The 2024 South Australian Dairy Awards, which celebratethe effort and contribution of dairy farmers and processors in SA, were presented on Friday night at a gala dinner. Congratulations to the following individuals and companies who received awards in 2024.
SADA Young farmer: Jake Altmann. This award is presented to a farmer aged 16-35 who is farming on their own or in a partnership with others, has allocated responsibilities and decision-making authority, and possesses the skills to run a profitable and sustainable dairy business currently or in the near future. It is judged on management philosophy as well as technical abilities. Jake farms with his family at Murray Bridge, milking more than 500 cows at the rotary dairy.
Best relationship with a processor: Bec and Rob Walmsley. This award is presented to a farmer who consistently supplies high milk quality, provides easy access to the property for milk collection, provides good communication with the processor, and is approachable and engaging with the processor, the processor’s community and the wider community. Bec and Rob share-farm with the Royan’s dairy farm at Myponga, milking around 400 cows in a herringbone dairy, and supplying the Fleurieu Milk Company.
Most innovative Farmer: Ben McHugh. This award is presented to a farmer using innovative technology to improve the efficiency, sustainability and growth opportunities for the farm, positioning the farming enterprise to meet future business challenges. Ben and his family have recently invested in a robotic dairy at Mt Compass which is entirely off-grid, powered by 100% renewable energy, solar panels and battery storage, and supplies La Casa Del Formaggio.
Foodland Sustainability Award: Trent Mueller. This award is presented to a dairy farmer who demonstrates excellence in four key areas: enhancing economic viability and livelihoods, reducing environmental impact, improving the wellbeing of people and providing the best care for their animals. Trent operates the family owned and operated farm, Glenbrook Dairy, which encompasses beef cattle, cropping, and dairy. They milk more than 400 cows in a herringbone dairy, and supply Beston.
Brenton Higgins Award: David Basham. In memory of the late Brenton Higgins AM, this award recognises significant effort, service and contribution to the SA dairy industry. For almost 30 years, David Basham continued his family’s 120-year involvement in milking cows at their Mosquito Hill farm prior to entering state politics, he is past president of the South Australian Dairyfarmers’ Association, past president of Australian Dairy Farmers, and oversaw the development of the SADA Fresh brand. He has been the Member for Finniss in the state parliament since being elected in 2018.
2024 Dairysafe Food Safety Culture Award: Mitani Group. This award is presented by Dairysafe for businesses that have made remarkable progress in improving food safety culture. The Judging Panel was impressed by Mitani’s transformational changes and unwavering commitment to food safety. Mitani strategically plans programs and processes to develop and maintain a robust food safety culture, demonstrating a comprehensive commitment aligned with the company’s overall goals. They have a clear focus on open and transparent communication, accountability, and the capability to quickly respond and adapt to changes, ensuring that everyone plays a role in ensuring food safety.