Cornish farmer is Calf Rearer of the Year at conference

Andrea Semmens, who is responsible for the management of calves at Rafrtra Farm in St Levan, Cornwall, won the Calf Rearer of the Year award at the event. 

The award, which is sponsored by Wynnstay, recognises calf rearers for their dedication to the application of best practice in the rearing of dairy and beef calves. 

Andrea has turned her family's calf rearing protocols around in just two years. She joined her husband at his family farm after a career as an analytical chemist. 

She is now responsible for 65-70 heifers from the 225 head Holsten Fresian herd after taking the position of head calf rearer at the farm. She also took over the beef calves produced from dairy stock served to British Blue or run with a Hereford bull.

Working with both the farm’s vet and Wynnstay’s calf and youngstock team, Andrea identified key priorities for improvements and was quick to address not only the most pressing issues, but also the wider team challenges.

“I am shocked because you don’t expect to be nominated, let alone win,” she said.

“A lot has been achieved in a short space of time.

“It feels great to win, I’m really proud of what has been achieved and to be here speaking to other farmers, who are doing a brilliant job themselves. There will be lots to take home from the conference and to share with the team – including this award.”

The judges were impressed with Andrea's 'roots up' approach to reviewing processes on the farm. 

Jessica Yeomans, one of the judges and senior technical youngstock specialist at Wynnstay, said: "Andrea has shown remarkable dedication to improving a unit that was underperforming – including changing farm attitudes towards the priority of youngstock.

“Improvements to colostrum management, hygiene, feeding, housing and team communication have all contributed to a reduction in mortality, the prevention of scour, and measurable, manageable protocols that are valued by everyone on the farm.”