One of the coldest days of the winter awaited our exhibitors and spectators at the Society’s annual show and sale held in Castle Douglas. Noted cattleman and recently appointed Galloway Cattle Society  cow classifier  Mr David Grant, 8 Netherhall, Bridge of Dee, Castle Douglas had the tough job of placing the bulls which was one of the best shows in recent years. 

David took his Champion from the 2 year old classes Ben Lomond Glengoyne from the Maxwell Family, Blairvockie Farm, Rowardennan, Drymen,   a son of the very successful bull   Klondyke Raider, which  had  been  male champion at the 2013 Royal Highland Show and overall champion at the 2013 National Show.  Glengoyne sold for 4000gns to John Heard, Hughslade, Okehampton, Devon he will join the 100 head Galloway herd. 

The reserve male champion was from a great line up from J & S Ross, Romesbeoch, Shawhead, Dumfries, Umpire of Romesbeoch is a Kirkmabreck Nimrod son and sold for 4000gns to Messrs Mastall from Germany who are returning to Scottish breeding after establishing their herd in the 80s.   
Top price of the day was for a second placed bull, Strictly of Fingland from Messrs W Wallace & Sons, Fingland, Dalry, Castle Douglas, this  May 2012 born son of the well-known AI Sire Orinocho of Over Barskeoch sold for 5200gns and   is off home with John and Andrew Tullie, Bowanhill, Teviothead, Hawick  to join their pedigree and commercial herd.

Barlaes Lincoln also achieved 4000gns, a son of the 10500gns Barack Obama of Fingland   from Robert McTurk, Barlaes, Dalry went home with Kentmere based, Messrs Dickinson of Brockstones,  
With 2 bulls and  11 heifers forward RA McClymont & Son, Kirkstead, Yarrow certainly had a great pay day,  the two bulls, Kirkstead Unique and Kirkstead Umpire made 3800gns and 3000gns respectively,  Unique a Penninghame Major son sold to returning buyer Jimmy Ions, High Thorneyburn, Falstone, Hexham and Umpire sold to new members Percy Farms, Emblehope, Tarset, Hexham, who are establishing both a pedigree and commercial herds.   

John, Ann and Iain Finlay, Blackcraig sold a pair of bulls,  Blackcraig Ant and Dec for 2000gns and 3000gns ,  both Blackcraig Sid  sons,  Ant sold to Mr Davidson, East Deloraine, Ettrick, Selkirk and Dec sold to Troloss Farms, Elvanfoot, Biggar.  

Stirling based Dennis and Margaret Gall sold the second youngest bull, Rannoch of Gall-way for 2600gns , this 11 month old Penninghame Major son was purchased by Marion Thomson and her husband from Nether Linkins, Gelston, Castle Douglas.   

Isle of Man based John Teare, Ballavair sold the much talked about bull Ballavair Black Magic for 2500gns to female judge Mr David Cornthwaite and his wife Rosemary, Balgray  Hill, Lockerbie, this 21 month old bull, is a son of Klondyke Power Play who was Junior Champion at 2009 Royal Highland show and Section Champion and Overall Supreme Champion at 2013 Royal Manx Show.

Another 3 bulls made 3000gns,   Vivaldi of Over Barskeoch exhibited by Messrs Wallace, Over Barskeoch, Dalry sold to Mr Malcolm, Gribun, Hough, Isle of Tiree.   Vivaldi has an impressive pedigree as his sire  Thor of Over Barskeoch  who was sold for 5000gns and is out of Nan of Over Barskeoch who was successfully shown winning over 20 champion titles. Unfortunately, the long journey home    took   three days longer due to    the weather conditions.    A member of the  winner   best pair of bulls V-Tech of Romesbeoch  from the Ross Family sold to Messrs Gourlay, Craigmuie, Moniaive , Thornhill and Robert McTurk’s Barlaes Landmark, another  Barack Obama of Fingland son sold to Devon based Messrs Jordan, Moortown Gate. 

New member and renowned Limousin breeder David Cornthwaite, Balgray Hill, Lockerbie  was in charge of placing  both the led and unled females, his champion in the led section was  Lady Silverbell 8th of Gall-way from Margaret and Dennis Gall, Boquhan Home Farm, Kippen, Stirling and she went on to achieve the top price  of 4100gns at the sale the following day, David backed up his decision by taking this very stylish incalf heifer home to his 24 head of Balgray Galloway herd.  Silverbell 8th  a Septimus of Tweedshaw daughter,   she had been junior champion at the 2012 Royal Highland Show  and has a very impressive pedigree  with  her dam and grand dam having been awarded supreme  champion at the Royal Highland show.

Margaret and Dennis also received 2700gns for Lady Silverbell 9th of Gall-way,  this Penninghame Major daughter also went home with David and Rosemary Cornthwaite and  again in the money for   Lady Silverbell 10th of Gall-way who sold for 2200gns to J & S Ross, Romesbeoch, Shawhead.   This Penninghame Major daughter has an impressive pedigree with championships on the dam side  and going back to Lady Silverbell 12th of Corrie.

The Ross family then sold Nerys 1341 of Romesbeoch for 2000gns,  this Kirkmabreck Nimrod daughter and granddaughter of the famous show cow Doon of Urr Nerys 42nd is off home with  new member, Messrs Ireland, Newhouse Farm, Drigg, Holmrook for their Newhouse herd which now stands at 25 head.

The Finlay Family also received 2700gns  for Blackcraig Moss Rose T426, this Finmac Norseman daughter  was purchased by young Willie McCornick, Barquhill, Newton Stewart for his herd which he established last year.  

The reserve female from J & A Finlay took the next best female price of 2600gns, another Finmac Norseman daughter Blackcraig Dora May T410 went home with Mr I Kennedy Moffat, Craigenvey, Moniaive again to join his herd he established last year.  

Both trophies in the unled section were won by RA McClymont and Son, Kirkstead, Yarrow,  the best pair  and winner of the   Andros Perpetual Challenge Cup  went to   Kirkstead Moss Rose V5 and Kirkstead Nancy V18 , both Braveheart of Gall-way daughters sold to Mrs R Craig, Broomfield Lodge, Ayr.for 1600gns and 1800gns respectively.

Winners of the McClymont/McIntosh memorial Trophy was Perlooie Pat 3rd bred by Mr J C Thomson and exhibited by Allan, this Kirkstead Nancy Boy daughter sold for 1350gns and made the long journey north to Islay with Mr Glover, Cladville.  

