A farm in Co. Donegal has won the top award at the 19^th annual Aurivo Milk Quality Awards, which took place yesterday (Wednesday, April 29).

The overall winner of the award went to Waterwheel Farm, Killygordon, Co. Donegal, with Patrick Kelly taking the gong.

He also received the Future Milk Sustainability Champion award, which Aurivo said recognises his outstanding performance across milk quality, farm management and long-term sustainability.

The processor said that Kelly has built a system on consistency, attention to detail and best practice across all aspects of the farm.

His focus on milk quality, animal health, welfare, and hygiene standards underpins performance, while improvement and close monitoring ensure high standards are maintained, according to Aurivo.

Several other farmers were recognised at the awards event.

Cian Devaney, from Lakeview Farm Partnership, Hazelwood, Co. Sligo, was awarded for Highest Milk Solids, reflecting high performance driven by genetics, grassland management and a focussed breeding policy.

Cathal and Adam Harper, a father and son team from Castlefin, Co. Donegal, were recognised for their liquid milk production on their farm, which has been dairying since 1953.

Jason Mullin, of Headford, Co. Galway, won the milk quality award for supplies under 600,000L. The farm has been in his family for three generations, and Mullin himself began dairy farming in 2021.

Micháel and Kevin Fagan, from Ballinagee Farm, Co. Westmeath, won the milk quality award for over 600,000L. They milk over 130 cows, and Aurivo said their success was based on effective grassland management, high hygiene standards and a focused breeding programme.

David Hanley, of Portumna, Co. Galway, was awarded the prize for best new entrant. Hanley is milking 116 Friesian cows, and is also a qualified vet.

Graham, Hillary and Mark Kernohan, of Broughshane, Co. Antrim, were awarded the title of best Northern Ireland supplier. The family was recognised for their exceptional herd performance and consistency on their farm, which has been in the family since the 1940s.

Thomas and Anne Gormley, from Elphin in Co. Roscommon, were awarded for excellence in udder health, with the farm focusing on milk recording, hygiene and herd management practices.

Commenting on the awards, Stephen Blewitt, general manager for Aurivo Dairy, said: "Producing high-quality milk starts with the dedication and expertise of our farmers.

"These awards recognise the commitment, attention to detail and pride that our suppliers bring to their farms every day.

"We are proud to work alongside dairy farmers who continue to raise the bar for quality and sustainability across the Irish dairy sector," Blewitt said.