Vicky Kelleher has claimed the Overall National Dairy Award and the Carbery Dairy Farm Manager of the Year title at a prestigious awards ceremony.
She picked up the titles at the National Dairy Awards last Thursday evening, June 15th, 2023, in the Midlands Park Hotel in Portlaoise.
Kelleher, farm manager, is in her 20th year working on Laharn dairy farm.
Her contribution to animals and food production has been immense, and her willingness to learn and embrace new technology is extraordinary, according to Ger Buckley of Laharn Dairy Farm.
The award gives much-deserved credit to dairy farm managers who have demonstrated exceptional leadership, management and innovation in the daily operations of their farms, driving productivity and profitability.
Laharn Farm
Ger Buckley, owner of Laharn Farm, quotes of Vicky, “For a woman to perform in a mainly male-dominated occupation would be a phenomenal feat, but doing the work of two labour units is truly unique.”
“The words to describe her would be empathy, first for the cows, dogs and the pet lambs she rears for her brother, but also to the members of our family and staff.”
He said that if animals were to choose a winner of this award, she would be a clear first and added that she is always the last to eat and will always make sure every other animal or person is looked after before herself.
He continued: “She is usually surrendered by an entourage of dogs and pet lambs.”
“Other words to describe her are dedicated, committed and relentless.”
“In nearly 20 years, she has never missed a day or even turned up late.”
“Every spring and autumn, she goes out late in all weathers to bring animals into the comfort of a dry bed.”
“Her contribution to animals and food production has been immense, and her willingness to learn and embrace new technology is extraordinary. She represents the many who work when no one is watching,” he concluded.
