The forecast of rain showers didn’t dampen the spirits of over 2500 visitors attending Sundays open day at the Barony Campus of Scotland’s Rural College. The annual event was again voted a roaring success.
The open day at SRUC Barony has grown enormously since its early origins as an information event for potential students. It has become an established part of the region’s event calendar. Senior Tutor Julie Parker said:
“We were very pleased and relieved to welcome such a big crowd again this year when the weather had raised questions. It was rewarding to see visitors that have attended year after year return and it was also good to welcome new visitors to the campus. The aim was to give families and people of all ages a good and informative day out and hopefully we achieved that.”
Around the campus grounds visitors could meet Alpacas or Zwartbles and Blacknose sheep, or “Ask the Expert” about the health of their pets, courtesy of the SRUC Veterinary Nursing Department. Meanwhile the equine department was kept busy all afternoon with popular pony rides.
Elsewhere there were tractor and trailer trips, displays of machinery – many of which were supplied by local dealers and manufacturers. Visitors could also try out forestry machinery simulators and see the real and very impressive machines in the flesh. New for this year was a trials bike display by Paul Anderson who wowed the crowds with his stunts over a set of obstacles.
Add in dog agility, bird ringing, plant sales, small animal handling and teas in the Barony Dining Room with its shelter from the showers and all the bases were covered.
“We also had advice on rural careers and courses available,” says Julie Parker. “There is a lot on offer for anyone considering a career in the land-based industries. However our courses at Barony are filling up, with many of them already full. But there will be an extra open day for potential students on Tuesday 23rd June so anyone still considering their options should look out for adverts coming soon!”
The organisers would like to thank all the external contributors who gave up their time and resources to make the event a success. So many businesses get involved in the Open Day and we are so grateful for all their help. Staff and students also put a lot of time into setting up and being here on the day.”
