Co Louth native Jonathan Marry has been recently named the Macra na Feirme/FBD Young Farmer of the Year.
The farmer from Tullyallen took the top prize after defeating 26 other contestants in the annual contest that celebrates the endless work that the country’s farmers undertake all year round. Johnathan’s farm which has a 540 integrated sow unit, along with fattening accommodation for 800 pigs came out on top after a panel judges voted Johnathan’s farm as one of the most environmentally friendliest in the country.
The farm is fully compliant with Bord Bia and EPA licenced and there are three full-time staff, including Marry himself. Johnathan told the judging panel that his future plans include to go home milling and to become fully sufficient in building an extra 800 fattening places.
Mr Marry said: “I am a member of the Macra for nearly 10 years. I fish and hunt locally rearing 300 of my own ducks each years. I am a member of the local gun club and hunting is my favourite past time. “I participate in an a annual 80k charity cycle to raise awareness of suicide. I am a member of EPP (European Pig Producers) which we will be hosting in Dublin in 2016,” he told the panel.
The young Co Louth native now takes home the coveted title along with a share in a €5,500 prize fund.