicately placed flowers, foliage and other accessories to craft stunning arrangements. Over 400 competitors had taken part in the floral art heats and it was a remarkable achievement for the finalists

to showcase their artistic ability at the premiere agricultural event.

YFCU President, James Speers was on hand to announce those that placed and Stephen McGill Commercial Manager, Tesco NI presented the awards to the winners.

The floral arrangements were then exhibited at the Healthy Horticultural area for the duration of the show. The Association would like to take this opportunity to thank Karen Frew for judging the competition and Tesco NI for supporting the event.

Floral Art Finals 2017

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BALMORAL SHOW

1. Pictured are the 12-14 age category winners in the YFCU Floral Art Competition. From left-right: 3rd place winner, Erin Warden, Newtownards YFC; YFCU President James Speers; 1st place winner, Emma Mills, Randalstown YFC; Stephen McGill, Commercial Manager from sponsor, Tesco NI and 2nd place winner, James Johnston from Kesh YFC.

2. Pictured are the 14-16 age category winners in the YFCU Floral Art Competition. From left-right: 3rd place winner, Georgina Annett, Rathfrisland YFC; YFCU President James Speers; 1st place winner, Rachel Boyce, Garvagh YFC; Stephen McGill, Commercial Manager from sponsor, Tesco NI and 2nd place winner, Rachel McConnell, Straid YFC.

3. Pictured are the 16-18 age category winners in the YFCU Floral Art Competition. From left-right: 2nd place winner, Katie Lemon, Ballywalter YFC; YFCU President James Speers; 1st place winner, Claire Adams, Lisnamurrican YFC; Stephen McGill, Commercial Manager from sponsor, Tesco NI and 3rd place winner, Rebecca Ewing, Seskinore YFC.

4. Pictured are the 18-21 age category winners in the YFCU Floral Art Competition. From left-right: YFCU President, James Speers; 2nd place winner, Rachel Barr, Kells & Connor YFC and Stephen McGill, Commercial Manager from sponsor, Tesco NI. Not pictured, 1st place winner, Ellen Woods, Annaclone & Magherally YFC.

5. Pictured are the 21-25 age category winners in the YFCU Floral Art Competition. From left-right: 1st place winner, Janet Lyons, Spa YFC; YFCU President, James Speers; 3rd place winner, Victoria Calvert, Castlecaulfield YFC and Stephen McGill, Commercial Manager from sponsor, Tesco NI. Not pictured, 2nd place winner, Jack Johnston, Randalstown YFC.

6. Pictured are the 25-30 age category winners in the YFCU Floral Art Competition. From left-right: YFCU President James Speers; 2nd place winner, Joanne Bolton, Curragh YFC; 1st place winner, Gillian Hunter, Straid YFC; Stephen McGill, Commercial Manager from sponsor, Tesco NI and 3rd place winner, Alison Rea, Donaghadee YFC.

12-14 age category - 1st place Emma Mills, Randalstown YFC, 2nd place James Johnston, Kesh YFC and 3rd place Erin Warden, Newtownards YFC.

14-16 age category - 1st place Rachel Boyce, Garvagh YFC, 2nd place Rachel McConnell, Straid YFC and 3rd place Georgina Annett, Rathfrisland YFC.

16-18 age category - 1st place Claire Adams, Lisnamurrican YFC, 2nd Katie Lemon, Ballywalter YFC, 3rd place Rebecca Ewing, Seskinore YFC.

18-21 age category - 1st place Ellen Woods, Annaclone & Magherally YFC, 2nd place Rachel Barr, Kells & Connor YFC.

21-25 age category - 1st Janet Lyons, Spa YFC, 2nd place Jack Johnston, Randalstown YFC, 3rd place Victoria Calvert, Castlecaulfield YFC.

25-30 age group - 1st Gillian Hunter, Straid YFC, 2nd Joanne Bolton, Curragh YFC, 3rd place Alison Rea, Donaghadee YFC.

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NEWSCLUB NEWSCLUB

HOLESTONE YFC

It’s been a busy few months for Holestone YFC packed with club meetings, outings and competitions. The club achieved success at County level with Robyn McConnell who was awarded 3rd place in Junior Member of the Year and Laura Patterson who was awarded both 2nd place in Senior Member of the Year and 1st place for Most Efficient Secretary. Club members were also placed in the County Dairy Stock Judging Heats with Robyn Marshall gaining 1st place and Jack Patterson gaining 2nd place in their respective age groups.

April saw Holestone YFC’s winter programme brought to a close with their Parents and Friends Evening. The night included a sketch, a performance from ‘Lylestone’ choir and a preview performance of their One Act play. The club were delighted to welcome one of their Vice President’s Billy Robson, OBE as guest speaker.

