The waiting is over for the finalists of the Scottish Agriculture Awards, as the full list has been revealed. Across 14 categories the cream of Scottish farming is competing to be best in their field with a chance to take home the coveted champion of champions trophy at the celebration in Glasgow on October 24.
Editor of The Scottish Farmer John Sleigh said: “At The Scottish Farmer, we are thrilled to once again highlight the incredible calibre of finalists for this year’s Scottish Agriculture Awards. From advisers who work tirelessly to support farms across the country, to the exceptional animal health providers, this year’s finalists are a testament to the innovation and dedication at the heart of Scottish agriculture. Each of these individuals and businesses, whether in arable farming, agroforestry, or diversified enterprises, showcases the adaptability and foresight needed to navigate the challenges of modern farming.
“These awards do more than celebrate their hard work – they inspire future generations and demonstrate that Scottish agriculture is a dynamic, sustainable, and forward-thinking sector. I’m immensely proud to recognise these finalists and the contributions they continue to make towards shaping the future of our industry.”
Chairman of RHASS (Royal Highland and Agricultural Society of Scotland), James Logan, said: “It is incredible to see such a diverse and impressive short list for The Scottish Agriculture Awards and we offer our congratulations to those selected. Showcasing the outstanding work of farmers, agricultural individuals and businesses who are driving the industry forward, it is vital that we celebrate the hard work of farmers, growers and crofters across Scotland, both to highlight individual successes and the triumphs of our sector at large. From Tain to Dumfries and Galloway, 42 farms and producers from across Scotland are shortlisted for these awards which will shine a spotlight on the exemplary work that Scottish farmers and farming businesses do 365 days a year.
“In a time of so many challenges, it is inspiring to see how farming individuals and businesses are facing them head-on and overcoming them. From working on their personal resilience skills to embracing smart technology, farmers have shown time and time again that they are willing and ready to make changes that will advance the sector and ensure the longevity and importance of Scottish agriculture. Nurturing rural communities to foster innovation is at the heart of building a sustainable agri-sector. Now, more so than ever before, it is vital that our agricultural industry is applauded for their successes and motivated by awards such as these – as well as showcasing them to consumers.”
Robert Neill, chair of AgriScot, said: “Judging the awards is always a privilege as farms openly share an insight into their businesses and the different approaches they are taking to stay ahead in modern agriculture, and we thank all of those who took the time and effort to enter. As ever, selecting the finalists and the winners can be a difficult task, but we have an exciting lineup and are very much looking forward to visiting these businesses over the next few weeks for the final judging.”
He praised the ongoing support from sponsors, which enables the recognition of these businesses. “The awards not only allow farms to reflect on their accomplishments and to be recognised for these, but can also open up new opportunities. We’re looking forward to celebrating all of their achievements at the awards ceremony in October and again at AgriScot on November 13.”
The Scottish Agriculture Awards 2024 – Finalists
Adviser of the Year
Craig Bothwell, SAC Consulting
David Owen, Owen Farm Services
Rhidian Jones, RJ Livestock Systems
Animal Health Provider of the Year
Te Pari Products
The Hoof GP Ltd
Thrums Veterinary Group
Arable Farm of the Year sponsored by soilessentials
Balbirnie Home Farms
Hamish Morison Farming Ltd
Over Rankeilour Farms
Best Agroforestry Award
Cantyhall Farming Partnership
Mains of Fincastle
The Woolly Pig Company – The future forest company at Brodoclea Farm Woodland
Contractor of the Year
Drew Watson & Co
W Murray (Farming) Ltd
Dairy Farm of the Year Award sponsored by GEA
Crumhaugh Farm
East Brackenridge Farm
Low Ballees Farm
Diversified Farm of the Year sponsored by SAC Consulting
Boghead Farm, Marshall’s Farm Shop
Kersheugh, Jackson’s of Jedburgh
Springfield Farm, Springfield Farm Holiday Pods
Farming’s Future Awards sponsored by NFU Scotland
Andrew Hiddleston
Ben Best
James Hamilton
Nicola Wordie
Machinery Dealer of the Year
AB Wight Engineering
Gammies Groundcare
Mixed Farm of the Year sponsored by Thorntons
Fearn Farm
Hilton of Beath Farm
Robert Forrest Ltd
Scotch Beef Farm of the Year sponsored by ABP
Birks Farm
Corskie Farm
Meikle Maldron Farm
Sheep Farm of the Year sponsored by Rumenco
Dornells Farm
Smailholm Mains Farm
Supplier of the Year
East of Scotland Farmers
Fasque Timber Products
Thornburn Group
Sustainable Farm of the Year sponsored by Virgin Money
Sgriob Ruadh Farm, Isle of Mull Cheese
Rotmell Farm
Lower Mill of Tynet Farm
Unsung Hero of the Year sponsored by Shearwell Data
To be announced on the night
Champion of Champions 2024 sponsored by ScottishPower Renewables
To be announced on the night