Pirongia’s Jo Sheridan is one of three finalists in the national Dairy Woman of the Year Award and is passionate about education both on the farm, and in the classroom.
Owl Farm demonstration manager Jo Sheridan of Pirongia two years ago with farm hostess Emjay, then a six-month-old labrador. Photo: Mary Anne Gill
She is currently demonstration manager at Owl Farm at St Peter’s School in Cambridge where she has been educating people about the dairy industry.
“It’s been a really humbling process,” Sheridan said.
Sheridan, husband Carl and their two sons Sam and Jake have been involved at Pirongia School since 2013. She served on the board from 2019 until she joined the Te Awamutu College board three years ago.
Before she left the Pirongia board, she urged parents to get involved.
“To be accountable for student achievements means that as board members we are constantly growing and developing our skills and keeping up to date with information to make informed decisions,” she said.
Her nomination as one of three finalists in the dairy award is recognition for her part in future focus farming.
“It is a really rewarding thing to be recognised for, as it has been a great part of my life for 24 years.”
Loki and Travis Beale enjoy calves at Owl Farm Open Day.
Future Focus Farming is an initiative designed to help farming businesses plan. It emphasises collaboration between spouses, siblings, or business associates to co-design a shared vision for their farm’s future. The programme includes setting goals, creating action plans, and identifying key financial and performance indicators.
Sheridan has welcomed around 2000 visitors on to the 140ha Owl Farm each year for the past six years; 40 per cent of who have never been on a dairy farm before.
Te Awamutu News 17 April 2025
Her focus is on sustainable practices, farmer education and youth engagement which aims to inspire the next generation of farmers.
Small moments of connection with visitors who suddenly feel connection with the land or farm animals is what gets Sheridan out of bed.
“Their eyes light up,” she said.
The farm held its annual open day earlier this month and Sheridan and her team saw 900 visitors over four hours.
“I love everything about this job.”
Born and raised in South Taranaki, Sheridan moved to Pirongia in 2001 when she became a DairyNZ consulting officer, later serving as DairyNZ regional leader for the Waikato.
Sheridan’s nomination for Dairy Woman of the Year recognises her passion for education, community engagement and sustainability.
Sheridan is one of two Waikato dairy farmers up for the award, the other being Lara Sutton who farms between Tīrau and Piarere off State Highway One.
See: Lara to the rescue
Judges acknowledge Jo Sheridan’s passion for education, community engagement and sustainability.
