The 19th Annual Aurivo Milk Quality Awards took place in on the 29th of April, recognising the exceptional standards, innovation and dedication demonstrated by Aurivo’s dairy farmers. Now in its 19th year, the awards celebrate those who consistently deliver excellence in milk quality, while also leading the way in sustainable farming practices and progressive farm management.
Milk of the highest standard remains central to Aurivo’s success, with the co-operative continuing to prioritise quality, consistency and sustainable practices across its milk pool of almost 1,000 suppliers.
Waterwheel Farm Ltd., Killygordon, Co. Donegal Overall Winner and Future Milk Sustainability Champion:
Patrick Kelly of Waterwheel Farm was named Overall Winner of the 2026 Aurivo Milk Quality Awards, in addition to receiving the Future Milk Sustainability Champion award, recognising his outstanding performance across milk quality, farm management and long-term sustainability. Operating a highly efficient dairy enterprise in Killygordon, Co. Donegal, Patrick has built a system centred on consistency, attention to detail and best practice across all aspects of the farm.
Kelly’s focus on milk quality, animal health and welfare, and meticulous hygiene standards underpins performance, while continuous improvement and close monitoring ensure high standards are maintained. Sustainability remains a key priority, with a clear emphasis on future-proofing the business while maintaining efficiency and high-quality output, reflecting a progressive approach to modern dairy farming.
Speaking on the awards Stephen Blewitt, General Manger 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. At Aurivo, we are proud to work alongside dairy farmers who continue to raise the bar for quality and sustainability across the Irish dairy sector”
Also honoured for excellence within the industry were:
Cian Devaney, Lakeview Farm Partnership, Hazelwood Co. Sligo – Highest Milk Solids
Cian Devaney was awarded for Highest Milk Solids, reflecting high performance driven by genetics, grassland management and a focused breeding policy. Operating Lakeview Farm Partnership, Cian milks 140 crossbred cows across an 80-hectare farm, having converted to dairying in 2022. A Dairy Business graduate from UCD with experience in New Zealand, he has rapidly expanded the enterprise, supported by family and staff, and continues to deliver excellent milk solids performance through a structured and progressive approach.
Cathal and Adam Harper, Castlefin, Co. Donegal – Milk Quality Award (Liquid Milk)
A father-and-son team, Cathal and Adam Harper were recognised for excellence in liquid milk production on their family farm in Castlefin, Co. Donegal, which has been in operation since 1953. Milking 66 Holstein Friesian cows, they combine decades of experience with new ideas, following Adam’s recent return to the farm after agricultural college. Their success is built on consistency, high hygiene standards and disciplined routines, with particular attention to dairy cleanliness and daily processes.
Jason Mullin, Headford, Co. Galway – Milk Quality Award (Under 600,000 Litres)
Jason Mullin was honoured for his attention to detail across breeding, hygiene and grassland management on his family farm in Headford, Co. Galway, which has been in the family for three generations. Since beginning dairy farming in 2021, he has developed a technical approach that places emphasis on milk quality, herd performance and continuous learning through discussion groups. Jason combines practical experience with a clear focus on improvement and achieving high standards.
Micháel and Kevin Fagan, Ballinagee Farm, Co. Westmeath – Milk Quality Award (Over 600,000 Litres)
Micháel and Kevin Fagan were recognised for their high standards in milk quality, operating a well-established family farm that has been in operation for generations. Milking over 130 cows across owned and leased land, their success is driven by effective grassland management, high hygiene standards and a focused breeding programme centred on high EBI performance. Close monitoring of herd data supports informed decision-making, ensuring consistent results year on year.
David Hanley, Portumna, Co. Galway – Best New Entrant
A recent entrant to dairying, David Hanley has quickly established a high-performing operation on his family farm in Portumna, Co. Galway. Milking 116 Friesian cows, David transitioned to dairy farming in recent years and places an emphasis on sourcing high-quality stock, animal welfare and performance monitoring through technology. A qualified vet, he brings technical expertise and a commitment to continuous improvement, supported by his family
Graham, Hillary and Mark Kernohan, Broughshane, Co. Antrim – Best Northern Ireland Supplier
The Kernohan family were recognised for their exceptional herd performance and consistency on their farm in Co. Antrim, which has been in the family since the 1940s. Milking 180 pedigree Holstein cows and producing an average of 10,000 litres per cow, the business is underpinned by a focus on breeding, high-quality silage and structured management practices. With the next generation actively involved, the family continues to build on a long-standing legacy in dairy farming.
Thomas and Anne Gormley, Elphin Co. Roscommon – Excellence in Udder Health
Thomas and Anne Gormley received this award in recognition of their outstanding udder health performance on their family farm in Co. Roscommon. Managing a herd of crossbred cows, their success is driven by a focus on milk recording, hygiene and herd management practices such as clean housing, regular liming and maintaining cows outdoors where possible. Having transitioned to dairying in recent years, the family continues to build a progressive and well-managed operation
