The recent Braco Show, a highlight on the Perthshire agricultural calendar, unfolded as a spectacular showcase of dedication and expertise within the local farming community. This year’s event featured an exceptional display of top-tier animals, with remarkable accolades earned by Richard Hassell and Rachel Wyllie of Brailes Livestock, whose entries truly commanded attention across the cattle sections. Their sweeping success served as a powerful testament to the region’s robust tradition in pedigree breeding.
The pinnacle of achievement, the esteemed Overall Champion of Champions, was proudly awarded to their exquisite two-year-old Charolais heifer. This magnificent animal, known as Newhouse Urdo, had already accumulated considerable acclaim throughout the current show season, boasting a championship title from the West Fife Show and a prestigious first-place ribbon at the renowned Royal Highland Show. Originally acquired from the highly respected Adam family of Newhouse of Glamis, Urdo’s distinguished lineage, which traces back to the notable Ballinlare Phantom and Newhouse Natalie, undoubtedly contributed to her commanding and elegant presence in the show ring. Furthermore, she was noted to be in-calf to Sportsmans Linesman, indicating a promising future for her offspring.
The string of triumphs continued for Hassell and Wyllie. Their Aberdeen-Angus champion, Idvies Elisa Z150, a March 2023-born heifer from Graeme Fraser’s esteemed Newton of Idvies herd, adeptly secured the title of Reserve Interbreed Cattle Champion. Elisa is a seasoned competitor on the show circuit, having clinched the same award at Braco in the previous year. Her impressive list of achievements also includes reserve interbreed beef accolades at both the West Fife and Dunblane shows, as well as a coveted breed championship at the Fife Show earlier in the season. Her consistent performance and remarkable quality have firmly established her reputation. Champion Livestock Shines Across Categories
The spirit of collaboration and excellence was also evident in the interbreed group of three competition. Here, Dougie McBeath and Sarah-Jane Jessop from Stirling presented an outstanding trio of homebred yearling Limousins, named Springsett Vancey, Vista, and Verynice. Their collective prowess earned them a repeat victory from their success at Dunblane. The reserve honours in this highly competitive category were fittingly awarded to Wilson Peters, a well-known figure from Cuilt Farmhouse near Crieff, for his impressive Limousin cross entries. Mr. Peters further distinguished himself by securing the supreme award in the pairs competition with his exceptional Limousin cross calves, while McBeath and Jessop’s Verynice and Vista once again demonstrated their quality by claiming the runner-up position.
The native cattle sections also featured strong and vibrant competition, highlighting the diversity of breeds in the region. Richard and Carol Rettie’s 16-month-old Hereford heifer, Hean 1 Plover, a daughter of Hean Tombola acquired from the Hean dispersal, confidently claimed the Native Cattle Champion title, building upon her previous success at Fife. The reserve position in this section went to Brenda Wear’s March 2021-born Hereford heifer, Hean 1 Eira 402, who had also earned a reserve ribbon at Dunblane.
Auchterarder’s William Lawson, representing Windsole, presented a prime example of the majestic Highland breed. His three-year-old homebred black heifer, Phiobaidh of Windsole, was deservedly named Highland champion, continuing her strong showing from last year’s Braco event where she secured reserve, and a first-in-class win the year prior. Jim Clydesdale of Snabhead, West Bannockburn, secured the Highland reserve with his two-year-old Dannsair of Applecross, a formidable animal who had previously been champion at Dunblane.
In the highly anticipated commercial cattle ring, Graham Cameron of Wester Bonhard, Scone, was lauded for his February-born three-quarter Limousin cross bullock, an animal that had previously achieved reserve champion status at Kirriemuir. Wilson Peters of Cuilt Farmhouse, Monzie, earned the commercial reserve with Shelby GT, his homebred September 2023-born Limousin cross. This impressive animal had already secured champion titles at the Angus, Alyth, and Kirriemuir shows, solidifying its reputation. Sheep Sections See Flourishing Competition
The sheep lines at Braco also witnessed a significant surge in entries, leading to an atmosphere of intense yet amicable rivalry. The supreme sheep title was deservedly bestowed upon a Blackface ewe, making a memorable debut for first-time exhibitor Robert Cockburn of Hill of Errol, located just outside Perth. This remarkable two-crop ewe, an offspring of the illustrious £35,000 Dalchirla Fury, had already proven her superior qualities by securing the champion title at the Angus Show. Adding to his accolades, Cockburn’s homebred gimmer, on her inaugural outing, impressively secured the Blackface reserve.