The 22 unled heifers averaged £1388.   

There were two steers exhibited from Kilntown Farms, Kilnstown, Bewcastle, Carlisle, the champion and top price was a very stylish  April 2013 born steer sold to Mr A Paterson, Low Three Mark, Stoneykirk for 1500gns,  Kilnstown’s other steer sold to M/s  E Telfer & Son, Newton High House, Newton, Stocksfield, Northumberland for 900gns.  Both steers will be shown at the summer shows. 

Also this day was the Bents dispersal on behalf of the Executors of the Late David Thomson.   A total of 23 animals were forward, including the aged bull Blackcraig Oddity which made 1400gns to Mr W Glover, Islay.  The top price female was for a dun cow, Lulu 362 of Bents, this Lochdochart Director daughter made 1550gns and was sold with a heifer calf at foot to A Lamont, Croish, Kilmouaig, Tiree.  
Two heifers  incalf  realised 1380gns , Daisy 484 and Daisy 485, both Blackcraig Oddity daughters sold to RHS Shaw, Gledpark, Borgue, Kirkcudbrightshire  and  Blackcraig Noreen 0244 returned to her breeders John and Ann Finlay for 1200gns.

The young heifers sold well, to a top of 780gns for Polly 505 and Beauty 515 of Bents they went home with AM McIntyre, Dalchalloch, Pitlochry, Perthshire.

Averages
20 Bulls £2814 (-£255)
33 served heifers £1500 (-£191)
4 heifers in calf  £2063.25
25 Bulling heifers £1132  (-£275)
2 steers  £1260  (+£168)

Lot No

Price Purchaser

1

1900

M/s Cole, Greenwell Farm, Yelverton

2

4000

A Mastall, Germany

3

2500

M/s Jordan, Moortwon Gate, Gidleigh, Chagford, Devon. 

