Tirlán launched new awards for Kilkenny farmers who produce high quality milk

Kilkenny's farmer suppliers are being urged to enter or nominate fellow farmers in recognition of their work to deliver high quality milk sustainably - as new awards are announced by Kilkenny-based Tirlán.

Tirlán, Ireland’s leading farmer-owned dairy and grain co-operative, will hold its first Dairy and Sustainability Awards to recognise the work of co-op members striving to deliver high quality milk sustainably for customers to enjoy. 

The Tirlán Dairy and Sustainability Awards 2025 will celebrate the achievements of dairy farmers who demonstrate excellent practices in milk quality, animal welfare, farm management and adopting sustainability practices.

Entries

Nominations for the inaugural Tirlán Dairy and Sustainability Awards are now open online on www.tirlanfarmlife.com . Suppliers will also be selected to go forward for entry based on criteria including both milk quality test results, technical reports and sustainability data. The closing date is February 14. All applications shortlisted will be assessed by a judging panel.

The overall award, general awards and special recognition category winners will be announced at a ceremony on 29 April, 2025.

John Murphy, Tirlán Chairperson, said it is important to recognise and drive awareness among consumers and the general public of the great work carried out by Tirlán farmers. “Our family farm suppliers have a long heritage of striving to deliver the highest quality milk from well-managed grass-fed herds for our consumers to enjoy through our many award-winning products, including the number one dairy brand Avonmore. They have been exceptional adopters of new technologies and continue to further enhance sustainability on their farms through a focus on reducing on-farm emissions and allowing space for nature.

“We look forward to celebrating with our suppliers, recognising our Tirlán Milk Supplier of the Year and fellow family farms for their exceptional dedication and credentials in areas such as sustainability, milk quality, milk solids and more.”

Special Innovation Award

The Cathal Moran Innovation Award will also be offered in recognition of innovative practices on farm within the Tirlán catchment area.

John Murphy said: “The late Cathal Moran was always recognised as an enthusiastic adoptor of new technologies as part of the Tirlán Teagasc Future Farm programme and always strove to be innovative and lead by example. We would like to offer this award to recognise those who strive to innovate with a vision of improving their farm sustainably for the future.”

Seán Molloy, Tirlán Chief Executive Officer, said suppliers take great pride in the quality milk they produce to be enjoyed in Ireland and around the world in a range of products and ingredient solutions.

“Our farmers are constantly striving to improve their farms for this and the next generation. We would like to take the opportunity to recognise their commitment to delivering only the best for our customers. The quality of our milk is recognised by our consumers and customers.

“The commitment and interest of our farmers in enhancing and protecting the environment is also evident in the number of suppliers signed up to our Sustainability Action Payment, Sustainable Farming Academy and the engagement with our Farming for Water Slaney Project to better improve our water quality.”

Award Categories

The award categories, include:

Overall

• Tirlán Milk Supplier of the Year

Sustainability

• Tirlán Sustainability Champion
• Tirlán Farming for Water Champion

Milk Quality

• Avonmore Fresh Milk Supplier
• Milk Solids Champion
• Milk Quality Award - over 600,000l
• Milk Quality Award - under 600,000l

Regional Awards

• North Region Award
• South Region Award
• East Region Award
• West Region Award

Special Categories

• Young Farmer Award (U35)
• New Entrant Award
• Farming Ambassador
• Cathal Moran Innovation Award

There are two further Special Recognition awards that recognise the exceptional contributions of Tirlán Milk Drivers and Farm Employees. These unsung heroes play a crucial part in ensuring the smooth day-to-day operation and success of Tirlán, and their efforts deserve to be celebrated.

For more information: www.tirlanfarmlife.com