Quality Milk Awards 2020: Who was shortlisted in Ulster/Leinster?

11 finalists have been shortlisted for the NDC and Kerrygold Quality Milk Awards 2020, which sets out to find and celebrate the top quality milk farmers in Ireland.

Given this year’s constraints and to ensure the achievements of these families are recognised, the finalists will be showcased, and the winner revealed, on nationwide television during a three-minute special extended ad break of the Late Late Show on Friday, October 30.

Irish farming is more than just a business, it is a way of life. Irish farmers learn their craft from their parents and grandparents before them. In every sense, Irish farmers are #MadeForThis.

You can read more here about the four finalists from the Co. Cork area…or you can read more here about the rest from Munster.

Graham Farm – Cavan: Lakeland Dairies

Stanley and Tanya farm with their two families in Mullaghdoo, Killashandra, Co. Cavan. Stanley’s parents, Jimmy and Eileen, bought the farm along with a few calves in 1974.

Stanley subsequently took over the farm in 1999 and went into a partnership with Tanya in 2015; they have grown the herd since.

Stanley’s wife, Dawn, and daughter, Chloe, along with Tanya’s partner, Niall, have also perfected their assistance on the farm and have it running like clockwork. Stanley’s parents are still heavily involved in the operation and they describe their farm as a true team effort.

Huge fans of the outdoors and fresh air, the two families enjoy dancing, country music, heading out on the boat and zip-lining.

O’Grady Farm – Kildare: Glanbia Ireland

Tom, along with his parents Thomas and Mary, farms in Donadea, Naas, Co. Kildare.

Prior to farming full-time, Tom studied Agriculture in Waterford and graduated in 2014. Tom’s grandfather purchased the land over 50 years ago and subsequently expanded the operation by acquiring adjoining fields over the years.

Now a third generation farmer, Tom remembers pretending to drive his father’s tractor in the yard as a kid. As the youngest child, and with five older sisters, he was almost the most interested in the farm.

He looks forward to planning tasks for the day ahead and particularly enjoys springtime and calving season because of all the new life on the farm. As an avid sport lover, Tom likes both playing and watching football, hurling and rugby in his free time.