4

4000

M/s Dickinson, Brockstone, Kentmere, Kendal

5

1000

B Jingles, 2 Mulleughsandal Road, Larne, Co Antrim

6

1600

N/S

7

4000

M/s J Heard, Hughslade, Okehampton

8

N/F

9

N/F

10

N/F

11

2500

D & R Cornthwaite, Balgray Hill, Lockerbie

12

2500

E & F Malcolm, Gribun,  Islay

13

5200

M/s Tullie, Bowanhill, Hawick

14

N/S

15

N/S

16

2500

M/s Gourlay, Craigmuie, Moniaive, Thornhill

17

3000

M/s Langdon,Criptor Farm, Samford Spinney, Yelverton, Devon

18

N/F

19

2000

Mr Davidson, East Deloraine

20

3800

Mr J Ions, High Thorneyburn, Falstone, Hexham

21

3000

Troloss Farms, Troloss, Elvanfoot

22

3000

Percy Farms

23

1500

M/s Abel, Higher Godsworthy, Petertavy, Devon

24

N/S

25

N/S

26

2000

Mr P Skinner, 121a Psalter Lane, Sheffield

27

2600

M/s Thomson

28

N/S

Led Females

29

4100

D & R Cornthwaite, Balgray Hill, Lockerbie

30

1000

Messrs A & Y Allan, Beck House, Killington, Near Kirkby Lonsdale

31

N/S

32

1200

Messrs A & Y Allan, Beck House, Killington, Near Kirkby Lonsdale

33

2000

Messrs Spours & Sons, Twizell Farm, Belford, Northumberland

34

2600

M/s Kennedy Moffat, Craigenvey, Moniaive, Dumfries

35

1100

Mr Douglas, 15 Ganvaughan Road, Castlederge, Co Tyrone

36

1150

Mr Douglas, 15 Ganvaughan Road, Castlederge, Co Tyrone

37

1000

Messrs Spours & Sons, Twizell Farm, Belford, Northumberland

38

1800

Messrs Spours & Sons, Twizell Farm, Belford, Northumberland

39

N/S

40

1800

Messrs Spours & Sons, Twizell Farm, Belford, Northumberland

41

1700

Messrs Spours & Sons, Twizell Farm, Belford, Northumberland

42

900

Mr Douglas, 15 Ganvaughan Road, Castlederge, Co Tyrone

43

1600

DM McQueen & Son, Upper Barr, Corsock, Castle Douglas

44

1200

D & W Bowman, Bagbie, Carsluith, Newton Stewart, Wigtownshire

45

1500

J & A Finlay, Blackcraig, Corsock, Castle Douglas

46

2700

Mr W McCornick, Barquhill, Wigtown, Newton Stewart

47

1000

Messrs Spours & Sons, Twizell Farm, Belford, Northumberland

48

1050

Mr H Kraft, Germany

49

1500

N & BM Ireland, Newhouse Farm, Drigg, Holmrook

50

1700

DM McQueen & Son, Upper Barr, Corsock, Castle Douglas

51

2700

D & R Cornthwaite, Balgray Hill, Lockerbie

52

2200

J & S Ross, Romesbeoch, Shawhead, Dumfries

53

N/S

54

N/S

55

1200

D & A Weeks, Ty Gwyn, Gilwern, Abergavenny, Monmouthshire

56

2000

N & BM Ireland, Newhouse Farm, Drigg, Holmrook

57

1400

A Mastall, Germany

58

1400

Mr H Kraft, Germany

59

1100

A Mastall, Germany

60

1300

D & W Bowman, Bagbie, Carsluith, Newton Stewart, Wigtownshire

61

1400

A Mastall, Germany

62

1350

W Glover, Cladville, Islay

63

1300

J & A Finlay, Blackcraig, Corsock, Castle Douglas

64

1250

J & A Finlay, Blackcraig, Corsock, Castle Douglas

65

1600

Mrs R Craig, Broomfield Lodge, Broomfield Road, Ayr

66

1400

Mr Douglas, 15 Ganvaughan Road, Castlederge, Co Tyrone

67

1800

Mrs R Craig, Broomfield Lodge, Broomfield Road, Ayr

68

1000

W Glover, Cladville, Islay

69

N/F

70

1300

MH & JR Weir, Falbae, Creetown, Newton Stewart

71

1350

W Glover, Cladville, Islay

72

1050

Mr Robinson, Ottercops, Kirkwhelpington, Newcastle

73

800

WG & H Kyle, Spout Bank, Brampton, Cumbria

74

1300

MH & JR Weir, Falbae, Creetown, Newton Stewart

75

N/S

76

1500

Mr Laidler, West Hamdaxwood, Fauldhouse

77

1600

Mr M Boone, 49 Blackrock Road, Cookstown, Co Tyrone, Northern Ireland 

78

N/F

79

1350

Messrs A & Y Allan, Beck House, Killington, Near Kirkby Lonsdale

80

1200

Messrs A & Y Allan, Beck House, Killington, Near Kirkby Lonsdale

81

1350

Messrs A & Y Allan, Beck House, Killington, Near Kirkby Lonsdale

82

N/F

83

1500

JWK Paterson & Son, Low Threemark, Stoneykirk, Stranraer

84

900

E Telfer & Son, Newton High House, Newton, Stocksfield, Northumberland

85

700

W Glover, Cladville, Islay

86

700

W Glover, Cladville, Islay

87

1300

W Glover, Cladville, Islay

88

1050

J & A Finlay, Blackcraig, Corsock, Castle Douglas

89

900

W Glover, Cladville, Islay

90

850

W Glover, Cladville, Islay

91

1200

J & A Finlay, Blackcraig, Corsock, Castle Douglas

92

900

WF Welsh, Nether Raigenputtock, Lochurr, Moniaive, Thornhill

93

1550

A Lamont, Croish, Kilmoluaig, Tiree

94

750

A Lamont, Croish, Kilmoluaig, Tiree

95

N/F

96

550

B Jingles, 2 Mulleughsandal Road, Larne, Co Antrim

97

1380

RH S Shaw, Gledpark, Borgue

98

1380

RH S Shaw, Gledpark, Borgue

99

620

AM McIntyre, Dalchalloch, Pitlochry 

100

620

AM McIntyre, Dalchalloch, Pitlochry 

101

500

H Lagan, 10 Carnamoney Lane, Draperstown

102

500

H Lagan, 10 Carnamoney Lane, Draperstown

103

780

AM McIntyre, Dalchalloch, Pitlochry 

104

780

AM McIntyre, Dalchalloch, Pitlochry 

105

600

H Lagan, 10 Carnamoney Lane, Draperstown

106

600

H Lagan, 10 Carnamoney Lane, Draperstown

107

700

A Lamont, Croish, Kilmoluaig, Tiree

108

700

A Lamont, Croish, Kilmoluaig, Tiree

109

760

B Jingles, 2 Mulleughsandal Road, Larne, Co Antrim

110

760

B Jingles, 2 Mulleughsandal Road, Larne, Co Antrim

111

720

RH S Shaw, Gledpark, Borgue

112

720

RH S Shaw, Gledpark, Borgue

 

Overall Beef Championship Judge:- Mr Jimmy Mulholland, Midtown Farm, Great Orton, Carlisle, Cumbria.
Native Classes Judge:- Mr Ian Neish, Craigeassie, Forfar.

 

Galloways reign supreme in the native awards at Scotland’s National Winter Show,  a pure bred Galloway bullock exhibited by Messrs M Telford and H Claxton, Newton High House, Newton, Stocksfield, Northumberland, won the best native award at the show which had moved to a Saturday.    This April 2012 born bullock named Digby was bred at Kilnstown Farms Ltd, Kilnstown, Bewcastle, Carlisle and was purchased at the  Society spring show and sale held at Castle Douglas.  Digby is by the AI sire Orinocho of Over Barskeoch and out of Doreen 31st of Kilnstown.  Malcolm and Helen also received the new prize of £250 from the Galloway Cattle Society,  this is the first time it has been won since its introduction, this prize is for a Galloway if it wins the Best Native award at the show.   Digby is full brother to Super Mario  who  won the native champion at the Scottish Winter Fair in 2010.

In the steer class, sire by a Galloway, it was a cross Galloway which clinched the first prize, this dun coloured November 2012 born bullock called Onapromise was bred and exhibited by Mr Neil Slack, Plum Tree House, Newby Penrith, Cumbria.  Neil is a regular exhibitor of commercial cattle and Onapromise is out of a previous show heifer Golden Promise which is a Charolais cross and by the AI sire and previous Highland Show champion Blackcraig Kodiac.

 

The heifer class at the show is for heifer sired by any Native sire and it was a Galloway which took first prize,  Nerys 1307 of Romesbeoch exhibited by J & S Ross, Romesboech, Shawhead, Dumfries was a stylish winner.   This September 2011 born heifer is by their senior stock sire Kirkmabreck Nimrod and out of the show cow Doon of Nerys 42nd.

Also at the show was our Young Handlers competition,  this competition now in its second year,  was very well supported with 7 young members taken part. The competition was sponsored by Nith Valley Construction,  Natural Stockcare Ltd, Craig Wilson Ltd, Ayr, Farm Stock Ltd (Scotland). First in a very strong competition was Hayden McEleavey Ross, Romesbeoch, Shawhead, Dumfries he also received the handsome trophy kindly donated by Mr Billy Melrose.   Seconded was last year’s winner Miss Sophie Harvey, 100 Buchanan Street, Balfron, with Sophie’s sister Beth third and brother Jamie forth.

 

The Winter Fair has its own Young Handlers competition and it was young McKenzie Ross, Romesboech who received first prize in  the 12 years old and under competition.  Well Done.  

Also awarded at the show was the Lew Watson Memorial Trophy,  this award is for the best two animals, shown by one exhibitor was won by Messrs P & EB Robson, Middle Horselyhope Farm, Waskerley, Consett, Co Durham, with two entries, one bullock, (Will I Am)  and one heifer  (Candy Girl) they where purchased from Kilnstown Farms Ltd.  Both animals are Limousin crosses and out of  Limousin x Salers x Galloway cows.  This stylish pair is destined for the National Beef Association Beef Expo at Hexham in May.  

