Australia’s top dairy producers have been recognised at this year’s Australian Grand Dairy Awards, with judges praising the mix of creativity, technical skill and multicultural influence shaping the industry. The event, now in its 27th year, drew a record 471 entries and again highlighted how deeply global flavours have become part of the country’s food culture.
Judging was carried out through a blind tasting process led by Australian and international experts who assessed flavour, aroma, texture and appearance. Only products made in Australia with 100 per cent Australian milk and already awarded gold at a state competition were eligible, giving the national awards a reputation for being highly competitive.
Among the standout finalists were creators drawing on Indian flavours. Sharma’s Kitchen reached the final round with its Kesar and Elaichi Shrikhand, while Picnic’s Foods was recognised for its Sahara Mango Lassi. Both products reflect a broader pattern where culturally rooted foods are finding strong support among Australian consumers. Sharma’s Kitchen has spent years bringing products like paneer and ghee into mainstream circulation, building a bridge between heritage and local quality standards.
Chief Judge Russell Smith said this year’s entries showed a clear shift toward producers experimenting with global influences while maintaining a strong technical foundation. He pointed to the mix of Indian, Italian and Mediterranean flavours across the finalists as evidence of a maturing industry that draws from many traditions.
The Grand Champion Cheese title went to Prom Country Cheese for its Inverloch Blue, a limited-edition cheese made using new grape vine leaves sourced from the company’s South Gippsland farm. Dairy farmer Daniel Hales, who runs the business with his wife Chelsie, said the award recognised a product that is closely tied to the land and the timing of the season. The cheese can only be made in late spring or early summer, which adds to its distinct character.
Riverina Fresh took home Grand Champion Dairy Product for its Lactose Free Milk. CEO Craig Shapiro said the win reflected the work of farmers in the Riverina region who are focused on producing high-quality milk that meets changing consumer needs. The judges praised the product for its clean taste and freshness.
Dairy Australia Head of Marketing Glenys Zucco said the awards highlight the range and depth of talent across the country. Producers from every state were represented among the winners and finalists, reinforcing the strength of the local industry. She noted that the record number of entries this year shows both confidence among producers and growing public interest in premium dairy.
The awards also continue to offer a snapshot of how Australian tastes are shifting. Products drawing inspiration from around the world are becoming more common, and many are gaining recognition at the highest level. According to the judges, the industry’s evolving flavour profile is helping set Australia apart internationally, with producers showing strong command of both traditional methods and modern innovation.
Consumers can identify winning products through the blue and gold medal displayed on packaging.
More information about the awards and a full list of champions is available at dairy.com.au/agda.
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