Turriff and District JAC interview
How long have you been in Young Farmers?
I joined as soon as I turned 14, so I have been an active member for more than 10 years.
Any roles in agriculture?
Aer receiving my HND in Agriculture at SRUC Craibstone, I moved home and have been working full-time alongside my father on the family farm (just outside Turri). Even though I have finished studying, I try to keep up to date with new agricultural developments by taking part in discussion groups as well as being a committee member in both TurriShow and Young Farmers.
Favourite agricultural show?
I have been on the Turri Show committee for five years now and have been part of the set-up team and show operations for almost nine years. So, I would have to say that it will always be the most important show for me. Second to that, I would say the Royal Highland Show is a great social event which allows me to meet up with fellow students from my time studying at SRUC, as well as meeting new people and seeing new developments in agricultural machinery.
How has being in the YF impacted your personal development or life?
It has massively helped with social skills. Joining at a young age encourages you to socialise and speak to people you haven’t met before. Farming is an industry where socialising with others is very important since we work alone so much of the time.
What do you find most rewarding about YF?
Being able to give back to the local community. We have a great club and committee that organises loads of amazing fundraisers.
What issues do you think face young people within the agricultural industry?
The uncertainty of what we will face in the future is a very worrying problem. The weather has proven to be much more challenging for us in the past few years, with shorter windows to complete tasks such as spring sowing and harvesting. This has put more pressure on our businesses and makes younger people nervous about coming into agriculture. We also do not know what criteria our government is going to set for us to receive the equivalent to our Basic Payment Scheme, which is due to end in 2025.
Tips for being in the YF?
I would say the most important (and fun) part of being in a Young Farmers club is to enjoy getting involved in events. As chairperson of my club, I really appreciate as many members as possible helping out – that makes the running of a club so much easier and is really rewarding for members.
What advice would you o er to others considering joining YF?
Young Farmers has something for everyone. We have a broad range of members, many who are not from a farming background but are still interested in agriculture. Our older members who organise the meetings work hard to make it a welcoming club that you’ll enjoy being a part of. We also work hard to plan activities that will appeal to all ages and abilities. There really is never a dull moment – so if you’re thinking of joining a Young Farmers Club – definitely just do it. And if anyone gets a chance to join and be part of the committee – do that too and help Young Farmers clubs survive in the future.