Farming and rural industries are onto a winner following the announcement that the Scottish Agriculture Awards are to make a return to the stage this year.
Last year’s inaugural awards event, organised in a collaboration between AgriScot, the Royal Highland Agricultural Society (RHASS) and The Scottish Farmer as ‘the’ all-industry awards, was hailed a tremendous success and nominations have now opened for the 2024 event.
Robert Neill, Chairman of AgriScot, which continues to manage and lead on the Farm of the Year categories, said he was delighted that October 24th has been confirmed as the date for this year.
“Plans are already well underway, and we are determined to provide an even greater platform to give recognition to Scotland’s amazing agricultural industry,” he said.
More than 450 people donned their glad rags for last year’s ceremony to celebrate some of the most innovative and progressive agricultural business and individuals within the sector.
The glittering occasion will once again be compered by The Sheep Game’s Cammy Wilson but this year will be hosted at a new, larger venue, the DoubleTree by Hilton Glasgow.
The Farm of the Year Awards, which have long been an integral part of the annual AgriScot farm business event in November, include Dairy, Beef, Sheep, Arable, Diversified and Sustainable, and new for 2024, Mixed Farm of the Year.
The other categories encompassed by the Scottish Agriculture Awards include Adviser, Contractor, Machinery Dealer, Supplier, Animal Health Provider of the Year, Best Agroforestry Award and the Unsung Hero Award.
While going home from the awards with a prize will be every entrant’s aim, Robert said one of his highlights from last year was the sharing of best practice, knowledge and ideas:
“The insights into the farm businesses and the stories each entrant had to tell were inspiring. They had all learnt lessons from their experiences as they strived to farm successfully in this ever-changing agricultural, environmental and policy landscape.
“It was a joy to read the various case studies and those who entered last year’s awards fed back to us how beneficial the whole process was. The entry deadline made them sit down and analyse their business, reminding themselves of what they have achieved – which is often easy to forget. Not only do the awards bring great kudos, but they can also lead to new opportunities.
“The success of these awards has been driven by the high calibre of individuals and businesses that apply, as well as of the prestige of the supporters and sponsors who make them happen and we look forward to another compelling line up in 2024. I would urge farm businesses of all types, who are making achievements they are proud of, to put themselves forward. There is nothing to lose, and plenty to gain.
“Finally, there is no getting away from the fact that the awards ceremony itself is a great night out, bringing together people from across the industry to network, share stories and enjoy each other’s company.”
All the award winners will not only have their moment in the spotlight at the awards evening; they will also be invited to AgriScot on November 13th to be recognised, and the Farm of the Year recipients will be presented with the much-coveted farm plaques.
Entry deadline is Thursday, July 11th 2024.
Full details are available from https://newsquestscotlandevents.com/events/agriawards/