The end of April saw club members perform their One Act Drama of ‘The Church Meeting’. After a few busy months of practising, all their hard work paid off and the club put on a fantastic performance. Despite the end of the winter programme, the summer season will be as busy as ever with upcoming events including the club’s annual BBQ on 1st July. For more details check out the club Facebook page.

AHOGHILL YFC

The new theme for the YFCU year was recently announced as ‘Members Success’ and the club have had a lot of this recently in Ahoghill YFC. In March at the County Antrim AGM, PRO Kathryn Speers was awarded 3rd in the County and this was a great success! Treasurer Jonathan Bristow also had recent success as he was placed third in the Ulster Young Farmer Competition in the grass section. These awards have been a great start to the summer months.

For the incoming year the club have decided to raise money for CRS Portglenone which is a community rescue service team in Portglenone that works along the river saving lives. Ahoghill YFC believe that this is a worthwhile charity and is also so close to home. To help raise money, five of the club’s girls took part in a relay team in the Belfast marathon in May. Well done to the girls for all their hard work and training they put in.

As the sports nights begin to start up again the club have been attending and gaining more members success. At the first sports night in May the boys made it to the semi-final and the club’s girls won. As well as this at Holestone’s sports night the junior boys also won. The club look forward to the rest of the summer activities and hope they can continue with their members success.

KESH YFC

Kesh YFC are delighted with how celebrations are going for their 50th Anniversary year. Their coffee morning and launch of recipe book was a major success with a sell-out of recipe books. However don’t despair if you haven’t already purchased your copy the club have ordered more, contact Gillian on 07845512050 or Sandra on 07993158824. The club wish to thank everyone who supported them with this event.

Next was the annual ‘How Fit is your Tractor?’ event that was well attended and supported by the public. There were 26 tractors on show and the club wish to congratulate the winners. They would also like to give huge thanks to Ronnie McIlwaine who faithfully supports the club each year and judges the tractors fairly and efficiently. At this event Kesh YFC also launched their 50th anniversary coats. The club are grateful to the sponsors Agricare Pettigo; Walmsley Tractors, Kesh; McDonagh Engineering, Kesh; BJT Plant Hire, Irvinestown; Jennings Fuels and Lubricants, Kesh and Milligan Bros, Lack Road.

The club’s 50th anniversary celebrations will come to a close with their anniversary dinner and dance in the Killyhevlin Hotel on Saturday 11th November 2017. Tickets will be on sale at a later date. Please keep that date free and come along and support the club. Kesh YFC would love those who attended the club during the 50 years to share their photos and memories of their time in the club. Contact Sandra on 07793158824 if you want more information.

If you require any further information on the club contact club leader Dylan Thompson, 07734083623 or George Irvine, 07522134664.

CURRAGH YFC

On the 15th March 2017 members from Curragh YFC visited George McKee’s factory based in Maghera. The meat products produced on site are consumed on a daily basis by people in the local community and those further afield. It was an extremely enjoyable experience from beginning to end with members both young and old gaining additional information on factory processes, essential hygiene regulations that must be adhered to and even being shown the different cuts of meat that are found on a carcass. The club wish to thank George for taking the time out of his hectic schedule to arrange this fantastic and informative tour. No doubt there will be club members perhaps seeking a summer job or even full time employment in this well established, reputable and incredibly busy company.

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NEWSCLUB NEWSCLUB

CLANABOGAN YFC

Clanabogan Young Farmers have had a very busy and successful year with the club celebrating their 70th Anniversary in January. The action-packed winter programme began with members sharpening up their shooting skills at Omagh District Rifle and Pistol Club, before heading off to Brunswick Superbowl, Londonderry for a seasonal Christmas outing.

Clanabogan YFC were pleased to receive the shield for Member Retention at County level in 2016. This was followed up by the club receiving the Alfa-Laval perpetual shield for recruitment at the recent YFCU AGM & Conference. The club is delighted to pick up this award for the second year running and look forward to another fun filled year. Success was also achieved in the Ulster Young Farmer of the Year competition with club leader Bryan Fleming receiving the Ulster Farmers Mart Cup for coming 1st in the beef section. Bryan was also placed joint 2nd in the countryside management section. Kyle Smyth was also placed 2nd in the silage making competition. The club finished off the year at Campsie Karting where great fun was had by all.

ANNACLONE & MAGHERALLY YFC

It has been a busy time for Annaclone and Magherally YFC, transitioning from the hectic winter programme to the busy summer schedule of activities and competitions. The winter programme concluded with Parent’s Night, where the club’s charity for the year, Children’s Heartbeat Trust NI, was presented with a cheque for £705.

