Say cheese with Perth Royal Dairy Awards Chief Judge, Ros Garstone!
What got you into the food scene, and what keeps you inspired?
I grew up on a sheep and grains property in the wheatbelt so life started surrounded by agriculture and eating and producing local food! I completed a Bachelor of Applied Science (Home Economics) and worked in food product development in Perth before becoming a teacher. At this stage I had met my now husband, a dairy farmer from the south west. It was a natural transition me to start using our fabulous milk to make cheese and dairy products, and for my passion for cheesemaking to evolve.
I was lucky enough to be a recipient of the Dairy Australia Cheesemaker Scholarship in 2008, which allowed me to complete all the available courses in cheesemaking and judging at the time and to learn from master Cheesemakers across Australia. In between dairy farming, high school teaching and raising a family, I have been teaching home cheesemakers since 2006. I have met so many fantastic people during this time, and have always seen my classes as the perfect way to promote the WA dairy industry to consumers. We may only represent around 4% of the Australian dairy industry, but I am proud of the our farmers producing high quality milk which in turn is value added into fabulous WA dairy products.
What’s your favourite part about being a judge for the Perth Royal Food Awards?
All of it! I was invited to complete judge training in Brisbane, which was the catalyst for becoming an Australian Cheese Judge. I have been fortunate to judge in the Brisbane, Perth and Sydney competitions, and at the Grand Dairy Awards in Melbourne. I proudly represent dairy farmers when I am on a panel of judges. I am inspired by the range and quality of dairy products and cheeses produced in Australia, and it is always a privilege to judge and work with the network of industry professionals I have met over the years.
My latest role as Chief Judge at the Perth Royal Food Awards has been a very positive experience. We have a great team who make this event the success it is, and the standard of entries always reinforces how great Australian dairy is! We regularly have several WA producers recognised as finalists and winners at the Australian Grand Dairy Awards, and I am proud that entering the Perth Royal Food Awards has allowed them to be on that stage.
Any thoughts on the challenges and opportunities in the food industry today?
As farmers and producers, our ability to multi task is an asset to any business. It has been a long hot and dry summer in our region, and this has contributed to daily challenges in maintaining animal welfare and a consistent quality food supply. We are hoping for a break of season very soon!
In your opinion, how does the Perth Royal Food Awards support and uplift food producers in Australia?
Without fantastic milk, you cannot make fantastic cheese or dairy products. There is so much hard work and dedication put in behind the scenes by our farmers in order to produce high quality milk. This milk is then value added by master cheesemakers, milk and dairy processors, butter makers , gelato and ice-cream makers.
The Perth Royal Dairy Awards is a fantastic opportunity to acknowledge, showcase and reward these efforts. Our medal winners proudly display their awards on their products, and this is a clear signal to consumers that they are purchasing quality dairy.
Lastly, any advice for people looking to make waves in the food world?
If you have a passion for something, keep at it and the rewards for effort will come