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.
Our final two families who have made it onto the shortlist hail from Co. Cork.
Quality Milk Awards finalist – O’Leary Farm
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 wellbeing 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.
O’Riordan Farm
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.
For further information and to view more information on this year’s finalists please click here.
