The Emerald Expo is set to return for its 14th show event at the Virginia Show Centre in Co. Cavan next month.
The all-dairy breeds cattle show on Saturday, April 25 marks the very first event of the Irish show season.
With a substantial prize fund and a lineup of top-quality cattle, this event is considered a highlight for breeders and industry professionals.
Show of Prestige and Excellence
The Emerald Expo is supported by FBD Insurance, with additional support from the Irish Holstein Friesian Association (IHFA), the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine, and Tirlán.
With seven championship classes, the competition is highly competitive, and breeders across Ireland including Northern Ireland will be competing for top honours.
Chair of FBD Trust Michael Berkery stated: “FBD is pleased to continue to support the Emerald Expo, an event that showcases the very best of Ireland’s dairy sector while bringing together breeders, young people, and industry stakeholders at the start of the show season.
“The Expo reflects the innovation, dedication, and resilience within Irish agriculture, and we are delighted to be involved in an event that not only celebrates excellence but also strengthens the reputation of the breed.”
One of the standout events of the show is the Emerald Expo Youngstock Confined Class, open exclusively to breeders from local IHFA club areas, including: Breffni Oriel (Cavan/Monaghan); North Eastern (Meath & Louth); West Midlands (Longford, Roscommon, Leitrim, Westmeath); and Donegal.
There is also much anticipation for the Emerald Expo Senior Championship, where the animals will battle it out to take home the prestigious Seamus Kelly Memorial Perpetual Trophy.
The Young Members (YMA) Showmanship League qualifying classes for handlers aged up to 26 years is also expected to draw stiff competition.
Judge for Emerald Expo
The esteemed UK judge – David Wright, Berryholme Holsteins, Cumbria, England will have the honour of judging classes at the event.
The Emerald Expo Lifetime Recognition award will also be announced and presented at the show to a very worthy recipient.
Emerald Expo show director, Richard Whelan has highlighted the continued growth and success of the event, attributing the success of the event to the commitment of sponsors, exhibitors, and the entire show community.
He said: “On behalf of the organising committee, I especially thank FBD as title sponsor and also extend my gratitude to the IHFA, the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Tirlán and all class sponsors.
“As the first show of the year, Emerald Expo is a much-anticipated event, offering breeders an opportunity to showcase their cattle and kick-start the 2026 season.”
The free event will also serve as an opportunity for business development and networking for professionals involved in the dairy industry.
