Newsletter. Highland Cattle Society HIGHLAND CATTLE SOCIETY, STIRLING AGRICULTURAL CENTRE, STIRLING, SCOTLAND FK9 4RN

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1 SPRING 2014 Newsletter HIGHLAND CATTLE SOCIETY, STIRLING AGRICULTURAL CENTRE, STIRLING, SCOTLAND FK9 4RN Whats in this issue! Highland Cattle Society Results & Reports from Royal Welsh Show Update Oban Show & Sale The 117th Annual Show & Sale 123rd Spring Show Council Corner Dates for your Diary Voluntary Bull Assessment Animal Registration Fees Southern Muster Shirley Strachan leads her bull Angus Dubh of Savalmhor around the sale ring before getting the top price of 6900 gns for him. Online registrations Online registrations we are currently testing the online registration programme and hope to roll this out to members over the coming months. We will update you in the autumn newsletter. Take the opportunity to advertise your fold or business at the 3 main shows this year. Once again our advertising screen will be at Royal Highland Show, Great Yorkshire Show and Royal Welsh Show. Contact the office direct for more details and book your space. The Society office has a number of publications available for the membership to use to promote their cattle and beef, including information on the breed, beef and a selection of recipe cards and more. Registered in Scotland, Company No. SC Tel: Fax: info@highlandcattlesociety.com

2 Beef Expo 2014 After a spell of four years NBA Beef Expo 2014 is returning to Hexham for two days of exciting activity focusing on the theme, British Beef Feeding our Nation. NBA Beef Expo 2014, organised by the National Beef Association will be centred around Hexham Mart Centre and the surrounding Northumberland countryside on Wednesday 21st May and Thursday 22nd May. The first day will see three farm tours in the Hexham area, followed by the annual Beef Expo Beef Industry Dinner. Thursday 22nd May, will provide the ideal forum for beef farmers to access the latest information and advice on production techniques with the trade stand area set between the National Spring Spectacular Show of cattle and the Beef Breed Society trade stand/demonstrations of cattle. This should help with a natural flow of visitors around the whole event. The overarching theme of efficient and profitable beef farming will also add to this high profile technical event for the beef industry. For more information go to or contact NBA Beef Expo 2014 Euan Emslie, 3 Briar Close, Newport, Brough, East Yorkshire, HU15 2QY Telephone: +44(0) Fax: +44(0) euan@nationalbeefassociation.com NORTH OF ENGLAND HIGHLAND CATTLE BREEDERS CLUB Sheffield Town & County Fair Monday 5th May 2014 What a start to the show season! The NEHCBC will be holding a club show at the Sheffield Highland Fling again this year. The show is always well attended from across the country and is the first event of the year. Please put Monday 6th May (Bank Holiday Monday) in your calendars. It would be great to see you there! Judge: Mr Tom Thomson, Woodneuk, Barrhead, Glasgow If you would like further information or an entry form please contact; Peter or Julia Carr julia@marrickpark.com Steve Leighton steve.leighton@willmottdixon.co.uk Sponsorship of the event or specific classes is always welcomed! 2

3 Royal Welsh Show A warm welcome awaits you at the Royal Welsh Show The Highland Cattle Club of Wales would like to invite you and your Highlanders to the Royal Welsh Show from 21st to 24th July This prestigious show has held Highland cattle classes for a number of years, and the cattle are always very popular with the show visitors. There are some folds that are regular exhibitors, but the show also attracts newcomers every year. A few English breeders regularly venture across the border to participate, but we would love to see even more Highlanders than ever in the ring. Wales may seem like a long way for some of you, but we are a friendly lot and you can expect a warm welcome. If you do attend you will be welcomed as a fellow Highland enthusiast, and a bit of competition is always welcome! If you have not been before or do not know us personally why not get in touch with the club beforehand and let us know you are thinking of coming. If you have any questions about the show we will be happy to answer them. And if you need anything during the show whether to borrow equipment or someone minding your stock while you have a break or need to get home for a day let us know and we will do our best to help. If you just fancy a day out at the show make sure to visit the Highland Cattle Society stand opposite the show ring where club members and the society secretary Hazel will be found. We have an annual reception supper on the Monday evening and meet up with breeders from all over Wales and further afield but please book in advance. Entry forms are available to download from and entries close 30th April The cattle prize money scale, which is based on the number of cattle catalogued for each class, is as follows:- Cattle Per Class 1st 2nd 3rd 4th 5th 6th 1 6 entries entries entries and over *Breed Champion Or please see note *Where at least 20 exhibits are forward for judging in a section the Breed Champion will receive 110 and the Reserve Breed Champion will receive 55. The herdsperson of the Breed Champion will receive 10. If 20 exhibits are not forward for judging in a section the Breed Champion will receive 22 and the Reserve Breed Champion will receive 11. The herdsperson of the Breed Champion will receive 10. We hope to see you there! For more information or to book a supper place contact us direct. Club Chairman Becky Rowlands or or chair@hccw.org.uk. Royal Welsh Show website 3