LEADING AWARDS

Steer sired by a Galloway
1st  Mr Neil Slack, Onapromise, sire Blackcraig Kodiac
2nd M/s Telford and Claxton, Digby, sire Orinocho of Over Barskeoch  (Sold at Carlisle Mart  620kg for £2.70ppk or £1674.00)
3rd Mr Andrew Tullie, Bowanhill, Teviothead, Hawick, Jeff, sire Ben Lomond Rolex (Sold at St Boswells Mart 580kgs for £2.75ppk or £1600.40)
4th Klondyke Farms, Shancastle, Moniaive, Thornhill, Dan the Man, sire Holsten Ed (Sold at Dumfries Mart 595Kg for £3.00 or £1785)
5th Klondyke Farms, CJ, sired by Holsten Lord. (Sold at Dumfries Mart 510kg  for £2.35 or £1198.50)

Heifer, sired by any Native Sire
1st J & S Ross, Romesboech, Shawhead, Dumfries, Nerys 1307 of Romesbeoch, sire Kirkmabreck Nimrod
2nd Mr Dermot Small, Black Betty (Aberdeen Angus)
3rd Klondyke Farms Ltd, Klondyke Gorgeous, sire Holsten Lord
4th Harvey Cattle, 100 Buchanan Street, Glasgow,  Ben Lomond Vimto, sire Vom Bechtelsbery- Efendi.

Young Members Handlers Competition
1st Hayden McEleavey Ross
2nd Sophie Harvey
3rd Beth Harvey
4th Jamie Harvey
5th Andrew Tullie
6th Callum Park
7th Alex Davidson.

UPDATED November 14th,2013

Download the New invitation Document with details

Download Registration form

Download information on the farms

 

Download the brochure for the 2014 World Galloway Conference

 

Welcome to Germany

Wildeshausen be reached:

• by plane via Frankfurt or Munich to Bremen
• from Bremen by train in 65 minutes hourly
  Or 30 minutes by taxi
• By train from Hamburg-City in 2 1/2 hours
• very good motorway access at highway A1

We want to show you what Galloways?

• Of course you can see in Germany evolved Scottish genetics
• A lot of Scottish genetics crossed with Canadian genetics and pure Canadian genetics
• As the result of both you will see German Galloways which are asked in a lot of different countries
• We will show you Galloways in any colour

Judges;-Mr George Neve, Haining House, Lambley, Brampton & Mr Norman Ireland, Newhouse Farm, Drigg, Holmrook.

One of the best shows and sales in recent years meant there was a real buzz about Galloways at Carlisle. Harrison & Hetherington’s main auction mart. With 100% clearance on females and a massive £734 increase in average for heifers with calf or in milk resulted in vendors going home with a smile on their faces and prospective purchasers going home empty handed.

The female champion was the much fancied and very stylish senior heifer West Acres Fern from Mr Graham Noble, West Acres, Kirklinton, Carlisle, she is by the old AI Bull Grange Mozart and out of Barlaes Nancy, which Graham kept after his dispersal and sadly lost only last month. This September 2011 born heifer made 2400gns and went home with the judge Mr Norman Ireland. Mr Ireland purchased 13 pedigree females including the reserve champion from Kilnstown Farms Ltd, Kilnstown, Bewcastle, Carlisle, Bridget 24th of Kilsntown is by Orinocho of Over Barskeoch and out of Bridget 8th of Kilnstown, this March 2012 born heifer sold for 1500gns. She was from a consignment of 6 pedigree junior heifers from Kilntown, which averaged 1591gns.

The male champion, Popeye of Over Barskeoch was from J & M Thomson, Nether Linkin, Gelston, Castle Douglas, this 2007 born Greenloop Limited Edition son sold for 1200gns to CA Hall, Whitchester Farm, Haltwhistle, this impressive bull was only being sold as his daughters were being retained in the herd.

Also making 1200gns was the reserve male champion Medely of High Creoch from G & K Gilligan, High Creoch, Gatehouse of Fleet, Kirkcudbrightshire, this Excelsior of High Creoch son and out of Charity 16th of High Creoch went home with Mr D Scott, The Minch, Bolton Low House, Wigton for a new stock bull.

The best pair of heifers was from WG & HM Kyle, Spout Bank Farm, Brampton, Cumbria, Poppy and Lovage of Nether Linkin, bred by J & M Thomson, Nether Linkin, these stylish heifers were both Popeye of Over Barskeoch daughters (which had been sold earlier in the day) made 2000gns each to Mr H Paterson, High Ickethwaite, Rushland, Ulverston.

A great run of 10 heifers with Bluegray calves at foot from regular consigners W & M McMorran, Miefield, Twynholm Kirkcudbrightshire made an impressive average of 1788gns. Top price for the McMorran family was Tracy 20th of Miefield, this Loyal of Kilnstown daughter made 1950gns to A & A Hogg, Milnholm, Langholm, next at 1880gns was Lady Nancy 85th of Miefield another Loyal of Kilnstown daughter sold to RE Wood & Son, Kingledores, Biggar, Lanarkshire.

AVERAGES
2 Bulls £1260
16 Heifers in calf or in milk £1905 (+£733.84)
29 Bulling heifers £1109 £933.88, (+£175.12)
6 Cows in calf or in milk £441 (-£205.33)

LEADING AWARDS
Marshall Jackson Cup ( Champion Female) Won by Mr CG Noble, West Acres Fern

Solmain Cup (Best Junior Bulling Heifer) Won by Kilnstown Farms Ltd, Bridget 24th of Kilnstown

Issac Hedley Cup (Best Pair Calving Heifers) Won by Messrs WG & HM Kyle, Poppy & Lovage of Nether Linkins

Pedigree Bull
1st J & M Thomson, Nether Linkins, Gelston, Castle Douglas – Popeye of Over Barskeoch to CA Hall, Whitchester Farm, Haltwhistle for 1200gns
2nd M/s G & K Gilligan, High Creoch, Gatehouse of Fleet, Kirkcudbrightshire – Medley of High Creoch to D Scott, The Minch, Bolton Low House, Wigton for 1200gns
3rd M/s W & M McMorran & Sons, Miefield, Twynholm, Kirkcudbrightshire – Loyal of Mielfield
4th Mr K Laurie, Snowden Close, Gilsland, Brampton – Onyx of Snowden Close

Pedigree heifer in calf or in milk
1st M/s WG & HM Kyle, Spoutbank, Brampton – Culmark Sarah to Mr N Ireland, Newhouse, Drigg for 2150gns
2nd M/s W & M McMorran & Sons – Brownie 106th of Miefield to RE Wood & Sons, Kingledores, Broughton, Biggar for 1650gns
3rd M/s W & M McMorran & Sons – Scottish Queen 171st of Miefield to A Noble, High House Banks, Brampton, Cumbria for 1800gns