The club then hosted a Quiz Night, which was a hailed a great success, and the club would like to thank everyone who attended. Two members, Jonathan Sleator and Peter Verhoven completed the Mourne Wall Challenge, with County Down YFC, as a charity event organised by the clubs own member Jonathan Sleator. Recent competitions the club have competed in include Young Hostess, Demonstration Presentation, Girls Football and the popular Silage and Dairy Stock Judging. The club had a great number of participants and success in all competitions with six and nine members progressing to the finals for dairy and silage respectively; Matthew Ney and Connor Woods coming 1st and 2nd in Demonstration Presentation and Nicola Mitchell who was placed 3rd in the Young Hostess. Awards at the AGM were received by John Porter and Timothy Savage in the Ulster Young Farmer competition and Andrew Sleator for coming 2nd overall in the Public Relations Officer position. Ellen Woods excelled in the Floral Art finals at Balmoral, claiming 1st prize. For more information on the club please contact Club Leader Noel Savage, 07765069678.

LISNAMURRICAN YFC

Lisnamurrican YFC have continued their hectic schedule into the spring with three teams entering the NI Quiz held in Magherafelt High School in March. The club held dairy stock judging practice ahead of the heats which 23 members attended and well done to those members who were placed. In April the club held their annual Parents Night. They also performed their One Act Drama in Ballymoney High School and the club had 15 members attending the Young Farmers AGM & Conference in Armagh. One of the first tasks for the new committee was to hold the clubs sports night which had a great turnout and they look forward to members attending as many sports nights as they can.

It was also another great year at Balmoral Show for Lisnamurrican YFC. Well done to all who took part in the many competitions but congratulations must go to Claire Adams on being placed 1st in the 16-18 age group for Floral Art, the girls football team who came 3rd and the boys and girls team both reaching the semi-finals of Tug of War in their sections. The club will also be holding Lisnamurrican’s Big Night with Derek Ryan on July 15th at Ballymena Livestock Mart. Tickets are on sale now and selling - check out the clubs Facebook page for more info.

CO DOWN

The County Down Junior Weekend 2017 took place from 28th - 30th April. A total of 31 members from a range of clubs across County Down attended the weekend in Ardnabannon Outdoor Education Centre in Castlewellan. On the Friday evening the group enjoyed some ice breaker games before making s’mores and sharing stories around a campfire. After a late night of chatting and making new friends, County Down Juniors rose early ready for a day of exploring Newcastle and bouldering at Bloody Bridge. After a mix of rugby and football the group enjoyed a disco with ice cream for supper on Saturday evening. On Sunday the group tackled the high ropes course before enjoying a Sunday roast and heading home for some much needed sleep! The club wish to give a massive thank you to the senior members who gave up their time to make the weekend possible and to the instructors and cooks at Ardnabannon for making the weekend such a great one.

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SESKINORE YFC

Seskinore YFC held their Annual Charity Tractor Run on Sunday, 30th April. There was a fantastic turn out with 105 tractors in total taking part to raise money for Marie Curie.

The tractors left Omagh Show Grounds at 2pm and travelled through the local area via Beragh, Sixmilecross, Seskinore, Fintona and returning to Omagh, to top it all off with a BBQ. Along the route there was a large amount of people who turned out to watch the tractors. The evening was finished off by the donated prizes being awarded for categories. This event was once again very well supported and Seskinore Young Farmers Club would like to say a huge thanks to all who participated, Tyrone Farming Society Committee, Hawkes Transport, James Anderson from Marie Curie for coming to help and Rodger Latimer for the burgers at the BBQ.

RATHFRILAND YFC

Rathfriland YFC have had a busy few months with members taking part in such activities as the Junior Weekend, AGM & Conference weekend, the annual Parent’s Night and various competitions.

Three of the club’s girls came out top in the Soil Assessment competition with Ella McCallister placed 2nd and Georgie Annette and Louise Graham placed 3rd. Recently a couple of the club’s members headed to Balmoral Show to compete in competitions such as the Machinery Handling Competition which Simon Agnew was awarded 2nd prize in and the Floral Art Competition which Georgie Annette was awarded 3rd prize in. These are brilliant results for the club and they extend a well done to all!

Rathfriland would also like to say well done to everyone who took part in the 22 mile Mourne Walk Challenge. Five of the club’s own members took part in this challenge and a lot of training was put in. A great achievement for Graham Annett, Alison Gracey, Stephen Gordon, Roberta Simmons and Elizabeth Simmons.

The club have plenty to keep them busy over the summer months with their annual Treasure Hunt in June and Rathfriland’s BBQ & Dance on the 22nd of July. Keep an eye out on Facebook for updates on these events!

RANDALSTOWN YFC

Senior members travelled to the Armagh City Hotel at the end of April for the YFCU AGM & Conference where Gemma Dickey and Harry Thompson represented Randalstown in the Club of the Year final, well done to everyone who helped the club reach this stage. The AGM also saw club PRO Elizabeth Adair being awarded overall Top Club PRO in Northern Ireland.

