By Katie Gleeson
@katieinthecountry
Dairy farmer and DWI Steering Committee Member
Spring has a way of testing us before it rewards us.
Most of us are now over the main hump of calving, coming up for air after weeks of broken sleep, quick meals and checking cameras sporadically throughout the night. As I write, the rain is still falling and some fields are heavy underfoot. Turnout feels close, but not quite there yet. Hopefully by the time this newsletter reaches you, cows will be back out at grass and the yard will feel a little less intense.
There’s a particular camaraderie in these weeks. Across the countryside, lights are on in sheds at all hours. We might not see each other much, but there’s comfort in knowing others are navigating the same long nights and uncertain weather.
This spring also carries wider significance. 2026 has been recognised internationally as the Year of the Woman Farmer. Its an opportunity to acknowledge the contribution of women across agriculture, both historically and today. On farms supplying Centenary Thurles, women have always played a central role, whether visible or unseen, from calf rearing and herd management to compliance, accounts and long-term planning.
Increasingly, women are not just supporting farm businesses; they are leading them, in finance, agricultural science, advisory roles and securing new markets for the milk produced on our farms. International Women’s Day on March 8th 2026, marks the beginning of a busy year of activity to further develop the role of women in the agri-food sector.
Dairy Women Ireland continues its work across 2026 with a strong and practical programme. During calving season, online webinars provide accessible upskilling, technical updates, personal development, or sometimes simply reassurance that you are on the right track. On a busy evening, they can also offer something different to focus on with a cup of tea once the yard is settled.
From April/May onwards, the schedule will gather pace with farm walks, regional events and knowledge-sharing opportunities aimed at strengthening the confidence and competence of women across the dairy sector. Planning is also well underway for the 2026 Dairy Women Ireland conference, the organisation’s flagship event and something to look forward to later in the year.
Community remains one of the greatest assets of any co-op. From marts to discussion groups, knowledge is shared farmer to farmer. Networks such as Dairy Women Ireland complement that structure by encouraging participation, mentorship and peer led development. When more voices engage confidently in those conversations, the entire sector grows stronger.
Spring reminds us that renewal is constant in farming. Calves are born, grass is growing and plans for the year ahead take shape. In the same way, the future of Irish dairy depends on continuing to welcome talent, ideas and ambition from across our communities.
Centenary Thurles has always been rooted in people as much as milk. As we move through another busy season, it is worth recognising that the true strength of any co-operative lies not simply in litres supplied, but in the diverse individuals and families who will continue to shape it’s future.
- Find out more at dairywomenireland.ie
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