Teagasc and Animal Health Ireland (AHI) ran a series of events throughout January, with the emphasis this year on improving the quality of beef calves produced and best practices for calf welfare. These CalfCare events are run with the support of the co-ops and meat processors in each region.

The “Getting Off to a Good Start” CalfCare event was held on Monday the 13th of January in Two Mile Borris on the farm of Jimmy and Kieran Cummins.

Events like these are held to help give advice and keep farmers informed of best practice and management practices to deliver best performance from calves in their care. Rearing healthy calves has always been the focus of these events, with topics like preventing pneumonia, understanding dairy and beef indices to produce quality calves, ways to utilise pain relief during calving season and achieving optimal rumen development.

It was fantastic to see such a great turnout on the day, with many thanks to Jimmy and Kieran Cummins for welcoming everyone to their farm and for facilitating such a successful event. Also, a special thank you to all the speakers on the day – your input was invaluable. We hope the topics covered ensure you all “Get off to a Good Start” for 2025.