Get involved from an early age and you’ll soon be hooked on this wonderful breed

At the Society, we have quite a few young Highlander fans. Here’s why they love finding out more about this amazing breed.

If you’re thinking of going into farming as a career, it’s great idea to start learning more about Highlander cattle when you’re young. It’s a fantastic way to get outdoors in the fresh air, enjoying nature and having plenty of fun at the same time.

Young Highlander fans can spend lots of time with these lovely, friendly, unforgettable animals. You’ll learn how to take care of them, how to show them at Highland Cattle Society shows and other major events, including how to present them and walk them correctly into the show ring. You’ll find out all about this unique breed and its’ impressive history – the oldest registered breed of cattle in the world – and so much more.

Sound fun? Why not get involved today, we’re always looking for more young Highlander fans!

Don’t just take our word for it. Read this report by former Junior Highlander, Laura Phillip

From the first show we went to I was hooked, when I got used to getting up at 6am that is! The whole experience of showing, with everyone there working so hard to get the best out of their animals and promoting the breed was amazing.

The fun of not just competing but actually taking part and working alongside everyone else was a real inspiration. I realised that the Highlanders would be a big part of my life from then on; I had been bitten by the bug!

As time went on and we got more and more Highlanders on the farm, I got more and more involved. I have one particular cow, Lucy, who is my special pet; she comes running up when I call and is as tame as a puppy. I think this might be why I love them so much - they have so much character and personality.

I first went up to the October Oban Show and Sale, slightly reluctant, as a weekend away with the parents. Here I thoroughly enjoyed meeting so many new people, all of whom were friendly and, even though I was only 20, I found the social side great fun.

When I went up in the following February, I had some money to spend - and this was when I bought my first cow, Nicki of Balure, a three year old heifer. The excitement of the auction just got to me and I couldn't stop myself.

I now have my own registered fold, Lilygreen, and though there is just one cow now, I hope to build it up as much as I can when I finish my nursing degree. I wish there were more young people involved as it would help to ensure the continuing interest in promotion of the breed.

It would also be nice to meet like-minded people of my own age; so come on members, encourage the youth!