Irrewillipe sharefarmers Greg and Kim Wilson are on top of the dairy world after taking out the premier title in the 2024 Great South West Dairy Awards.
The Wilsons received the Dairy Farm Business Management Award sponsored by Dairy Australia’s Our Farm, Our Plan at a gala dinner in Warrnambool on Thursday, May 16.
Judges praised the sharefarmers for their exemplary integration of drive, knowledge and capital to achieve solid business returns.
“The hands-on approach, which sees them close to the operations of the farm every day, is complemented by a big picture and long-term view of where they want to be,” the judging panel said.
“Also impressive is their awareness of things that present risks to their business and the strategies put in place to mitigate these.”
The runner-up Business Management Award went to Harold Benzon from Minhamite.
Awards were presented across six categories.
Rachael McGrath was named Young Dairy Leader, sponsored by the Gardiner Foundation, for her active contribution to the dairy sector and community.
Rachael farms in Orford, alongside her family – milking 400 stud Jerseys and Brown Swiss cows.
She has been involved in the Dairy Australia Dairy Ambassador Program, Western District Jersey Breeders Club and WestVic Dairy Young Dairy Leadership Team.
Judges praised her leadership qualities and understanding of the importance of collaboration and communication in fostering positive change.
“Rachael’s accomplishments serve as a testament to her dedication and hard work in the dairy industry. Her willingness to promote dairy in a positive light is truly commendable and makes her very deserving of this award,” the judges said.
Runner-up Young Dairy Leader was Kirkstall farmer Chloe Brown.
Kerry-Leigh Hume received the Employee Award for her dedication and teamwork at the Aurora Dairies’ Glenfyne farm, where she is second in charge.
Kerry has worked there for two years and has taken opportunities to develop and learn and is completing a Certificate IV in Agriculture.
Judges were impressed by her strong work ethic, high standards and excellent organisation and team building skills.
“Kerry’s passion for the industry and ability to maintain an effective and connected team makes her a worthy recipient of the award,” the judges said.
Runner-up was Gregor Mews, who farms at Southern Cross.
The Harris family from Larpent received the Natural Resource Management and Sustainability Award, sponsored by the Corangamite Catchment and Glenelg Hopkins Catchment Management Authorities.
On the farm, Alistair Harris has installed solar pumps, established native shelterbelts, and used effluent water for irrigation and yard wash.
“Alistair is a worthy winner as he demonstrates a strong commitment to natural resource management, motivated by building on a family legacy to pass on the farm to the next generation in a better condition,” the judges said.
The Aurora Dairies Poorinda team was runner-up.
Managing director of Maher Refrigeration and Electrical and Maher Pumps and Irrigation, Eamon Maher, won the Service Provider Award, sponsored by WestVic Dairy. The business specialises in dairy construction and upgrades.
Lisa Findlay won the Farm Photo Award sponsored by Lactalis Australia Pty Ltd for her piece Generations in the Dairy. Sarah Cole was runner-up with October.