4 Update Oban Autumn Sale 117th Annual Autumn Show and Sale Oban 12th & 13th October 2014 Show and Sale Schedule of Events Saturday New Members reception 6.30 to 8.00 p.m. Royal Hotel, Oban. Sunday 12thOctober Show starts at a.m. Sunday 12th October Ceilidh & Buffet 7.00 p.m. for 7.30 p.m. Royal Hotel, Oban tickets available from Society Office - 20 each. Monday 13th October the sale starts promptly at a.m. Trophies All winners of trophies from 13th October are requested to hand the trophies to Society Office at Stirling by no later than Friday 3rd September Trophies should be returned having been cleaned. Entries The show and sale will be held in the Caledonian Marts, Oban on 12th October and the sale is on Monday 13th October. Entry forms are available to download from Entry fee is including VAT. (calves at foot are included with entry fee for dam). Closing date for entries is 29th August 2014 Withdrawal Fees You are reminded that the penalty for animals not put forward without a valid veterinary certificate will incur a penalty of 30 incl vat. Entry fees will be returned for animals withdrawn before the sale catalogue is published approximately 20 days before the sale. Any seller wishing to withdraw please contact the society office. Judge Charlie Bruce, Bogside, King Edward, Banff Conditions of Sale The sale is conducted under the General Conditions for Sale, which are exhibited in the Mart and in accordance with regulations approved by the Highland Cattle Society. Notwithstanding any other sale conditions, cattle at this sale will be sold subject to the National Beef Association. Male and Female breeding warranties as amended for use by the Highland Cattle Society. Free copies of these warranties can be obtained from the office or alternatively download online from and click on Breeding Warranties. Health Status All animals put forward for sale must be tested IBR and BVD (either privately or whole herd tested) and thereafter must be kept isolated from the date of testing 4 to the sale date. Confirmation of test results must be submitted to the office. If testing through a Whole Herd Health Scheme again confirmation of Fold Health Status must be submitted to the office prior to the sale. It would be appreciated if the certificates were sent with the entry form. Any animals showing signs of anti-bodies must be notified and a declaration will be added to the animal s catalogue notes. Transfer Fees No transfer fees are raised for the official Society shows/ sales General The following points are drawn to your attention All bulls are to be rung or snitched Any bulls brought forward born in or later must be DNA tested Un-haltered cattle at official sales in Oban will be sold after the haltered entries at the discretion of the auctioneer. Each entry not haltered must be so marked in the entry form. Purchasers must verify official identification marks before taking delivery of their purchases and if any earmarking or identification irregularity is discovered the animal in question may be rejected. Although not specifically applicable to the Autumn Sale, Sellers and purchasers are reminded that from 1 January 2007, pregnant cattle cannot travel over 60 kms in their last month of pregnancy. All animals must be left after the sale with a serviceable halter and all bulls sold must be left with a serviceable snitch or ring. All animals must be left with adequate water supply after the sale. Website Advertising Sell your animals on the web-site only 5 for 3 months or 10 to include a photograph Contact Hilary on info@highlandcattlesociety.com

5 123rd Spring Show & Sale Report TOO MANY private sales and uncertainty over CAP reform, appeared to hit the quality and prices for Highland cattle at their main bull sale of the year in Oban this week. The old adage that quality will always sell was never more apparent than at this year s sale, where there was a ready and unrequited demand for good cattle. Several buyers looking for a new stock bull would be severely disappointed at the general quality on offer, as the trade for yearling heifer calves also crashed. The upshot of it was that from 107 forward, only 53 were sold. But, that did not stop the more useful animals making a great trade. Officials from the society put forward the view that a lot of southern buyers had been affected by the wet weather, with reduced grazing available and lower fodder stocks. But anecdotal evidence from around the ring suggests that many bulls are being traded behind the scenes and there s also a ready market for older, proven bulls too. That was evident in the top priced animal at the sale, a seven-year-old stock bull belonging to Bob and Shirley Strachan, from Cailaich, Calgary, Isle of Mull. In what must be a record for an old bull, they received 6900gns for their Angus Dubh of Savalmhor from Hamish Irvine, who runs a 30-cow fold at Craigluscar, Dunfermline, with stockwoman, Jo Fischbacher looking after his Highlanders. Eoin Ruadh 2nd of Glengorm sold for 5000gns to Strathmore Farming Company Angus MacColl and bred out of Ailsa 1st of Glengorm, which also bred a 10,000gns bull sold at Oban two years ago. Third top in the males was Jacob 2nd of Benmore, from Mrs Emma Paterson, Barncroft, Auchlyne, Killin ably brought out by Jim Ogston which made 3800gns to leading breeder Jim McConachie, Culfoich, Granton-on-Spey. By the 400 private purchase, Alastair Ruadh of Meggernie, this one is out of Iona 23rd of Benmore a dam line which has produced heifers which have been placed first at the Highland Show. Top price animal Angus Dubh of Savalmhor sold for 6900 gns to H Irvine, Craigluscar This black bull was bred by the Gunns, at Savalmhor, Lairg, and cost the Strachans 4500gns when he was bought four years ago. He is by Angus Dubh of Invercassley and out of Matilda 2nd of Tullach Ard and has bred well on Mull, with a daughter placed overall cattle champion at Salen Show, last year. Mull also produced the second top priced bull, with the new president of the Highland Cattle Society, Tom Nelson, Glengorm, Tobermory, getting 5000gns for the male champion, Eoin Ruadh 2nd of Glengorm. This was paid by David Souter, buying a new stock bull for Strathmore Farms, Glamis Castle, Glamis, Forfar, where he is the manager. This rising two-year-old bull was giving the Glengorm fold its first championship at Oban and is bred from the 4200gns Eoin Mhor 2nd of Muingairigh a bull bred by Mr Nelson s stockman, Jacob 2nd of Benmore sold for 3800 gns to Jim McConachie, Grantown on Spey Andrew Clotworthy, from Kilmaurs, was also pleased with his day, selling Callum of Inveralton for 3600gns in an export deal to Falko Steinberg, from Germany, a regular buyer in Oban. Shown locally to some success at Stewarton and Fenwick shows, this one is a son of Callum of Cir Mhor and out of Fiona 510th of Inversnaid. Another off the Mull ferry, Daibhidh of Ardura, from Ardura Estate, Craignure, was bid to 3400gns and will head back on the same boat to Ardalanish Farms, at Bunessan. Another black bull, he is by Hamish Dubh of Muingairigh and out of Mairi Ruadh of Ardura. The best of the females were also easily sold, with Sir William Lithgow s Ormsary Estate, from Lochgilphead, taking the top price and the show honours with Susan 13th of Ormsary, which made 6000gns. 5

