Why Geraint would be an effective mentor
- When it comes to tourism diversification and renewable energy projects Geraint Thomas could provide the perfect package of mentoring and inspiration you need, having developed one of Wales’ best known ‘off-grid’ farm tourism destinations – the multi-award winning Moody Cow – in Ceredigion.
- Geraint grew up at his family’s beef and sheep farm in Breconshire. What he perhaps didn’t foresee as a young farmer, was that alongside all his practical skills, he would also learn to be an astute businessman.
- Confident and super-friendly, having established and then sold a large-scale caravan and camping site at his previous 240 acre farm, also in Breconshire, Geraint was ready for a new challenge.
- Around 14 years ago, Geraint and his wife Chris purchased Bargoed Farm, a 200 acre beef and sheep holding near Aberaeron. Influenced by its stunning coastal location and having undertaken extensive research - ‘every project is led by demand’ - they sold off half the land, worked with supportive local planners and began realising their vision for a ‘one-stop holiday destination’ which now attracts thousands of visitors a year.
- They first set up a dedicated caravan and camping site. This was soon followed by The Moody Cow’s predecessor – The Moody Calf play barn - which provides hours of indoor fun for local youngsters and visitors alike. By today, The Barn@Bargoed – called Ysgubor - hosts weddings and events; the Moo-tel offers 11 en-suite bedrooms, The Bistro and Farm Shop – both provide mainly local produce - are hugely popular with locals and tourists. There is also a second events venue – The Posh Cow – a first floor entertainment facility overlooking a lake.
- Sounds like a lot – is a lot – but this entrepreneurial couple don’t plan to stop any time soon!
Current farm business
- Approximately 100 acres
- Current caravan and camping site will double in size in 2024 to offer around 100 pitches
- Farm shop/Bistro/Moody Calf play barn/The Barn@Bargoed weddings & events venue (Ysgubor) / The Posh Cow events venue and Moo-tel accommodation
- A small herd of beef cattle supplies the Farm Shop and Bistro
- Building work is underway (2024) on a new waterpark complex and swimming pool together with a new teen park providing trampolines, climbing walls etc
- Renewables include 300 kw solar panels on roofs, 450 kw battery storage, 500 kw biofuel generator which are all electronically controlled and work in tandem
- Solar takes precedence to charge the batteries and run the business, with the generator providing backup. Estimated energy useage ranges from 55% savings in winter and 80% in summer. When the days lengthen, biofuel useage reduces and solar takes over.
Qualifications/achievements/experience
- HND in agriculture
- School of life!
Tips for business success
“Prioritise financial record-keeping so you know where you stand daily, weekly, monthly and annually. This is the only way to budget and forward plan effectively.”
“Renewable energy and decarbonisation should always be uppermost in your mind.”
“It’s good to talk - farmers can become isolated and stressed, so learn from others who have faced similar challenges and found solutions they can share with you.”