Pedigree senior bulling heifer
1st Mr C G Noble, West Acres, Kirklinton, Cumbria – West Acres Fern to Mr N Ireland for 2400gns
2nd M/s G & K Gilligan – Fascination 30th of High Creoch to Mr N Ireland for 1120gns
3rd Mr W Henderson, Whitehill, Lockerbie – Lady Nancy 532 of Whitehill to TJ Robinson, Ottercops, Kirkwhelpington, Newcastle for 950gns

Pedigree junior bulling heifer
1st Kilnstown Farms Ltd, Kilnstown Farm, Bewcastle, Carlisle – Bridget 24th of Kilnstown to Mr N Ireland for 1500gns
2nd Kilnstown Farms Ltd – May 19th of Kilnstown to Mr N Ireland for 1900gns 
3rd Mr P Jackson, Roan Farm, Newcastleton, Roxburghshire – Roan Border Angelia to GH White & Son, Hartsgarth, Newcastleton for 1200gns

Pedigree Galloway cattle are saving on inputs and labour as well as paying their way in sales of breeding stock for relative newcomers to the breed, the McCornick family.

Michael and Caroline McCornick run the 600 acre Barquhill Farm near Wigtown with their son William, 20, and younger sons Mark, 18, an apprentice agricultural engineer and Robbie, 17, also help out.

As well as running the beef and sheep unit, Caroline runs her own separate business - Caroline’s Catering - through which she provides everything from food to marquees for events within a 30 mile radius of Barquhill. At busy times of the year, mainly through the summer months, the family helps out alongside the extra staff Caroline employs.

The farm carries a flock of 250 mostly Roussin cross Blackface breeding ewes, which are crossed with Texel and Beltex cross Texel rams to produce prime lambs which are sold through the ring at Newton Stewart.

Barquhill was in the family in the early part of last century and Michael’s great grandfather, George McCornick, had Galloway cattle entered in the society’s first year books in the 1870s. His grandfather William also kept the breed at Barquhill until 1929.

So it was not surprising that the family opted for the hardy native breed which is well suited to outwintering on the hard hill ground of the Machars area, which, despite rising to only 150ft above sea level, is mainly exposed rough ground and rock.

Michael and Caroline have been farming the tenanted holding since 1989 and they have been running commercial Angus cross Friesian cows, crossing them with the Charolais bull, until the decision was made to start a Galloway herd.

When Michael and the family set out to establish their new Barquhill herd of Galloways they were looking to breed a modern cow with scale and conformation and an average weight of 550kg  to produce good finished cattle and pedigree bulls and, eventually females, for sale.

A pedigree breed further fulfilled the wishes of the McCornicks’ three sons who are all keen on showing cattle.

The foundation females were mainly in-calf heifers bought in 2006 from Blackcraig, Nethercleugh, Kirkstead and Barlaes and the original stock bull, Blackcraig Ozzy is still in the herd. Other females from Penninghame and Klondyke and a bull hired from Klondyke made up the nucleus of the new herd.

“We were looking for cattle that the three boys could show and a native breed which we could afford to go into which had scale. We only have 150 acres of ground that we can apply fertiliser to and make silage from so we needed a breed that was cheap to keep,” said Michael.

“We soon realised how well they suited and made good use of our rough ground. They are great grazers - they will graze anything,” he added.

Galloway cattle are in increasing demand for environmental grazing schemes and dairy farmers are using the bulls for easier calving on heifers.

The herd now numbers 30 breeding cows and 110 head of Galloways in total. Heifers have been kept to build up herd numbers and now around 70 per cent of the herd is home bred.

Optimum herd numbers are around 50 breeding females with followers and the intention is then to concentrate on closing the herd to reduce the risk of disease. The last bought in heifer was from Blackcraig in February 2011.

Two white bulling heifers were bought - mainly for Caroline’s keenness. She also manages to find time away from the catering business she set up eight years ago to breed and show Call Ducks and hens.

Australian and Canadian bloodlines have been used in the herd to give stature - stock bull Ozzy has Australian breeding. As well as size and conformation, good temperament is another priority trait for the McCornicks with so little labour to rely on.

The cattle are easily outwintered which saves on labour and the need for buildings. The breed is naturally-polled which again is labour-saving.

Most of the herd calves outside in November to fit in with the pedigree sales. The cows are easy calving with very few assisted births and most produce a calf a year - fertility is good despite it being a relatively young herd. Heifers are calved at three years old.

The cows are overwintered on silage and a handful of meal a day. “I reckon it costs the same to winter a Galloway cow and its calf as it does to outwinter a commercial cow which is due to calve in the spring,” said Michael. “They are cheap to keep and healthy with little veterinary costs.

As well as the Blackcraig bull  current herd sires include the four year old ET bull Barquhill Cosmo, a full brother of Blackcraig Kodiak which was interbreed champion at the Highland and Great Yorkshire shows in 2009.

A bull Highland Monarch of Gallway is also shared with fellow pedigree breeders John Finlay, Blackcraig, Corsock, Dumfries, and David Cornthwaite, Balgray, Lockerbie.

Home-bred bulls have been sold successfully. Barquhill Coca Cola was sold at the February 2012 Castle Douglas sale for 4,000gns to Clive Hamer, Hirnant Farm,Powys, Wales. Their first bull sold, Barquhill Black Prince, was bought for use in Poland.

Some steers not kept as breeding bulls have been put through Caroline’s business receiving great feedback for the eating quality of the meat from customers.

A steer recently sold through the ring at Craig Wilson Ltd, Ayr, for £1,300 weighing 655kg.

The family has exhibited at local shows as well as national events since 2008 and they are regularly among the prizes. The boys are also keen members of the Galloway Cattle Society’s young members club and have attended a number of meetings this year

At the 2012 ScottishWinter Fair, Robbie and William showed two pure bred Galloway bullocks. A 29 month old Dun Galloway steer which picked up a third prize ticket in its class was sold for 215p per kg weighing 710kg. The other 18 months old steer was brought home.

A home-bred two year old bull, Barquhill Dominator, which was shown at the Royal Highland in the summer, will be sold at the February society sale in Castle Douglas. He has been running with a small batch of heifers.

The boys also have a flock of 10 Ryeland sheep which they show and they share a ram with Andrew Hunter Blair at Nethercleugh.

Judge Mr K Van Hollen, Am Buchholz 8 24321 Gieka, Germany.

