Held on Tuesday 17 January at Pant Du, Caernarfon, those present had the opportunity to hear Rhidian outline how he built his business from 15 Welsh ewes on 8 acres of rented land to 730 ewes, over 200 hogs and 600 reared heifers, running across just over 700 acres on a farm business tenancy.
Rhidian's story
Rhidian’s story highlighted that with hard work and real determination to succeed in the industry, anything is possible. “It’s been a busy few years,” explained Rhidian. “In nine years I have taken on a farm business tenancy, got married, moved house, had three children and finished working off the farm.”
His four main aims are to continue with a grass-based system, to ensure a productive and profitable business; reduce the farm’s reliance on subsidy payments; become income sufficient so he doesn’t have to work off farm; and maintain a good work-life balance with his three young children.
Improving soils and pasture
Although he started his business with sheep, Rhidian introduced cattle into the system early on, to spread the risk and as a way of improving his soils and pasture. Contract rearing has allowed him to keep heifers at no capital, which also brings in a monthly payment.
Rhidian isn’t stopping there: “Over the last few years we’ve built a new cattle shed and slurry store, fenced a minimum of 1,000 meters a year and we’re installing a water system. Next year I hope to diversify into dairying.”
NFU Cymru update
NFU Cymru Deputy President, Abi Reader, also spoke at the conference and outlined a few areas of work that the union has been involved with. These included the Sustainable Farming Scheme proposals, the Agriculture (Wales) Bill, Nitrate Vulnerable Zones and bovine TB, where she gave a special mention to NFU Cymru’s focus group, who have been doing a lot of work on this issue.
Mid Gwynedd NFU Cymru County Chairman Ifan Evans said: “It’s been a real pleasure listening to Rhidian explain his farming journey. He’s really taken advantage of every opportunity and is passionate about making his mark on the industry. Thank you also to Abi who took the time to explain the work that NFU Cymru has been involved with and future policies coming down the line.”