Irish Simmental Yearbook 2026 - Flipbook - Page 19
OBITUARIES - JOHN CONNAUGHTON
John Connaughton was one of the first Simmental
Breeders in Ireland, receiving females from the second
importation into Ireland in 1971. After these Simmental
females made their way to Mullingar following their
quarantine in Spike Island, John established the
Ballybane Simmental herd at Dysart, Mullingar in
1972. Simmental animals would continue to hold a key
role on the farm for over 45 years and John was still
passionate about the breed right up to his passing in
January 2026.
John was an articulate storyteller and on many
occasions shared memories of selling Simmentals
animals in the USA, travelling throughout Austria and
Germany sourcing the next generation Simmentals and
of the many lifelong friendships made along the way.
While Ballybane animals were the foundations of
many herds, and Ballybane animals won many
Championships at the RDS and Regional Shows, it was
probably Ballybane Lad that was John’s favourite of them all. Ballybane Lad was a 1981 born bull
and who remain on the farm for fourteen as herd sire. He was also collected for A.I. with calves
still registered from him.
John was a great advocate for the breed and served on Simmental Council for many years and
held the position of President between 1978 and 1981. John was a very successful business man
and always brought this vital knowledge to all Simmental Society affairs.
With the passing of John Connaughton comes the loss of one of the last links to the Simmental
beginning, but for all he met along the journey, John left a remarkable impression.
Ar dheis De go raibh a anam dilis.
John Connaughton pictured with his Simmental Cattle at Ballybane Farm.
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