Macra launches 60th National Autumn rally in Limerick

Macra launches the 2026 Autumn Rally which will be hosted in Limerick this year with a packed programme of events scheduled for the weekend.
From left: Louise Crowley, Ashley Primrose (Rally Committee members), James Tangney (Chair of Kinisla), Pat Murphy (CEO of Kinisla), Josephine O'Neill (National President of Macra), Elaine Houlihan (Limerick Rally Chairperson), James O'Connell (Director of Agribusiness & Sustainability) & Ciaran Sexton (Chairperson of Limerick Macra) Picture: Eamon Doody

From left: Louise Crowley, Ashley Primrose (Rally Committee members), James Tangney (Chair of Kinisla), Pat Murphy (CEO of Kinisla), Josephine O'Neill (National President of Macra), Elaine Houlihan (Limerick Rally Chairperson), James O'Connell (Director of Agribusiness & Sustainability) & Ciaran Sexton (Chairperson of Limerick Macra) Picture: Eamon Doody

The landmark 60th National Autumn Conference, known as the “Rally,” will take place in October in Limerick.

The 60th Rally will take place from October 23 to October 25 at the Woodlands House Hotel & Spa in Adare, Co Limerick.

Hosted by Limerick Macra and proudly supported by Kinisla as Main Sponsor, this milestone event will bring together hundreds of young people from across Ireland for a weekend of competitions, social events, farm visits and the National Conference, celebrating the very best of Macra and rural Ireland.

Kinisla’s support reflects a shared commitment to investing in young people, supporting the future of farming and strengthening rural communities. Through this partnership, Kinisla is helping to ensure that the National Rally continues to provide opportunities for members to develop skills, build connections and engage with the issues shaping rural Ireland and agriculture.

Speaking at the launch, CEO of Kinisla, Pat Murphy, said: “Kinisla is proud to support Macra’s 60th National Rally as main sponsor of this landmark event. Macra plays an important role in developing young farmers and rural leaders, and this event provides a valuable opportunity for members to build skills, share ideas and strengthen connections.

The future of Irish agriculture and rural communities depends on the next generation, and we are delighted to support this milestone celebration as members come together from across the country

Speaking at the launch, Macra National President Josephine O'Neill said: "The National Rally is the highlight of the Macra calendar, bringing members together to compete, learn, develop new skills and build lifelong friendships.

“It's an event that members across the country look forward to every year. I am delighted to welcome Kinisla as main sponsor and thank them for their valued support of Limerick Macra, our organisation and young farmers. I also want to commend the Limerick Rally Committee for their dedication and hard work. I have no doubt they will deliver a fantastic weekend and a fitting celebration of this 60th Autumn National Rally."

Chairperson of the National Rally Committee, Elaine Houlihan, said: “Limerick Macra is delighted to host this year’s National Rally, marking 10 years since we last welcomed this prestigious event to the county.

“The Rally Committee has been working tirelessly to create a memorable weekend, and we are excited for members from across the country to experience everything we have planned, along with a few special surprises.” 

This year's Rally will feature a programme of competitions, educational events, farm visits, networking opportunities, social activities, and special 60th-anniversary celebrations.

Members will also attend the National Conference, with discussions on issues affecting young farmers and rural youth. At the same time, the weekend will conclude with the prestigious Gala Banquet and the presentation of the Club of the Year and Best New Member awards.

The event is expected to provide a significant economic boost to the host county, welcoming hundreds of members and visitors over the October Bank Holiday weekend.

Macra and Limerick Macra extend their sincere thanks to main sponsor, Kinisla, as well as the many volunteers, sponsors, local businesses and supporters whose commitment is making this milestone event possible.

  • Further details on competitions, ticket sales, accommodation and the full programme will be announced in the coming weeks through Macra's official communication channels and National Rally social media platforms.

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