The coveted blue and white sash for reserve interbreed sheep was presented to Kim Stretch of Cuilt Farmhouse, Crieff, for her outstanding Texel ewe, aptly named Eve. This two-crop ewe, sired by Cressage Enforcer and descending from Kim’s widely recognized foundation show ewe, Strathbogie Gloria, has consistently earned championship rosettes over the past two years. Her progeny also played a pivotal role, with her distinguished ram lamb son and shearling ram joining her to form the winning interbreed group of three.
Other prominent winners in the sheep categories included John and Elaine Duncan of Drumheldric, Milton of Campsie, who triumphed in the Scotch Mule section with an April-born ewe lamb. They also secured the reserve with a promising pen of three similar ewe lambs, slated for sale later in the year. Kevin Campbell of Backhills, Glendevon, demonstrated a strong presence in the Bluefaced Leicester classes, winning champion with a gimmer that had previously taken the Braco champion title last year, and reserve with a ewe lamb on its very first show outing.
In the highly competitive commercial sheep section, Struan Whyte of Lintibert, Muthill, showcased his expertise by clinching both the champion and reserve titles. His winning entry was a pen of three homebred Beltex cross Texel gimmers, making their first appearance in the ring, while his early March-born Beltex cross lamb secured the reserve position. Andrew Morton of Lochend, Denny, dominated the Beltex category, claiming both champion and reserve with a homebred shearling ram and a previously unshown ram lamb, respectively, both promising animals destined for the upcoming Lockerbie breed sale.
Pam Tapson of Monzie, Crieff, left a strong impression in the North Country Cheviot class, taking both champion and reserve with a gimmer that was a Dunblane champion, and a ewe lamb that had previously excelled at the Fife and Haddington shows. The increasingly popular Valais Blacknose breed was also well-represented, with Cat Losty of Meikle Westland, Cumnock, winning champion with her March-born ewe lamb, Nithsdale Myree, a multi-award winner in her category. Her formidable shearling ram, Nithsdale Kain, secured the reserve title.
The future of agriculture in Perthshire looks exceptionally bright, as evidenced by the enthusiasm and skill displayed in the young handlers’ competition. Ailsa McDougall was deservedly crowned champion in the over 10 years category, with Ruaidh Campbell and Neil McLaren securing second and third places respectively. In the under 10 years group, Fern Campbell earned first place, closely followed by James Neill and the budding Rattray brothers, Tom and Alfie. Struan Whyte also triumphed in the young farmer’s prime lamb section, collectively showcasing the rich pool of emerging talent within the community. Beyond the Farm: Other Livestock and Equine Champions
The show’s diverse livestock entries extended beyond traditional farm animals, drawing interest from various enthusiasts. Clare Bailey’s six-year-old Pygmy buck, Heddawn Jasper, took the prestigious goat champion title, adding another win to his earlier success at Echt. Ailene Charlton’s homebred pygmy goatling, Aylswood Minnie Moo, was named a worthy reserve.
The equine section also saw fierce and graceful competition. Tom Stuart of Mawburn Shetlands, Kinross, celebrated a remarkable triple victory. His 16-year-old Shetland mare, Scapa of Auckhorn, not only secured the Standard Shetland Pony champion title but also went on to be crowned supreme Shetland and the overall interbreed heavy horse honours. Scapa, well-regarded for her prior success at both Dunblane and Kirriemuir shows, was presented alongside her mid-May born colt foal, adding a charming touch to her victory. The Clydesdale champion, Neil Christie’s four-year-old yeld mare Dalfoil Lady Eliza from Balfron, earned the reserve overall heavy horse title, complementing her supreme win at Gargunnock and reserve at Ayr. Thomas Clark and Sons of Muirton, Crieff, also secured the Clydesdale reserve with their promising yearling filly Croachmore Dolly.
In the spirited Shetland Pony categories, Lynda Cochrane of Kilwinning, Ayrshire, expertly guided her eight-year-old yeld mare, Snelsmore Ulyana, to the Miniature Shetland Pony champion and reserve overall Shetland titles, following impressive prior wins at the Royal Northern Spring Show and Royal Welsh. Amy McConville of Over Baldinnie, Cupar, secured the Miniature Shetland Pony reserve with her 14-year-old mare, Elangate Ella, presented with her June-born filly foal. Highland Pony honours were awarded to Alison Blackburn of Ferndale, Fort William, for her distinguished senior gelding Hufflepuffle of Park View, while J, J and A Simpson of Chapelhill, Logiealmond, secured the reserve with their elegant yearling filly Chapelhill Ruby.
