The Ballyhoura Farmers Health & Wellbeing Network has been officially launched by Ballyhoura Development as part of the Farm Forward – Connecting Generations and Farming for the Future European Innovation Partnership (EIP), supported by the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine.

Launched on 30 June at the picturesque seventh-generation Corderry Farm in Galbally, the new Network marks an important milestone in the Farm Forward programme, bringing together farmers, farming families and rural communities to strengthen social connection and improve access to practical health and wellbeing supports.

Developed by Ballyhoura Development and launched in October 2025, the Farm Forward initiative is an innovative European Innovation Partnership (EIP) supporting farmers and farming families across the Ballyhoura region through a holistic approach focused on succession planning, farm sustainability, and farmer health and wellbeing. 

The newly established network has been designed to support retired farmers, those contemplating retirement, isolated farmers, and members of farm families, with a strong emphasis on fostering social connection and improving access to practical wellbeing supports.

The event was officially launched by Cllr Tommy O'Sullivan and Cllr Deirdre O'Brien, deputising on behalf of the Mayors of Limerick City and County Council and Cork County Council.

Attendees included Tracy O'Donoghue of the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Jess Angland, Chairperson of Ballyhoura Development, Ballyhoura Development Board and staff members, local representatives, and farmers and members of farming families from across the Ballyhoura region.

Minister Martin Heydon of the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine, congratulated Farm Forward EIP on the launch of the Farmers Health and Wellbeing Network and said: "The Department recognises that the sustainability of farming depends not just on the land, but on the wellbeing of the people behind it. This network is a positive and practical step in supporting farmers' health, reducing isolation, and strengthening rural communities."

Gráinne Fitzgerald, Farm Forward Health & Wellbeing Social Prescriber, said the initiative has been shaped by listening to farmers and understanding the realities of farming life. "You can't separate people's health from the reality of their lives and work. Farmers are resilient, but they carry a huge level of responsibility. This network is about recognising that and offering practical supports that fit into farming life."

The event was well attended by local farmers, farm families, local and community representatives, statutory agencies and project partners.

The Ballyhoura Farmers Health & Wellbeing Network responds to the unique pressures facing today's farming community, including long working hours, weather uncertainty, financial pressures, increasing administrative demands and social isolation. Rather than delivering formal programmes, the Network will focus on informal, accessible and farmer-led supports such as walk-and-talk sessions, peer connection opportunities, health information and checks, workshops, and access to supports through social prescribing.

Gráinne Fitzgerald added: "This isn't about telling farmers what to do. It's about offering options. Farmers can take what suits them, and the network will continue to grow based on what they tell us they want and need."

The launch event reflected this practical approach, beginning with a welcome from hosts John and Ailish Ivory, who shared an overview of their diversified family farm, followed by contributions from invited speakers. Attendees then took part in a relaxed wellbeing walk overlooking the Galtee Mountains, creating space for open conversation and connection.

The event concluded with a traditional horse logging demonstration by the Ivory family, showcasing sustainable forestry practices and celebrating the rich heritage of the farm.

Ballyhoura Development Chairperson Jess Angland said the network will play a vital role in supporting rural communities: “This network will ensure that farmers and their families feel supported and valued by fostering connections and bringing people together.”

The launch marks the beginning of a series of farmer-focused initiatives across the region aimed at maintaining momentum, encouraging engagement and building stronger connections within the farming community. Upcoming events include a SunSmart Campaign at Kilmallock Mart, a Farm Walk & Nature Connection event at Slí Eile, a Rambling House evening celebrating farming through the ages, and a range of wellbeing talks and information sessions delivered in partnership with community organisations.

Farmers, members of farming families and the wider rural community are encouraged to get involved and help shape the future of the Ballyhoura Farmers Health & Wellbeing Network, ensuring it continues to respond to the needs of local farming communities while promoting positive health, wellbeing and social connection across the region.

The Ballyhoura Farmers Health & Wellbeing Network also supports the delivery of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), with a particular focus on SDG 3 – Good Health and Well-Being, SDG 11 – Sustainable Cities and Communities, and SDG 15 – Life on Land. By promoting positive health and wellbeing, strengthening social connections within rural communities, and supporting the long-term sustainability of farming, the Network contributes to building healthier people, stronger communities and a more resilient rural environment.

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The Farm Forward project is part of the European Innovative Partnerships (EIP) initiative co-funded by the European Commission and the Irish Government under the CAP Strategic Plan 2023-2027.

Farm Forward: Connecting Generations and Farming for the Future