The annual Braco Show, a beloved event in Perth and Kinross, is set to make headlines this year with a unique twist: a completely female judging panel. This marks only the third time in the show’s long history – dating back to 1804 – that a woman has chaired the event. This year’s chairperson, Helen Martin, leads a team of talented women evaluating entries across numerous categories.
While an all-female judging team isn’t unprecedented for Braco – a similar setup occurred in 2003 – the event continues to grow in popularity and community engagement. This year’s show promises a vibrant atmosphere, showcasing the best of local agriculture and rural life. Attendees can expect a wide array of exhibits, including impressive displays of cattle, sheep, goats, heavy horses, and light ponies. The renowned country living marquee will also be brimming with locally sourced products. A Day for All Ages
Beyond the agricultural competitions, the Braco Show offers something for everyone. Families can enjoy the ever-popular dog show, which promises to be a highlight of the day, filled with adorable canine participants. A parade of classic vehicles will also take place, attracting car enthusiasts of all ages. For those seeking a bit more excitement, a strongman competition will undoubtedly capture attention. The show organizers anticipate welcoming approximately 2000 visitors to enjoy the day’s activities. The entire committee hopes for good weather, ensuring a truly memorable experience for all. Celebrating Women in Agriculture
The decision to feature an all-female judging team is a significant step towards recognizing the vital contributions of women to the agricultural sector in Perth and Kinross. These women, experts in their fields, bring a wealth of experience and dedication to their roles, ensuring fair and informed evaluations. Their expertise spans a wide range of livestock and rural crafts. Meet the Judges
This year’s distinguished judging panel includes several established and respected figures from across the region and beyond. Their combined experience guarantees rigorous and insightful assessments. Joyce Carnegie of Comrie will judge the Champion of Champions. Rosemary Hunter from Allanton will oversee the Highland cattle category, while Leslie Wylie of Kirriemuir tackles the Continental and native breeds. The Commercial cattle will be judged by Ruby Simpson of Alyth. Kayley Gill of Barnard Castle will judge both the Commercial sheep and Beltex sheep categories.
The judging team also includes Ruth Allen from Alnwick for the Cheviot sheep, Kirsty Colthart of Kinross for the Commercial sheep, Jill Hunter of Glenfarg for Texel sheep, and Katie Fairlie of Glen Clova for Blackface and Mules and Bluefaced Leicester sheep. Amy Bryce of Stirling will judge any other sheep breeds, while Jenni McAllister from Tomintoul takes on the unique Valais Blacknose sheep. Patsy Hunter of Muthill will select the overall sheep champion and will also judge the Young Handlers and Young Farmers competitions. Louise Nicol of Forfar will judge the goats, Jill Vasey of Edinburgh will preside over the unaffiliated light horse and pony categories, Jane Barry of Culbokie will judge the mountain and moorland entries, and Eileen Carlyle of Lockerbie will take on the Shetland ponies. Louise Greenhill of Letham will judge the Clydesdales.
Rebecca Chalmers of Coupar Angus will be the judge for Highland entries, both in-hand and ridden. Finally, the baking and produce will be judged by Helen Buchanan and Margaret Nelson, both from Kinross, and Mary Young of Alloa will focus on handicrafts and floral art. Rounding off the exceptional judging lineup is Jordon Barclay of Kinross, who will oversee the children’s section, and Sarah Oldman of Crieff, judging the popular dog show. Show Details & Accessibility
The Braco Show is located at Lodge Park, Braco, kindly hosted by the Muir family. The show opens its gates at 8:30 am, with activities continuing until 5:00 pm. Tickets are available at the gate, priced at £10 for adults, £5 for children and senior citizens, and free for children under five. Ample free parking is provided a short distance west of the horse field, offering convenient access for visitors from across Perth and Kinross and beyond.
The Braco Show stands as a testament to the vitality of rural communities in Perthshire. It is not simply an agricultural competition but a celebration of the region’s heritage, craftsmanship, and community spirit. The all-female judging team highlights the significant role women play in sustaining agricultural traditions and showcases the diverse talents of individuals within the area. The event promises a delightful day out for families and enthusiasts alike, filled with friendly competition, entertaining displays, and a showcase of the region’s finest agricultural produce and rural skills.
