Airfield Estate hosts “A Gathering of Growers” to support Ireland’s food producers
More than 40 growers, suppliers, and industry stakeholders gathered at Dublin's Airfield Estate to share knowledge and strengthen the local food sector as it faces new challenges in sustainability and growth
Print14 October 2024
Airfield Estate today hosted an event aimed at connecting and empowering the people behind the produce that fills Ireland’s hotels, restaurants, cafes and markets.
Cultivating storytelling
A Gathering of Growers took place at Airfield Estate in Dundrum, Dublin – a fitting host as a 38-acre working farm and gardens dedicated to sustainable food and education.
It is on a mission to be Dublin’s sustainable food hub. This unique event brought together more than 40 growers, suppliers, and key stakeholders to collaborate, share knowledge, and strengthen the sector as it faces new challenges.
Attendees included the head gardeners from Castle Leslie, Kilruddery, Mount Congreve and Russburough House.
Claire Mac Evilly, chief executive officer, Airfield Estate, said:”Now more than ever, there is a need for us to work together within our growing community. As the demand for sustainable, locally sourced food continues to rise, this event provided a space for growers and suppliers to come together, share their experiences, and learn from one another.
Mac Evilly noted that she sees a lot of events for chefs, but growers are at the start of a very important chain.
“Cultivating strong relationships and fostering knowledge-sharing is key to navigating the challenges we face, ensuring the resilience of our sector. We want this to become a Davos style event!” noted Mac Evilly.
Insightful talk
This special gathering featured an insightful talk by August Bernstein, head gardener at Raymond Blanc’s two Michelin-starred restaurant, Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons, in Oxfordshire.
Bernstein shared her personal journey, highlighting the vital role of locally grown food in elevating the restaurant experience, and offered practical tips for enhancing sustainable growing practices.
August Bernstein said: “Anyone involved in horticulture or food production understands intimately the magic that comes with growing produce, and we take such pride in our work because it is so special.
“When people are dining out they are looking for memorable experiences, and tasting quality, fresh, produce at its absolute peak is instrumental to this. As an often-overlooked part of the food chain, it is key that we have the requisite support to preserve the traditions and practise for future generations. Ireland has a reputation for producing world-class ingredients and this should be protected.”
Sustainable farming
Gavin Kenny, head gardener at Airfield Estate, brought his wealth of knowledge in sustainable farming and local food production to the conversation, while the event was chaired by professor Mary Brennan, a distinguished food consumer researcher from the University of Edinburgh.
Professor Brennan’s work explores the complex and evolving relationships people have with food, particularly how these connections shape food practices and inform contemporary food policy.
Offering a different perspective, comedian and Dublin Story Slam host, Colm O’Regan, shared his expertise on the art and impact of storytelling.
The event aimed to bring a fresh perspective to Ireland’s food growing community and to foster new connections.
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