Balmoral brought great success again this year for members, firstly within the Floral Art Competition. Congratulations to Emma Mills who gained 1st place in the 14-16 age category and Jack Johnston who gained 2nd place in the 21-25. Senior girls competed in the final of Girls Football Competition on Thursday afternoon and secured 2nd place overall in the competition for the second year running. Thursday at the show also saw the boys compete in the Tug of War competition, whilst David Thompson took part in the Machinery Handling competition.

There were no chicks at the show, so Randalstown was the place to go with over 900 people attending the annual Boogie in the Barn. A huge thanks to everyone who came along and supported this night and to all committee members for their hard work and organisation.

COLLONE YFC

Collone YFC has been busy over the last few months taking part in various competitions such as Arts Festival and Stock Judging. At Balmoral Show, Collone had members in all finals including, Girls Football, Tug of War, Sheep Shearing, Machinery Handling and the Can’t Cook Won’t Cook Challenge.

In April, Collone YFC won ‘Most Amusing Moment’ at the Arts Festival Gala. At the AGM, Collone member James Speers was elected as YFCU President. Judith Mc Combe received 2nd in Treasurer of the Year, Elaine Crozier received 3rd in Secretary of the Year along with her Gold Duke of Edinburgh Award. The club extend their congratulations to their members on these three outstanding achievements.

A fun day was had at the club’s Junior Day away at Lough Key in Co. Roscommon, which the club hope now to make an annual event.

The club year was rounded up with their Annual Club Dinner with many members getting rewarded for their hard work and participation with cups and certificates.

In the upcoming months, Collone YFC will be taking part in Scarva Country Fair and Armagh Show. Their annual Tractor Run will be taking place on Sunday 27th August, as well as the Hotel Hooley the following Saturday night, 2nd September.

Balmoral Show was a successful one for Seskinore YFC as Rebecca Ewing was placed 3rd in the NI finals for Floral Art in the 16-18 age group.

Henry Giles from Seskinore YFC and Adam Wilson from Cappagh YFC represented County Tyrone in the Machinery Handling competition. The boys beat County Down in the final and were placed 1st overall in Northern Ireland.

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NEWSCLUB

DERG VALLEY YFC

On 16th February, members took part in the Annual YFCU Arts Festival which was held in Ballymoney High School to which the ‘Derg Valley Cowboys’ were awarded Best Newcomer.

The club travelled to the Royal Hotel in Cookstown for the Annual County Efficiency Awards on 5th March and once again, the members were very proud of their club officials with some fantastic results. Mark Hamilton was awarded Top Club Treasurer as well as winning 2nd place in the Senior Member of the Year Award. Robert Keatley came 2nd in the Club Leader category and finally, Derg Valley achieved the highest award on the night, being named Super Club in Tyrone.

Derg Valley also attended the YFCU Conference which was held in Armagh City Hotel. The club achieved highly with Robert Keatley being placed 2nd in the countryside management and sheep categories and then going on to win first place in the finance section. Jessica Pollock was placed 3rd in the arable and farm safety categories as well as being placed 3rd for overall Ulster Young Farmer.

Balmoral Show was a massive success for Derg Valley with both male and female Tug of War teams becoming Champions of Ulster for the first time. It goes to show that hard work really does pay off!

GLENO VALLEY YFC

Gleno Valley have enjoyed another successful year with an exciting varied range of meetings including an exchange with Collone YFC, bubble football and the Grassroots Challenge in which members built swift bird boxes to be used at a local power station. It has been great to see an increase in the number of club members getting involved in young farmer competitions and even better to see the results. At Balmoral Show 2017 the club had great success in the shearing tent and to top it off Gleno Valley senior girls came first in the football tournament.

With summer just around the corner, on the 6th May, Gleno Valley YFC with the help of Marty Mone kicked off BBQ season 2017 in style with an exciting night held at Larne Rugby Club. Special thanks must go to all those involved in organising the event along with Marty Mone - a really great night was had by all!

Gleno Valley YFC looks forward to competing in many sports nights this summer before beginning another fun-filled winter programme this autumn. The club wishes all the newly elected committee members the best of luck for this upcoming year.

BLEARY YFC

Bleary YFC has had one of their best years so far. The number of members has increased and all members have shown their commitment by taking part in many competitions and attending club meetings. Throughout this year the club has taken part in a number of competitions and events.

In February the club had their annual stand at Mullahead Ploughing Match providing homemade vegetable soup, wheaten bread, tea/coffee and buns. In March we held their annual St Patrick’s table quiz and parent’s night. This was a great night with lots of members receiving cups, prizes and certificates. The club also entered the YFCU Mental Health Awareness Competition and received a cash prize for a highly commended video.

In between meetings, members have attended competitions such as Girls Football, Machinery Handling and Stock Judging. A team also represented the club in the Tug of War Competition at Balmoral Show.

