Fuchsia Excellence
Awards
Supreme Achievement Award
In recognition of outstanding contribution
to the development of the food/tourism industry.
Sponsored by Fuchsia Brands 
Winner:
Veronica Steele, Eyeries
Given the prominence and success of the
foods produced by artisans in West Cork in recent years,
it is tempting to believe it was always thus. Not so.
In the beginning there was Veronica. Enough said.
Veronica Steele, Eyeries & Minister Joe Walsh
Other Nominees:
Sue Hill, Goleen
An indefatigable spirit, boundless energy and a clear
focus characterise Sue Hill’s commitment to local
tourism development. One would imagine that developing
and maintaining high standards at Herons Cove guesthouse
and Restaurant in Goleen, would be more than sufficient
for anyone. Sue, however has been the prime force, motivator
and fund raiser in the development of the outstanding
Mizen Head Visitor Centre. Outstanding in all respects
and a clear favourite with tourists, this facility has
contributed enormously to tourism development in the
region. As a tourism facility in the region, it is without
parallel; as an example of community enterprise it is
few peers in Ireland. Without Sue, it simply would not
exist.
Jeffa Gill, Durus
Everything good about quality food production is encapsulated
in the lavishly acclaimed cheese produced by Jeffa Gill
in Durrus. Proof positive that in terms of artisan food
production the producer, the place and the product are
indivisible.
Sally Barnes, Castletownshend
For many years Sally has been producing the highest
quality smoked wild fish in Castletownshend with a knowledge,
skill and passion that is unsurpassed. Put simply these
are some of the finest Irish foods to be found anywhere.
An exemplar of the artisan tradition, the case for quality
Irish food has few more powerful advocates than Sally
Barnes.
Diarmuid O'Sullivan, Clonakilty
The development of Irish Yogurts is undoubtedly the
enterprise success story in West Cork in recent years.
A commitment to quality and innovation has seen the
company make huge strides in an ultra competitive market.
This is a model enterprise in all respects and no other
company has done more to use its national profile to
raise awareness and give the Fuchsia Brand initiative
prominence as a quality food brand. A plethora of awards
are testament to Diarmuid’s ability. Credit rightly
where credit is due and few deserve it more.