6 123rd Spring Show & Sale Report cont. An Sidhean was bought by Ken and Eva Brown, Ledlanet, Kinross, for 3000gns. Winner of the new Woodneuk Trophy for the best young stocksperson at the Oban show and sale was Dexter Logan, from Alva, Clackmannanshire. Second place went to Ruaridh MacKinnon, with Robert Dempster in third place. Auctioneers: Caledonian Marts, Stirling and Oban Full report of results and price is available on the web page. Falko Steinberg with his new purchase Callum of Inveralton bought for 3600 gns from new exhibitor Andrew Clotworthy Brought out by farm manager, Archie McArthur and stockman, Alan Bosomworth winner of the Angus W MacGillivray memorial Quaich for stockman bringing out champion female this four-year-old heifer is a second champion for the fold by Oskar of Hyndford. And, she is one of 14 champions and the third in succession from Ormsary to win at Oban, also chalking up a win at Mid Argyll as a young heifer. Male Champion, Winner of the Craig Sellar Trophy and winner of W Pearson Brown Memorial Trophy for the best two year old bull. Eoin Ruadh 2nd of Glengorm by Eoin MHor of Miungairigh and out of Ailsa 1st of Glengorm, from Glengorm sold to Strathmore Farming Company, Glamis, Forfar for 5000 gns Winner of Roy Cruickshank Goblet for stockperson bringing out champion animal Mr Angus MacColl Reserve Male Champion and winner of the Caledonian Marts (Stirling) Trophy and Senior Bull Allt Ruadh of Crannich by Ruairidh of Hyndford and out of Agnes A Ghmor 3rd of the Wellburn from Mr A Fitszimon and bred by Mr Robin Sedgwick sold to C Cuthbertson, Peebles for 2000 gns Two Year Old Reserve champion two year old - Nelson of Knockendon from R & F Fergie sold to Mr J Ayres, Thetford, Norfolk for 2400 gns Yearling Bulls Winner of Douneside Challenge Trophy - Troy Dubh of Ceannacroic from Dunlossit (Farming) Ltd sold to Germany for 500 gns Top price female Susan 13th of Ormsary sold for 6000 gns to Highland Wagyu, Dunblane The buyer was Mohsin Altajir, buying through his Highland Wagyu brand name, for his and his wife, Martine s farming operation near Dunblane. In fact, he bought the first four females sold, including another from the same family at Ormsary, Susan 14th of Ormsary, a black four-year-old by Lochlan of Sorne. Both of Mr Altajir s purchases were in calf to Padruaig Dubh of Gilden Valen and he also paid 2400gns to get Ellit 22nd of Pennygown from Donald MacGillivray, Pennygown, Mull. Another four-year-old, this daughter of Archie of Bunloit is in calf to Ruaridh of Pennygown. Ron and Frances Fergie, from Knockendon, Dalry, Ayrshire, had the second top female price and the reserve championship with Diorbhail 2nd of Knockendon. This daughter of James Beusach of Aged Bulls Uallach Dubh 6th of Pollok from Mr RW Haldane MBE sold to Mr J Singer, Kincardine for 2000 gns Females Female Champion, Senior Heifer Champion and winner of DM Stewart Memorial Trophy Susan 13th of Ormsary by Oskar of Hyndford out of Susan 5th of Ormsary from Sir William Lithgow, Bt & Son (Ormsary) and sold to Highland Wagyu, Blackford for 6000 gns Winner of the Angus W MacGillivray Memorial Quaich for stockman bringing out the Female Champion Alan Bosomworth Reserve Female Champion Diorbhail 2nd of Knockendon by James Beusach of An Sidhean and out of Diorbhail of Oliver from R & F Fergie sold to Mr K Brown, Craigowmill, Kinross for 3000 gns 6

