Cornish farmer crowned calf rearer of the year 

The award, sponsored by Wynnstay, recognises calf rearers for their dedication to the application of best practice in the rearing of dairy and beef calves, the next generation of herds. 

Responsible for the management of all calves at Raftra Farm in St Levan, Cornwall, Mrs Semmens has turned around the family farm’s calf rearing protocols in the space of just two years, since joining her husband and his family to farm full-time, after a successful career as an analytical chemist. 

Upon taking up the position of head calf rearer, she became responsible for the 65-70 heifers retained as replacements each year from the 225-head Holstein Friesian her.  

Mrs Semmens also took over the beef calves produced from dairy stock served to British Blue or run with a Hereford bull. 

Remarkable dedication 

The farmer said that she could see that the farm had hurdles to overcome. Knowledge, protocols and communication were very limited, which was not only evident in the order of priority but also outcomes like mortality.  

Working with both the farm’s vet and Wynnstay’s calf and youngstock team, she identified key priorities for improvements and was quick to address not only the most pressing issues, but also the wider team challenges. 

Mrs Semmens’ entry stood out from the rest for a myriad of reasons, and the judges were unanimous in their decision to award her with this year’s prize.  

Collectively, they were particularly impressed by her ‘roots up’ approach to reviewing processes on her farm; involving veterinary and nutritional expertise, implementing clear and measurable actions, seeking out funding to support the upgrade and improvement of facilities, as well as her exploration of public engagement. 

One of four judges, Jessica Yeomans, senior technical youngstock specialist at Wynnstay, remarked on the turnaround Mrs Semmens had achieved in a short space of time.  

She said: “Mrs Semmens has shown remarkable dedication to improving a unit that was underperforming – including changing farm attitudes towards the priority of youngstock. 

“Improvements to colostrum management, hygiene, feeding, housing and team communication have all contributed to a reduction in mortality, the prevention of scour, and measurable, manageable protocols that are valued by everyone on the farm.” 

A lot has been achieved 

After receiving the award, Mrs Semmens expressed her pride in being named Calf Rearer of the Year.  

She said: “I am shocked because you don’t expect to be nominated, let alone win. A lot has been achieved in a short space of time.  

“It feels great to win, I’m really proud of what has been achieved and to be here speaking to other farmers, who are doing a brilliant job themselves.  

“There will be lots to take home from the conference and to share with the team, including this award.” 

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