A national farm walk will take place on the farm of the 2018 National Dairy Council (NDC) & Kerrygold Quality Milk Awards winner Darran and Denise McKenna on Wednesday 12th June next.
Darran and Denise from Emyvale, Co Monaghan, who supply Lakeland Dairies, are the first winners of the prestigious Quality Milk Award from the northern half of the country.
The Quality Milk Awards recognise standards of excellence in dairy farming, with dairy co-operatives throughout the country invited to nominate their top suppliers. Qualifying criteria include exceptional standards in milk hygiene, farm standards and farmer innovation and vision.
The McKenna family milks 92 cows and faced stiff competition from eight other farms to take home the award last year.
The farm walk is being organised by Teagasc, Lakeland Dairies the NDC and Ornua (the company behind the Kerrygold brand).
Lakeland Dairies chairman Alo Duffy is encouraging all to attend the farm walk on Wednesday 12th June.
“We are extremely proud to have suppliers the calibre of Darran and Denise. Their achievement in winning the 2018 NDC / Kerrygold Quality Milk Award is quite outstanding.
“Darran and Denise’s skill, dedication and commitment to excellence over the years made them a very deserving winner of last year’s award. Being the first winners from the northern half of the country is an extra special recognition for their achievement. The McKennas bring passion to all aspects of their farm family and this is clear to see this as you walk about the farm.
“Lakeland is honoured to be involved with Teagasc, the NDC and Ornua today and as part of our shared vision for creating a strong, sustainable industry for all.
“I hope to see you all here on the rolling drumlins on Monaghan on Wednesday 12th June,” he said.
The farm walk takes place from 1.30pm on the McKenna farm in Emyvale, Co Monaghan H18 CY99.