2023
#MadeForThis
Welcome to the NDC & Kerrygold Quality Milk Awards 2023 which recognises and celebrates the highest standards of excellence in dairy farming with a focus on milk quality, animal welfare and sustainable farming practices. Irish farming is more than just a business. It is a way of life, handed down from generation to generation. In every sense of the word, Irish farmers are #MadeForThis. The judges for this year’s awards are Dr. David Gleeson, Teagasc; Professor Karina Pierce, UCD; and Professor Pat Wall, UCD.
Bergin Farm
Brennan Farm
Clarke Farm
Coleman Farm
Collins Farm
Dower Farm
Pg 1
Pg 2
Pg 3
Pg 4
Pg 6
Pg 5
Meet the 2023 Finalists 4
Dullea Farm
Gordon Farm
Kingston Farm
Lonergan Farm
Macnamara Farm
Mason Farm
O’Leary Farm
O’Riordan Farm
Pg 7
Pg 8
Pg 10
Pg 9
Pg 12
Pg 11
Pg 14
Pg 13
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NDC & Kerrygold QUALITY MILK AWARDS
Bergin Farm
Co. Tipperary | Centenary Thurles Co-op
“You have to love it - love the land and love the animal.”
Denis and Teresa Bergin, with their son David, run their family farm in Kilbragh, Cashel, Co. Tipperary, supported by their son Keith and daughter Avril. David, a fifth-generation farmer, briefly pursued a career as a jockey before returning to his true passion, dairy farming. The farm is steeped in history, with the ruins of a 12th-century village standing proudly, preserving a piece of the past. An old church and village on the Bergins’ lane are also part of the farm’s heritage. The Bergin family preserve the historical buildings that surround them as well as maintaining the land itself. The family’s love for the herd is obvious through their passionate care of their cows above all else. The Bergins exhibit fantastic family unity, often gathering around the kitchen table where everyone is involved in the decision making for the farm.
FARM FACTS Herd Size: Milk Supply: TBC (‘000 weighted): SCC (‘000 weighted): Butterfat % (weighted): Protein % (weighted): 1
144 973,240 9 103 4.42 3.53
Brennan Farm
Co. Cavan | Lakeland Dairies Killian and Madeline Brennan live in Kilcogy Upper, Co. Cavan with their sons Ryan and Dara and daughter Chloe. Killian and Madeline are a dynamic duo, passionately steering their farm into the future. Killian believes that local farms portray a unique family-oriented ethos. The Brennans proudly represent the fourth generation to steward this family farm, carrying on a rich tradition. From the age of 12, Killian’s heart was set on dairy farming, and he began milking cows, setting the stage for the family’s future in dairying. Work-life balance is important for the Brennans who give support to the local GAA teams that the children are involved in.
FARM FACTS Herd Size: Milk Supply: TBC (‘000 weighted): SCC (‘000 weighted): Butterfat % (weighted): Protein % (weighted):
116 694,329 14 111 4.25 3.57 2
“The cows are like our colleagues and if they are not right, nothing is right.”
NDC & Kerrygold QUALITY MILK AWARDS
Clarke Farm
Co. Tipperary | Arrabawn Co-op
“As soon as I could walk, I was out on the farm. I’ve always loved it, taking great pride and passion in what we do.’”
Peter is a fifth-generation farmer from Ballycommon, Nenagh, Co. Tipperary. His wife, Natasha, joins him working on the farm. Their three children, Hollie, Eve and Andrew are always happy to give a helping hand. Peter is the youngest of seven siblings and worked the farm from an early age, greatly influenced by his parents and brothers. Peter took over the farm at the age of 20 and has been managing the land ever since. The Clarkes live in the original family homestead, maintaining a strong connection to their family heritage. Over the years, Peter has modernised the farm while respecting its traditional roots. Situated on the picturesque banks of Lough Derg, Peter nurtures the land and takes great pride in the environment surrounding him. Peter is a member of the local discussion group, working alongside local farmers to improve farming practices.
FARM FACTS Herd Size: Milk Supply: TBC (‘000 weighted): SCC (‘000 weighted): Butterfat % (weighted): Protein % (weighted): 3
132 853,132 14 102 4.50 3.55
Coleman Farm Co. Cork | Barryroe Co-op
Michael Coleman, a fourth-generation farmer from Bandon, Co. Cork, lives with his wife Majella and his children Louise, James, and Cian. Chris and Nora, Michael’s parents, reside nearby. The Coleman family has a long history of farming; Michael worked the land with his father and grandfather before taking over the farm in 1999. He envisions a future where he can pass on the land to one of his children, carrying on this legacy. Micheal considers the local co-op to be the heart of the Barryroe community and a vital contributor to the local economy. The Coleman herd has won numerous awards in local herd competitions and the family took great pride in winning the Barryroe Quality Milk Award. Michael is a proud member of the local GAA Club and the Timoleague Farmers discussion group.
