NI Kidney Research Fund at the Balmoral Show 2025
Stand 49, Eikon Pavilion | Wednesday 14 – Saturday 17 May
We’re thrilled to be returning to the Balmoral Show in 2025! Visit us at Stand 49 in the Eikon Pavilion for an inspiring four-day celebration of community, innovation, and kidney health.
Each day, we’ll be joined by an incredible line-up of volunteers, researchers, and ambassadors – all coming together to raise awareness of kidney disease, organ donation, and the vital research NIKRF supports across Northern Ireland.
Wednesday 14 May
We kick off with the fantastic Ballymoney/Coleraine group, joined by our Chair, Rev Jim McCaughan. This team has been instrumental in supporting our mission for years.
We’ll also be highlighting our exciting new research investment at Queen’s University Belfast.
Plus, we’re delighted to welcome our ambassador, Ms Paula McIntyre, who’ll be joining us to share her support for kidney research and community health.
Thursday 15 May
Explore the science behind the mission as Carolyn Blair and Joanne Reid, two of our NIKRF-funded researchers, share updates on their ongoing projects.
Visitors will also meet Tracey Price, a Specialist Nurse in Organ Donation, who will be on hand to talk about the donation process and its life-changing impact.
One of the most moving stories of the day will come from Wee John, who was born without working kidneys and is now thriving thanks to the gift of transplantation.
Ms Paula McIntyre will return to lend her support once again.



Friday 16 May
Meet Jeanie Martin and Robert Scott, two of our dedicated Trustees.
They’ll be joined by Kay McLorn, a living kidney donor, and Anne Meaklim, an anaesthetist researching ways to reduce the risk of delayed graft function in transplant patients.
It’s a unique opportunity to hear first-hand how science and personal stories intersect to create lasting change.
Saturday 17 May – Grand Finale!
The show wraps up with a vibrant day hosted by our Banbridge/Waringstown group, led by NIKRF Vice Chair Trevor.
This group is known for organising the iconic Waringstown Cavalcade, taking place again this June.
Come meet Bella the Kidney Cow, who will be racing in the show’s much-loved Mascot Race – cheer her on with a big “Mooooo!”
We’re also proud to feature Seana Maguire, Trustee and Organ Donation Education Champion. Seana’s pioneering work in schools is helping shape the next generation’s understanding of donation and kidney health, including our new education packs for primary and secondary schools.
📍 Join Us at Stand 49
Whether you’re curious about our research, want to learn more about organ donation, or simply wish to meet the incredible people behind NIKRF – we’d love to see you there.
Let’s talk organ donation, research, and hope.
DATE | TIMES | VOLUNTEER 1 | VOLUNTEER 2 | VOLUNTEER 3 | VOLUNTEER 4 |
Wed 14 May | 9.30-6pm | Ballymoney/Coleraine | Ballymoney/Coleraine | Ballymoney/Coleraine | Ballymoney/Coleraine |
Thurs 15 May | 9.30-8pm | Susan Kee W8 John/Big John x4 |
Carolyn Blair Joanne Reid |
Maggie Hunter | Tracey Price |
Fri 16 May | 9.30-7pm | Robert Scott | Jeanie Martin | Kay McLorn | Anne Meaklim |
Sat 17 May | 9.30-6pm | Banbridge/Waringstown | Banbridge/Waringstown | Banbridge/Waringstown | Banbridge/Waringstown |