Danielle Watts and James Mann.
Photo by
NEIL SORIANO
Four outstanding South Australian dairy farming businesses and individuals have been recognised at the 2026 South Australian Dairy Awards for their leadership, innovation, sustainability and commitment to building a stronger dairy industry.
Hold tight - we’re checking permissions before loading more content
Presented by the South Australian Dairyfarmers' Association (SADA), the awards celebrates those who are helping shape a stronger and sustainable future for the state's dairy industry.
Wes and Rita Hurrell of Rockwella Farm Holsteins took home this years Innovative Farmer of the Year Award.
Wes has dedicated his life to driving innovation across the family business through industry-leading genetics, precision livestock technologies, renewable energy and significant investment in robotic milking infrastructure.
(Left to right) Rita and Wes Hurrell, Hayley and James Hurrell and Deb and Grant Jolley.
Photo by
NEIL SORIANO
His commitment to embracing new technologies while maintaining a strong focus on animal welfare, sustainability and business performance has positioned Rockwella among Australia's leading dairy enterprises.
Best Relationship with a Processor Award was presented to Grant and Deb Jolley of Jolley Farms for their outstanding partnership with Fleurieu Milk Company.
Recognised for consistently producing high-quality milk, maintaining excellent communication and building a relationship founded on trust, professionalism and collaboration, Grant and Deb exemplify the strong partnerships that underpin a successful dairy industry.
The Young Dairy Farmer of the Year Award was presented to James Hurrell of Rockwella Farm Holsteins in recognition of his outstanding leadership in delivering one of South Australia's most significant dairy developments.
At just 24 years of age, James has played a key role in designing and delivering a state-of-the-art robotic dairy, while leading the farm's breeding program through the use of advanced genetics and genomic technologies.
His vision, technical expertise and commitment to continuous improvement make him a worthy recipient of this year's award.
The 2026 Foodland Sustainability Award was presented to James Mann and the team at Donovan's Dairying, recognising outstanding leadership in sustainable dairy farming.
Presented in partnership with Foodland and SADA, the award recognises Donovan's Dairying for its commitment to finding practical and innovative ways to improve sustainability while maintaining a productive and successful farming business.
Through innovation in pasture management, water efficiency, renewable energy and nutrient recycling, Donovan's Dairying continues to demonstrate that sustainability and productivity can go hand in hand.
These awards recognise more than individual achievements and celebrate the innovation, leadership, sustainability and partnerships driving dairy forward.
Despite the challenges over recent years, including drought and market uncertainty, these winners continue to demonstrate the confidence, resilience and forward thinking that will ensure South Australian dairy continues to thrive.
The SADA awards form part of the annual South Australian Dairy Awards.