FARM FACTS Herd Size: Milk Supply: TBC (‘000 weighted): SCC (‘000 weighted): Butterfat % (weighted): Protein % (weighted):
140 991,672 4 114 4.22 3.57 4
“It’s part of your identity, it’s part of who you are.”
NDC & Kerrygold QUALITY MILK AWARDS
Collins Farm
Co. Cork | Lisavaird Co-op
“When the cows are happy, the family is happy.”
Kevin and Liz Collins reside at their family farm in Carhoovauler, Ballineen, Co. Cork. Also living on the farm are their two young children, 10-year-old Ellen and 4-year-old Tommy, Kevin’s sister Mairead and father, Ger. Kevin is inspired by the unwavering dedication of his father Ger, who still lends a hand with the milking, and his wife Liz, who, along with the entire family, helps run the farm. For Kevin, every day in the original homestead is a walk through history and their farm is a sanctuary where they care for their cows. Generational changes, such as upgrading their facilities to a modern parlour in 2008, underscore the family’s openness to embracing technology’s transformative potential. Beyond the farm, the Collins family are involved in local clubs and charitable events and are successful fundraisers for an Autism Unit in Dunmanway, a cause close to the family’s heart.
FARM FACTS Herd Size: Milk Supply: TBC (‘000 weighted): SCC (‘000 weighted): Butterfat % (weighted): Protein % (weighted): 5
57 272,323 5 121 4.28 3.41
Dower Farm Co. Waterford | Tirlán
Gavin Dower farms in Clashmore, Youghal, Co. Waterford, alongside his parents Eileen and Declan. Gavin’s wife Una is a primary school teacher and also comes from a farming background. Gavin followed academic pursuits, delving into business and accounting for four years, before attending Agricultural College. In 2011, he entered a partnership on the farm with his father, solidifying his role as the next steward of the land. Gavin’s values extend beyond tradition, as he champions the quality of their grassland system, embracing sustainable practices that harmonise with nature. Their picturesque farm overlooks the local village of Clashmore and the Knockmealdown Mountains. Diversity thrives on their farm, encompassing dairy, beef, and tillage. Gavin is actively involved in local discussion groups.
FARM FACTS Herd Size: 215 Milk Supply: 1,255,159 TBC (‘000 weighted): 6 SCC (‘000 weighted): 70 Butterfat % (weighted): 4.42 Protein % (weighted): 3.69 6
“We all try to leave the farm in a better place than you got it. We try to improve.”
Dullea Farm
Co. Cork | Bandon Co-op
“We look after the animals, the land, and take pride in the product we’re producing.”
Micheal Dullea’s family farm is in Keelnameela, Enniskeane, Co. Cork. He lives there with his wife Martina and their four children; Ciaran, Alison, Michelle and Annmarie. Martina and Michael, both from farming backgrounds, inherited the responsibility of 40 cows in 2018 and they have been continually improving the land ever since. Martina’s role alongside Michael is a testament to the power of partnership. Their combined efforts have yielded remarkable outcomes. Their youngest son, Ciaran, recently graduated from Darrara Agricultural College in Clonakilty and is passionate about bringing the modern way of doing things to the table. The Dullea family are keen to ensure their farm is as sustainable as possible and they carefully maintain the local flora and fauna on their land, that overlooks the Bandon Valley.
FARM FACTS Herd Size: Milk Supply: TBC (‘000 weighted): SCC (‘000 weighted): Butterfat % (weighted): Protein % (weighted): 7
88 570,079 5 88 4.21 3.49
Gordon Farm Co. Mayo | Aurivo Co-op
Michael Gordon’s family farm is in Crossmolina, Co. Mayo. Michael’s wife Ita, daughters Emily, Ciara, Aoife, and son, Kevin, also reside at the family farm. Their farming journey began in 1998, and in 2018, the Gordons transitioned from beef to dairying. The Gordon family know the importance of allowing biodiversity to co-exist within their productive farming system, nurturing habitats through beekeeping, birdfeeders and hedgerows. Kevin is a passionate advocate for technology and statistics in farm management, and the father and son duo lean on data driven insights to ensure the utmost health and welfare of their cows, which allows them to produce top quality milk.
FARM FACTS Herd Size: Milk Supply: TBC (‘000 weighted): SCC (‘000 weighted): Butterfat % (weighted): Protein % (weighted):
50 274,025 7 44 4.72 3.86 8
“If you find a job you love, you’ll never work a day in your life, that certainly is the case here.
Kingston Farm Co. Cork | Drinagh Co-op
“From the time I was a young lad, I loved to farm. I had a passion for it, and I still have that passion.”
