The 2026 AHCS National Show rolled into Bathurst, and what a weekend it was! As the hometown stud, Bonnie Glen Highlands was proud to not only exhibit three head of cattle but also play a role behind the scenes as part of the show committee helping bring the event together. A huge congratulations and thank you goes to the entire committee, volunteers, exhibitors and sponsors who made this a record-breaking National Show. It was a fantastic few days—even if the Bathurst winter had everyone (even the cattle) shivering, let’s just say they did not appreciate their baths!

Our team had plenty to celebrate in the ring, with every animal coming home with a ribbon. Ailsa of Avoch placed 4th in Class 3 (Heifer 6 months and under 20 months), Tearclag 2nd of Yatarna—better known around home as Charlotte—claimed 2nd in Class 5b (Cow or Heifer 24 months and under 36 months), while Philip 2nd of Yatarna strutted his stuff to take 1st in Class 13 (Bull 24 months and under 36 months). To top it all off, Bonnie Glen Highlands claimed 1st place in the Costume Classic, with the team embracing their inner Norsemen by dressing as Vikings. Charlotte, ever the professional, took the whole affair completely in her stride—and after taking home the win, there was only one thing left to say... Skål!

As if the weekend wasn't exciting enough, we arrived home on the final day of the show to find Cairistiona of Kiryakndat (AKA Myrtle) had safely delivered a beautiful heifer calf by AI sire Jock of Cullerne. Fittingly, we named her June Óir—meaning Golden June—a perfect way to cap off an unforgettable week.

Between long days, early mornings, frozen fingers, plenty of laughs and not nearly enough sleep, we were certainly ready for a rest, but we left feeling incredibly grateful. Catching up with familiar faces, meeting wonderful breeders from across the country and celebrating this amazing breed is what the National Show is all about, and we can't wait to do it all again.