Owl Farm demonstration manager Jo Sheridan recognised for her passion and advocacy for the dairy sector.
The 2025 Fonterra Dairy Woman of the Year, Jo Sheridan, says she wants ensure that the dairy industry is one that people continue to be proud of. It must be a place where people feel welcome and where they can find a sense of belonging, she said.
Achieving that is about winning people’s hearts and minds, the Waikato farmer, and demonstration manager at Owl Farm at St Peter’s School in Cambridge, said.
“We’re the people that make that happen.
“The dairy industry has a future worth fighting for, to be proud of our contribution and we need to make sure we keep welcoming people with open arms into our wonderful industry.”
Sheridan was recognised for her outstanding passion and advocacy for the dairy sector.
She said Owl Farm provides her with a great platform to deliver the values she holds close, supporting her farming philosophy of having an open gate every day.
“I challenge you all in your farming businesses to think how you can have an open gate every day.”
She thanked the Dairy Women’s Network, saying it gives women a wonderful opportunity.
“One of the first things I did when I came into the dairy industry was to work with the Waikato women’s group. It was really exciting to be a part of that and watch you on your journey for the last 22-23 years.”
Sheridan is based in Pirongia with husband Carl and children Jacob and Samuel.
She oversees Owl Farm, a 140 hectare dairy farm that is a commercial venture at St Peter’s School. The farm opens regularly for visitor days.
As the farm’s demonstration manager, Sheridan is at the coalface of the first experience many have to the dairy industry, whether it be students or farm visitors.
“The future of our industry is only as good as the people we invite into and look after and nurture,” she said.
“The more we can win the hearts and minds of the public and our youth, the greater the future our industry has.”
Sheridan said she has always worked at trying to extract value and part of her journey has been to take opportunities that match her values.
“Owl Farm has been a wonderful opportunity for me to live those values in the dairy industry.”
Growing up on a dairy farm in South Taranaki, Sheridan later earned a Bachelor of Applied Science (Honours) in Soil Science from Massey University.
With 25 years of experience, she has worked in various roles at DairyNZ and served as an independent industry consultant before becoming the demonstration manager at Owl Farm.
Beyond farming, she is active in governance, serving on school boards and industry committees.
DWN trustee and lead judge Jenna Smith said Sheridan “doesn’t just talk about change; she rolls up her sleeves and makes it happen. Jo is tackling complex industry challenges while passionately championing and empowering young people and innovation.
“For those that know her – and a lot of people do – they know that she is a humble and generous leader, showcasing courage, clarity, and heart.”
Winning Dairy Woman of the Year includes receiving a scholarship to be part of the Kellogg Rural Leadership Programme. The scholarship covers the programme fee, travel and accommodation, mentoring and access to DWN and Fonterra platforms to share research.
Sheridan said she is yet to decide how she will use that scholarship.
For now, it is back to reality at Owl Farm as Sheridan is set to host a sustainability workshop where pupils from secondary schools all over Waikato and Bay of Plenty will learn more about the industry.
Waikato sharemilker wins DWN Regional Leader award
Waikato farmer Aimee Wilson, described as a “quiet, impactful leader”, has been named Dairy Women’s Network Regional Leader of the Year for 2025.
Wilson said it is a huge honour to win the award, and she was grateful for the opportunity.
Wilson was one three people nominated for the award, the others being Tania Clark and Shayla McGrory. All three were celebrated for their contributions to leadership, community and personal growth as a DWN Volunteer Regional Leaders.
Wilson acknowledged the finalists, along with the Network’s other regional hub leaders.
“Any one of them could be standing up here tonight. They all do an absolutely amazing job and I’m absolutely privileged that it’s actually me.”
Wilson sharemilks with her partner and three children just out of Te Awamutu. She became a regional leader to learn new skills, experience new opportunities and to meet inspiring women in the industry.
She will receive a scholarship for a leadership development programme of her choice.
Dairy Women’s Network CEO Jules Benton said Wilson “is a quiet yet impactful leader who consistently pushes herself outside her comfort zone to grow personally and professionally. She values teamwork and has embraced opportunities such as conferences and leadership roles to develop her skills.
“She’s known for her authenticity, and we love that she aligns with the DWN values. Her ability to connect with others and take initiative makes her a true role model.”
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