A grandad of seven has been awarded with the John Dennison Lifetime Achievement Award.
The accolade, from Borderwat UK Dairy Expo, was established in 2013 in memory of well-known dairy farmer John Dennison, with the aim to recognise a dairy cattle breeder who is judged to be an exemplary role model and high achiever in the dairy industry.
Geoff Bone (pictured) from Garstang, showed unwavering dedication, remarkable contributions, and infectious passion for the dairy sector, which have earned him the admiration and respect of breeders across the UK – and the appreciation was shown as he was handed the award on Saturday.
In 1997, Geoff joined the Holstein UK classification team, where his expertise and dedication have been instrumental for the past 27 years.
On announcing this year’s winner, Harrison & Hetherington’s senior pedigree dairy auctioneer, Glyn Lucas said: “We received several nominations for Geoff, making it hard to ignore him as the perfect candidate. In good days and bad Geoff is always a constant, his character and personality and chirpy way is his trademark.”
Born in Cumbria, Geoff began his career in the Dairy industry helping his dad, a skilled herdsman, managing top herds of his time. Geoff’s first job was managing the Newroddige Herd for the Mallaber family.
It was in 1977 that Geoff’s career took a significant turn when the Hallwood herd was acquired by the emerging breeder Alan Swale. This marked the beginning of a formidable partnership, where Geoff’s exceptional cow skills combined with Alan’s drive led to two decades of unprecedented success. The duo clinched numerous accolades, including victories at the prestigious Royal Show. Geoff also managed show-winning cows.
Geoff’s prowess extended beyond the show ring to cattle sales, where he played a pivotal role in the success of the Joylan business. Notable highlights include the sale of Joyal Miss America 9, which fetched a remarkable 24,000gns at the Joylan Evening Sale in 1989.
As well as his job with Holstein UK, Geoff has been an enthusiastic part of the Holstein Young Breeders (HYB) movement, actively participating in weekend rallies and national calf shows, where he imparts knowledge and inspires the next generation of dairy enthusiasts
On receiving the award Geoff, who lives with wife of 45 years, Christine, said: “This is a terrific industry award and I feel supremely humbled to be honoured by the Dennison family at Dairy Expo.”
