Kerrygold and the National Dairy Council (NDC) have announced the 14 Irish farming families, representing seven counties and 14 dairy cooperatives nationwide, who have been shortlisted as finalists for the 2023 NDC and Kerrygold Quality Milk Awards.
The prestigious awards, now in their 12th year, celebrate the highest standards of dairy production in Ireland with a focus on milk quality, animal welfare and sustainable farming practices.
Recognised across the dairy sector as Ireland’s leading dairy farming awards initiative, the NDC and Kerrygold Quality Milk Awards honour dairy farming families from across the country who work tirelessly to produce the milk that earns Ireland its international reputation for quality and sustainably produced dairy.
Here we are focusing on three farm families from Co. Cork and Co. Waterford who have made it onto the shortlist.
Coleman Farm
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 Timoleague Farmers’ discussion group.
Collins Farm
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 four-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.
Dower Farm
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.
For further information and to view more information on this year’s finalists please click here.
