FORESTS shake they say when great oaks fall.

Reverberations were felt across the farming and equine sectors with the sad passing this week of the industry giant that was Dr Noel Cawley.

With integrity beyond reproach and a formidable intellect lightly worn, his contribution to the entire Irish equestrian scene and Dublin Horse Show is simply unfathomable.

A passionate breeder, ‘Noel’ as everyone knew him, was deeply immersed in sport horses with an abiding love of the Irish horse, he did so much to promote over the decades.

He was always willing to share his extraordinary knowledge and insights into horse breeding and pedigrees, he was a man who would always stop, have a word, freely give his time.

From his long tenure with the Irish Dairy Board to his work with the Irish Horse Board, Teagasc and the RDS, his immense contribution leaves an enormous legacy.

During his days at the helm of the Irish Dairy Board, Dr Cawley would hold a briefing around the RDS pocket and the national press pack did not have to be asked twice to attend. Nobody wanted to miss a word of his industry insights.

‘This is one of mine now’, he’d say quietly - we’d all fall duly silent as an Army rider flashed by. Win, lose or draw, Dr Cawley would pick up the threads again, fielding any question forwarded.

You could find yourself standing beside him at almost any industry event or fixture, big or small - his quiet energy and relentless input were unbounded.

We are all the lesser for his passing but the stronger from having the privilege of knowing him and having had the opportunity of learning from him.

To his wife Anita, daughters Lisa and Claire, his brother John, relatives and family, we extend our deepest sympathy.