HEREFORDS IN FOCUS:
IRISH HEREFORD CHARITY CALENDAR COMPETITION RAISES FUNDS FOR CHILDREN’S HEALTH
The results are in! For the fifth year, Irish Hereford Prime and the Irish Hereford Breed Society have celebrated outstanding photography and artistry through the annual Hereford Charity Photo and Calendar Competition. This year’s competition, for the second year running benefitting the Children’s Health Foundation, will direct all proceeds from calendar sales to help provide essential support to sick children and their families at Children’s Health Ireland at Crumlin.
With numerous entries pouring in from across the country, the judging process involved a mix of public voting on the Irish Hereford Breed Society’s Facebook page and final decisions from an independent judging panel.
After careful selection, eight talented winners were chosen, with Patrick O’Connor from Co. Cork taking home the Grand Prize. His captivating sunrise photograph, Watching the Sun Rise, was awarded the top spot and a €500 cash prize. Patrick has since donated his winning cheque to Children’s Health Foundation, saying “they do such good work and need it more than we do”. O’Connor’s image will feature prominently in the upcoming 2025 charity calendar.
The competition was divided into four unique categories:
- Herefords – The Natural Choice: Celebrating pedigree Hereford animals in their natural settings.
- The HEX Factor: Showcasing Hereford-cross cattle in scenic Irish landscapes.
- Hereford: An Environmentally Sustainable Breed: Illustrating Hereford farmers’ commitment to sustainability and biodiversity.
- Creative Calves: A children’s drawing and painting category for budding artists under 16.
Each category winner received well-deserved recognition, with the overall winner, Patrick O’Connor, receiving €500. Additionally, first and second place in each category were awarded €250 and €150 vouchers, respectively.
The 2025 Hereford Charity Calendar will be available for purchase starting mid-November, priced at €10, which includes postage and packaging. Every calendar sold contributes directly to the Children’s Health Foundation, supporting vital healthcare services for young patients. With its blend of stunning imagery and charitable purpose, this calendar makes a perfect stocking filler and a meaningful gift.
This year’s calendar competition highlights not only the beauty of the Hereford breed but also the generosity and community spirit of those who care for them. By purchasing a calendar, supporters can enjoy breathtaking photos and artwork while making a tangible difference for children in need.
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Winners:
Category 1/1st Place: Creative Calves – “A Herefords Love” by Chloe Hartigan, Co. Limerick.
Category 1/2nd Place: Creative Calves – “My Lovely Hereford” by Adrianna Egar, Co. Kildare.
Category 2/1st Place: The HEX Factor – “Taste The Tradition, Savour the flavours” by Kerrie Smyth, Co. Louth.
Category 2/2nd Place: The HEX Factor – “Captive Audience” by Sean Guy, Co. Meath.
Category 3/1st Place: Pedigree Herefords – “Watching The Sunrise” by Patrick O’Connor, Co. Cork.
Category 3/2nd Place: Pedigree Herefords – “Always Time For A Cuddle” by Padraic McKenna, Co. Monaghan.
Category 4/1st Place: Hereford an Environmentally Sustainable Breed – “Halter Training In The Natural Environment” by Theola Heatrick, Co. Monaghan.
Category 4/2nd Place: Hereford an Environmentally Sustainable Breed – “Morning Glory” by Martin O’Connor, Co. Galway.
