The O’Donoghue Family Farm, on the banks of the River Bandon, is home to John and Annette and their children, Paddy, Ciara, Áine and Jack. Protecting natural habitats is a priority on the farm, with forestry, hedgerows, buffer zones and other measures supporting nature, including stitching clover. Supplying into Bandon Co-Op, the O’Donoghues participate in the Carbery Monitor Farm Group and the Teagasc Signpost Programme.
Efficiency and innovation is maximised here: collars have been transformative on this farm, providing real time insights to manage the herd and protect the health of the animals. Milking 166 cows, the average milk solids per cow was an impressive 537kg in 2024. The herd’s EBI is 259 with replacements at 294. The O’Donoghues use 90% Sexed Semen with Dairy AI and breed for fertility, longevity and solids.
The family prioritise work-life balance, striving to keep evenings free. Their eldest son Paddy is heavily involved – studying at Darrara Agricultural College, Paddy milks, rears calves and handles machinery. This is a farm striving for efficiency, while protecting the landscape for the generations to come.
