Pecora Dairy has been named as one of six finalists for the prestigious 17th Annual President’s Medal Award by the Royal Agricultural Society (RAS) of NSW.

Finalists are selected among organisations that have already secured a champion medal at an RAS Show for wine, beer/cider, dairy or fine food. The awards are judged not just by the bottom line, but also the organisation’s environmental, commercial and social impact.

Founded in 2011 by Michael and Cressida Cains, Pecora Dairy is an artisan dairy farm in Knight’s Hill on Jamberoo Mountain Road that specialises in artisan sheep milk, cheese and other dairy products derived from ewe’s milk like yoghurt. Michael and Cressida also run Pecora Dairy Cheese and Wine in Robertson.

Michael told The Bugle that he was most thrilled to be a part of something that’s not just about great good, but also the opportunity to share Pecora’s story of sustainability.

“The reason why we’re so delighted to be a part of it is this is what we live and breathe as a business, not just making delicious cheese but we also pride ourselves on looking after our animals, looking after the soil, being energy positive on our farm. You don’t always get that value back in the price of a cheese, so to get this kind of recognition is fantastic for us.”

Michael is also an active member of the Kiama Business Chamber, recently holding community events like a meeting to discuss potential wind farms in the Illawarra, and the Conversation with Detective Sergeant Damien Loone held at Kiama Leagues Club.

NSW Member for Kiama Gareth Ward also offered his congratulations: "I sincerely congratulate Michael and Cressida on this outstanding recognition and in becoming a finalist in these prestigious awards. 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."

You can also pick up some of Pecora's cheese from Kiama Farmers Markets each Wednesday in Coronation Park.