David Johnston named Federal Honorary Life Member

David Johnston has been awarded the Holstein Australia Federal Honorary Life Membership for his outstanding contribution to the Holstein association and community.

Mr Johnston was presented with the award at his Segenhoe Park Sale on Tuesday 26th of October at the Mortlake Selling Centre by former Holstein Australia President Patrick Glass.

“It’s a privilege to present this award to such a passionate and strong advocate who has fought tooth and nail for the Holstein breed” said Mr Glass.

“His tireless effort to support the youth and foster the future of the breed is only one of his many contributions to our community” said Mr Glass.

Holstein Australia President Garry Carpenter said “it takes a special person to achieve this award and David is no exception. He has a rare ability to bring people together and share knowledge and develop camaraderie within our industry”.

Mr Johnston has been actively involved with the association since he first joined 1976 and has held the position of President of both the Manning and Western District Sub-branches.

Additionally, Mr Johnston took on the role of Victorian State President from 2006 to 2008 and served an extensive term as the Treasurer of Western District Sub-branch. 

Federally, he has served numerous roles including Victorian State Delegate, member of the Breed Development Committee and the National Advisory Council.

During his time on the Holstein Australia Board (2007 to 2019) he held the position of Federal Treasurer for six years, before commencing the role as Federal President in a three year term (from 2015 to 2017) whereby he led the membership through major changes in restructuring the Associations governance.

In 2016, Mr Johnston became Holstein Australia’s representative on the All Dairy Breeds Show Ring Committee and has striven for an improved standard in both ethical showmanship and animal welfare.

Former Western Districts Sub-branch President David Weel said “he is a man of the highest integrity who always goes beyond the requirements of any task he undertakes”.

Mr Johnston was nominated by his peers earlier this year and is the 81st recipient to receive the accolade since the association was established in 1914.

The Holstein Australia Federal Honorary Life Membership is the highest accolade that can be bestowed on an individual and recognises those who have made an extraordinary contribution at every level of the Association, over an extended period.