Tirlán launches its first Dairy and Sustainability awards

FARMER suppliers are being urged to enter or nominate fellow farmers in recognition of their work to deliver high-quality milk sustainably.

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.

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 14 February. 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.

Tirlán chairperson John Murphy 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," he said.

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

A special award included is the Cathal Moran award.

John Murphy said: “The late Cathal Moran was always recognised as an enthusiastic adopter 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.” 

For more information, go to www.tirlanfarmlife.com.