Rural college will shake it up at Highland Show

State-of-the-art virtual reality headsets, milkshake created from a world-famous dairy herd and a chance to fly miniature drones are among the draws at the Scotland’s Rural College marquee at the 2019 Royal Highland Show.

It will take place from 20-23 June, and with a focus on disruptive technologies that help to drive the country’s rural economy, the SRUC stand promises to be ‘bolder, brighter and more interactive’ than ever before.

Located on 7th Avenue next to main show ring, the stand will also host a series of podcasts over the weekend, with subjects ranging from gender equality and mental health to the ‘rise of the machines’ in agriculture.

Visitors who’ve worked up a thirst can enjoy a new milkshake bar, which uses Arla milk from SRUC’s Langhill herd in Dumfries – the world’s longest-running study into breeding the ideal dairy cow.

For technology enthusiasts, there will be an opportunity to interact with a number of drones, which will feature multispectral and thermal imaging cameras. The weekend will see the introduction of a ‘drone zone’, allowing children to test their piloting skills on an aerial obstacle course, while the tractor simulator is set to be in high demand.

Throughout the four days, SRUC staff will be on hand to answer questions and give advice to those thinking of studying at SRUC, while Vet Services and the Rural Policy Centre will also be represented.

Meanwhile, specialists from across SAC Consulting, part of SRUC, will be there to discuss the different ways they can support businesses and help them to navigate the uncertainties posed by Brexit.

Professor Wayne Powell, principal and chief executive of SRUC, said: ‘The Royal Highland Show is one of the biggest events on the rural calendar and something we look forward to throughout the year. The focus on technology and innovation at our stand is fitting as we journey towards our goal of becoming a unique enterprise university for the 21st century.

‘This year, our stand will be bolder, brighter and more interactive than ever. It’s a chance to showcase our excellent range of courses to prospective students, to forge new links and to greet familiar faces. It’s a time to celebrate our key role at the heart of Scotland’s rural economy and we look forward to welcoming people of all ages to our stand.’

Find out more about SRUC at the 2019 Royal Highland Show.