In the Summer, RUAS Council member Jayne Harkness-Bones represented the Society at the global RASC Conference.
Jayne joined fellow Society member Robert Wallace at the event to represent the RUAS's younger members, their thoughts and ideas for overcoming any obstacles the future of farming may face.
Looking back on the first few days of the ‘incredibly rewarding’ trip, Janye recalled, ‘the pre-conference tour was a fantastic opportunity to see local farms and businesses embracing innovative agricultural practices, and also gave delegates the opportunity to meet informally before the main conference that followed.
‘Our first stop was to Lucinda Russell Racing where we got to meet the 2023 Grand National winner, Corach Rambler.
‘The action-packed schedule included visits to a diverse range of farm businesses, from East Scryne Fruit, to Arbikie Distillery and everything else in between. Not forgetting Geordie Souter's purebred Aberdeen Angus which was a real treat as a calf was born during our visit’.
Looking back on her time in Scotland, Jayne reflected that ‘a personal highlight was an informative visit to the James Hutton Institute, in particular an up-close tour of the centre of excellence in barley research - the International Barely Hub.
‘Wrapping up the tour was a stop at Balcaskie, a modern working estate in the East Neuk of Fife, farming organic beef and lamb alongside cereal crops. Bowhouse was set up by the estate in 2017 to be a food production hub, providing space for small-scale producers and reconnecting food to its source both through a monthly market weekend and direct relationships with chefs and other food specialists.
‘While these visits were informative, the discussions during the main conference were equally impactful. One standout presentation was by our very own Professor John Gilliland, who spoke about the Northern Ireland Soil Nutrient Health Scheme. We really are industry leaders in our small country which I was immensely proud to feel a part of.
‘Other speakers included Jim Shanks, a fifth-generation dairy farmer from Standhill farm in the Scottish Borders. From growing up on the family dairy, Jimmy has now become Scotland's only producer of tomatoes.
‘Following an inspiring presentation from Anna Jones, rural affairs journalist, author, broadcaster, and television producer, we were set a challenge to use social media to get a message across in a short promotional video. This was a fun and challenging experience as we were put into groups, leaders emerged, and deadlines were met’.
The conference hosted delegates from across the world and Jayne confirmed that ‘networking with other Next Generation Delegates was a significant part of the conference experience. I had the privilege of meeting peers from across the Commonwealth who shared their own experiences and insights. The panel on “Empowering the Next Generation” highlighted the vital role young leaders will play in shaping agricultural policy and driving innovation, and it was encouraging to see so much passion and commitment among the next generation of agricultural professionals.
‘Attending the RASC Conference was an invaluable experience, and I am immensely grateful to the Royal Agricultural Society for making it possible. The combination of farm and business visits, engaging presentations, and opportunities to connect with industry leaders and fellow young professionals has provided me with new knowledge and inspiration. The knowledge I’ve gained, particularly around diversification, innovation, and sustainability, will undoubtedly influence my future work in agriculture.
‘Thank you once again for your generosity and support’.