The Braco Show once again solidified its position as a vibrant and essential event, proudly showcasing agricultural excellence, fostering strong community spirit, and celebrating the enduring passion for traditional farming and breeding deeply rooted in the heart of the Perthshire region.
The pinnacle of achievement, the esteemed Overall Champion of Champions, was proudly awarded to their exquisite two-year-old Charolais heifer. This magnificent animal, known as Newhouse Urdo, had already accumulated considerable acclaim throughout the current show season, boasting a championship title from the West Fife Show and a prestigious first-place ribbon at the renowned Royal Highland Show. Originally acquired from the highly respected Adam family of Newhouse of Glamis, Urdo’s distinguished lineage, which traces back to the notable Ballinlare Phantom and Newhouse Natalie, undoubtedly contributed to her commanding and elegant presence in the show ring. Furthermore, she was noted to be in-calf to Sportsmans Linesman, indicating a promising future for her offspring.
The string of triumphs continued for Hassell and Wyllie. Their Aberdeen-Angus champion, Idvies Elisa Z150, a March 2023-born heifer from Graeme Fraser’s esteemed Newton of Idvies herd, adeptly secured the title of Reserve Interbreed Cattle Champion. Elisa is a seasoned competitor on the show circuit, having clinched the same award at Braco in the previous year. Her impressive list of achievements also includes reserve interbreed beef accolades at both the West Fife and Dunblane shows, as well as a coveted breed championship at the Fife Show earlier in the season. Her consistent performance and remarkable quality have firmly established her reputation. Champion Livestock Shines Across Categories
The spirit of collaboration and excellence was also evident in the interbreed group of three competition. Here, Dougie McBeath and Sarah-Jane Jessop from Stirling presented an outstanding trio of homebred yearling Limousins, named Springsett Vancey, Vista, and Verynice. Their collective prowess earned them a repeat victory from their success at Dunblane. The reserve honours in this highly competitive category were fittingly awarded to Wilson Peters, a well-known figure from Cuilt Farmhouse near Crieff, for his impressive Limousin cross entries. Mr. Peters further distinguished himself by securing the supreme award in the pairs competition with his exceptional Limousin cross calves, while McBeath and Jessop’s Verynice and Vista once again demonstrated their quality by claiming the runner-up position.
The native cattle sections also featured strong and vibrant competition, highlighting the diversity of breeds in the region. Richard and Carol Rettie’s 16-month-old Hereford heifer, Hean 1 Plover, a daughter of Hean Tombola acquired from the Hean dispersal, confidently claimed the Native Cattle Champion title, building upon her previous success at Fife. The reserve position in this section went to Brenda Wear’s March 2021-born Hereford heifer, Hean 1 Eira 402, who had also earned a reserve ribbon at Dunblane.
Auchterarder’s William Lawson, representing Windsole, presented a prime example of the majestic Highland breed. His three-year-old homebred black heifer, Phiobaidh of Windsole, was deservedly named Highland champion, continuing her strong showing from last year’s Braco event where she secured reserve, and a first-in-class win the year prior. Jim Clydesdale of Snabhead, West Bannockburn, secured the Highland reserve with his two-year-old Dannsair of Applecross, a formidable animal who had previously been champion at Dunblane.
In the highly anticipated commercial cattle ring, Graham Cameron of Wester Bonhard, Scone, was lauded for his February-born three-quarter Limousin cross bullock, an animal that had previously achieved reserve champion status at Kirriemuir. Wilson Peters of Cuilt Farmhouse, Monzie, earned the commercial reserve with Shelby GT, his homebred September 2023-born Limousin cross. This impressive animal had already secured champion titles at the Angus, Alyth, and Kirriemuir shows, solidifying its reputation. Sheep Sections See Flourishing Competition
The sheep lines at Braco also witnessed a significant surge in entries, leading to an atmosphere of intense yet amicable rivalry. The supreme sheep title was deservedly bestowed upon a Blackface ewe, making a memorable debut for first-time exhibitor Robert Cockburn of Hill of Errol, located just outside Perth. This remarkable two-crop ewe, an offspring of the illustrious £35,000 Dalchirla Fury, had already proven her superior qualities by securing the champion title at the Angus Show. Adding to his accolades, Cockburn’s homebred gimmer, on her inaugural outing, impressively secured the Blackface reserve.
The coveted blue and white sash for reserve interbreed sheep was presented to Kim Stretch of Cuilt Farmhouse, Crieff, for her outstanding Texel ewe, aptly named Eve. This two-crop ewe, sired by Cressage Enforcer and descending from Kim’s widely recognized foundation show ewe, Strathbogie Gloria, has consistently earned championship rosettes over the past two years. Her progeny also played a pivotal role, with her distinguished ram lamb son and shearling ram joining her to form the winning interbreed group of three.