7 123rd Spring Show & Sale Report cont. Senior Heifer Reserve Senior champion Ellit 2nd of Pennygown from Mr DJ MacGillivray sold to Highland Wagyu for 2400 gns. Three year old heifers Champion three year old & reserve overall champion Diorbhail 2nd of Knockendon from R & F Fergie sold to Mr K Brown, Craigowmill, Kinross for 3000 gns Reserve three year old champion Fiosaiche of Glengarnock from A & H Kirkpatrick sold to A Clotworthy, KIlmaurs, Ayrshire for 1000 gns Two Year Old Champion two year old Ellit Dhubh Vallay 1st of Walton from Mrs Suzanne Hill Reserve Champion Two year old Jarc Ola Odhar Eilean of Killochries from Killochries Fold Yearling Heifers Champion yearling and winner of YW Mok Trophy Cassie Buidhe 4th of Cladich from Mrs JH Strickland Reserve Champion yearling Claggorm 35th of Glengarnock from A & H Kirkpatrick sold to Koch, Germany Cows Malda 3rd of Knockendon from Mr & Mrs Simon Haley sold to W Bange, Germany for 1700 gns Best Pair of Females Winner of Maclean of Duart Perpetual Trophy R & F Fergie, Knockendon Fold Averages Two year old bulls 2889 gns 9 forward Aged Bulls 2925 gns 4 forward Senior Heifers 3000 gns 4 forward Three year old heifers 1240 gns 5 forward Yearling Heifers 375 gns 22 forward SOMETHING TO SELL? Don t forget you can advertise your animals for sale on the web site 10 plus vat text only 15 plus vat text and photograph BEEF TO SELL Let us include your details in the beef directory Joe Watson Obituary Young Handlers 1st and winner of Woodneuk Trophy Dexter Logan Our friend and journalist Joe Watson who sadly passed away suddenly at the beginning of March. Joe was the agricultural editor of the Press and Journal and could be seen the length and breadth of the country searching out a good story. He was a great supporter of the breed and always provided a fair report on our sales. Dexter Logan being presented with the new young handlers Woodneuk Trophy by Mrs Margaret Thomson 2nd Ruaraidh MacKinnon 3rd Robert Dempster 4th Murn Cameron 5th Jade Brown 6th Ross Shaw He had been awarded British Guild of Agricultural Journalists regional newspaper agricultural editor of the year award three times. He was instrumental in bringing the International Federation of Agricultural Journalists annual congress to Scotland, specifically Aberdeen, for the first time in 40 years this September. Joe will be sadly missed by all. 7

8 COUNCIL CORNER Oban Show & Sale a. All new breeders purchasing in Oban will be given free membership to the society for one year in the hope that it will encourage to register their future animals and benefit from being a member of the society b. An information package will be available to prospective purchasers to include transport costs, information on health testing depending on what country, quarantine information c. A list of hauliers will be available in the sale catalogue it is still the purchasers responsibility to arrange their own haulage. In February 2015 we will have a Burns Supper on the Sunday evening with piping and the traditional readings. It is hoped by council when selling animals privately to new breeders, members will encourage them to become members of the society or pay for them to join. It is also important to include the transfer fees. Breed Development Mr George Caldow, SAC veterinary centre manager, St Boswells attended the meeting with regards to our current health testing and requirements for our shows and sales under the auspices of the society. He confirmed our current requirements of quarantining animals for one month prior to testing is ideal. Currently it is a mandatory requirement within Highland Cattle Society to test for IBR & BVD. George added the society has really been at the forefront for a number of years on health testing. It is important we continue to maintain our testing. Open Day There is an open day to be held this year at Woodneuk by kind permission of the Thomson family. It will take place on 7 th September. Workshop There will be an information workshop afternoon in place for Oban in October. Details to follow. Chelford Show & Sale The North of England club plan will hold a preshow inspection to help both regular and new exhibitors at the sale. Jim Ayres will do the inspection. Bull Assessments This has been rolled out to 2014 and a number of bulls are being assessed. It has been agreed that the marks would not be published as it is different assessors at each assessment. New Judges Three new judges have been proposed and agreed Lesley Lacey proposed by Donald MacNaughton and seconded by Bryon MacNaughton Alan Telford proposed by Andrew Kirkpatrick and seconded by Alan Prentice Stuart Campbell proposed by Angus MacColl and seconded by Robert Phillip. Fees It has been agreed the following increases will take place from 1 st May Registration fees for animals up to 6 months old are set at 20 plus vat The transfer fee is 35 plus vat 8 Subs Annual Subscriptions will be 90 including vat from 1 st September 2014 Associate Subscriptions will be 30 including vat from 1 st September 2014 Advertising and Promotion Steve Leighton is the new advertising and promotion coordinator. Stuart Campbell will also be on the committee. Donation of Heifer Simon & Emma Haley have very kindly offered a heifer to the society to raise funds. It was proposed that the tickets be sold for 5 and the heifer will be brought to Oban in October. Tom offered 2 nights bed and breakfast at Glengorm Hazel will ask for another couple of prizes to supplement the raffle. Club in Northern Ireland John Dooris from Northern Ireland is proposing to form a highland cattle club in Ireland. Royal Highland Show This year we will be selling Highland beef rolls from the stand all catering is being done by Country Refreshments Gilbert Thomson, beef is being supplied by Charlie Bruce. The evening meal will be catered by Donald MacPherson at Well Hung & Tender in the showground. Coffee, tea and home baking will be available to the members There will be a paying bar in the marquee and the business area will be at the front of the marquee. Great Yorkshire Show This year the North of Scotland club will be visiting the show on their trip. Country Refreshments will be catering the supper on the Tuesday evening within the stockman s building. This is open to all Royal Welsh Show The stand is in the same spot in previous years and the Welsh club have been actively trying to encourage more exhibitors to the show. Stars of the Future Adrian Ivory has contacted us asking for class specification for the classes at this year s Stars of the Future all agreed that the classes should run from 1 st January each year i.e. Yearling born from 1 st January, Calf born from 1 st January Tom N proposed Stuart Campbell to judge the event and this was seconded by Dochy. Dates of council meetings th May - Friday 15 th August - Friday 11 th October Saturday Outgoing president Charlie Bruce presented Ritch with his honorary membership medal with Jim McConachie looking on.