A round trip of 220 miles, certainly paid off for the Maxwell Family, Blairvockie Farm, Rowandennan,  Drymen, Glasgow for they received top honours at the Galloway National Show held at Border Union Show, Kelso.  

 

The busy ringside, which had come to help celebrate the Society’s Bi centenary saw German judge Mr Karl Van Hollen give the championship rosette to    Klondyke Raider,  this 2008 born bull  is by the German import Holsten Ed N54.     He was bred by Klondyke Farms Ltd, Moniaive, Thornhill  and was purchased in a private deal in 2010.  Raider has had a very successful year to date, as he was male and reserve overall champion at this year’s Royal Highland Show.  Mr Van Hollen explained in perfect English that his champion “ was very complete, well muscled, long and a good walker” he went on to comment “ the standard of animals were of highest quality, especially the heifers”. 

The reserve overall champion,  female and junior champion was from Messrs J Finlay, Blackcraig, Corsock, Castle Douglas,  very ably showen by son Iain,   this very stylish 2011 born heifer    Blackcraig Noreen T433,   is a Finmac Norseman daughter and out of famous show cow Blackcraig Noreen L122, previous winner of the 2006 and 2011 Royal Highland Shows.    She has also had a successful year, as she was reserve female and junior champion at 2013 Royal Highland Show.

The reserve male champion was exhibited by J & S Ross, Romesbeoch, Shawhead, Dumfries ,  Turbo Tam of Nether Cleugh, this October 2011 born was bred by Peter Hunter Blair, Nether Cleugh, Dalry and  was purchased by the Ross family at 2013 Spring Sale.  His sire is Blackcraig Quest and   out of Nerys Patricia of Nether Cleugh. He was male champion at the Great Yorkshire show.  

 

Another from the Ross Family’s strong line up was reserve female  Moira 408 of Romesbeoch is a Kingpin of Nether Cleugh daughter and out of Doon of Urr Moira 79th, this 2005 born cow was shown with heifer calf at foot. 

 

BULL BORN BEFORE 1ST SEPTEMBER 2011.
1st        J, M & D Maxwell, Blairvockie, Rowandenna, Drymen – Klondyke Raider, sire Holsten Ed.

BULL BORN ON OR AFTER 1ST SEPTEMBER 2011.
1st         J & S Ross, Romesbeoch, Shawhead, Dumfries – Turbo Tam of Nether Cleugh, sire Blackcraig Quest

COW IN CALF OR IN MILK BORN BEFORE 1ST SEPTEMBER 2009
1st        J & S Ross – Moira 408 of Romesbeoch, sire Kingpin of Nether Cleugh
2nd       Klondyke Farms Ltd,  Shancastle, Moniaive, Thornhill – Klondyke Dancing Girl, sire Holsten Ed

COW IN CALF OR IN MILK BORN ON OR AFTER 1ST SEPTEMBER 2009 AND BEFORE 1ST SEPTEMBER 2010.
1st        J & S Ross – Moira 1003 of Romesbeoch.

HEIFER IN CALF OR IN MILK BORN ON OR AFTER 1ST SEPTEMBER 2010 AND BEFORE 1ST SEPTEMBER 2011
1st       J & S Ross -  Beauty 1185 of Romesboech, sire Kirkmabreck Nimrod
2nd        J & S Ross – Daisy 1177 of Romesboech, sire Kirkmabreck Nimrod
3rd        Klondyke Farms Ltd,– Klondyke Future, sire Klondyke Magnum.
4th        J & A Finlay, Blackcraig, Corsock, Dumfries – Blackcraig Noreen S379, sire Blackcraig Nimrod
5th        D & R Conrthwaite, Balgray, Lockerbie – Neave U of Over Barskeoch, Sire Barlaes Fearless.

HEIFER BORN ON OR AFTER 1ST SEPTEMBER 2011
1st       J & A Finlay – Blackcraig Noreen T423, sire Finmac Norseman
2nd        J & S Ross – Nerys 1307 of Romesbeoch (ET) sire Kirkmabreck Nimrod
3rd        Peter Hunter Blair, Nether Cleugh, Dalry, Castle Douglas – Foxglove Tulip of Nether Cleugh, sire Blackcraig Quest.
4th        J & S Ross – Kalinka  1295 of Romesbeoch, sire Kirkmabreck Nimrod
5th        Peter Hunter Blair – Countess Toffee of Nether Cleugh, sire Blackcraig Quest
6th        Klondyke Farms Ltd – Klondyke Gorgeous, sire Holsten Lord
7th        D & R Cornthwaite – Hazel of Balgray, sire Highland Monarch of Gall-way

HEIFER CALF BORN ON OR AFTER 1ST SEPTEMBER 2012
1st        J & S Ross – Moira 1465 of Romesbeoch.  
2nd        Klondyke Farms Ltd – Klondyke Harmony, sire Schornwilder Xantos 

PAIR OF ANIMALS
1st        J & S Ross
2nd        J & A Finlay
3rd        Klondyke Farms Ltd
4th        Peter Hunter Blair
5th        D & R Cornthwaite.

 

 

Judge Mr Andrew McConchie, Mains of Penninghame, Newtown Stewart

 

The Yorkshire sun shone on  the  Ross team from Shawhead, Dumfries,  Jim, Selina, Carolyn,  Haydon and Logan from Romesbeoch     secured the overall,  female champion, reserve champion,  native junior championship and male champion at England’s Premier Agricultural Event. 

The female, overall champion and native junior champion was a 2011 born embr  heifer Nerys 1307 of Romesbeoch she   is by the herd’s senior stock bull, Kirkmabreck Nimrod which was purchased at Autumn 2008 Society sale and  out of a Doon of Urr  Nerys 42nd.   Nerys 42nd is a previous champion at the Society’s National show  and won many local show, she has produced   5 stock bulls which are currently in pedigree herds.   The reserve female and reserve overall was their  senior heifer Beauty 1185 of Romesbeoch again by Nimrod, this March 2011 born heifer is out of Beauty C704 of Romesbeoch.

The male champion was the only male entry,   Turbo Tam of Nether Cleugh was purchased by the Ross family at 2013 Spring Sale.  His sire is Blackcraig Quest and he is  out of Nerys Patricia of Nether Cleugh.

