Celebrating Excellence at the 2025 South Australian Dairy Awards

The South Australian Dairy Industry gathered in style on Friday night for the 2025 South Australian Dairy Awards Gala, hosted by the Dairy Industry Association of Australia (SA Branch). Set against the whimsical theme of "A Dairy Wonderland", the event brought together farmers, processors, industry leaders, and supporters for a night of celebration, connection, and recognition.

These awards recognise the very best of South Australia’s dairy industry, from innovative farming practices and sustainable leadership to strong processor relationships and the rising stars shaping the future. This year’s winners embody excellence, vision, and a deep commitment to our local industry and communities.

Young Farmer of the Year – Narelle Zanker, Mannum

Narelle Zanker wears many hats, from herd health management to staff leadership, all while helping run her family’s dairy farm in Mannum alongside her husband and parents. Her dedication extends beyond the farm gate with her creation of Dairy Adventures, an agritourism initiative connecting school groups, aged care residents, and corporate visitors to the realities of dairy farming.

With a background as an agriculture teacher, Narelle ensures every visitor experience is safe, fun, and educational. She’s helping bridge the gap between paddock and plate, inspiring future generations and building public appreciation for dairy. Her ability to balance operational excellence, community engagement, and sustainable farm management makes her a shining example of the next generation of South Australian dairy leaders.

Best Relationship with a Processor – Mark Chandler, Mulgundawa Dairy

Mark Chandler and Mulgundawa Dairy have nurtured a strong, mutually beneficial relationship with processor Udder Delights that spans nearly two decades. Starting in 2006 with goat milk supply and transitioning to cow’s milk, the partnership is built on trust, exceptional quality, and clear communication.

Mark’s farm consistently delivers milk with low cell counts, excellent hygiene, and consistent composition. Herd testing, health records, and proactive mastitis control are standard practice. Logistics are seamless, collection is year-round, and collaboration is effortless.

From navigating supply changes to launching exciting new products like the Udder Delights Single Herd Camembert and Triple Cream Brie, this partnership has thrived on respect, loyalty, and a shared vision for long-term success. The Chandler family’s commitment to quality and professionalism makes them a standout example of farmer–processor collaboration. 

Innovative Farmer of the Year – Reece Donhardt, Nangkita Dairies

On a family-run farm of 750 cows in the hills of Nangkita, Reece Donhardt is redefining what’s possible in dairy. With fourteen Lely robots now managing all milking, Reece has unlocked the potential of steep and previously underutilised land for pasture, even reclaiming swampy areas once inaccessible to tractors.

His investment in agricultural drone technology, coupled with CASA accreditation, has allowed for efficient spraying and fertilising land that no ground rig could safely reach, improving productivity and land health. Weed control, including blackberry infestations on steep slopes, is now handled with precision from the air.

Automation also extends to calf rearing, with data-driven decisions shaping every aspect of the farm. Reece meets the challenges of climate change, labour shortages, and land constraints with strategic thinking and a commitment to sustainability. His leadership proves that innovation isn’t just about technology, it’s about vision, adaptability, and care for the future.

Foodland Sustainability Award – Brad Fischer, Campbell House

Brad Fischer, together with his family, operates Campbell House, a large-scale, multi-enterprise farm in the Coorong, home to 600 dairy cows, a beef herd, and 24 hectares of crops. Sustainability is at the heart of everything they do, from activity collars, genomic testing, and automated feed pushing, to solar-powered irrigation and remote barn visibility, Brad has made data his most valuable tool, a weapon, as he puts it, to drive efficiency, resilience, and environmental care.

Brad’s proactive approach has seen him adapt to challenges such as drought and processor changes with resilience and innovation. His recent milestone, planting 6,000 native trees as part of a 10,000-tree plan, is a lasting commitment to environmental stewardship.

A respected leader in the broader industry, Brad serves on the Dairy SA board and mentors’ younger farmers, sharing his insights generously. For Brad, sustainability isn’t a buzzword, it’s a promise to the next generation.

A Bright Future for SA Dairy

The 2025 South Australian Dairy Awards showcased the dedication, ingenuity, and community spirit that drive our industry forward. From embracing cutting-edge technology to building enduring relationships, these winners are proof that South Australian dairy is in capable, passionate hands.

On behalf of the entire dairy community, congratulations to all our award winners.