A Laois man has been named as the Dairy Farmer of the Year for 2021.
Trevor Cobbe, from Doolagh in Portarlington, is a member of Mountmellick Macra na Feirme.
The 33-year-old manages the family farm in partnership with his dad Ray.
Trevor was nominated for the overall Farmer of the Year awards and while that went to Owen Aston of Cork, the Laois man won his category.
The aim of the competition is to recognise and reward the top young farmers in the country.
Entrants are judged according to a number of criteria including farm business initiative and innovation, levels of farm efficiency and enterprise quality, farm safety and environmental protection awareness, as well as agricultural knowledge and community involvement.
Macra na Feirme National President John Keane said: “Every year we recognise the very best in Irish young farmers.
“This year is no different and our finalist and all those who have competed in this years FBD Young Farmer of the Year showcase the best farmers across the globe, who are Irish young progressive farmers.
“It is a true testament to the competition and those competing that our young farmers set the standard for agriculture in terms of sustainability and ambition.”
IFA President Tim Cullinan said the calibre of contestants in this year’s FBD Young Farmer of the Year competition, organised by Macra na Feirme, was of a very high standard.
He said: “With all the changes and challenges ahead, the sector will need bright, innovative and resilient people to drive farming forward.
“I wish all those who took part the very best for the future.”
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