Upcoming events over the summer include the club’s Car Treasure Hunt and BBQ on Friday 7th July and their Annual Tractor Run and BBQ on Sunday 13th August. For more details visit Bleary YFC on Facebook.

KILREA YFC

Kilrea YFC would like to congratulate their Vice President Caroline Patterson who got married on 10th February. The club would like to wish her and her husband a long and happy life together.

Kilrea YFC held their annual Parent’s Night on 25th March in First Kilrea Presbyterian Church where members performed different sketches along with their Arts Festival production for family and friends to showcase their talents on stage. Thanks to guest speaker David Oliver for coming and congratulations to all prize winners.

Kilrea YFC took to the stage on 18th February for the Arts Festival Heats in Ballymoney High School. The cast sang and danced their hearts out earning them a well-deserved place at the Gala held on 1st April in the Millennium Forum, Londonderry. They performed brilliantly and received the award for ‘Most Outstanding Performance of the Night’. A major thanks goes to Janice Irwin, Lorna and Charlotte Linton, Stephanie Smyth and Stephen Quigg for all their help with this years production.

The Dairy Stock Judging Heats took place on 5th April, well done to all who took part. The North West Classic Tractor run was held on 8th April and the club wish to thank everybody involved. Over £2,200 has been raised with donations still coming in.

On 25th April, Kilrea performed their One Act play, well done to the cast and everyone else involved as they picked up ‘Best Moment of Theatre’ at the Drama Dinner, along with merits for acting for Melissa Millar and Adam Alexander. Well done also to Kilrea’s girl’s football team who took part in the Balmoral Heats on 2nd May. Finally, well done to Robert Sloan who took part in the Tractor Handling Finals at Balmoral Show.

Other Achievements: Lauren McIlroy - Pinta Princess 2017; Robert Sloan - 1st place Presentation Demonstration (25-30); Melissa Millar- Badge 12 awarded at AGM & Conference.

For more details on the club visit Kilrea YFC on Facebook.

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STRAID YFC

Straid YFC recently had great success at Balmoral Show which saw members taking part in a number of competitions. Andrew Rea came first in the novice Sheep Shearing Competition. The Floral Art Competition saw Gillian Hunter take 1st place in the 25-30 age category and Rachael McConnell being placed 2nd in the 14-16 age category. March saw Straid YFC celebrate their 75th anniversary with a club dinner and prize giving held at the Ross Park Hotel, Ballymena. Thanks must go to the committee members, past and present club members for making the night such a success. Next up was the YFCU AGM & Conference which saw Gareth Baird awarded 1st place for Junior Ulster Young Farmer of the year and Peter Boyd placed 1st in the countryside management section. Straid YFC’s One Act Drama ‘False Pretences’ saw Gillian Hunter being awarded a certificate of merit for acting, well done to all members involved. Keep an eye on Straid YFC’s Facebook page for more information on upcoming events and news.

LYLEHILL YFC

Lylehill YFC members have had a busy and successful beginning to the year, taking part in competitions and holding various club meetings - from a tour of a local feed mill to taking part in slippery football to a very informative and challenging talk on road safety. At the recent club AGM, the main office bearers were elected as follows: President, Ashley Ritchie; Club Leader, Stephanie McCollam; Secretary, Lauren Gordon; Treasurer, James Rea; Public Relations Officer, Ellen McClure and County Council Rep, Christina McCollam. At the County Antrim AGM and Efficiency Prize giving, Stephanie McCollam was also elected as County Chairperson and the club received an award for gaining 2nd place overall in the Efficiency Competition.

The club’s charity for the year ahead is the Riverside Special Care School in Antrim. As part of their fundraising for this charity and the club, Lylehill YFC will be running the following events over the summer: Treasure Hunt – Friday 7th July and Tractor Run – Friday 4th August.

If anyone would like more information on the club or on events/activities that they are running, please do not hesitate to contact Club Leader Stephanie McCollam, 07792161316 or Secretary Lauren Gordon, 07738016212. Alternatively, visit the Facebook page @lylehillyfc

NEWTOWNARDS YFC

Newtownards YFC’s foam party ‘Big Spring Clean’ proved to be a huge success! It was great to see such a good turnout with all the tickets selling out to clubs near and far.

Well done to Jordan Shanks who won the Junior County Down young hostess competition and also Erin Warden who was placed 3rd in 12-14 NI Floral Art Final at Balmoral Show. At the annual AGM Newtownards YFC won the Ballyvester cup for the most marks in competitions aged 18-30.

On the 19th April, the club held their annual Parent’s Night and there was a lot on the agenda for the evening. The Mayoress of Ards and North Down came along to receive a cheque for £300 which the club was able to raise throughout the year. This went towards the Mayoress’ charity consisting of three very worthwhile causes - the Samaritans, the Royal National Lifeboat Institution and Integrated Education Fund. The guest speaker was James Speers and after the prizes were distributed everyone was able to enjoy the sketches and the debut of Newtownards YFC Boy Band. The evening finished with some light refreshments.

