Michael works the Lordan family farm in Newcestown, Bandon, Co Cork with his father, Denis, and mother, Nora. The old farmhouse, bright blue in colour, sits across the road from where the family resides now. Having helped out on the farm since a young boy, Michael went into partnership with his father in 2017 after returning from farming in New Zealand. He is proud to have introduced several of his learned practices and new ideas in order to improve the sustainability and profitability of the operation, including grazing. He believes himself and his father are not the only ones to benefit from their partnership as the farm itself benefits greatly too. Michael, who also has a sister, is the fourth generation to work the farm. He believes farming is vital to their community in Bandon, where neighbouring farmers support each other. A work-life balance is important for Michael and he starts his farming day especially early so he can spend his free time in the evenings with his girlfriend, Cáit, friends, playing GAA and pitch and putt.
