Profiling very good farmers using independent measurements is one of the strengths the agricultural industry has over many other sectors.

The 11 farmers profiled in this Focus are ambassadors for the industry and importantly are showcasing what they do so others can maybe learn from what has worked for their business.

Of course, all farms are different, and all farmers and farms have different constraints. However, the basics of producing quality milk are paramount. Keeping cows and work areas clean, paying attention to the detail, organisation of the work processes and adapting to future challenges are all key to a successful business, whether that business is in west Cork or Donegal.

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For the second year this competition has evolved to measuring more than just milk quality

The farmers in this Focus on the NDC and Kerrygold Quality milk awards, no different to other years, are exceptional in what they are doing. They have been nominated to represent their milk processor based on performance. Together with their milk quality advisers, farm advisers and all farm help, they have delivered excellent results.

For the second year this competition has evolved to measuring more than just milk quality – breeding, environmental management changes, grassland management and resource efficiency are all key parts to a successful dairy business and need to be considered alongside milk quality.

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Quality milk winner to be revealed on TV

Grass+Dairy: grazing conditions starting to get challenging

Quality Milk Awards: partnership paying dividends in Cork

Where the Donegal slopes meet the River Finn

Quality Milk Awards: efficient Clonakilty Bay cows

Quality Milk Awards: moving from sucklers to milkers near Bandon

Quality Milk Awards: environment important to Moyvane finalist

Quality Milk Awards: changing dairy colours in Galway

Quality Milk Awards: three generations of progress near Killeshandra

Quality Milk Awards: fragmentation not stopping this Tipp partnership

Quality Milk Awards: Drinagh supplier big into breeding

Quality Milk Awards: Bird’s-eye view of Prosperous farm