A strong foundation in genetics helped propel farmers from Co. Mayo to the winners podium at the annual Aurivo Milk Quality Awards this year.

The overall winner of the 18th Aurivo Milk Quality Awards and Highest Solids Award winner went to Donal Ronayne and Liam Trench of Trench Dairy Ltd in Ballindine, Co. Mayo.

The awards aim to recognise not only quality and consistency, but also the innovation and "heritage that define Aurivo’s supplier base".

The Trench Dairy Ltd success, according to Aurivo, is "driven by a strong foundation in genetics, focusing on optimising kilos of fat and protein, as well as top-quality nutrition through high-quality grass and silage".

The duo has also prioritised simplicity in their farming system.

Commenting on the award winners chief executive of Aurivo, Donal Tierney said “The incredible commitment and dedication of our farming families allows Aurivo to produce some of the best quality milk in the world."

He also said that "the awards are a celebration of the commitment, care, and passion our farmers put into their work every day".

The future milk sustainability champion went to a fourth generation farmer, Leo Conlon of Easkey, Co. Sligo, who runs a crossbred herd made up of 25% Jersey and 75% Holstein.

Judges said that winning this award was a reflection of both Leo's forward-thinking approach and Aurivo’s wider commitment to sustainable farming.

His focus on genotyping, breeding, using bulls with a high Economic Breeding Index (EBI) and Dairy Beef Index (DBI), and milk recording allows him to make data-led decisions that enhance animal health and milk quality.

A strong advocate for sustainable practices, Leo has incorporated protected urea into his fertiliser programme and is actively engaged in Aurivo’s environmental events, such as its recent water quality initiative.

The Lowest Somatic Cell Count (SCC) award went to James Garrivan of Westport, Co. Mayo and according to the judges his success stems from his focus on young cows, selective breeding, and meticulous animal care.

He uses sexed semen and avoids breeding cows with high cell counts, while also rearing all his cows from day one.

Farming with his wife Teresa and their daughters, James runs a family-oriented operation. In addition to dairying, he is a renowned pedigree sheep breeder, showcasing his diverse agricultural expertise.

The Lowest Total Bacteria Count (TBC) in Liquid Milk award went to Oliver Conneely of Castlerea, Co. Roscommon and his success in achieving the Lowest TBC in Liquid Milk can be attributed to his unwavering focus on cleanliness, consistency in wash routines, and strong family involvement.

According to Aurivo Oliver places great emphasis on maintaining the highest standards of hygiene and ensuring that every aspect of the milking process is meticulously carried out.

His dedication to perfecting wash routines and using the right chemicals has resulted in consistently low TBC levels.

The most improved SCC award went to Stephen Fitzpatrick, St. Johnston, Co. Donegal, who is a relatively new entrant to dairying.

Judges highlighted that Stephen has made impressive strides in improving milk quality and his success can be attributed to his data-driven approach, using milk recording and analytics to make informed decisions that drive continuous improvements.

Stephen’s commitment to animal comfort, particularly through optimising cubicle design and care, has also been central to his rapid progress in reducing SCC. With support from his family, Stephen has built a strong foundation in the dairy industry.

The Best New Entrant award went to Brian Murray, Four Mile House, Co. Roscommon, who is transitioning from beef and sheep farming to dairying as of two years ago.

Brian’s success is driven by strong breeding, effective grassland management, and a focus on milk quality.

With attention to detail in breeding and milk recording, Brian has made a smooth and successful start in the dairy industry, supported by his family.

The Best Northern Ireland Supplier went to Keith and Linda Watson, Keady, Co. Armagh, as they continue a farming legacy dating back to 1720.

Their success is driven by strong breeding strategies. They focus on bulls with high solids and fertility, and consistent farm management.

The Watsons run a family-oriented operation, with their children actively involved. Their exceptional farm performance and teamwork have earned them the Best Northern Ireland Supplier award, reflecting their dedication to high-quality farming.

The Lowest TBC in Manufacturing Milk award went to Barry O’Farrell, Colehill, Co. Longford as he has achieved outstanding standards in milk quality.

His success is driven by a strong focus on hygiene, consistently maintaining rigorous wash routines, and ensuring a reliable hot water supply, all of which contribute to his industry-leading standards in TBC.