Ilona de Haan and Rudy Menkveld run their dairy farm together in Lutjewinkel. Four years ago they traded Zeewolde for North Holland. They now milk about 190 cows in a fully automated system. The care for their animals and their passion for quality are always central.

Ilona and Rudy have a clear vision for their livestock: they prefer red Holstein cows and have recently added a small Jersey branch to their farm. With knowledge and experience, they continuously work on the future of their business.

Four animals were prepared for the Opmeer Agricultural Show. The preparation started weeks in advance, with much attention to washing and training the cows. Because this is the only way they come into their own optimally in the ring.

The judging is a real family day. The children also participated, each with their own calf. For example, Kaasie and Milka 7 participated under the guidance of Ilona and Rudy's sons. The tension was palpable, but the results were fantastic. The two middle class cows were professionally presented by Eva Klaver and Stijn Nobel. They achieved first and second place (1A and 1B) respectively. Gansey's Alwi, a daughter of Drouner Effektiv, was even declared champion middle class.

The youngest generation showed its best side at the show in Opmeer. In the showmanship section the boys finished second and third. In addition, both calves finished in the top three on conformation.

This day shows what is possible when craftsmanship, cooperation and attention come together. A wonderful result for the Menkveld-De Haan family and a fine example of the involvement within our cooperative.