Member for Kiama Gareth Ward has today congratulated Pecora Dairy for being recognised for its agricultural excellence and innovation.
Mr Ward said that Pecora Dairy was one of six business recognised by the Royal Agricultural Society of NSW in announcing the finalists of its 17th Annual President’s Medal Award.
“Pecora Dairy is an artisan sheep milk dairy and cheesery founded in 2011 by Michael and Cressida Cains. The farm is 200 acres and is situated in Knights Hill, the Green Heart of the Southern Highlands. I sincerely congratulate Michael and Cressida on this outstanding recognition and in becoming a finalist in these prestigious awards,” Mr Ward said.
“In 2018, Pecora Dairy became the first cheesery in Australia licensed to make a raw milk cheese with no heat treatment. Yarrawa, is a true reflection of the seasonal nature of the milk and the farms entire ecosystem.
“The President’s Medal Award explores a businesses’ innovative practices and overall viability and also businesses who have transformed when it comes to sustainability, conservation, excellence in innovation and community-minded practices which Pecora Dairy is a shining example of these qualities,” Mr Ward said.
Mr Michael Cains welcomed the news and said:
"We have always dreamt of winning the prestigious RAS Presidents Medal because it rewards agricultural producers for the way they farm not just what they produce – so being energy positive, having impeccable animal stewardship and giving back to the local community all plays a part – so we are absolutely thrilled to be recognised for that,” Mr Cains said.