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Hello, my name is Thomas Steele and I work on our family farm in Kirkubbin, Co Down with my brother Samuel. The 2009 year has been both exciting, and at times challenging, for the family business on our dairy farm.. We have made a significant investment in the development of our current 350 cow dairy herd over the past two years. Guiding the business towards a profitable and sustainable future, in what Samuel and I class as a ‘challenging industry’, is the ultimate aim for both of us. Both of us studied agriculture at Greenmount Campus. Samuel completed the NCA at Greenmount in 2003 and followed this with an NVQ Level 3 in Dairying. A few years earlier I completed the National Diploma in Agriculture. We both greatly enjoyed our time at the College and gained not only quality qualifications, but also developed a real knowledge and understanding of agriculture, and in particular dairy farming. This experience has undoubtedly helped us in the development of our family business, and is the main catalyst and driving force behind the growth of the farm. Samuel and I remain in contact with other ex-students from Greenmount and value friendships established during this time. Since returning home to farm, we have constructed new dairy cow facilities including cubicles, feed space and slurry storage. This year will hopefully see the completion of a 60 point rotary milking parlour and cow handling facility. I have also recently opened the farm to receive Focus Farm visits from groups, and consider this important as we value the views of other farmers. We greatly appreciate the support of our parents as we try to develop a profitable and sustainable business for all members involved. Dairy farming is an occupation I enjoy and am proud to be involved in, and want to be part of for many years to come. I encourage any younger farmer to make the most of their College days and any opportunities which arise.
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