Charolais Club members reflect on a successful year and look ahead
The Charolais Club Northern Ireland AGM was held in Glenavon House Hotel, Cookstown, Co Tyrone on 27th February 2020.
Chairman Mr David Connolly welcomed members and thanked all the sponsors who have financially supported the club events over the past year.
Eilis Kelly (secretary) gave a flavour of events over the past year, outlining the success of sales and especially congratulating the young breeders who represented Northern Ireland at the youth stock judging finals at Clogher Valley Show - a first for the club to host.
Treasurer Trevor Phair outlined his report on the past financial year showing that sponsorship was up and sales were well up because of the demand of the Charolais breed. A number of new members had joined the club, and this was to be encouraged. Membership by Standing Order is £20 or cash payment annually £30.
The NI Charolais Herd Competition was re-announced after its great success last year and also the National Charolais Championship to be held in Clogher.
The next Charolais Club Show & Sale is on 17th April in Swatragh.
After the business was dealt with David introduced the speaker for the evening, Donagh Berry from Teagasc, and he gave a very informative talk on genomics.
There was great audience participation and plenty of questions from the floor.
David thanked Donagh for coming to speak to club members.
New Committee members elected: Liam Devine, Sandra Cochrane and Nigel Matchett.
Office Bearers for 2020:
Chairman: Jeremy Paynter, Armagh
Vice Chair: Robert McWilliams, Maghera
Treasurer: Martin Donaghy, Dungannon
PRO/Youth Officer: Kevin Reavey, Jerretspass, Newry
TB Stakeholders Group: Will Short, Beragh
David closed the AGM by thanking all the sponsors and asked that the club members all give them their support. He thanked the outgoing committee members for their hard work and dedication. He thanked the judges, stewards, breeders, and exhibitors without whom this year would not be a success.
Thanks, were given to Glenavon House Hotel for their hospitality for the year and for accommodating the meeting.
David wished everyone a safe journey home.