ALL ROADS lead to Wester Rarichie Farm in Fearn, Tain on December 8, where a free workshop will explore ways in which farmers can adapt their suckler cow and sheep production systems to cope with future challenges and boost profitability.

The ‘Profitable Production for the Future’ event is organised by SAC Consulting, with funding from the Universities Innovation Fund. Presentations during the day will be made by SAC and industry experts on nutrition, health, husbandry, breeding, and meat eating quality.

There will also be a focus on new technologies such as the use of drones for livestock production, visual imaging analysis, and camera and weighing technology.

SAC beef and sheep specialist Kirsten Williams said: “There are many steps that cattle and sheep producers can take to improve the productivity and profitability of their systems. This event will explore some of them – and also introduce new technologies which are likely to be widespread in the future.”

The event will also hear from Sainsbury's agriculture manager Philip Hambling – as the supermarket chain is currently undertaking producer focussed work in the beef and sheep industry.

During the afternoon sessions, attendees will have the opportunity to participate in a meat eating taste trial, to see if they can taste the difference in how long the meat is hung for.

Wester Rarichie is one of the units farmed by JM Whiteford and Co, who farm a total 2200 acres, running 300 suckler cows, 1350 breeding sheep, pig production and arable cropping. The aim for the sucklers is a medium size cow of high fertility which are largely outwintered, with calves sold as yearlings.

The 700 Blackface ewe flock produce Highland Mules which are sold as Highlands and Islands Sheep Health Association EAE accredited ewe lambs in Dingwall.

The meeting starts at 10.30am and finishes at 3.30pm, with a free lunch provided. Anyone wishing to attend should register with SAC Consulting in Inverness 01463 233266 or fbsinverness@sac.co.uk