Moate Show officially launched by LGFA president Trina Murray

by David Flynn

The 2025 Moate Show - one of Ireland's oldest agricultural shows - was officially launched last week and will take place on Sunday, August 24.

This year's 182nd staging of the show will maintain its tradition of variety, from livestock and animals to home industries and vegetable production, ensuring a world of something for everyone on the day, while hoping, as always, for good weather.

The show has roots going back to the year 1839, and will take place off the Dublin Road, beside AB Oil (N37 W2H3).

It was launched at the Grand Hotel, Moate, last Friday night by a native of the town, Trina Murray, President of the Ladies Gaelic Football Association (LGFA).

Trina and the other speakers on the night were introduced by Moate Show’s Michael Scott, who said the committee was very grateful to the event's sponsors and said the town was privileged to have a show running for so long.

A few words of encouragement and praise was given to the gathering by Sean Kilkenny of the Irish Angus Cattle Society, who are taking part in this year's show.

"The Moate location is ideal and as regards any help or assistance we can offer to make this a great success, we will do it," said Mr Kilkenny.

Cllr Tom Farrell spoke about the importance of the volunteers who work at the show each year.

"The art of volunteering is great at the shows in Ireland, especially so in Moate, and I'd particularly like to thank all the ladies for the work they have done at this show over the years."

Paula Loughran, Midlands region chair of the Irish Shows Association thanked the committee for inviting her, and said she didn’t think she had missed a year at the show since becoming a board member.

"I'd like to congratulate Moate on securing the bull final and look forward to seeing that competition on the day," said Paula.

LGFA president Trina Murray spoke of her pride at being in her home town to officially launch and promote Moate Agricultural Show.

"This beloved event has been a highlight of our rural calendar – a celebration of agricultural excellence, community spirit and the very best of country life here in Moate and the surrounding region," said Trina.

"I have fond memories of the show being held in the showgrounds and the excitement of the event taking place on a Wednesday, when we used to get a half day off school.

"Those were special times and it’s wonderful to see how the show has grown and evolved while still holding onto that strong sense of community and tradition."

Trina also remembered "those who have gone before us" and helped shape the show into what it is today.

"In particular I want to remember Mary Sheeran, who brought great banter and laughter to the Tea Room – her warmth and spirit were a cherished part of the event’s character," she said.

"That wonderful tradition has now been handed down to her daughter Trish, who certainly has great shoes to fill and is doing so with her own special touch."

Trina said that this year’s show promises to be bigger and better than ever and that, from majestic horses and sturdy cattle to fluffy sheep and colourful poultry, the livestock classes would showcase the finest breeds and the dedication of local farmers.

“Beyond the animals, visitors can look forward to exploring creative competitions in art, photography, fruit and vegetables and baked goods – all shining a spotlight on the talent and bounty of rural Ireland."

She said the day will be alive with the sounds of local bands, and live entertainment, while children will enjoy free activities designed just for them, making it a perfect family day out.

"Some of the show’s exciting highlights include the Anthony Browne All-Ireland Filly Foal Final, the Queen of the Show competition, and the Tug of War – thrilling contests that bring energy and camaraderie to the event,” she said.

"I want to extend my thanks to the organisers led by the chairperson, Michael Scott. We are deeply grateful to the dedicated volunteers, exhibitors and sponsors who work tirelessly behind the scenes to make this event a reality."

The launch event also heard from another local native, Raymond Higgins, originally from Ballydangan in South Roscommon. Now living in Cork, ge spoke as a representative of the National Vegetable Society. "It's a privilege to be here and at the start of the launch of the Irish championships," he said.

"We have sixteen classes, and added three new classes on cucumbers.

We have gone for small vegetables, shallots, and some cherry tomatoes, and also had an open class for juniors to get involved, so let’s spread the word."

Raymond revealed on the night that it all started for him at the Moate Show, over twenty years ago, when he won with two pumpkins, at a time when he was a student at Athlone Community College.

"The Westmeath Independent captured me coming out carrying two pumpkins and from that day forward, I was known as Pumpkin Higgins," he said to laughter from the gathering.

"But that didn’t discourage me and we’re still growing and I love the hobby."

Speaking after the launch, Colin Doyle, Show Secretary, said:

"There will be an annual craft market for local small businesses and all of our equine starts at 10am on the day, which is the starting time for the show in general, but at 12 noon, everything will be on.

"There will be a free shuttle bus from two locations in the town, outside the Grand Hotel, and at Tuar Ard.”

The equine section will have 72 classes in total, and all entries can be made online.

Country music star Johnny Brady and his band will be performing at Moate Show this year, as will Moate Comhaltas group, and there will also be a jiving competition on the day.