On Friday last, a couple of us from Premium Sawchain attended the Irish Forestry Show in Stradbally, Co. Laois. This is a wonderful setting in the grounds of Stradbally Hall, a large stately home owned by the Cosby family.

There was a great buzz about the place and despite the odd heavy shower there was still plenty going on. As we entered the forest one of the first stands we came to was M. Large who sells wood processing machines which you can see below use Oregon bars and chains.

Only the best parts for these machines

Further into the grounds there were guys taking part in a climbing competition with different disciplines. These guys certainly have a head for heights and they showed no fear as they swayed about over head to reach targets on outer limbs of the trees.

Checking the equipment before a climb

Picking the best line:

The competitors getting a briefing from one of the judges

This guy was giving on site demo’s of wood carving with a chainsaw which was simply amazing to watch.

There was even a demonstration of logging from back in the day before mechanisation.

This was a good day out and was good to see a few old faces and meet a few new ones. The only down side is the seven hour round trip from base. We will definitely be back in 2015.