Beirne family refines calf-to-beef system in Roscommon
The Beirnes at Tullyloyd, Co Roscommon, have developed an efficient calf-to-beef operation focused on early finishing of cattle. Their approach combines genetics, nutrition, and improved grazing infrastructure to produce quality carcasses around 21 months of age.
Source:
Teagasc Agricultural News
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⏱️ 1 min read
The Beirne family, farming at Tullyloyd near Elphin in Co Roscommon, operate an 80-hectare farm split between a calf-to-beef enterprise and a suckler cow herd. Their primary aim is to finish early-maturing Angus and Hereford steers and heifers quickly, targeting slaughter at approximately 21 months to optimise both time and carcass quality.
Gerry, Anne, and Cian Beirne balance farm work with off-farm employment, making an efficient and manageable system essential. The calf-to-beef operation involves intensive calf-rearing initially, with calves sourced from just three farms and introduced to automatic milk feeders and a high-quality ration before turning out to grass. The suckler cows utilise the less productive parts of the farm, providing a complementary enterprise that helps spread workload and land use effectively.
Significant investment has been made in grazing infrastructure, including a new paddock system and over 29 acres of reseeding to enhance grass quality and availability. These improvements, together with careful calf nutrition, early rumen development, and suitable genetics, have resulted in consistent carcass weights averaging between 260kg and 310kg at slaughter. Despite challenging weather conditions in 2026, the Beirnes have maintained performance targets and continue to develop facilities, including a new six-bay slatted shed, to support the enterprise's growth.
Gerry, Anne, and Cian Beirne balance farm work with off-farm employment, making an efficient and manageable system essential. The calf-to-beef operation involves intensive calf-rearing initially, with calves sourced from just three farms and introduced to automatic milk feeders and a high-quality ration before turning out to grass. The suckler cows utilise the less productive parts of the farm, providing a complementary enterprise that helps spread workload and land use effectively.
Significant investment has been made in grazing infrastructure, including a new paddock system and over 29 acres of reseeding to enhance grass quality and availability. These improvements, together with careful calf nutrition, early rumen development, and suitable genetics, have resulted in consistent carcass weights averaging between 260kg and 310kg at slaughter. Despite challenging weather conditions in 2026, the Beirnes have maintained performance targets and continue to develop facilities, including a new six-bay slatted shed, to support the enterprise's growth.
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