This was a record entry for Galloways at this prestigious event,  with 13 Galloways and 5 exhibitors, three of them being new exhibitors at the show.  The Society would like to thank everyone who exhibited and the Heath/ Gagg team for running the “office”,  is was a very enjoyable few days, which was made even better when the sun shone.    

Leading Awards

The Cholmondeley Perpetual Trophy for Galloway Champion:-   J & S Ross, Nerys 1307 of Romesbeoch
Yorkshire Agricultural Society Cash Prize for Champion:-      J & S Ross, Nerys 1307 of  Romesbeoch

Slitheroford Perpetual Trophy for Group of Three Animals owned and bred by exhibitor  :-   J & S Ross

Galloway Junior Champion :-  J & S ross, Nerys 1307 of Romesbeoch

Champion  Male :-  J & S Ross, Turbo Tam of Nether Cleugh

 

 

Class Placings

Bull any age
1st               J & S Ross, Turbo Tam of Nether Cleugh

Cow any age
1st               J & S Ross, Romesbeoch, Shawhead -  Dumfries Moira 408 of Romesbeoch
2nd              Heath & Gagg, Hethersgill, Field Lane,  Wroot  - Kirkstead Amber
3rd              Mr DK Jeary,  Hawthron Farm, High Road, Briston, Norfolk  - Thurning Yasmin 6th

Heifer, born on or between 1st September 2010 and 31st August, 2011.
1st              J & S Ross,  Beauty 1185 of Romesbeoch
2nd              J & S Ross – Daisy 1177 of Romesboech
3rd              Mr H McEleavey, Romesboech, Shawhead – Beauty 1174 of Romesbeoch
4th              Heath & Gagg – Emma’s own Over Dun
5th              Mr DK Jeary – May 18th of Romesbeoch
6th              Mr S O Turner, Dalshangan Wood, Dalry, Castle Douglas – Lady Independence of Dalshangan Wood.

 

Heifer, born on after 1st September 2011
1st              J & S Ross – Nerys 1307 of Romesbeoch (ET)
2nd              J & S Ross- Nery 1306 of Romesbeoch (ET)
3rd              Heath & Gagg – Emma’s Own Dun Spending

Group of Three Animals
1st              J & S Ross

Pair of animals by the same sire
1st              J & S Ross
2nd              J & S Ross
3rd              Heath & Gagg

 

Judge: - Mr John MacLellan, Glenfernate, Blairgowrie, Perthshire

After many years of exhibiting at the Royal Highland Show, it was much delight for the McMillan family, Gib and Mary and son Allan, that the trading name of Messrs Wallace of Over Barskeoch, Dalry, Castle Douglas will appear on the handsome and famous Royal Highland show trophy.   Their champion,  Una of Over Barskeoch is a rising three old heifer from a home bred sire Greenloop Limited Edition and out of Dandy of Over Barskeoch.  She was first in the largest class of the day of 7 entires and went on to secure the championship over the male champion, Klondyke Raider.  Raider an 2008 born bull   was exhibited by  family partnership J, M & D Maxwell ,  John, Margaret and Duncan Maxwell,  from Blairvockie, Rowardennan, Drymen and was shown by Duncan’s son David.  He was bred by Klondyke Farms Ltd, Moniaive, Thornhill and is by the German import   Holsten Ed N54.  Raider was purchased in a private deal in 2010.

 The female reserve champion was from Messrs J Finlay, Blackcraig, Corsock, Castle Douglas, their blue and white rosette winner was Blackcraig Noreen T433, this 2011 born heifer is a Finmac Norseman daughter and out of famous show cow Blackcraig Noreen L122, previous winner of the 2006 and 2011 Royal Highland Shows,  her son Blackcraig Rasputin is senior stock bull at Blackcraig.  Noreen T433 also collected the rosette for Galloway Junior champion.

The Reserve male  was  also from the McMillan Family,  Viper of Over Barskeoch  an November 2011 born calf, his sire Barlaes Fearless was purchased at the 2008 Society Spring Sale and his dam Beatrice of Over Barskeoch , now a nine year old cow  has produced many show winners.

Once again the Society was represented in the Breed Stand Avenue,  this year saw the launch of our new branding, which included, logo, flags, posters and leaflets,  all the new items were very well received and members and friends are invited to use the new logo whenever possible.    After the judging,  a post show drinks reception which  was sponsored by Allflex was enjoyed by all our exhibitors and friends, this ended a very enjoyable and pleasant day, what a difference when the sun shines.  

Leading Awards

Rosette for best Junior Female
J & A Finlay, Blackcraig, Corsock, Dumfries                                            Blackcraig Noreen T433

Rosette for best Junior Bull, 
Messrs Wallace, Over Barskeoch                                                              Viper of Over Barskeoch

Junior Champion Prize of £25, Rosette for best Junior Animal, 
J & A Finlay, Blackcraig, Corsock, Dumfries                                            Blackcraig Noreen T433

Rosette for reserve Junior Animal 
Messrs Wallace, Over Barskeoch                                                              Viper of Over Barskeoch

The Francis Gourlay Galloway Cattle Society Memorial Challenge Cup, Rosette for best Female
Messrs Wallace, Over Barskeoch, Dalry, Castle Douglas                  Una of Over Barskeoch

Rosette for reserve Female
J & A Finlay, Blackcraig, Corsock, Dumfries                                           Blackcraig Noreen T433

The Galloway Cattle Society 100th Show Perpetual Silver Challenge Cup, Rosette for best Bull
J,M, & D Maxwell, Blairvockie, Drymen                                                  Klondyke Raider              

Rosette for best reserve bull
Messrs Wallace, Over Barskeoch                                                             Viper of Over Barskeoch

Bronze Medal for Breeder of best Bull
Klondyke Farms, Shancastle, Moniaive, Thornhill

Champion Medal, Dr William Heughan Memorial Trophy, The Dr Gillespie Memorial Challenge Trophy and cash prize for breed champion.
Messrs Wallace, Over Barskeoch                                                              Una of Over Barskeoch

Rosette for herdsman in charge of best Animal.
Allan McMillan

Rosette for best Animal bred by Exhibitor
Messrs Wallace, Over Barskeoch

The Reid- Walker Perpetual Challenge bowl for best Group, consisting of one Bull and two Females all being the property of one Exhibitor
Messrs Wallace, Over Barskeoch

