A Letterkenny man has been named FBD Young Farmer of the Year.
Dwayne Shiels (pictured above) is a pedigree sheep farmer and also lectures in Agricultural Sciences at the Atlantic Technological University.
A keen sheep farmer who breeds Dutch Spotted sheep, Dwayne also found time to complete a PhD with Teagasc on lamb mortality.
Dwayne was a popular winner with judges at the finals which were held in the Radisson Blu Hotel in Sligo.
He was chosen from six short-listed finalists.
Macra na Feirme President Elaine Houlihan said Dwayne was a shining example of the talent of Ireland’s young farmers.
Irish Farmers Association President Tim Cullinan also paid tribute to the energy and drive of Dwayne.
CEO of FBD Insurance, Tomás Ó’Midheach also paid tribute to the young Donegal man.
He said “This award is a testament to Dwayne’s hard work, passion and commitment. FBD Insurance is proud to partner with FBD Trust to sponsor the FBD Young Farmer of the Year Awards.
“We are delighted to have been working with Macra for the past 25 years to support these awards which celebrate the achievements of our young farmers and their contribution to farming.
“While much has changed over the past 25 years, one thing that remains constant is the infectious energy, dedication and enthusiasm of competitors over all these years.
“Our hope is that these awards will continue to inspire the next generation of farmers to build their farm businesses for a sustainable future.”
