Following a resignation HSW urgently sought a replacement secretary as the busy winter season approached.  The result was the return of Huw Evans who had filled the post in the 1990's and having disposed of the family's Nicel Jersey herd found time to bridge the gap.

 

Following the summer herd competition , champion herd ,Lan,  opened its gates for a herd visit coupled to a cow family workshop led by Dr Darren Todd   , Holstein UK's resident genetecist   .Members and friends attended in good number with the high proportion of younger members a pleasant sight for all providing hope for the future of the breed and dairy farming in general. Soon the Bowen family were to learn of their highly creditable third placing in the national final.

 

In mid September 22 members crossed the Irish Sea for a whistle stop tour viewing two good herds whilst investigating the fortunes of Irish milk producers. Their primary concern was why had there been a vote to leave Europe which appears to probably affect them as much if not more than ourselves in the longer term.

 

Three young men deeply involved in milk production formed an interesting if poorly attended panel evening. Rhys Beynon Thomas,a member of locally based Prostock vet practice, Iwan Francis who entered farming in his own right recently operating a grass based system and Iestyn Davies, a prominent YFC member working on a family unit run on more traditional lines taking all calves to slaughter age,  gave the audience much food for thought whilst their  enthusiasm was obvious to all. Further confirmation that there is a future.

 

President Tom Phillips and family extended an invitation to join them at their local chapel in Capel Iwan for a service of devotion through song with younger members and friends contributing as individuals and groups. A collection of £750 was forwarded to Glangwili Hospital, Carmarthen where Susan Phillips regularly attends for treatment. A short journey to Newcastle Emlyn Rugby Club for a sumptuous lunch overlooking the famed Teifi river completed a most pleasant day for all present.

 

Closing 2016 the Harfat trophy Show and Sale attracted a quality entry to Carmarthen Livestock Centre with interest in the milkers reflecting the recent upturn in dairy fortunes seeing the now magical £2000 barrier broken at last for 2016.

 

Judged by Mark Williams, Lyganlan the following placings were made:

Champion and best cow Gorwyn Farms Ltd Gorwyn Shamrock Flash £1800

Res Champion Breeze Farms Ltd Geuffordd Zero Tunisia £1780

Harfat Champion S&S Davies' Castellhyfryd SammyChloe £2100

Reserve Harfat M Owens' Prospect T G Lydia £1700

Junior Heifer BB Farms BB Meteor Vixen £1700

Bull G & J Williams' Penrikka Carson £1550