Union members encouraged to submit entry by 31 August

For the second year in a row, NFU Scotland members are being given the opportunity to win an all-expenses paid trip to the prestigious Oxford Farming Conference in January.

The Conference, now a staple on the agricultural calendar, takes place at Oxford University on 3 and 4 January 2019.

The competition, open to all NFU Scotland members, will see two winners have their travel, accommodation and scholar conference ticket paid for by NFU Scotland and will attend the conference with a member of the Union’s policy team.

In return, the winners will write a short piece for its membership magazine, the Scottish Farming Leader about their experience at the conference. They will also get the opportunity to attend regional meetings to inform members of their experience.

Last year the Union ran a similar competition to send two young farmers to the Conference, with Jen Craig and Ben McClymont being successful.

Any members interested in entering this year’s competition need to write a short letter, maximum 300 words, or create a short 1 minute video, outlining where and how they farm, or would like to farm, and what this opportunity would mean for them.

All entries should be sent to Policy Manager Jenny Brunton by 31 August at jenny.brunton@nfus.org.uk, when they will be reviewed thereafter by NFU Scotland’s Presidential team. The winner will be notified in October.

Jen Craig, one of last year’s winners, said: “I would advise anyone to apply to go to the Oxford Farming Conference for so many reasons. The people that you meet and the speakers are incredible.

“The whole experience was one that I will never forget. You will leave with ideas flying around in your head, your opinions will be challenged but most of all you will gain a whole new enthusiasm for the future of your own business and our industry as a whole and what kind of role you want to play in that.”  

NFU Scotland Vice President Gary Mitchell, who attended the Oxford event in 2018 said: “Having seen the great experience Ben and Jen had at last year’s conference, I can confidently say that this a fantastic opportunity to hear what others are doing, share ideas and to help shape the future of Scottish agriculture.

“The Conference has some of the most innovative and inspiring speakers in agriculture and this competition is an incredible opportunity for any enthusiastic member who is keen to learn more about the industry.

“Following on from the plethora of high quality and interesting entrants to last year’s competition, I am excited to see what is entered this year.”

Notes to Editors

• The competition is open to all NFU Scotland members. A short letter, of maximum 300 words, or a short 1 minute video, outlining where and how you farm, or would like to farm, and what this opportunity would mean for you should be submitted to jenny.brunton@nfus.org.uk by 31 August.

Ends

Contact Douglas Ross on 0131 472 4059