Newtownards YFC stole the show at the Drama Dinner awards night held in the Tullyglass Hotel. ‘The Strawberry’ was placed first in Northern Ireland, Karen Patton and Lynda Girvin were awarded best producers for One Act along with Andrew Patton winning most promising actor, Emily Moore winning most promising actress and Sara Townley and Joy Dalzell both being awarded acting merits. Newtownards YFC are looking forward to a busy summer programme!

CITY OF DERRY YFC

It’s been a busy few months for City of Derry YFC with club meetings, outings and competitions. March saw top officials gain top places at the County Londonderry Efficiency night.

Lynne Montgomery was awarded 1st place for Top Secretary, Gordon Crockett 3rd place for Top Club Leader, Joel Eakin 3rd place for Top Treasurer and Emma Montgomery 2nd place for Top PRO. On 28th March three members headed to the Demonstration Presentation final and Lynne Montgomery came home with 1st place in the 18-21 category.

April saw members help steward at the Arts Festival Gala in the Millennium Forum which is always an enjoyable night followed by a Disco in the City Hotel. 12 keen enthusiastic members then ventured off to County Londonderry Dairy Stock Judging Heats in Coleraine with two members being placed - 1st place went to Matthew McCorkell in the 14-16 age category and 2nd place went to Lynne Montgomery in the 18-21 age category.

Preparations were then underway for One Act Drama Festival when members took to the stage in Ballymoney High School. Nerves were at an optimum but once they got going they did the club proud. To celebrate, eight members headed to the Tullyglass Hotel for the Drama Dinner, unfortunately no prizes were lifted but a great night was had by all. #memberssuccess

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NEWSCLUBFINVOY YFC

Finvoy Young Farmers kick started the YFCU year with the annual Dairy Stock Judging Competition. Well done to Philip Beattie who came 1st in the 16-18 age category, Ross Beattie and Jason Clyde who came 1st and 2nd in the 21-25 age category and David Dunlop who came first in the 25-30 age category. The next success was club member William Beattie being elected as Vice President for the YFCU. Finvoy would like to express their congratulations to him and wish him all the best as he undertakes this new role.

Next on the clubs agenda was their One Act performance entitled ‘Lets be avin you’. Club members worked tirelessly to perform in Ballymoney High school on the 24th April. Well done to everyone who participated and to co-producers Stephanie Fulton and Karena Shaw. A special well done is given to members Charlotte Mckeeman and Jason Clyde for winning a certificate of merit for their performances.

Entering the summer season, Finvoy took part in Randalstown’s sport night. Well done to the boy’s junior team who came 1st place. Finvoy’s annual BBQ will be held on the 10th June. Further details are available on their Facebook page.

KILRAUGHTS YFC

Over the past couple of months Kilraughts have been extremely busy with the Arts Festival Gala, Parents Night, Club Dinner, Dairy Stock Judging, the AGM & Conference and sports nights. The clubs performance of ‘Jail Break’ at this year’s YFCU Gala was another tremendous success. All the members had a blast and gained a fantastic experience. Special thanks must go to the producers and the exceptionally talented band! One of the club’s highlights was at the conference weekend when Robert Shannon won best club leader; but not to be outdone, Hannah Kirkpatrick received a further accolade for Kilraughts by winning Senior Member of the Year. The club is extremely delighted and proud of the pair and wish them all the best for the future.

Many members where pleased to be able to help out on past member Gareth Smyth’s farm at Ballyweaney. The event was a phenomenal success and

GLARRYFORD YFC

Stock judging practice began in March when Glarryford members joined up with Kilraughts YFC to be taught how to judge dairy cows. Past members from Kilraughts YFC and Glarryford YFC teamed up to put current members through their paces which resulted in Ewan Johnston being placed 2nd in the 12-14 age group, Mitchell Park being placed 1st in the 18-21 age group and Cathy Reid being placed 3rd in the 18-21 category. The club would like to thank all the coaches, from both clubs, for their time and effort put in to this competition and well done to all members who competed, especially those competing for the first time.

Next on the calendar was the club’s annual church service which was held at Clough Presbyterian Church. A massive thank you must go to everyone who came along and supported. Together, Glarryford YFC have given £658.50 to the SHINE organisation through the collection, which is fantastic! Thanks are also extended to Sylvia Kelly who came along to talk about her experience with the charity and the club wish the Kelly family good luck with their cycling event.

The YFCU AGM & Conference saw many Glarryford members head down to support their past club leader Peter Alexander as he ran for Vice President of the YFCU. Peter was successfully voted into the position and all of Glarryford are extremely proud of him and all of his hard work he puts into the organisation. They wish him all the best with this position!

