This year’s Dairy Show will focus on new generations of dairy farmers

Returning to the Bath & West Showground on 2nd October, the show will host some of the UK’s finest dairy livestock, welcoming past, present and future generations of talent and class, the organisers confirmed. 

Exhibitors will travel from all over the country to compete in a variety of breed classes before respective champions go head-to-head for the sought after Supreme Champion title.  

However, before the title is bestowed, the ring will host the next generation of handlers in the showmanship classes, including age groups seven to 12, 13 to 17 and 18 to 26. This, followed by the calf classes, will be a chance to spot a few new stars. 

Prime opportunity 

The Dairy Show will also once again be the venue of choice for the UK Jersey Cattle Society’s and the English Guernsey Cattle Society’s National Shows. To that end, competition entries will open in early August to all classes. 

Demonstrating the sector’s breadth of knowledge and innovation, a showcase of the latest technologies, services and advice will also be on offer, enabling discussions and collaboration that capitalise on opportunity, build resilience, and help prepare for the future.  

Jess Chiplen, head of shows, said that with the future in mind, the Dairy Show is proud to announce its ‘careers’ theme for this year’s seminars, aiming to take a holistic approach to the industry’s growing need for new minds, perspectives and appetites.  

She added: “The dairy sector – and the industry as a whole – has a wealth of career prospects. 

“But despite there being an extraordinary breadth of careers, young people and those looking for new career opportunities have often expressed that they are at a loss of where to go for advice, how to get their foot in the door – or even afford a career change. 

“With so many businesses and key stakeholders present at the show, it felt like a prime opportunity for us to tackle the careers topic and work towards dismantling barriers.” 

Limitless career choices 

Furthering its reach to young people who reside outside the farm gate, the show will launch its Dairy Discovery Day, linking farming with STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics), with its pilot interactive careers tour taking place at the show.  

Shows and education co-ordinator, Lilanie Self, added: “As we continue to broaden our education horizon, we are excited to be launching a new initiative to the Dairy Show, specifically aimed at key stage two students who are beginning to explore possible career paths. 

“The career choices are limitless, and we are passionate about providing a platform to raise awareness of the breadth of opportunity within agriculture.” 

Advance tickets to the Dairy Show are available at £20 per adult, increasing to £25 on the gate. Students, with proof, will have discounted entry at £15 and children under 15 will have free entry. 

Find out more and book tickets here. Enter competitions here.

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