While an all-female judging team isn’t unprecedented for Braco – a similar setup occurred in 2003 – the event continues to grow in popularity and community engagement. This year’s show promises a vibrant atmosphere, showcasing the best of local agriculture and rural life. Attendees can expect a wide array of exhibits, including impressive displays of cattle, sheep, goats, heavy horses, and light ponies. The renowned country living marquee will also be brimming with locally sourced products. A Day for All Ages
Beyond the agricultural competitions, the Braco Show offers something for everyone. Families can enjoy the ever-popular dog show, which promises to be a highlight of the day, filled with adorable canine participants. A parade of classic vehicles will also take place, attracting car enthusiasts of all ages. For those seeking a bit more excitement, a strongman competition will undoubtedly capture attention. The show organizers anticipate welcoming approximately 2000 visitors to enjoy the day’s activities. The entire committee hopes for good weather, ensuring a truly memorable experience for all. Celebrating Women in Agriculture
The decision to feature an all-female judging team is a significant step towards recognizing the vital contributions of women to the agricultural sector in Perth and Kinross. These women, experts in their fields, bring a wealth of experience and dedication to their roles, ensuring fair and informed evaluations. Their expertise spans a wide range of livestock and rural crafts. Meet the Judges
This year’s distinguished judging panel includes several established and respected figures from across the region and beyond. Their combined experience guarantees rigorous and insightful assessments. Joyce Carnegie of Comrie will judge the Champion of Champions. Rosemary Hunter from Allanton will oversee the Highland cattle category, while Leslie Wylie of Kirriemuir tackles the Continental and native breeds. The Commercial cattle will be judged by Ruby Simpson of Alyth. Kayley Gill of Barnard Castle will judge both the Commercial sheep and Beltex sheep categories.
The judging team also includes Ruth Allen from Alnwick for the Cheviot sheep, Kirsty Colthart of Kinross for the Commercial sheep, Jill Hunter of Glenfarg for Texel sheep, and Katie Fairlie of Glen Clova for Blackface and Mules and Bluefaced Leicester sheep. Amy Bryce of Stirling will judge any other sheep breeds, while Jenni McAllister from Tomintoul takes on the unique Valais Blacknose sheep. Patsy Hunter of Muthill will select the overall sheep champion and will also judge the Young Handlers and Young Farmers competitions. Louise Nicol of Forfar will judge the goats, Jill Vasey of Edinburgh will preside over the unaffiliated light horse and pony categories, Jane Barry of Culbokie will judge the mountain and moorland entries, and Eileen Carlyle of Lockerbie will take on the Shetland ponies. Louise Greenhill of Letham will judge the Clydesdales.
Rebecca Chalmers of Coupar Angus will be the judge for Highland entries, both in-hand and ridden. Finally, the baking and produce will be judged by Helen Buchanan and Margaret Nelson, both from Kinross, and Mary Young of Alloa will focus on handicrafts and floral art. Rounding off the exceptional judging lineup is Jordon Barclay of Kinross, who will oversee the children’s section, and Sarah Oldman of Crieff, judging the popular dog show. Show Details & Accessibility
The Braco Show is located at Lodge Park, Braco, kindly hosted by the Muir family. The show opens its gates at 8:30 am, with activities continuing until 5:00 pm. Tickets are available at the gate, priced at £10 for adults, £5 for children and senior citizens, and free for children under five. Ample free parking is provided a short distance west of the horse field, offering convenient access for visitors from across Perth and Kinross and beyond.
The Braco Show stands as a testament to the vitality of rural communities in Perthshire. It is not simply an agricultural competition but a celebration of the region’s heritage, craftsmanship, and community spirit. The all-female judging team highlights the significant role women play in sustaining agricultural traditions and showcases the diverse talents of individuals within the area. The event promises a delightful day out for families and enthusiasts alike, filled with friendly competition, entertaining displays, and a showcase of the region’s finest agricultural produce and rural skills.