Oliver Lynch and his family are the 5th generation to operate their dairy farm in Skibbereen, Co Cork. Currently, three generations live and work on the farm: Oliver, his wife Sheila, their three children Kate, Aine and Patrick, and Oliver's mother, Mary. The records of the farm go back to 1828, a testament to their enduring commitment to the land.
Oliver took over the operation of the farm at the age of 22 from his parents after completing college at Darra Agricultural College. Like his father before him, Oliver is deeply committed to the continuous improvement of the farm. 50% of the farm’s grazing platform is dedicated to clover and Oliver has plans to further increase the use of clover on the farm, as well as increase protected area usage, and reduce concentrate feed levels. He has also planted and maintained hedgerows across the farm, implemented protected habitats and fenced waterways.
The Lynch family participates actively in the local community. Both Oliver and his wife Sheila train underage teams for the local GAA club. Work-life balance is something that Oliver believes is key to proper functioning of the farm. The farm dries off cows annually in December, and the family enjoys a two-month break from milking, taking time for holidays and family time. The whole family is involved in the farm, so making time to enjoy time together is of great importance.
