Upbeat mood at Tullamore Show AGM after positive year in 2025

The executive committee and members gathered at The Bridge House Hotel, Tullamore, on Wednesday last, January 7, for the AGM of the Tullamore Show and FBD National Livestock Show.

The mood was upbeat and positive following a very successful 2025 show.

Reports were heard from all sections with the overall sentiment that the show was a resounding success, despite rising costs. Entries in classes were up, the trade area was at capacity with extra space having been allocated, and the showground was a hive of activity from daybreak.

John Keena, chairperson, spoke of his gratitude for all involved in the preparation and delivery of the show. The 2025 show saw the addition of a Hydrogen Power Unit in the Livestock field, a first for an outdoor event, which was kindly sponsored by ESB and Offaly County Council.

“The success of the show is down to the site owners, landowners, local services, the media, various heads of section, sponsors, stewards, volunteers and all who worked tirelessly to bring the show to its fruition, resulting in record attendance figures," said John.

"All of which cements our status as the largest one-day lifestyle event. There is no doubt that weather played its part also in Ireland!”

Guest speaker, Seamus Boland, President of the European Economic and Social Committee (EESC), addressed the room, giving everyone a little insight to his background and current role.

The Offaly native spoke fondly of the Tullamore Show and the vision members had in 1991 and in the intervening years to be the National Livestock Show. He reflected on the importance of stakeholders within rural communities and how they interact with each other. The Tullamore Show is a perfect example of this.

Seamus mentioned his Macra na Feirme days with the Tullamore Show Chair and how he encouraged John Keena to join Macra na Feirme  many moons ago. Seamus outlined his concerns for the future of the family farm, mentioning how large corporations buying vast parcels of land are making it difficult for the local farmers to expand.

There was a vote of sympathy for those who passed away since the last AGM, with the event fondly remembering one of the founding members, Christy Maye.

All roads now lead to the Butterfield Estate on August 9, 2026, with ticket and trade stand prices remaining at the 2025 rates. Trade applications are now open. Applications close on May 1.