Final Preparations Underway for Tullamore Show and FBD National Livestock Show
The highly anticipated Tullamore Show and FBD National Livestock Show is set to take place this Sunday, August 13. With final preparations well underway, organizers are excited to present a wide range of events suitable for all ages. From livestock competitions to cooking competitions, hot air balloon displays, and various other attractions, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
One of the highlights of this year’s show is the launch of the inaugural Sustainable Livestock village. Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Charlie McConalogue, will officially launch the village at 10:30 a.m. Prominent figures from the agriculture sector will also be in attendance. Following the launch, the show itself will be officially opened by Minister McConalogue at 12:00 p.m.
Country singer Olivia Douglas, hailing from Co. Offaly, will be among the musical acts entertaining the crowds throughout the day. In the dairy section of the livestock show, there is a particular emphasis on youth participation. The young handler and young showmanship challenge will feature in three classes, catering to ages 12 to 26. The overall dairy section comprises 40 classes across three breeds: Holstein Friesian, Jersey, and Dairy Shorthorn. Notable classes include the Super €2,500 National Holstein Heifer in Milk (Class 51) and the €2,500 FBD National Livestock Show Senior Cow in Milk (Class 52).
The pedigree section of the show will showcase 12 breeds, including Limousin, Hereford, Simmental, and Charolais. Young members’ classes will also be featured throughout the show. The commercial cattle competition has introduced six new classes this year, including male/female calf class weighing up to 270kg, a new class for blonde calves weighing up to 385kg, and a new class for the best blonde cross animal. Additionally, there will be a competition for the best pair of commercial calves or senior cattle, factory classes featuring Dawn Meats, Kepak, and Moyvalley Meats, and young handler classes for ages 8-11.
The sheep section of the show boasts its largest number of entries ever, according to organizers. This includes new breeds such as Lanark and Swaledale. Attendees can also look forward to sheep shearing demonstrations, a sheepdog demonstration, and a talk on mental health by former world sheep shearing champion George Graham.
In addition to the livestock competitions, there will be a show of rare cattle and sheep breeds, as well as alpacas. The Irish Pig Society will also present the All-Ireland Pig of the Year. The horse section of the show will accept entries on the morning for the first time. The Fashion Arena will host fashion shows throughout the day, while the dog competition will feature various classes. Indoor events will include crafts, horticulture, vegetables, and flowers. Attendees can also enjoy cookery competitions and demonstrations by renowned chefs Adrian Martin and Neven Maguire. Art and photography exhibitions, the poultry competition, farm safety demonstrations, and a pavilion showcasing local businesses from Co. Offaly will also be featured. Additionally, a forestry and sustainable living exhibition and trade stands offering various goods will be available. As a special attraction for 2023, a hot air balloon display will captivate spectators.
To ensure a smooth experience for attendees, the organizers are encouraging patrons to purchase their tickets online in advance. This will help avoid long queues on the day. Online tickets can be purchased for €20, while tickets purchased on the day will cost €25. Children under the age of 12 can attend free of charge.
With such a diverse range of events, the Tullamore Show and FBD National Livestock Show promises to be a memorable day for all. Don’t miss out on this exciting opportunity to celebrate Irish agriculture and rural life.
