Tullamore to host national event celebrating women in farming

A national conference entitled ‘Growing Voices, Women in Farming’ will take place on Thursday, October 15, in the Tullamore Court Hotel.

Organised by Teagasc to mark the 'International Year of the Woman Farmer', women and men from across Ireland's farming community are invited to come together for the national conference which will promote the contribution of women in agriculture while exploring the opportunities, challenges and future of farming.

The event will bring together farmers, advisors, researchers and industry leaders for a day of knowledge sharing, practical learning and networking.

Hosted by MJ Cleary, Presenter of Countrylife on Midlands Radio 3, 'Growing Voices' aims to support women at every stage of their farming journey, from students and new entrants to established farmers, successors, farm partners and agri-business owners.

The conference is also aimed at families and male farmers to assist in seeking opportunities and pathways for encouraging female successors into farming and farm businesses.

The conference programme features an impressive line-up of speakers from across Irish and international agriculture, including Sophie Bell, full-time farmer and content creator; Dr Erika Valério, Gender and Agrifood Expert with the Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations (FAO); Carina Roseingrave, International Year of the Woman Farmer Ambassador 2026; along with farmers, advisors and entrepreneurs who will share their experiences, insights and practical advice.

Throughout the day, conference attendees will hear keynotes and panel discussions covering topics such as getting into farming, building a successful farm business and creating opportunities beyond the farm gate.

Interactive breakout sessions will give participants the opportunity to choose practical topics most relevant to them, including succession and collaborative farming, supports for women farmers, diversification and new income opportunities, and farm finance, tax and legal matters.

The aim will be that current and aspiring female farmers are shown practical tools and opportunities to advance into farming and to be recognised for the important role that they already do and can develop in the future.

Beyond the conference programme, 'Growing Voices' is an opportunity to connect with women from across Irish agriculture, exchange ideas, build new networks and celebrate the growing role of women in shaping the future of the sector.

Speaking ahead of the event, Dr. Stan Lalor, Director of Knowledge Transfer at Teagasc, said the conference is about recognising the vital role women play across Irish agriculture.

"The aim of the conference is to create a space where they can share experiences, learn from one another and gain practical knowledge to support their farming journey.

"Whether you're taking your first steps into farming or have years of experience, this conference offers something for everyone," Dr Lalor said.