Finalists Announced for 2026 FBD Young Farmer of the Year

The finalists for the 2026 FBD Young Farmer of the Year have been announced, with the competition now entering its final stage.

The finalists were announced earlier today, Tuesday 8 September, at The Heritage Hotel, Killenard. They will now face individual interviews with the judging panel before the winners are revealed at this evening’s awards banquet.
The competition, sponsored by FBD and run by Macra na Feirme in partnership with IFA and Macra Agricultural Skillnet, recognises the achievements, innovation and commitment of young farmers across a range of farming enterprises.
Following a highly competitive application process, finalists have been selected across the competition's categories, with each now vying for the title of 2026 FBD Young Farmer of the Year.
The overall winner will be announced at tonight’s banquet, bringing the 2026 competition to its exciting conclusion. 

2026 Finalists

• Enda Armstrong, Galway 
• Charlie Smyth, Cavan 
• Patrick Breslin, Cavan 
• Liam Barton, Laois 
• Shane Halpin, Dublin 
• Joanne Cushen, Kilkenny