The Dairy Show at Bath & West Showground on October 2nd focuses on the future of the dairy industry by spotlighting young talent, showcasing livestock, and presenting new technologies.
The upcoming Dairy Show is set to emphasize the future of the dairy industry by nurturing the next generation of dairy farmers. Returning to the Bath & West Showground in Shepton Mallet, Somerset, on October 2nd, this year’s event will feature a comprehensive lineup of competitions and seminars designed to develop young talent and showcase industry advancements. As a significant fixture in the UK agricultural calendar, the Dairy Show will bring together top dairy livestock and provide emerging professionals with opportunities to demonstrate their skills and gain valuable insights.
Showmanship and Competitions
A central highlight of this year’s Dairy Show will be the showmanship classes, which aim to spotlight young handlers across various age groups: seven to 12 years, 13 to 17 years, and 18 to 26 years. These classes will allow participants to exhibit their handling skills and passion for dairy farming, potentially identifying future stars of the industry. Additionally, the show will host the UK Jersey Cattle Society’s and the English Guernsey Cattle Society’s National Shows, with competition entries opening in early August. These shows are expected to attract attention to top dairy cattle from across different breeds.
Technology and Innovation Showcase
Aligned with its focus on advancing the dairy sector, the Dairy Show will present a showcase of the latest technologies, services, and industry innovations. This segment aims to highlight cutting-edge advancements, foster discussions on building resilience, and prepare for future challenges. Attendees will have the chance to engage with new technologies and collaborate on strategies to drive the industry forward.
Career Development Focus
Reflecting the need for fresh perspectives and new talent, this year’s Dairy Show will feature a ‘careers’ theme for its seminars. Jess Chiplen, Head of Shows, emphasized the importance of addressing career opportunities within the dairy sector. Despite the broad range of career prospects, many young people seeking to enter the field often lack clear guidance. The Dairy Show aims to bridge this gap by providing valuable insights and advice for those interested in dairy careers.
Dairy Discovery Day
A new addition to this year’s event is the Dairy Discovery Day, designed to connect farming with STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics). This interactive careers tour, targeted at key stage two students, will inspire young people about the diverse opportunities within agriculture and encourage them to explore potential career paths.
Ticket Information
Advance tickets for the Dairy Show are available at £20 per adult, with prices increasing to £25 at the gate. Students, with proof of status, can purchase tickets for £15, while children under 15 can enter free of charge.
Show Brief
The Dairy Show is a premier agricultural event held annually at the Bath & West Showground in Shepton Mallet, Somerset. It features livestock competitions, educational seminars, and showcases of industry innovations. The event is renowned for highlighting excellence in dairy farming and providing a platform for future industry leaders.
By focusing on the next generation of dairy farmers, the Dairy Show underscores its commitment to innovation and sustainability within the sector. Through its diverse program of showmanship classes, technology showcases, career development opportunities, and interactive educational initiatives, the event is poised to play a crucial role in shaping the future of the dairy industry.
