A Dexter farm between Castlerea and Loughglynn has brought home gold at the World Steak Challenge, putting this rare Irish breed firmly in the spotlight.
John Cunniffe, originally from Galway, runs an organic Dexter farm between Castlerea and Loughglynn - Aughaloor Dexters. Just four years after beginning his organic journey, he has already achieved global recognition for the exceptional quality of beef produced on his farm.
A trained horticulturist, he first became interested in Dexter cattle five or six years ago. “I wanted to go into organics because I don’t see the need for chemicals,” he explained. “I’m not against them, but organic farming works for my situation.” Becoming an organic farmer was surprisingly straightforward. John applied, completed a four week course, received certification, and now undergoes routine annual inspections like all organic producers.
John is also an active member of the Dexter Cattle Society, which works in conjunction with the Agricultural Products Board (APB) in Nenagh. It was through the society that the opportunity to enter the World Steak Challenge arose.
As luck would have it, he had four cattle ready for slaughter when a society member was looking for entries. “I sent them in, and it just so happened that one of my bullocks won the challenge,” he said.
Reflecting on the win, he believes it will bring tremendous attention to the Dexter breed. “Even before we won, we noticed more people getting interested in Dexters because farming is changing. This will help the breed big time.”
William O'Halloran, chairman, Irish Dexter Cattle Society; Lesley Sandes, administrator, Irish Dexter Cattle Society; Don O'Brien, general manager, ABP; John Cunniffe, Aughaloor Dexters; Pajo Fogarty, ABP Nenagh; Brid Torrades, Irish Dexter Cattle Society, and Tom McDonald, Irish Dexter Cattle Society. Pic: Odhran Ducie
Despite the growing popularity of Dexter cattle, the breed has long faced outdated perceptions. John explained: “They used to be known as the poor man’s cow, and some people said they were no good for anything. I’ve proven the opposite.”
Most Dexter cattle are grass-fed, out wintered, and never receive meal feed. They are 100% pedigree and one of Ireland’s rare native breeds, dating back to the 1800s.
Their smaller size makes them lighter on the land, easier to manage, and less expensive to keep than commercial cattle.
He was drawn to Dexters and to organic farming because of their environmental benefits.
“I wanted to get into something different—for biodiversity and all that goes with it,” he said.
While Dexters are traditionally more common in the west of Ireland, the Dexter Cattle Society continues to grow, now boasting 800 to 1,000 members nationwide.
For John, the biggest advantage is how well the Dexters suit his life and land.
“It works for me, and they’re easier managed,” he said.