Glarryford entered three teams for the Girls Football Heats; all three teams played exceptionally well and congratulations go to the junior team who got through to the finals at Balmoral Show.

For more info on the club contact club secretary Jessica Reid, 07525910829.

DUNGIVEN YFC

Dungiven YFC had a fantastic weekend at the YFCU AGM & Conference held at Armagh City Hotel. Not only did Dungiven YFC come away with many individual prizes but they were named Club of the Year. This award has been a long time coming for the club as they have been placed in the top four clubs in Northern Ireland for the past four years. Dungiven YFC is delighted with all its members and office bearers and all the hard work and effort they have put in throughout the years. Dungiven YFC also recently had their second ever tractor run which was greatly supported by members, neighbouring clubs and farmers from the local community. The club look forward to seeing everyone back again next year!

attracted more than 1,500 people as well as raising over £30,000 for the Perinatal Trust Fund at the Royal Victoria Hospital’s Neonatal Unit. The club’s annual parent’s night was once again a success and well supported by friends and family. Kilraughts YFC where delighted to host Harry Crosby, YFCU Vice President as their guest speaker for the evening. Harry helped distribute the club’s silverwear and enlightened the club with many words of encouragement and humorous stories. The club are now looking forward to the summer programme and competitions.

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KELLS & CONNOR YFC

Kells & Connor finished their winter programme with some fun filled meetings including an exchange night with Crumlin YFC. Members travelled to We Are Vertigo for an enjoyable night. The club met for their final meeting at the Eddie Irvine Centre where some members revealed their competitive side.

It was all practice in March with the club beef and dairy judging practices where members learnt new skills. The practicing continued with some hard work in preparation for Kells and Connor’s parents’ night. This was an enjoyable night, with singing, drama and newly found line dancing skills.

The sports season began with three teams taking part in the first of the sports nights. Unfortunately, none of the teams took home medals, but they have plenty of time to improve.

The club continued their success with three Kells and Connor boys coming second in the YFC Fencing Competition at Listooder charity ploughing match. Andrew White was placed second in County Antrim Dairy Stock Judging. James Fullerton and Alec Currie were awarded County Antrim Junior Member of the Year and 2nd in Ulster Young Farmer (25- 30) respectively. Well done to Rachel Barr, who was also placed second in the Floral Art Finals (18- 21) at Balmoral Show.

ARTANA YFC

The month of May saw a special night in the Artana YFC calendar with the club holding its second ever Prize Giving Night. This year to coincide with the 30th Anniversary of their annual St Trinian’s event, the club decided to donate £30,000 to some charities and organisations from the local community. In attendance and receiving donations were Gaye Kerr from Angel Wishes, Hazel Gibson from Northern Ireland Children’s Kidney Fund, Rachel Kerr from Cystic Fibrosis at The Royal Hospital for Sick Children, Maureen Kearney from PIPS Newry and Mourne, Ena McNeill from Fairhill Primary School and Mr Armstrong from Dromara Primary School.

During the Prize Giving Night was the annual presentation of the member of the year trophies. These went to Hana Johnston, Oliveen O’Rourke, James O’Rourke, Aaron Hamill, Joshua Moore, Robin Poots, Gillian Corbett and William McCauley who won in their respective age groups with overall Junior and Senior Members of the Year going to Ellen O’Rourke and Niall McGrevy.

GARVAGH YFC

Garvagh Young Farmers have had a very busy start to the new young farmers’ season! In February, the club held their coffee morning, which was a charity fundraiser. Then at the end of March, the club held their annual Parents’ Night, where they distributed prizes, performed their Arts Festival piece and other sketches to the audience. The club also presented their cheque for the monies donated throughout the year to their chosen charity Brainwaves. The club were proud to have pulled together a massive £2,349.95!

The club also competed in the Dairy Stock Judging Heats, with two members, Andy McNaugher and Rachel Boyce qualifying for the finals. Most recently, three of the club’s girls travelled up to Balmoral Show to compete in the Floral Art Finals. Lois McFetridge was placed 4th in the 12-14 age group, Rachel Boyce was placed 1st in the 14-16 age group and Judith Linton was placed 4th in the 21-25 age group. Lots of talent was shown off here, well done! The club are all looking forward to a busy summer with charity events, BBQ’s and recruiting their new members!

MONEYMORE YFC

On Easter Monday the club held their annual tractor run, there was a good turn out with a total of 215 tractors showing up. The charity that they supported this year was the Mid Ulster Stroke Survivors Club which is an organization close to Moneymore YFC’s hearts. The day was a huge success for the club; it was an enjoyable day for both the people participating in the event and the onlookers who supported the event by donating money to the charity. In total the club made £2,013 which was donated to the Stroke Survivors Club on the 23rd of May. Members of the club went on to spend the day with the group and were able to see firsthand how their donation helps.