Ian Kingston’s family farm is in Dunmanway, Co. Cork. Ian resides there with his wife, Marie, his son Dylan, and daughter Emma. The farm has been in the Kingston family since 1911. Ian’s love for farming and animals was cultivated from an early age, and he took full ownership of the land. The farm operates as a closely-knit family enterprise with Ian’s parents still involved in its day-to-day activities. Having completed a Diploma in Environmental Science with UCC, Ian is dedicated to lifelong learning and making improvements on his farm. A true advocate of education, Ian mentors students from the UCC Dairy Business degree programme.
FARM FACTS Herd Size: Milk Supply: TBC (‘000 weighted): SCC (‘000 weighted): Butterfat % (weighted): Protein % (weighted): 9
171 903,365 6 96 4.60 3.75
Lonergan Farm
Co. Tipperary | Tipperary Co-op The Lonergan farm is located in Drangan More, Cahir, Co. Tipperary. John lives on the farm with his wife Martina and their daughter Cora. John has harboured a deep passion for farming since the age of 12. Officially taking the reins of their family farm at 27, John now hopes to pass the farm down to Cora, who shares an equal love for the land. Martina plays an integral role in the farm and the Lonergan’s close-knit relationship fosters a strong partnership between the three. Together, Martina and Cora stand as shining examples of the invaluable contributions of women in agriculture. The Lonergans have witnessed the transformative journey of farming – from the horse and trap era to embracing modern technologies.
FARM FACTS Herd Size: Milk Supply: TBC (‘000 weighted): SCC (‘000 weighted): Butterfat % (weighted): Protein % (weighted):
85 589,661 14 76 4.33 3.56 10
“It’s amazing to be able to stand as guardians of the land. Green grass and fresh air, what more could you want.”
NDC & Kerrygold QUALITY MILK AWARDS
Macnamara Farm Co. Limerick | Kerry Agribusiness
“You see nature at its best, and you know that you are a protector of that nature.”
John Macnamara alongside his wife, Olivia, farms in Gormanstown, Hospital, Co. Limerick. Their four children, Caoimhe, Conor, Ailbhe and Padraic, all contribute to the running of the farm. John believes that working together fosters a strong family connection and ensures the Macnamara family values are ingrained in their family farm. The farm’s legacy traces back to John’s father Pat, who entrusted John with its care after he completed the Green Cert at Teagasc, Kilmallock. John’s passion for farming was instilled from an early age. As the eldest of six children, he developed a robust work ethic and love for the land. With an understanding that the milk leaving his yard will shortly be on the consumers’ table, John takes immense pride in producing a product that is of the highest quality.
FARM FACTS Herd Size: 245 Milk Supply: 1,351,344 TBC (‘000 weighted): 7 SCC (‘000 weighted): 170 Butterfat % (weighted): 4.56 Protein % (weighted): 3.78 11
Mason Farm
Co. Kerry | Lee Strand Co-op
Niall Mason, a fourth-generation farmer from Tralee, Co. Kerry is joined on the farm by his wife Deirdre and their two-year-old son Freddie. The Mason family has proudly owned and operated the farm since the early 1900’s. In 2022, Niall and Deirdre took full ownership of the farm, after a five-year partnership working with his parents, who both remain actively engaged in the farm’s daily operations. Niall’s forward-thinking approach is driven by a belief that standing still is never an option. He actively participates in local discussion groups and is always eager to embrace new techniques that will enhance the farm’s sustainability. Niall places a strong emphasis on the importance of caring for the land with the same dedication as their cows, prioritising practices such as grass measurement and low fertiliser usage. The Mason’s farm management decisions are guided by data, facts and statistics, instilling confidence that they are consistently guiding the farm toward a greener, sustainable future.
FARM FACTS Herd Size: Milk Supply: TBC (‘000 weighted): SCC (‘000 weighted): Butterfat % (weighted): Protein % (weighted):
84 561,810 7 88 4.04 3.41 12
“The future is bright when you make everything as efficient and sustainable as possible.”
O’Leary Farm
Co. Cork | Dairygold Co-op
“I always found I had more of a grá for the dairy farm. I just love the cows.”
Denis O’Leary is a dedicated farmer from the picturesque landscape of Cloghroe, Co. Cork. Alongside Denis is his wife, Ruth, and their three children Muireann, Harry and Daniel. After returning from his studies at Rockwell Agricultural College in 1997, Denis took over the farm along with David, the farm manager, who has been an invaluable partner on the O’Leary farm for over 35 years, guiding the farm through transitions and growth. For Denis, farming is not just a job; it is a way of life where the well-being of his family, and the pursuit of excellence are at the core of his philosophy. He is driven by a commitment to improving the quality of the farm’s grass, resulting in top-tier milk production and a passion for the health and wellbeing of his cows.
