Young farmers get wrapping in bale sculpture contest

Cow bale art

Young farmers have been wrapped up in a competition to create the best sculptures from straw bales.

Members of six young farmers clubs in the Dumfries and Galloway area have been battling it out to see who can make the arty and imaginative sculptures.

Bales have been transformed into a Thomas the Tank Engine sculpture, a milk tanker, a Highland cow, a pink dairy cow and a Quality Meat Scotland (QMS) sheep and beef cow.

Highland cow, scarecrow and QMS lamb and beef bales

See also: Pink silage bales decorate farms for cancer initiative

Most of the bales have sprung up in farm fields from Stranraer to Annan along the main transport routes in Dumfries and Galloway on the A75 and A76.

The competition was inspired by Colin Ferguson, regional chairman of Dumfries and Galloway YFC and a member of Machars YFC.

“The purpose of this task to the clubs was first as a competition to find the most artistic and imaginative club in the region,” said Mr Ferguson.

Tractor and trailer bales

“The second reason was to raise the awareness and knowledge of the Young Farmers movement in the region and further afield with the intention and hope to gain new members within the region’s clubs.

“We also hope that the creations give some joy to the many people who travel the region’s roads during the week and hopefully alert people to the beauty of the area.

Sheep-and-pig-bales2

“I also think its important to show – and bring to the mind to the people who will see these – that farming is not all work and no play, and that joining an organisation such as the Scottish Association of Young Farmers [SAYFC] in your local area can open many doors but also allow you to have some great fun with great people.”

Cow-balesThe six clubs taking part in the competition are: Annandale YFC, Thornhill YFC, Lower Nithsdale YFC, Stewartry YFC, Machars YFC and Stranraer and Rhins YFC.

No prizes will be awarded to the creators of the winning sculpture, but they will be able to claim bragging rights, added Mr Ferguson.

See also: Young farmer clubs are the jewel in agriculture’s crown

The SAFYC has about 3,500 members across 80 clubs.

Activities range from stock judging and arts and crafts competitions to sports events, drama, farm/producer visits and dances. 

Membership is open to anyone between 14 and 30 years of age. For more information visit the SAYFC website.

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