9 New Council Members 14 offices across Scotland LOCAL KNOWLEDGE NATIONAL EXPERTISE INTERNATIONAL PRESENCE WORKING TOGETHER Jim Ayres Stuart Campbell For expert advice on all your farm, estate and land needs visit our National Farm Sales Centre in Stirling Agricultural Centre, or call Simon Brown to discuss your requirements on Hugh Hoather Dochy Ormiston PERTH Emma Chalmers ABERDEEN Tom Stewart INVERNESS John Bound CUPAR George Lorimer ABERFELDY Valerie Fleming CASTLE DOUGLAS David Corrie AYR Bob Cherry STIRLING RESIDENTIAL Emma Chalmers EDINBURGH Alasdair Mackenzie James Carnegy-Arbuthnott KELSO Alex Inglis ELGIN Rod Christie PEEBLES Harry Lukas Anne Thompson ALYTH Ian Hope NATIONAL FARM SALES CENTRE Simon Brown Duncan Barrie AGRICULTURAL MORTGAGE CORPORATION Robert Taylor Chelford Show & Sale of Pedigree Highland Cattle (held under the auspices of the Highland Cattle Society) Frank Marshall Auctioneers Chelford Agricultural Centre, Chelford, Macclesfield, Cheshire, SK11 9AX T F Saturday 26th April 2014 Judge Mr Stephen Hunter Barnhill Farm, Allanton, Shotts, Lanarkshire Show starts at 9.00 a.m. Sale starts at a.m. Kindly sponsored by Schedule and entry form available to download at 9

10 Dates for the Diary Chelford Show & Sale Saturday 26th April Marshalls Auctioneers, Chelford Royal Welsh Show Monday 21st Thursday 24th July Native Breed Sale Wednesday 14th May United Auctions - Stirling West of Scotland Highland Cattle Club Sunday 7th September By kind permission of Thomson Family Woodneuk, Barrhead, Glasgow Beef Expo 2014 Thursday 22nd May Hexham Mart Stars of the Future Calf Show Saturday 15th November United Auctions Stirling Royal Highland Show Thursday 19th Sunday 22nd June Livescot (formerly Scottish Winter Fair) Saturday 29th November Lanark Mart Great Yorkshire Show Tuesday 8th Thursday 10th July Voluntary Bull Assessment The voluntary bull assessment is available for If you wish to have your bull/s assessed please contact the office to organise. Over 30 bulls have been assessed by the assessment panel. This scheme is purely voluntary and available to all members who wish to have their bulls inspected. Bulls forward for the scheme will be inspected by 2 people from the bull assessment panel. Marking Each bull will be marked out of 30. There will be 3 categories and will be 10 for each section and must score 15 or over to pass. Breed Character Confirmation & size for age Locomotion, legs and feet Pass Plus is 80% Dates will be allocated when bull inspections will take place. It is anticipated that this will be done geographically and as many folds visited as possible on each allocated day. Bulls will only be inspected from 14 months onwards - there will be no upper age limit. Scores will not be published and the bull owner will be informed on the day if the bull has passed or failed. For more information please contact Robin Chilton or Hazel at the office. 10

11 ANIMAL REGISTRATION FEES Updated 21 st March 2014 Prices take effect from 1st May Birth Notifications Female 7.20 ( vat) Male 3.60 ( vat) Registrations Applicable from 1st September Female (up to 6 mths) ( vat) Female (6 mths 12 mths) ( vat) Female (12 mths 18 mths) ( vat) Female (over 18 mths) ( vat) Appendix B ( vat) Male (14 mths to 2 yrs) ( vat) Please note bulls cannot be registered until 14 mths they must be DNA tested) Male (2 yrs and over) ( vat) Transfer Fee Transfer Registration ( vat) Subscriptions for Year Subscription Ex VAT Incl VAT Life (VAT at 5.7%) Annual (VAT at 5.7%) Associate & Junior (VAT at 5.7%) - Associate members are not eligible to register cattle in the Herd Book Joining Fee (VAT at 20%) Fold Name Registration Fee (VAT 20%)

12 Southern Muster The Kiwi Experience 4th International Highland Cattle Gathering New Zealand, November 2014 The 4th International Highland Cattle Breeder's Gathering - "Southern Muster" - being held in New Zealand in November 2014 has reached an exciting milestone. We are now accepting early bird bookings for the various packages for the first ever Highland Cattle Breeder's Gathering to be held in the Southern Hemisphere. The Gathering is split into two parts - the first section being the North Island Conference held in Rotorua on the 6th to 8th November, The second section being the South Island Conference held in Queenstown on the 14th to 16th November, Linking these two conference events is a custom tour, which combines tourist highlights with regular doses of Highland Cattle viewings to get your fix! Entire Gathering Package To attend the Entire Gathering, comprising North Island Conference, Guided Tour & South Island Conference: (Including 11 nights accommodation (double/twin occupancy), internal flights, bus transfers, farm visits, attractions, most meals) Full Package Price: NZ$4,514 (per Person, including GST) Early Bird Price: NZ$3,971 (per Person, including GST. If booked & deposit of NZ$1800 paid on or before 30-April, remaining NZ$2,171 to be paid by 31-Aug-2014) Single Occupancy Surcharge: NZ$755 North Island Conference Package If you are unable to attend the entire Gathering, then you can choose to attend just the North Island Conference weekend, comprising: Farming Activities day at Agrodome; Maori Welcome, Concert & Dinner at Mitai Maori Village; Full Conference Day and Gala Dinner at Blue Baths (including 3 nights accommodation (double/twin occupancy), bus transfers, attractions & most meals). Full Conference Price: NZ$685 (per Person, including GST) Early Bird Price: NZ$635 (per Person, including GST. If booked & paid in full on or before 30-Apr-2014) Single Occupancy Surcharge: NZ$242 South Island Conference Package If you are unable to attend the entire Gathering, then you can choose to attend just the South Island conference weekend comprising: Registration & Welcome Dinner at Skyline Queenstown; Full Conference Day, Gala Dinner at Moonlight Country; and Farewell Lunch Cruise aboard TSS Earnslaw. (including 3 nights accommodation (double/twin occupancy), bus transfers, attractions & most meals). Full Conference Price: NZ$739 (per Person, including GST) Early Bird Price: NZ$685 (per Person, including GST. If booked & paid in full on or before 30-Apr-2014) Single Occupancy Surcharge: NZ$279 Please Note All package prices are quoted, per-person, twin/share accommodation, inclusive of 15% NZ Goods & Services Tax (GST), but exclusive of international airfares or individual travel insurance. Entire Gathering Package includes internal flights from Rotorua to Wellington & from Wellington to Christchurch; as well as two day Coach tours from Wellington as well and Coach travel from Christchurch to Queenstown. It does not include travel to Rotorua or onward travel from Queenstown. Spaces on the Entire Gathering Package are limited to 170 places, so be in quick. The Gathering Organising Committee is currently busy putting all the arrangements in place. We will send another newsletter when the booking form goes live during March The New Zealand Highland Cattle Society are looking forward to you joining us. The itinerary (which is detailed on our website) is focused on how New Zealand has become a world leader in pastoral farming practice, and the possible role Highland Cattle have to play in the future of beef worldwide. There is a balanced mix of speakers and practical demonstrations, academic opinion and realistic advice, plus regular visits to sites with cattle to view. To make sure that you secure your place on the "Southern Muster" international Gathering, please book now on our secure server. 12

