Society view: GYS is a different day at the office

We do this in a variety of ways, ensuring the show is relevant in content for the farmer while educating the general public in a fun, interactive way.

The introduction of the Lely robotic milking stand last year was a perfect example of this, enabling dairy farmers to see the technology in action but also proving quite a spectacle for the general visitor. Calves learning how to use an automatic feeding system will be a new addition to the stand, preparing them for the milking system of the future.

Agricultural seminars are a useful tool to demonstrate the breakthroughs in innovation and technology in the industry. For the forward thinking farmer it is an opportunity to learn about the changing environment and advances which can be applied for efficient working practices. It is also a useful platform for industry partners who want to reach a farming audience, such as CIEL, the Centre for Innovation Excellence in Livestock.

In between the technical talks, there will be a series of information slides connecting farmers to food production with much of the material provided by the food trade stands in attendance at the show. The aim is to bring home to visitors where and how their food is produced.

Protecting the environment is another important issue for the Society and this is demonstrated through the Tye Trophy Awards, given out at the Great Yorkshire Show, which reward farmers for their ability to combine conservation within a commercial farming environment.

Rewarding the dedication and commitment of farmers and their staff is also recognised with the long service awards, for those who have been in continuous employment with one farming business for over 35 years – there are more than you may think!

There is a lot to be positive about in farming, I think it is the best job in the world, but it isn’t without its struggles, experienced by some more than others.

Knowing the characteristics of farmers and their reluctance to reach out for help we feel it is important to make services as accessible as possible. Two nurses will be in attendance on Wednesday conducting farmer health checks in the seminar room between 11am and 1pm. A quick check of blood pressure, cholesterol levels and blood sugars along with a brief lifestyle conversation is often enough to identify those who need to be referred for further tests in a timely manner.

The Farming Community Network (FCN) will have a couple of friendly faces to chat to in a caravan at Red Gate. It is all very informal and open to anyone with farm related worries or concerns about a friend or family member. The FCN personnel will listen in confidence and offer suggestions for any further appropriate support if required.

We want farmers to recognise the importance of attending the show, it isn’t a day off, simply a different day at the office.

Charles Mills is Honorary Show Director of the Great Yorkshire Show and a mixed farmer at Woolas Grange, Appleton Roebuck.