Holstein NI Elects First Club President at AGM

Above photo: Outgoing chairman Tommy Henry received the Club Award for his outstanding contribution to Holstein NI. He was congratulated by Holstein UK president David Perry.​

County Down HYB member Andrew Patton was guest speaker at Holstein NI’s 19^thAGM, held recently in Moira.

The twenty-six-year-old Queens University graduate is involved in the daily management of the family’s 340-cow Ards Herd.

The HYB Club played a big part in Andrew’s life from an early age.  In 2016 he was joint recipient of Holstein UK’s President’s Medal. 

In the last two years Andrew embarked on three international trips, all of which were associated with his involvement in the HYB. Members of the audience were interested to see pictures and learn about his travels and experiences

Holstein NI’s 19^thAGM was supported by long-term sponsor Dairy Herd Management.

Outgoing chairman Tommy Henry extended a warm welcome and gave a resume of Holstein NI’s numerous activities, including shows and sales, throughout the year. 

Jason Booth from the Beechview Herd was elected chairman; while Charlie Weir from the Burnhill Herd was elected as vice-chairman. John Martin was unanimously returned as secretary and treasurer.

Newly elected committee members include: Alex Walker, Caddy Herd; Richard Charles, Beltonanean Herd; Robert Stewart, Quinton Herd; John Patterson, Ballyginniff Herd; and Dennis Torrens, Moneydig Herd.

During the meeting members voted to adopt a few minor changes to the club’s constitution. As a result Holstein NI elected retired dairy farmer Wilbert Rankin from Templepatrick as its first-ever club president. 

The NI Holstein Young Breeders’ Club also staged its AGM at the Moira venue.

Andrew Patton and Leiza Montgomery were elected as joint co-ordinators. John McLean was re-elected as treasurer; while Heather Martin was elected as secretary. 

Committee members include: Mark Henry, Lindsay Fleming, Robert Stewart and Matthew McLean. Parent HYB representatives include: Wallace Gregg, Geoffrey Patton and Pauline McCorry.

Tommy Henry thanked outgoing HYB co-ordinator Andrew Kennedy for his contribution to the role over the past number of years.

Tommy Henry was the recipient of the Club Award which recognises outstanding contribution and commitment.

Wilbert Rankin was elected president of Holstein NI at its 19th AGM. He was congratulated by Gary Watson, Dairy Herd Management, sponsor; and newly elected chairman Jason Booth.​