Kilcogy family up for dairy ‘Oscars’
A Mullahoran farming family is among 14 farms to reach the finals of the 2023 National Dairy Council (NDC) and Kerrygold Quality Milk Awards. Representing Lakeland Dairies, Killian and Madeline Brennan from Kilcogy Upper, Co Cavan, with their sons Ryan and Dara and daughter Chloe, have been shortlisted for the award, dubbed the ‘Oscars of the Dairy World’.
Speaking to the Celt, a delighted Killian said it was “nice recognition” for all their hard work on the farm.
The Brennans milk 120 cows and are among the many family farms in this region to supply Lakeland Dairies.
In recent years, they have expanded the family farm enterprise, taking on extra land and growing their herd from around 70 cows to 120.
Asked how long he has been milking for, Killian laughs: “I have been milking from I could walk!”
He reveals that it was the local co-op who selected the family as its nominee for this year’s awards.
Judges visited the farm in July, followed by a film crew in August, before the Brennans were shortlisted for the awards.
Killian regards it as a “wonderful achievement” and credits the entire family for the part they play on the farm.
“It’s a family effort,” he said.
“We’re all involved and everybody mucks in, especially around Springtime when there is lots to be done!”
Representing seven counties and 14 dairy co-ops nationwide, the NDC & Kerrygold Quality Milk Awards recognise and celebrate the highest standards of dairy production with a focus on milk quality, animal welfare, and sustainable farming practices.
Awards
The prestigious awards, now in their 12th year, honour farming families who work hard every day to produce top quality dairy using sustainable production methods. In recent years, additional criteria have been added to acknowledge dairy farmers who prioritise animal welfare, sustainability, and hygiene on their farms.
Following nomination from their respective co-operative, each farming family participated in an intensive judging process examining a broad range of criteria including environmental management, animal health and welfare, farm infrastructure and hygiene, soil and grassland management and technical performance, among other core indicators.
The judging panel for this year’s awards included Karina Pierce, Professor of Dairy Production in University College Dublin School of Agriculture and Food Science; Dr Patrick Wall, Professor of Public Health at University College Dublin; and Dr David Gleeson of Teagasc.
Commenting on the finalist announcement, Donal Buggy, interim chief executive, Ornua, said: “We are pleased to continue to shine a light on the immense qualities of Ireland’s family dairy farming system that underpins that global reputation, through the annual NDC and Kerrygold Quality Milk Awards.”
The winners will be announced on November 7 at a ceremony in Cork.