Last but most definitely not least in the Irish Hereford Calf Rearing Series – we caught up with Aidan Jones of Clonroe Herefords, Wexford.

Aidan works alongside his father John & together they milk 90 dairy cows alongside the Pedigree Hereford herd. Clonroe Herefords traces its roots back to 1920 when the Jones family acquired their foundation female, Peggy. The Wexford natives have been “hooked on the breed ever since” and now farm a 12-pedigree cow herd. Aidan’s mother Norah, brother Denis, wife Orlagh, uncle Pat and cousins Conor & Padraig are also instrumental in the running of the farm.

Why Hereford?

The Jones continue to choose Herefords because of their “hardiness, docility and ability to put on flesh in a grazing system.” This is the ideal breed for the family to run with their dairy herd because the workload isn’t too heavy and there is continued demand for their bulls by farmers in the locality. The farm also use a Hereford bull on their replacement dairy cows.

The Clonroe prefix is no stranger to the Summer Show circuit and have had many wins and successes over the years. Aidan and his family were delighted to be able to get back to showing this year after the lockdown. The team had good success this Summer with some of their cattle especially Clonroe King who won the Hereford Championship at the Flavours of Fingal Show, Tinahely Show and Bannow & Rathangan Show along with several rosettes won at Gorey Show & Tullow show amongst others.

Technology & Progress

Aidan is committed to continuous progress on the farm and using advantageous tools available – “We use Herd App from Agri Net on the farm while selecting which females to breed from their milk recording details and other reports on the app. During a busy three week breeding period, we find the app exceptional for documenting serves and sire advice” commented Aidan. Aidan is also licenced DIY AI technician which enables him to better manage his workload and make decisions on breeding.

Chosen Charity

Aidan is rearing a Hereford Cross Bull Calf in aid of North Wexford Hospice. This is a vital service in the region that provides top care and comfort to people who are ill and their families when they need it most.

We wish Aidan well on his journey of calf rearing & we look forward to meeting in GVM Tullamore on 18th November.