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.
Quality Milk Awards 2023 – finalists
Here we are focusing on three farm families from Tipperary and Cavan who have made it onto the shortlist.
Bergin Farm
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, the 5th generation farmer of the land, 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’ land 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 made obvious in their passionate care of their cows above all else. The Bergin’s emulate fantastic family unity, often gathering around the kitchen table where everyone is involved in the decision making for the farm.
Brennan Farm
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 dairy production.
Amidst their agricultural endeavours, the Brennans uphold a work-life balance, affording them the opportunity to support the local GAA teams that the children are involved in.
Clarke Farm
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.
For further information and to view more information on this year’s finalists please click here.