13 Stirling Agricultural Centre, Stirling FK9 4RN April 2014 Dear Member Following the Annual General Meeting of the Highland Cattle Society in February I have decided to write to all members to share with you some of my ideas and aspirations for the future of our breed and society. I arrived at the AGM feeling slightly anxious about the proposed increase to some of the fees but left feeling very positive and encouraged by the overwhelming support of the members in attendance. In order for the society to progress I feel we all need to pull together in the same direction - the membership, the council and the office staff. Over the past few years there has been a tendency for more animals to be sold privately, many of them going overseas with those animals being lost both genetically and as an income stream to the society. It is with this in mind I would like all members to consider whether they sell their animals privately or through one of the sale held under the auspices of the society. I would also like to encourage members to make official society sales their first port of call when looking for new stock. I have made the following proposals to council to help encourage more sales in Oban and Chelford which were passed and accepted: 1. Any new purchasers of Highland cattle at a sale held under the auspices of the society will be given free membership and fold name registration for one year. 2. The society will provide information on transport and export providers for both UK destinations and overseas to provide peace of mind for prospective purchasers. They will know what is available and what it will cost before making a purchase and before travelling to Oban. 3. We will increase our presence overseas and encourage more buyers to attend by sharing the above information with our fellow societies in Europe. I think it would be fantastic if every new owner of Highland cattle became a member of the society and chose to register the stock, it is the responsibility of all of us to encourage new breeders to become members of the society. One idea I am going to trial personally over the next few years is to offer membership and fold registration for one year to any purchaser of my cattle and encourage them as to why they should register their calves with the society. I have been guilty in the past of thinking that the day of a sale is the conclusion of a relationship but it could only be the start. I know that my suggestions will not be appropriate for everyone but I would like everyone to consider what they can do to help the breed because if we all pull together the future of the Highland Cattle Society will be assured for many generations to come. Thank you for your continued support of the Highland Cattle Society. Yours sincerely Tom Nelson President Registered Office: Stirling Agricultural Centre, Stirling FK9 4RN Scottish Charity No: SC013974

14 HIGHLAND CATTLE SOCIETY Minutes of Annual General Meeting Charlie Bruce welcomed everyone to the Annual General Meeting held on Saturday 15 th February Charlie explained the decision to hold the meeting on the Saturday was to allow prospective buyers more time to view the animals after judging and also for some members who may be unable to attend on a Sunday for religious reasons. He said that the meeting day would be reviewed and was delighted at the turnout in the Royal Hotel. Charlie went on to say he had thoroughly enjoyed his 2 years as president and thanked everyone on behalf of Christine and himself. Apologies G Rainey, T MacLeod-Clarke, K Gascoigne, H Barker, P & G Clark, A Kirkpatrick, A Prentice, R. Dalgleish, G Stacy-Marks, A & M Blackburn, J Monk, H MacPhail, R MacMillan, J Strickland, D Cameron, D Soutar 1. Approval minutes of Annual General Meeting held on 10 th February The minutes were proposed by Angus Mackay and seconded by Jim Fraser. 82 members were in attendance. 2. Submission of Presidents Report and Annual Accounts for the year ended 31 st August. The report has been submitted to all members prior to the meeting. 3. Report from the Finance Committee Charlie then introduced Colin MacPhail the finance convenor to report on finances. Colin, Tom Nelson and Hazel have prepared and produced a presentation on the society s accounts. Colin presented the facts and figures to the members present. Profit & Loss ( ) ( ) Income 162, ,422 Expenditure 181, ,869 Profit/(Loss) (19,470) ( 10,447)

