Three ambitious young dairy farmers have cut the mustard to be shortlisted in what is regarded as the 'Oscars' of the dairy world.
The Holstein UK President’s Medal will be awarded to one of three farmers. Helen Eastham from Lancashire, Lucy Taylor from Staffordshire and Tom Lomas from Western England, have gain momentum through the application process and were handpicked for the final three on 24 November.
One of them will be crowned the winner during the evening of the Semex Conference on 15 January in Glasgow.
The Holstein UK President’s Medal is regarded as the ‘Oscars’ of the dairy world; it recognises and rewards young talent and highlights individuals who are the dairy farmers of the future.
The Award is presented to a Holstein Young Breeders (HYB) member who has made an outstanding contribution to the breed, Holstein Young Breeders, and, in particular, their own Club.
'Very proud'
The entry process begins as each HYB Club is asked to nominate one young breeder aged between 23 and 26 years of age.
Six young breeders are shortlisted for interview with the panel of judges. Applicants were also required to submit an essay titled 'Countdown to a new dawn' – the final three of which will be published. The winner’s essay will also be featured in Holstein UK’s membership magazine, The Journal.
The judges, which included Holstein UK President David Perry, said: “We must commend the hard work, dedication and professionalism shown by all of the candidates interviewed.
“We are very proud to have them as our young members and hope that the passion and enthusiasm we saw demonstrated today continues far into the future. We have no doubt that, with young dairy farmers of such a high standard, the future of our industry is in safe hands.”
Once crowned, the winner will receive an engraved medal and an all expenses trip to the Royal Winter Fair in Toronto, Canada.
Miriam Bagley, Events and National HYB Coordinator for Holstein UK, commented: “All three finalists are a credit to our breed and Society and are ambassadors for the future of the industry. Helen, Lucy and Tom have demonstrated significant passion for the HYB organisation and should be incredibly proud of their achievements.”
