Kilkenny farmers win Dairy and Sustainability Awards at annual Tirlán Awards
Annual awards from Tirlán reward excellence, innovation and dedication
Tirlán celebrated and rewarded excellence, innovation, and commitment among its family farm milk suppliers at its Dairy and Sustainability Awards 2026.
The awards, which took place on Monday, April 27, recognised the long-standing commitment of Tirlán’s dedicated suppliers to delivering high-quality, sustainably produced milk from grass-based herds across Ireland – including two Kilkenny farm families.
Many farmers have been supplying Tirlán and caring for the land for several generations.
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Twelve award winners were honoured across a variety of categories, from exceptional milk quality and milk solids to environmental stewardship and ambassadorship.
Tom and Bill Gaffney, from Tullaroan, were winners of the West Region Award winners, while David Fogarty and Katie O’Toole, of Cantwellscourt, were named the best young farmers.
Seamus Brennan, who farms just over the Kilkenny-Laois border at Attanagh, was awarded the title of Sustainability Champion.
Overall Winners
Portlaw, Co Waterford, based couple Shane and Kate Fitzgerald were named Tirlán Milk Suppliers of the Year.
They also received the Farming Ambassador Award, recognising their leadership, innovation, and commitment to producing high quality milk sustainably while actively promoting the wider dairy sector in Ireland.
Shane and Kate operate a highly efficient, grass based, dairy system with approximately 200 spring calving Holstein Friesian cows. Sustainability and performance are central to their approach, underpinned by ongoing investment, strong grassland management and a clear focus on animal welfare.
Passionate advocates for Irish dairy, they regularly open their farm to the public and industry groups, demonstrating how productive, profitable farming can go hand in hand with environmental responsibility and community engagement.
The very best
Congratulating all of the award recipients, Tirlán Chief Executive Officer Seán Molloy said: “The farmers we are celebrating today represent the very best of our Co-op.
"Their willingness to embrace innovation, improve sustainability and share their experiences sets a powerful example across our supply base.
"While the past spring has been a challenging one on farms, the resilience and professionalism of our Members gives us great confidence for the future.
"Tirlán remains fully committed to supporting our suppliers as they continue to build strong, sustainable family farms for generations to come.”
Dedication
Commenting at the awards, Tirlán Chairperson John Murphy said: “Today is about recognising the hard work, care and commitment shown on family farms right across our regions.
"Our suppliers continue to set the standard in quality and sustainability, and that is something we are immensely proud of.
"Their dedication is what truly sets Irish dairy apart, both at home and on the global stage.”
Tirlán family farm suppliers have a long heritage of delivering the highest quality milk from well-managed, grass-fed herds for consumers to enjoy through many award-winning products, including Ireland’s number one dairy brand, Avonmore.