In a tale of innovation and determination, David Forde, John Quinn, Jack Good, and Sean Dinneen, students from Kinsale Community School, have clinched the prestigious Community Safety Award for their groundbreaking work. Their journey, rooted in personal experience and a commitment to farm safety, has led to the development of a product poised to revolutionise farming practices.

The spark behind DJS Engineering's success can be traced back to a tragic incident in 1999 when Sean Dineen's grandfather's shed caught fire due to a gas dehorner coming into contact with straw. This harrowing event propelled the team to conceptualise a solution that would mitigate such risks on farms. With diverse farming backgrounds and a shared passion for safety, David, John, Jack, and Sean embarked on a mission to create a product that would enhance both safety and efficiency in agricultural tasks.

Identifying a critical gap in farm equipment, the team focused on developing a steel farm equipment holder to address safety hazards observed during calf dehorning. This innovative product not only secures farm tools but also educates farmers and the public about the importance of farm safety. The journey began with a prototype crafted with guidance from Sean's uncle, Declan Dinneen, and evolved into a market-ready solution after receiving invaluable feedback from farmers at the Millstreet show.

Their dedication bore fruit as they clinched the West Cork Regional Student Enterprise Competition, propelling them to the National Finals in Mullingar. From there they went on to take home the National Sales and Marketing Award at the National Student Enterprise Programme Finals.

The acclaim garnered by DJS Engineering's farm equipment holder extends beyond accolades. Partnering with Country Farm Supplies and O'Neill's Engineering has facilitated production and distribution, paving the way for broader market penetration. The product's versatility has drawn praise from farmers and veterinarians alike, indicating its potential for international success.

As they gear up to represent West Cork in West Cork Garda Youth Awards, the team remains steadfast in their commitment to innovation. With plans to expand their product line and reach new markets, the future looks promising for DJS Engineering. Their journey stands as a testament to the power of youth entrepreneurship and the impact of education in fostering innovation.

David, John, Jack, and Sean express heartfelt gratitude to their teachers, Ms. Caitriona Leahy and Ms. Máire Fleming, whose guidance has been instrumental in their journey. Their advice and support have been invaluable, underscoring the importance of mentorship in nurturing young talent.

As they continue to pave the way for safer farming practices, DJS Engineering embodies the spirit of innovation and resilience, proving that with determination and ingenuity, even the most daunting challenges can be overcome.