Otago Balance Supreme Award for Two Farmers Farming
Omakau beef and dairy grazers Ben and Anna Gillespie have been named the supreme winners in the 2020 Otago Ballance Farm Environment Awards.
The couple, who trade under the business name of Two Farmers Farming, received the award during an on-line ceremony held on Wednesday May 6.
They also won the Ballance Agri-Nutrients Soil Management Award and the Water Force Wise with Water Award.
Over the past two years the Gillespies have diversified into beef finishing to complement the original dairy grazing business on their 360 hectare Central Otago farm.
They run 700 dairy calves and 700 yearling heifers, plus finish about 500 beef cattle through the winter and spring.
Their team approach plays to their individual strengths and the result is a highly productive business that looks to the future, while still achieving a work-life balance with family at its core.
The judges said their hard work was preventing negative environmental impacts.
‘‘Their farming operation includes numerous buffer zones, precision irrigation and a ‘right pasture, right time, right place’ philosophy.’’
Irrigation management was a stand-out feature, with it including a variable rate application and use of a wetland filter system.
‘‘This is an extremely well-run farm with healthy pastures and a high level of animal care, resulting in excellent animal health and production,’’ the judges said.
A field day will be held on the Gillespie’s property later in the year.