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Australia is certainly spoilt for choice when it comes to food and drink. This year, Sensis – publishers of the country’s Yellow and White Pages telephone directories - is recognising local food and beverage heroes across the country on the covers of the latest editions of the phone books.

Four of the 59 covers feature dairy farmers – including John and Sally Fairley who were nominated by members of their local community. Sixth generation dairy farmers John and Sally, through their Country Valley Boutique Dairy, have made a significant impact on the local dairy industry and the wider community.

When their business was threatened following the deregulation of the dairy industry in July 2000, the Fairleys started bottling their own range of milk and created new products such as cheese, yogurts and cream. The Fairleys also support other small local dairy farmers by buying their milk at a premium price.

John and Sally also offer many local community groups and schools the opportunity to raise funds by offering their mobile milkshake stall. The Fairleys donate milkshake makers, toppings, cups and milk so that community groups can take all the proceeds from milkshakes sold.

Lynne Strong, a sixth generation dairy farmer and pharmacist, is another ‘cover girl’. Lynne runs Clover Hill Dairies and has earned local and state recognition for her tireless advocacy of the dairy industry. As one of the most productive dairy farms in Australia, Clover Hill Dairies regularly host a whole range of visitors – from school kids who watch milking demonstrations, to international delegates keen to see the strength of the Australian dairy industry.

Passionately focussed on creating a sustainable future for the dairy industry, Lynne uses her extensive networks to promote ‘Picasso Cows’ and ‘Cows Create Careers’ – programmes encouraging students into farming and strengthening ties between the city and country.

Long time Bega dairy farmer Ron Apps is respected within the local dairy industry for providing vital support to farmers suffering the worst effects of the drought. Ron and his family are one of the biggest milk suppliers in the region to Bega Cheese, successfully managing their two farms through the drought to produce 4.1 million litres of milk a year. Ron’s dedication to Bega Cheese has helped put Bega on the map as the dairy capital of Australia and one of the most popular tourist spots on the south coast of New South Wales.