FARM FACTS Herd Size: Milk Supply: TBC (‘000 weighted): SCC (‘000 weighted): Butterfat % (weighted): Protein % (weighted): 13
135 917,169 5 87 4.31 3.64
O’Riordan Farm
Co. Cork | North Cork Creameries James O’Riordan farms with his father, Martin, in Kilbrin, Kanturk, Co. Cork. James is husband to Bríd and father to Lucy, Emily, Ellen, and Oliver. James originally started a career in engineering, venturing far and wide before his passion for the family farm brought him home. His father, Martin, is a dedicated presence on the farm, reinforcing age-old farming traditions while warmly welcoming new ideas. James is an advocate for biodiversity initiatives, he engages in beekeeping and recognises the pivotal role of hedgerows on the farm. James places emphasis on sustainability, balancing quality dairy production with environmental preservation, firmly rooted in the belief that farming is, above all, a family affair.
FARM FACTS Herd Size: 185 Milk Supply: 1,160,957 TBC (‘000 weighted): 7 SCC (‘000 weighted): 132 Butterfat % (weighted): 4.40 Protein % (weighted): 3.70 14
“I’m only a custodian of this farm for the next generation.”
Meet the Judges Dr. David Gleeson
Research Officer Livestock Systems at Teagasc “When choosing a winner for this competition, the key parameters are top milk quality, a high standard of hygienic milking facilities, an economically sustainable system, consideration for the environment and the ability to take on the role of ambassador for the dairy industry” Dr. David Gleeson is a Research Officer in the Livestock Systems Department, Animal & Grassland Research and Innovation Centre, Teagasc, Moorepark. He is currently responsible for a research area with a focus on improving the quality of milk produced on dairy farms, with specific focus on milk hygiene, milk storage, teat disinfection, cleaning of milking equipment, detergents, minimizing residues at farm level and udder health. David is presently leading a number of research projects and has published over eighty peer-reviewed research papers. His previous research interests include machine milking, milking frequency, calf-rearing and farm labour efficiency. He hails from a farming background in Newport, Co. Tipperary. He has an MSc from University College Cork and a PhD degree from University College Dublin.
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Professor Karina Pierce
Professor of Dairy Production, UCD “The ambitious future plans on each farm to continue to improve sustainability impressed the judges and the drive to leave the farm to the next generation in better shape was inspiring.” Professor Karina Pierce graduated with a BAgrSc in 2001 and completed her PhD in 2005, both from UCD. She is Professor of Dairy Production, Director of External Relations and Programme Director for the BAgrSc Dairy Business Programme in the School of Agriculture and Food Science, UCD. Her research focus is on the sustainability of dairy production systems. Karina is a board member of Bord Bia and chairs the Meat and Livestock Subsidiary Board. She is also a Board Member of AgriAware, a past President of the Agricultural Science Association and a former member of the Teagasc Authority. Karina is also a 2019 Nuffield Ireland Scholar and a former Board Member of Nuffield Ireland. Her Nuffield research focused on future-proofing the agri-food sector through robust research.
Professor Patrick Wall
Professor of Public Health at UCD “Every year, entrants to the NDC & Kerrygold Quality Milk Awards impress the judges with high-calibre production practices and commitment to sustainable farming. Each finalist was put through intense scrutiny, including a thorough analysis of milk quality reports, herd performance metrics and technical data spanning twelve months. The judging process also included an inspection on farm to gain insights into areas such as animal welfare and sustainability. All finalists clearly demonstrated excellent standards in all facets of food production and are true ambassadors for Irish dairy.” Prof. Patrick Wall is both a vet and a medical doctor. He is Professor of Public Health in University College Dublin, and a member of the UCD Institute for Food and Health. His research areas include food safety, nutrition and managing lifestyle related disease through behavioural change. As a doctor he is a specialist in Communicable Diseases and was the head of the Foodborne Diseases Division of the UK CDC. He was the first Chief Executive of the Food Safety Authority of Ireland (FSAI) and contributed to the setting up of this science-based consumer protection agency created in response to the BSE crisis. He is a member of the international scientific advisory committee of the Chinese National Agency for Food Safety and Risk Assessment. He is also on the Scientific Advisory Committee for the Saudi Food and Drug Authority. He is chairperson of Independent Milk Laboratories, a joint venture between Progressive Genetics and the UK National Milk Records Group (NMR). He is on the board of management of Agri Aware.
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#MadeForThis This booklet commemorates the 2023 national awards ceremony for the NDC & Kerrygold Quality Milk Awards, held on 7th November 2023. For more information scan the QR code below or email the team at qualitymilkawards@ndc.ie
www.qualitymilkawards.ie
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