15 As Colin explained everyone has seen the accounts for 2014 but he would like to discuss how we have arrived in the situation. He has highlighted various areas. Financial Report Accounts Year Ending August Total Expenditure = 181, Staff Costs + 5,798 Basco herd book bureau + 4,578 Overseas Exhibition + 4,249 Administration - 4,344 Show expenses - 2,771 Financial Report Accounts Year Ending August Income = 162,498 8,924 Levy on official sales - 4,837 Subscriptions - 2,719 Gift Aid 2,711 Merchandise - 2,067 Overseas Exhibit + 4,000 Semen Sales + 1,830 Historic Income/Expenditure Historic Profitability 250, , ,578 30,000 24,242 Profit/Loss 200, , ,000 50, , ,498 Total Income Total expenditure 20,000 10, ,000-20,000 12,043 11, ,484 17,134 11,202 8, ,928-10,447-13,372-14,765-13,418-15,692-19,470 Profit/Loss - 30,000-28, ,000-41,291-50,000 We have looked at the income over the past 20 years and expenditure over the past 10 years. Balance Sheet Funds Balance Sheet Funds 300, , , , , ,000 Balance Sheet total funds 100,000 97,509 50,

16 Registrations V RPI Transfers v RPI RPI Transfers Registrations Transfers RPI As was displayed in the slides it is quite clear to see what has been happening. Along with the assistance our accountants we have looked at the current fees we are charging and what they may have been if we followed the Retail Price Index. The registrations have not increased in the past 20 years apart from the last year when they were increased to 16 for animals up to 6 months Transfers are the same having remained constant at 30. Other Breeds Comparison 0-3 months Breed Society Beef Shorthorn months 6-12 Over 12 Transfer months months fees 6 5 Membership registrations registrations 25 up to 4 months Galloway Longhorn Aberdeen Angus Highland Tom pointed out that the perception of many is that the Highland Cattle Society is one of the most expensive societies when in fact it is one of the cheapest when compared to other native breeds.

17 Subscriptions are also currently under the RPI but have increased gradually throughout the years. Subscription Staff Costs Cost V RPI v RPI Subscription Staff Costs Cost V RPI v RPI 120, , , , , , , , , ,138 94,458 Subscription Cost , ,173 64,173 Staff Costs Subscriptions RPI Subscriptions RPI Net after sponsorship 120, , , , , , , , , , ,458 Subscription Cost 102, ,173 64,173 Staff Costs RPI Net after Subscriptions sponsorship Subscriptions RPI Colin went on to discuss the expenses starting with staff costs. He also added the sponsorship that the office has generated and attributed that directly to the staff costs. He complimented Hazel and the girls in the office for all their hard work and feels that the society get a very good service. He asked the members not to forget that what the breed have is very unique and something to be proud of. The administration costs had a large increase in 2007 at the time of moving offices and restructuring but are now back in line nearly with the RPI. Admin Costs v RPI 45,000 40,000 38,327 35,000 33,405 30,000 27,385 25,000 26,631 20,000 15,000 19,164 18,478 Admin Costs RPI 10,000 5, The final costs Colin highlighted was the costs for the newsletters. It is possible that the majority of newsletters can be sent via which will also be a saving on postage. Newsletter Costs v RPI 10,000 9,000 8,781 8,000 7,935 7,000 6,000 5,710 5,000 4,000 Newsletters RPI 3,000 2,999 2,000 1,

18 2014 Physical Targets Targets are for Membership Council Staff Subscriptions 5% increase in Subscriptions (equates to 40 new annual members) Registrations 5% increase in number of Registrations (equates to 100 additional annual registrations) Transfers 10% increase in number of Transfers (equates to 30 more animals annually) So moving forward the following targets have been set 2014 Financial Targets Targets are for Membership Council Staff Subscriptions 5% X 40 = 2, (2014/ ) Registrations 5% increase in 20 X 100 = 2, increase in fee = approximately 9,200 (2014/15 registration fee up to 6 months 20 +vat) Transfers 15% increase in X 30 = 1, increase in fee = approximately 1,500 (2014/15 Transfer fee 34.50) 2014/2015 Target Increase in income 16, /2015 Expenditure Target 2014/ % decrease Colin finished his report by thanking accountants MacFarlane Gray, Hazel, Janet and Hilary for their work. John Cooper commended them on the report and highlighted the facts it is possible there are other avenues for receiving funding which can be looked into. Jenne Singer suggested that the society could do more merchandise through the website as many people are looking for Highland cattle products and she feels that the website could be put to good use for selling. She also asked that we look at making our own Highland Cattle calendar. Archie McArthur said he was delighted with the presentation and it highlighted that the society does need support from the members. He recommended that the council should be putting together a 6 year plan. Breeders must come and support the society sales. Angus Mackay stated that the society has been in this position before in previous years. Highland cattle are being crossed with other native breeds he feels that the increase in fees is not drastic enough and we don t have 3 or 4 years but only 1 or 2 years to solve the situation. Simon Haley said we need more positive advertising and marketing on Highland beef. Angus M said the Americans publish a quarterly journal instead of a yearly one as ours maybe turning into good phone book. He suggested that we ask for articles from the American and German journals. Ian Duncan said we should do more with the Waitrose project and market it at United Auctions at the sales. Simon H also suggested we need to move things forward and have a marketing policy in place. Arthur Hill commented that the expenditure was obviously under control and tinkering was required on the income we need to look at various things on income Increase on subs along with inflation, don t have one off hits, invest income and increase advertising. There could be local enterprise partnerships with available funding south of the border Natural England have sustainable grasslands where they use native breeds. Arthur also suggested that we have an audit done.

