Dale Farm recognizes outstanding dairy farmers at Milk Hygiene Awards
The Crawford family from Newtownstewart emerged as the overall winner, recognized for their commitment to best hygiene practices and cleanliness, resulting in top-quality milk production. Other winners included the McKelvey brothers, Alex Stevenson, David and Andrew Murray, and Raymond and Ryan Adams, showcasing exceptional dairy performance across different categories.
Eric, Avril and William Crawford also won the “over 1 million litres” category. Five years ago, the Crawfords made the decision to upgrade milking facilities and cow accommodation and are now milking their 130 strong herd through a 14-point swing over Dairymaster parlour. The judging panel was impressed with the commitment to best hygiene practice and cleanliness across all parts of the farm business, which have resulted in the milk receiving the top band bactocount bonus. Thermoduric readings undertaken on the farm have averaged a very impressive 27 since January of this year.
Fred Allen, Chair of Dale Farm, emphasized the importance of recognizing farmers' dedication to quality milk production, essential for the success of dairy products. Cormac McKervey, Head of Agriculture at Ulster Bank, applauded the finalists for their continuous improvement efforts, elevating dairy performance to outstanding levels.
Speaking at the awards, Dale Farm chair Fred Allen said: "This years’ Dale Farm producer awards were an opportunity to recognise and highlight the results achieved by our winners as we showcase the outstanding efforts of our farmers.
"Ensuring a consistent supply of top-quality milk is fundamental to the success of our award-winning range of dairy products. Each of the 1,300 producers that supply us with milk share that commitment to quality, and these awards are an opportunity to celebrate those farmers who have displayed a particular dedication to excellence in their herds this year.
"On behalf of Dale Farm, I extend heartfelt congratulations to all participants, with special recognition to our overall winners Eric, Avril and William Crawford.”
Cormac McKervey, head of agriculture, Ulster Bank, sponsors of the awards, added: "As longstanding sponsors of Dale Farm's awards at Balmoral, we are thrilled to continue our support for this event. These awards showcase the exceptional quality of milk across Dale Farm's network of dairy farmers, and each year we are consistently impressed by the hard work and attention to detail displayed.
“That ongoing commitment to continuous improvement elevates dairy performance from good to outstanding, and all of this year’s finalists are firmly in the outstanding category. My sincere congratulations to all."
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