Ballyrcrissane farmer highlights key role of women in dairying
When Mella Briscoe returned home after studying Agricultural Science in college, she knew exactly where she belonged.
Her passion for farming was unmistakable, and over the years she has built a progressive dairy enterprise, alongside her husband Kevin Muldoon and their three children Jack, Naise and Maeve, from their home base in Ballycrissane, East Galway near Portumna/Killimor.
Both of their sons now work full-time on the farm — a testament to the strong family connection to the land and to the future of Irish dairying. Having transitioned from beef and sheep farming to dairy, Mella’s journey has been one of vision and determination.
“It hasn’t always been easy, but every challenge has taught us something new,” she said. From starting out as a new entrant, to now milking on two platforms, she has shown what can be achieved through hard work, adaptability, and a willingness to learn.
For Mella and Kevin, farming has always been about resilience and teamwork – embracing new skills, technology, and opportunities as they arise.
Her leadership in agriculture extends far beyond her own farm. As the current Vice Treasurer — and soon-to-be Vice President — of Dairy Women Ireland (DWI), Mella has become a passionate advocate for women in farming.
Her involvement with DWI began when she and Kevin were guest speakers at the organisation’s first conference. That experience, she recalls, left a lasting impression. “Kevin’s public recognition of the role his mother played on his home farm meant so much to me. It made me realise how much stronger women can be when they have the support of their partners beside them.”
For Mella, DWI represents far more than professional development. “It’s about connection,” she explains. “To be able to reach out to like-minded women who understand your situation — that’s what makes it special.” She credits DWI with empowering her in ways that go beyond words.
As this year’s DWI [Dairy Women Ireland] Conference approaches, themed ‘Building Success, Breaking Barriers’, Mella encourages every woman in agriculture to attend.
“We put such a huge amount of work into it, but it’s so worth it, as the energy in the room is just incredible.”
The programme offers a wealth of insight and inspiration, with breakout sessions exploring everything from dairy’s social licence and the challenge of balancing life on the farm, to managing herd health, breeding decisions, and the practicalities of employment law. Each session gives women the chance to learn, share experiences, and build confidence together.
With keynote addresses by MEPs Cynthia Ní Mhurchú and Maria Walsh, the conference promises inspiration and learning in equal measure. Supported by FBD, the event will culminate in a gala dinner and fashion showcase — a celebration of community, confidence, and progress in Irish dairy farming.
Mella Briscoe pictured with her farm family partners – Jack, Kevin and Naise – on their dairy farm in East Galway.