New Entrants Gathering 2018 – It’s nae whit ye hae but whit ye dae wi whit ye hae

The New Entrants to Farming Programme held its 5^th Gathering, on the 27^th February at Perth Race Course.

The agenda was built to inform and inspire the participants on a range of agricultural enterprises with topics including, joint venture dairy farming, laying hens, building a brand, venison production and retailing, brewing, co-operation and European opportunities for new entrants.

The crowd were urged by Henry Graham, chair of LANTRA to have an achievers mindset and be adaptive to change.  While both Michael Shannon and Gordon Whiteford, both farmers told the group to travel, gain ideas from the best of people and always ask open questions such as ‘why?’ and ‘what?’ if you are to get the most enlighteing answers.  Maureen Maldowney highlighted that the key to success in their dairy joint ventures was to stay positive, and to always keep the dream alive.  Kerry Allison, SAC Food & Drink Consultant advised the participants to not just create a brand but take ownership by instilling your  personality and story.  While Bob Prentice who farms and processes venison, beef and lamb, inspired the audience by describing his journey and highlighting his ethos  in creating abbatoir facilities and the Stagison brand.

Here’s a round up of what our speakers told delegates: