Carbery Macra officially launched the Macra National Conference (more commonly known as the Rally) 2025 on Tuesday, 23rd September, at the Celtic Ross Hotel, Rosscarbery.

The launch marks the return of the national rally to West Cork for the first time in sixteen years, with the main event taking place over the October Bank Holiday weekend (24th–26th October).

The evening was attended by Carbery Macra members, along with Louise Kelly of Carbery Group, the main sponsor of this year’s event, and Anne Downey, General Manager of the Celtic Ross Hotel, the official host venue and sponsor.

Speaking at the launch, John O’Driscoll, Chairperson of the Carbery Rally Committee, said:

“It has been sixteen years since Carbery last hosted the rally, and the memories of 2009 are still fondly remembered. This year we look forward to creating many more.”

The October programme offers a packed line-up, with highlights including farm tours led by some of West Cork’s best-known names. Padraig Cunnane will host the Dairy Farm Tour, Tommy Moyles will welcome visitors to his Beef Farm Tour, and the Alternative Tour will showcase Caherbeg Free Range Pork. Alongside these, members can look forward to stock judging, the “Know Your Ag” quiz, wellness activities, and live music across the weekend.

Main event sponsor, Carbery Group, underlined their support for the rally.

Louise Kelly commented: “We are very excited to be part of this event. It marks the start of a very close relationship with Macra and with young farmers here in West Cork.”

Later in the evening, Mr. O’Driscoll also praised the role of the host venue: “The Celtic Ross Hotel will provide a wonderful base for Macra members travelling from across the country, and we are grateful to Anne Downey and her team for their warm welcome.”