Other prominent winners in the sheep categories included John and Elaine Duncan of Drumheldric, Milton of Campsie, who triumphed in the Scotch Mule section with an April-born ewe lamb. They also secured the reserve with a promising pen of three similar ewe lambs, slated for sale later in the year. Kevin Campbell of Backhills, Glendevon, demonstrated a strong presence in the Bluefaced Leicester classes, winning champion with a gimmer that had previously taken the Braco champion title last year, and reserve with a ewe lamb on its very first show outing.
In the highly competitive commercial sheep section, Struan Whyte of Lintibert, Muthill, showcased his expertise by clinching both the champion and reserve titles. His winning entry was a pen of three homebred Beltex cross Texel gimmers, making their first appearance in the ring, while his early March-born Beltex cross lamb secured the reserve position. Andrew Morton of Lochend, Denny, dominated the Beltex category, claiming both champion and reserve with a homebred shearling ram and a previously unshown ram lamb, respectively, both promising animals destined for the upcoming Lockerbie breed sale.
Pam Tapson of Monzie, Crieff, left a strong impression in the North Country Cheviot class, taking both champion and reserve with a gimmer that was a Dunblane champion, and a ewe lamb that had previously excelled at the Fife and Haddington shows. The increasingly popular Valais Blacknose breed was also well-represented, with Cat Losty of Meikle Westland, Cumnock, winning champion with her March-born ewe lamb, Nithsdale Myree, a multi-award winner in her category. Her formidable shearling ram, Nithsdale Kain, secured the reserve title.
The future of agriculture in Perthshire looks exceptionally bright, as evidenced by the enthusiasm and skill displayed in the young handlers’ competition. Ailsa McDougall was deservedly crowned champion in the over 10 years category, with Ruaidh Campbell and Neil McLaren securing second and third places respectively. In the under 10 years group, Fern Campbell earned first place, closely followed by James Neill and the budding Rattray brothers, Tom and Alfie. Struan Whyte also triumphed in the young farmer’s prime lamb section, collectively showcasing the rich pool of emerging talent within the community. Beyond the Farm: Other Livestock and Equine Champions
The show’s diverse livestock entries extended beyond traditional farm animals, drawing interest from various enthusiasts. Clare Bailey’s six-year-old Pygmy buck, Heddawn Jasper, took the prestigious goat champion title, adding another win to his earlier success at Echt. Ailene Charlton’s homebred pygmy goatling, Aylswood Minnie Moo, was named a worthy reserve.
The equine section also saw fierce and graceful competition. Tom Stuart of Mawburn Shetlands, Kinross, celebrated a remarkable triple victory. His 16-year-old Shetland mare, Scapa of Auckhorn, not only secured the Standard Shetland Pony champion title but also went on to be crowned supreme Shetland and the overall interbreed heavy horse honours. Scapa, well-regarded for her prior success at both Dunblane and Kirriemuir shows, was presented alongside her mid-May born colt foal, adding a charming touch to her victory. The Clydesdale champion, Neil Christie’s four-year-old yeld mare Dalfoil Lady Eliza from Balfron, earned the reserve overall heavy horse title, complementing her supreme win at Gargunnock and reserve at Ayr. Thomas Clark and Sons of Muirton, Crieff, also secured the Clydesdale reserve with their promising yearling filly Croachmore Dolly.
In the spirited Shetland Pony categories, Lynda Cochrane of Kilwinning, Ayrshire, expertly guided her eight-year-old yeld mare, Snelsmore Ulyana, to the Miniature Shetland Pony champion and reserve overall Shetland titles, following impressive prior wins at the Royal Northern Spring Show and Royal Welsh. Amy McConville of Over Baldinnie, Cupar, secured the Miniature Shetland Pony reserve with her 14-year-old mare, Elangate Ella, presented with her June-born filly foal. Highland Pony honours were awarded to Alison Blackburn of Ferndale, Fort William, for her distinguished senior gelding Hufflepuffle of Park View, while J, J and A Simpson of Chapelhill, Logiealmond, secured the reserve with their elegant yearling filly Chapelhill Ruby.
The Braco Show once again solidified its position as a vibrant and essential event, proudly showcasing agricultural excellence, fostering strong community spirit, and celebrating the enduring passion for traditional farming and breeding deeply rooted in the heart of the Perthshire region.