Nominations are now open for a national award that recognises dairy farmers who demonstrate leadership in their approach to sustainable dairying and who are ambassadors for the industry.

The Fonterra Responsible Dairying Award, which was introduced by the New Zealand Dairy Industry Awards to recognise those dairy farmers who are respected by their farming peers and their community for their attitude and role in sustainable dairying, is now taking entries via dairyindustryawards.co.nz

NZDIA general manager Robin Congdon says the 2020 Award winner could come from any of the country’s milk suppliers and any farmer or farming partnership who demonstrates a high calibre of performance and leadership in the areas of responsible and sustainable care of people, animals, ecosystems and communities are eligible to enter.

And he says it is important to showcase the good work farmers are doing within the industry – as it does not always get the exposure it deserves. “We have excellent, experienced dairy farmers creating and working on wonderful projects that have a positive effect on the environment.

“We want to hear about the people who are farming responsibly, both environmentally and socially, and showcasing excellence on a daily basis. This is a chance for people to nominate their neighbour, their employer or someone in their community.”

Robin says the also gives opportunity to recognise farmers who demonstrate leadership in their farming practices and are a role model for our younger farmers coming through.

Taranaki farmers Damian and Jane Roper won the 2019 Fonterra Responsible Dairying Award and received the John Wilson Memorial Trophy.

From restoring bush on their property to its former natural state to creating a lake and monitoring the water quality, the Ropers impressed the panel of judges with their commitment and passion.

Judges described the Ropers as passionate, enthusiastic and energetic with an ability to motivate those around them.

Nomination forms for 2020 are at: dairyindustryawards.co.nz Entries close March 20. From those nominated three finalists will be selected and interviewed by a panel of judges on May 15 at the National Final in Auckland. The winner will be announced at the awards dinner on May 16.