The Tordarroch Perpetual Challenge Trophy for the Exhibitor gaining most points in the Galloway Classes
Messrs Wallace, Over Barskeoch

Class Placings

Female born on or after 1st January, 2012
1st Messrs Wallace, Over Barskeoch, Dalry, Castle Douglas – Vimto of Over Barskeoch

Female born on or between 1st September and 31st December 2011
1st          J & A Finlay, Blackcraig, Corsock, Castle Douglas – Blackcraig Noreen T433
2nd          J & S Ross, Romesbeoch, Shawhead, Dumfries – Kalinka 1295 of Romesbeoch
3rd           Messrs Wallace – Minnie of Ove Barskeoch
4th           J & S Ross – Nerys 1307 of Romesbeoch
5th           Mr P Hunter Blair, Nether Cleugh, Dalry, Castle Douglas – Foxglove tulip of Nether Cleugh
6th           Mr P Hunter Blair – Countess Toffee of Nether Cleugh
7th           Mr M McCornick, Barquhill, Newton Stewart - Barquhill Bertha E608

Female born on or between 1st September 2010 and 31st August 2011
1st           Messrs Wallace – Una of Over Barskeoch
2nd          J & S Ross – Beauty 1185 of Romesbeoch
3rd           J & S Ross – Daisy of Romesbeoch
4th           J & A Finlay – Blackcraig Noreen S379
5th           Mr M Mcornick – Blackcraig Dusty S392
6th           Messrs D & R Cornthwaite, Balgray, Lockerbie, Dumfries – Neave U of Over Barskeoch
7th           Klondyke Farms Ltd, Shancastle, Moniaive, Thornhill – Kondyke Future

Female, in milk, born on or before 31st August 2010
1st           J & S Ross – Moira 408 of Romesbeoch

Bull born on or after 1st January 2011
1st           Messrs Wallace – Viper of Over Barskeoch

Bull born on or before 31st December 2010
1st           J,M & D Maxwell, Blairvockie, Drymen – Klondyke Raider
2nd          Klondyke Farms Ltd – Schoenweider Xantas

 

2013 RHS  Galloway Champion – Una of Over Barskeoch, exhibited by Messrs Wallace, Over Barskeoch, Dalry

 

2013 RHS Galloway Reserve Champion – Klondyke Raider – exhibited by J, M & D Maxwell, Blairvockie, Drymen, Bred by Klondyke Farms Ltd, Moniaive, Thornhill.  

 

Vice Chairman Andrew Hunter Blair auctions off “slaves” at the recent Royal Highland Show to raise funds for the Group’s overseas trip to Germany.   £371 was raised by  5 “slaves” for the 2014  trip.  More “slaves” will be auctioned off at our National Show to be held at Border Union Show on Saturday 27th July.  Contact the office for more details. 

THE FUTURE IS TRADITIONAL

The Galloway Cattle Society believe the future of beef production in the United Kingdom lies in the long established, yet lately forgotten worth of a delicious piece of meat. 

With the price of beef soaring,  consumers are looking for something extra special to justify their additional spend.  They expect to purchase something more superior than the “average”.  The recent ‘horse-gate’ scandal has emphasised the necessity to source locally.    The Galloway Society is certain that along with a return to old style values when shopping for meat, there will emerge a movement of consumers who demand delicious flavour  and eating quality.  In short - beef as it should be.

Galloway beef has a major role play in the revival of the Traditional  reputation  of meat. The Galloway has maintained the breed qualities and traits which ensure the end product  has the distinctive, delicious flavour and excellent eating quality which guarantees a unique beef product.   Its preeminence has gained the attention of some of the finest restaurants in Scotland – The Gleneagles Hotel - to name but a few. 

“Well handled Galloway beef is like a really good premium malt whisky, it’s got depth and texture and is distinctive. Our whisky is revered around the world, this quality of beef should be exactly the same”says Jim Fairley, six year breeder of Galloways at Logiealmond and a dedicated convert to and advocate of the rewards of this breed.

So much for the desirability of this unique breed for the consumer ….what are the benefits for its producers?

The Galloway differentiates itself from its rivals on a wide range of  levels and those unfamiliar with them will find it has evolved to meet the requirements of new markets.

Jim Fairley commented,  “I wanted a cow that was good natured, would graze the extensive rough ground, was minimum labour and cost, but at the same time could produce a product that our customers would come back for. The Galloway cow does all these things, I wouldn’t be without them”.   

The inference to traditional in the Galloway Society’s new strap line  isn’t just about the end product. 

From the perspective of the producer the key lies with the suckler cow and this is where the breed really excels.  The Galloway is the perfect breeding cow; renowned for easy calving.  An excellent mother with an abundance of milk, she will often rear calves well into her teens.   

For proponents of The Galloway, the ‘icing on the cake’ is its measurably lower input costs.   Comparisons have shown a Galloway cow’s nutritional requirements are significantly below those of a continental breed and they are easily wintered outdoors.  And, once perceived as small breed, the Galloway has developed a larger framed carcass with bullocks between 23 – 30 months achieving R4L and R4H carcasses.

Victoria Hogg from the Beanley Galloway Herd, Alwnick believes in the importance of benchmarking to accurately assess the success and viability of the herd.

Victoria says “Costing and benchmarking our herd has confirmed to us, that the Galloway as a suckler herd is a profitable option”

This may be difficult to comprehend for the commercial continental breeder – and switching to any native breed means embracing a complete change in mindset. The current challenges facing livestock farmers in the UK including extreme weather conditions and continually raising prices may encourage even the most steadfast of farmers to consider alternatives.

The new branding reflects the desire of the Galloway Society to maintain the traditional integrity of the Galloway breed, whilst ensuring it becomes a market leader in the future of locally sourced beef.

Chairman of the Society, Andrew Waugh said  “ We already have an amazing brand which originates from the provenance of this proud native breed, now we need to harness it and let people know just how good this breed really is.”

Ultimately it is the consumer who leads market demand and the Galloway Society believe that the strong brand, which already differentiates the Galloway, offers exceptional traditional eating quality, provenance and local traceability – which is exactly what  future consumers will be looking for.

The Galloway Society is encouraging producers who are looking to explore new options in beef production to switch to Galloway - a provider of increased profit, reduced costs (without cutting corners) - the ability to increase sale value and stretch margins

Those who are open to new and gainful  opportunities in the beef sector will find a bright future in the Galloway breed.