Moneymore also hosted an annual Treasure Hunt for the community on the 15th of June in Moneymore Recreation Centre. This was a family fun filled event that is loved by the local community and is looked forward to in the year.

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Tell us about your day job, is it related to farming?I am now a full time farmer at my home farm with my Dad and I have just finished my last year of four at Greenmount. We run a beef finishing and a breeding ewe farm in Islandmagee. We work where we buy heifers and bullocks a few days a week, every week and take them from the store stage to the finished beef animal and then sell them directly to the meat plant. We also keep between 250-300 breeding ewes where we lamb from February to April and then finish all the lambs ourselves and sell the directly to slaughter. From the late spring time onwards I also contract shear sheep for other farmers all over the county with myself and a friend. I also went over to shear in Scotland for a spell last year and worked for fellow Scottish young farmers shearing sheep.

Tell us about your big win for sheep shearing at Balmoral Show this year? This year at Balmoral Show I won the International Junior Shearing title for the first time with it being only my second time entering that particular competition. In 2015 and 2016 I won the YFCU Novice Sheep Shearing Competition and also made the final at the Royal Highland Show last year which was my first time competing there. In 2016 I also became the UK Under 21 Shepard of the Year at the finals in Birmingham.

When did you first start shearing sheep?I first started to shear at aged 17 at the YFCU shearing course that is held each year. From never even holding a hand piece before this to actually winning competitions has took a lot of practice and a lot of determination as it’s not just the easiest technique to pick up. There is no better feeling than standing up on a stage and your name being called out as the winner because it shows you that all the practice has paid off.

What are your aspirations for your future in YFCU? Is there anything that you would like to achieve?I would love to be able to progress up through my club. I am currently Assistant Treasure but would love to be able to be Leader one day. I also would like to be able to move on to County level where you can have a say in organising a lot of these fantastic events and competitions. I would also love to be able to take part in an international exchange. I have hosted people before when they have visited Northern Ireland but I’d love to get the chance to go travelling around the world off the back of YFCU.

What is your favourite part of being a young farmer? What benefits do you think that the organisation brings to young rural people?My favourite bit about being a young farmer is the whole social side of it. There is no better way to get to know people from all over Ulster or even the world than the YFCU organisation. I can say I know people from every County and nearly someone from every club. Through the YFCU we have participated in exchanges with a young farmers club in Scotland called Biggar and I have made lifelong friends. Since that exchange three years ago, we have been back and forward many times staying with each other many times a year. None of that would have happened if it wasn’t for the YFCU.

How would you describe the organisation to someone who know nothing about YFCU?YFCU is the best youth organisation in the world. It teaches you so many life skills that you will never forget. It is an organisation for young rural people and they don’t necessarily have to be from a farming background as anyone is welcome to join. It is run in every County where there are individual clubs that are full of young people. The YFCU run a lot of competitions from Stock Judging to Public Speaking and Group Debating and there is nearly a completion to suit everyone depending on your interests. I would highly recommend joining your nearest club as it aims to make you ‘Better Farmers, Better Countrymen, Better Citizens’.

Tell us a little about your involvement within the YFCU?I am an active member of Gleno Valley YFC which is just outside Larne in County Antrim. Gleno Valley have quite a lot of members that participate in various activities and the sports competitions stand out as our strong point. We have won numerous sports nights playing football with the under and over 18 boys teams and the girls teams. We only last year won the title of super club where we were crowned champions after the final competition. I joined the club at the age of 12 so have been a member for the last 8 years and have hardly missed a meeting since. I joined the young farmers club with a few friends at the time and was greatly encouraged to do so by my parents as they were both past members of the organisation. I myself actually live in Islandmagee where my dad was a member of Islandmagee YFC but unfortunately it had folded long before my time so I opted to join Gleno Valley as it was my closest club and where my mum was a past member of.

What are your favourite events to take part in?I love taking part in a lot of the YFC events from sports nights to group debating. But my favourite competitions are those that involve livestock e.g. beef and sheep judging or the shearing competition at Balmoral Show.

O N O U R M E M B E R S

SPOTLIGHT

We speak to International Junior Sheep Shearer Iain Wilson from Gleno Valley YFC.



Plan an escape route and never turn your back on a cow around calving. Well-designed handling facilities

are essential when working with livestock.

BEFORE YOU WORK WITHLIVESTOCK, STOP AND THINK!

For more advice on farm safety,visit hseni.gov.uk/farmsafe

551201 HSENI ANIMALS PRESS 164.5X250.indd 1 03/05/2017 12:44

Plan an escape route and never turn your back on a cow around calving. Well-designed handling facilities

are essential when working with livestock.

BEFORE YOU WORK WITHLIVESTOCK, STOP AND THINK!

For more advice on farm safety,visit hseni.gov.uk/farmsafe

551201 HSENI ANIMALS PRESS 164.5X250.indd 1 03/05/2017 12:44

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