On Monday, 14th October, Airfield Estate today hosted an event aimed at connecting and empowering the people behind the produce that fills our hotels, restaurants, cafes and markets. Cultivating Storytelling: A Gathering of Growers took place 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 over 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, CEO of Airfield Estate, emphasized the importance of this event in supporting the future of sustainable food production:
“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. We see 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!”
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 offer practical tips for enhancing sustainable growing practices.
Addressing attendees, August 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-over-looked part of the food chain, it is key that we have the requisite supports to preserve the traditions and practice for future generations. Ireland has a reputation for producing world-class ingredients and this should be protected”
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.
Claire added, “Ireland can excel at storytelling through food because of its deep-rooted connection to the land, heritage, and community. Irish food traditions are woven into the country’s history, where every meal tells a story of local ingredients, sustainable farming, and generational heritage. The vibrant culture of Irish hospitality, combined with a focus on simple, quality ingredients, allows food to become a narrative of place and people. Today really saw us sharing stories of resilience, creativity, and connection to nature.”
More than just a day of talks, Cultivating Storytelling celebrated community, and shared learning. Attendees enjoyed the opportunity to connect with fellow growers, share experiences, and discover new ways to meet industry challenges together. The event aimed to bring a fresh perspective to Ireland’s food growing community and to foster new connections.
