Australia’s dairy producers lead with globally inspired, locally crafted flavours at Australian Grand Dairy Awards

“The quality of Australian dairy is world-class and what was particularly impressive this year was how producers were able to blend a mix of cultural and world-class methods to make it their own,” Mr Smith said.

“From Indian flavours in Sharma’s Kitchen Milk Badam, The Standard Market Company’s Italian Pistachio Cannoli ice cream, to Olympus Cheese’s Mediterranean Labneh Original Herbs flavoured cheese, there was no shortage of international flavours among this year’s winners.”

This year’s Grand Champion Cheese was awarded to Prom Country Cheese for their Inverloch Blue and the Grand Champion Dairy Product was awarded to Riverina Fresh for their Lactose Free Milk.

Fifth generation dairy farmer Daniel Hales prides himself on Prom Country Cheese’s premium Farmhouse cheeses that come from rich organic milk on the South Gippsland farm in Victoria. Having taken over the farm with his wife Chelsie in 2022, Daniel couldn’t be prouder of the Grand Champion Cheese win.

“Our Prom Country Cheese Inverloch Blue reflects the hard work, care and connection to the land that goes into this limited-edition cheese,” says Mr Hales.

“This was the first time for us making the cheese because we wanted to make something truly unique and it has really delivered. The uniqueness of this cheese lies in that it can only be made in late Spring or early Summer because we use new and tender grape vine leaves so we’re proud to see it recognised nationally.”

The Grand Champion Dairy Product – Riverina Fresh’s Lactose Free Milk – produced in the Riverina region of New South Wales, impressed the judges with its clean, creamy taste and exceptional freshness.

“This award is a proud moment for our team and for our Riverina dairy farmers,” said Riverina Fresh Executive Chairman Craig Shapiro.

“Our local dairy farmers are committed to high-quality dairy that meets the taste, nutrition and health needs of today’s consumers, and our Lactose Free Milk is a great example of how quality dairy and
taste can go hand in hand.”

Dairy Australia Head of Marketing Glenys Zucco said the Australian Grand Dairy Awards shine a spotlight on the incredible diversity, flavour, and craftsmanship of our local dairy industry.

“With champions from every state, the Australian Grand Dairy Awards truly reflect the rich diversity and talent across our country,” Ms Zucco said.

“By celebrating these achievements, we’re inviting Australians to explore the very best our nation has to offer – exceptional dairy products crafted with care, creativity, and uncompromising quality.”

“This year’s record-breaking 471 entries – from family-run farms to innovative producers – showcase just how world-class our industry is. Consumers are seeking excellence, and they’re finding it in Australian dairy,” Ms Zucco said.

For products to be eligible for an award, entries must be produced in Australia with 100% Australian milk and have been awarded gold at a state qualifying competition. Each product was judged by a panel of Australian and international experts, assessing each product’s flavour, aroma, texture, body and appearance through a rigorous blind tasting process.

Mr Smith noted that Australia’s ever-evolving flavour profile amongst the dairy industry is setting it apart on the global stage.

“This year’s entries showed a wonderful breadth of top-tier products. You can taste the freshness, the innovation, and the pride in these products. It’s clear that Australia’s dairy producers aren’t just following global trends; they’re in a league of their own.”

Australians can get a taste of the indulgent goods produced by the nation’s dairy champions by looking for the blue and gold medal on the packaging.

For more information and a list of 2025 winners, visit: www.dairy.com.au/promotion/australian-grand-dairy-awards