19 Jenne S suggested we have the newsletter via . The majority of the members present would be happy to receive the newsletter electronically. There was a general discussion on costs of subscriptions and Charlie asked the members their thoughts on an increase on subscriptions two thirds of the audience agreed to an increase in subscriptions. Gordon McConachie said we have looked at an increase in income but we also need to look at decreasing costs. John Cooper suggested that we put the minutes out in the next newsletter. 4. Report from Advertising & Promotion Committee Liz McCombe Liz reported as follows Most of the ideas the committee has implemented during this year have concerned updating and improving the website. The journal is now able to be downloaded, with other information useful to new and long term breeders. Reorganisation of web pages and updated information has been noticed and supported by members, which is very heartening. The work tends to be sporadic and depends how much time is available, but it is progressing. Attendance of members of the committee and Council at Shows and exhibitions has been good. A car full went to the Irish Ploughing Match, organised by the Secretary, covered by a grant, with fares paid by individuals who went. The Society gained publicity and recognition, various breeders made sales leads from which new members will join the Society, bringing in revenue. The opportunity to observe other methods of marketing was useful and several of us came away with some new ideas. Making the most of these events depends to a great extent on someone (Hazel) keeping up with the latest opportunities for the Society. At the Royal Welsh Show I was able to see Hazel raising sponsorship for the Society. After a very smooth operation lasting at least three minutes, she was promised a couple of thousand pounds not a bad return! Several new brochures have been brought out this year, simplifying and increasing the amount of information contained in the old ones. They are proving popular. It is the nature of the role of the committee that shows, publications and the website are kept under constant review for improvement and updating. Positive feedback and suggestions from members are always very welcome. Thank you for your time. Rosemary Hunter asked that the Highland Cattle Society is made more prominent in the advertising. Donald MacNaughton felt that the society should do more at Stars of the Furture competition to promote the breed and felt there was no presence from the society. Charlie has been there to present the prizes and this will be looked at for future years. Roddy McDougall replied to Ian Duncan s comments on promoting Dovecote Park within the society that is also important the individuals and private butchers also need support. It is important the whole breed is promoted. Archie McArthur said we must not drop the advertising budget but just crack on and do something. 5. Report from Breed Development Committee Charlie introduced Robin Chilton Chairman of Breed Development Committee. Robin first of all thanked the members for allowing the committee and council to move forward with the voluntary bull assessment so far 29 animals have been assessed and to date another 8 are waiting to be assessed. Sally Leighton asked how many bulls were passed and failed. 2 animals have been failed and 2 have received a pass plus. The committee is looking at the sales in Chelford, Worcester and Oban and wish to address the falling number of animals forward at the sales. A number of successful open days have been held throughout the country Highland Cattle Club of Wales open day was held at Duncan & Angela Handley with just under 100 people in attendance talks on everything from the structure of the animal showing, feeding and nutrients and a butchery demonstration. The North of England held their day at Robert & Wendy Phillip where the bull assessment was discussed and explained, Mark Blakey from Doevcote Park explained what they were looking for in animals for their Christmas scheme. Stephen Huq of Carrs Billington and Jeremy Sample of Tithebarn were on hand to offer advice on feeding and nutrients.

20 The North of Scotland Club held their day by kind permission of Dingwall & Highland Marts. There was a tremendous turnout with 20 pens of cattle raised on the day was donated to MacMillan Nurses and Maggie s Cancer Centre. Andrew Kirkpatrick has been nominated and confirmed as a fieldsman. Robin thanked the council and office staff for their help and support. Donald MacN asked why old bulls were being assessed if they were failed the offspring would be in the system anyway. Robin appreciated the comments but we had to start somewhere. Angus Mackay asked that the society give Robin 5 years with the project as it could prove to be a great educational tool. Frances Fergie asked what the goal was on the assessment Robin said they were looking for the bulls to be structurally correct. 6. Recommendations and Remits from Council Nomination for Honorary Membership a. Mr Richard Thomson Jim McConachie said that there was no one more deserving of the honorary membership than Ritch Thomson. He has had a lifetime in producing and showing the very best livestock in many breeds. He is the ultimate stockman, dedicated to the profession, bringing out the absolute best in the animals appearance along with his own. Over the year Ritch has brought out no fewer than 45 champions and 13 reserves around the UK and over 100 winners at local shows. He started his links with Highlanders 25 years ago the Knox family s Innisard fold, Newtonmore, he has since helped other folds including Bien Esk run by Patricia Smith & Paul Burns, the McConachie s Culfoich Fold. Although having worked with Aberdeen Angus and Beef Shorthorn his love is definitely with the Highlanders although he has a soft spot for the Beef Shorthorn because of the long link his family has had with them. 50 years ago Ritch s father brought out the Champion Beef Shorthorn bull and in February 2014 Ritch did the same for Jack Ramsay. He also won the Queen s Cup in 2002 at the Royal Smithfield Show in London with his own home-bred highland steer, Prince Phillip. 7. Election of Office Bearers a. President In accordance with rules 10 and 12 of the constitution, your council has unanimously agreed to recommend to the Annual General Meeting to be held on Saturday 15 th February 2014 Mr Tom Nelson, Glengorm, Isle of Mull offers himself for election as President of the Society having been proposed by Mr Charlie Bruce with the agreement of council nem com. b. Vice President In accordance with rules 10 and 12 of the constitution Mr Tom Thomson, Woodneuk, Barrhead, Glasgow offers himself for election as Vice President of the Society having been unanimously proposed by council. His appointment is a recommendation by council. 8. Election of Council Members 6 members stood for election and the following James Ayres Stuart Campbell Hugh Hoather Dochy Ormiston New president Tom Nelson presented Jim, Stuart and Dochy with their council member badges. He thanked outgoing council members Alan Blackburn, Iain Mackay, Jim McConachie and Ginny Stacy Marks and presented them with commemorative quaichs from the society.