Johnstown Blue Texels, property of the Donohoe family, is set to open the gates of their Westmeath-based farm to the public tomorrow, Saturday, July 22nd, 2023, to play host to the Irish Blue Sheep Society’s inaugural open day.
The father and daughter duo established the multi-prize-winning flock, which they farm alongside their pedigree Aubrac cattle, in 2016.
A then 12-year-old Jennifer Donohoe founded the flock, based outside Delvin, with purchases from both Philip Crowe (Powerful Blue Texels) in Co Cavan and the Innishmore flock in Co. Fermanagh.
Johnstown Blue Texels
Jennifer Donohoe told That’s Farming: “I was drawn to the breed instantly for their sweetness and sharp heads as well as their carcass quality.
“Many farmers are attracted to the breed for their ease of lambing, yet high-quality kill-outs and U and E grading. We are very excited for the future of Blue Texels in Ireland as interest is growing all the time.
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Kevin Swift, PRO for the Irish Blue Sheep Society said: “Francis and Jennifer Donohoe’s flock has had many great achievements since it was established in 2016, from winning overall champion at the NSBA in 2019 to securing the overall and reserve champion silverware in 2022 at the national show.”
“As recent as this year, they also claimed reserve overall champion at our national show with their ram lamb, Johnstown Hercules, which will be on display at the open day.
“The event will kick off at 3:30 pm in Johnstown, Collinstown, Co. Westmeath, N91 NW53 with a flock walk.”
“After this, I will deliver a sheep trimming demonstration, where I will talk through how to prepare a Blue Texel for shows or sales.”
“There will then be a talk from Provita on animal health and nutrition, followed by a talk from Red Mills on animal nutrition.”
“The evening will finish with refreshments and a BBQ, giving people an opportunity to meet the newly elected council and talk to the breeders,” Swift concluded.
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