Now in its 15th year, the Australian Grand Dairy awards are this year boasting a record number of gold medal winning entries.
The awards recognise and reward excellence, innovation and quality in Australian dairy produce and this year there are close to 450 entries going through to the finals.
Only products made from Australian milk that have previously been awarded gold at qualifying state-based shows throughout the year are eligible to enter the Australian Grand Dairy Awards.
This year, strong growth has been seen in the flavoured yoghurt category, up 56 percent from 30 entries in 2002 to 47 entries. The fresh, unripened cheese category also experienced growth, jumping 16 percent from 2002.
Cheese making expert and the Australian Grand Dairy Award’s chief judge, Neil Willman, said "The calibre of entries in the Awards is testament to the outstanding quality of the Australian dairy industry. We now have so many world-class cheese and dairy producers in Australia and it’s wonderful to see their efforts recognised on a national stage.
"These products really are the best of the best, having already been put through an extensive judging process to win gold medals in state qualifying competitions. Selecting a winner amongst such strong competition in each category is going to be a real challenge," he said.
Dairy products will be entered into one of 20 product classes, grouped into two categories: Cheese and Dairy, which includes other milk-based products from dips to gelato.
The 12 judges assess the products over two days, testing them for flavour, aroma, body, texture, colour and appearance.
The 2014 winners will be announced at an awards ceremony at Raymond Capaldi’s Hare & Grace restaurant in Melbourne’s Rialto on 26 November.
At last year's awards, Lion Dairy and Drinks and Bulla Dairy Foods being named Grand Champions.