General News
19 May, 2022
Locals win big at dairy awards
LOCAL farmers were recognised last week after notching wins at the Great South West Dairy Awards.
LOCAL farmers were recognised last week after notching wins at the Great South West Dairy Awards.
The first announcement of the evening saw Scotts Creek farmer Renata Cumming win the Young Dairy Leader award.
The judges noted her passion for dairy and the broader agricultural industry and said she demonstrated strong leadership skills.
Melanie Ackerley was named the runner-up.
John and Rochelle Pekin from Simpson won the Natural Resource and Sustainability Management award.
The Pekin’s impressed the judges with their ability to integrate both productivity and sustainability goals into their dairy farm business, proactively seeking the latest information and trialling new approaches.
Tim and Marie Humphris took out the runner-up award.
In a unanimous decision, Karen Angus’s entry ‘Red Hot Summer’ won the Farm Photo award, with Janine Thow snapping the runner-up photo.
Meaghan Johnston from Bega received the Service Provider award after impressing the judges with her dedication, passion and commitment to the industry.
James O’Brien was the runner-up.
Moyne Shire Mayor Ian Smith said a successful agricultural industry was the cornerstone to a vibrant and prosperous Moyne Shire.
“With 54 per cent of employment, 93 per cent of Moyne’s exports, 73 per cent of local expenditure and 40 per cent of all local wages being tied to the agricultural and food manufacturing industries, Moyne Shire Council is focused on ensuring that they continue to flourish,” he said.
In the employee award, new farmer Liz Mackley took the honours.
Maryke Roux took out one of the premier awards of the night - Dairy Farm Business Management.
Judges commented she displayed an insatiable passion and energy for the business, and demonstrated exemplary performance in planning, delivery, communication and commitment to business management.
Jason Karney was awarded runner-up.
The evening concluded with the induction of Colac dairy farmer Mark Billing to the regional industry Honour Board.
“Mark has made outstanding contributions to the region’s dairy industry over a long period,” the judges commented.
“His passion, capability and commitment shine through, backed up by several leadership positions which have earned him respect within and beyond the dairy industry."
“He is willing to contribute to the development of the industry and mentor others.”