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Ten-year-old Castleton Scott of Oakview recently showed off a calf at the annual Manitoba Ag Ex livestock show in Brandon. On August 25, this young breeder purchased the calf himself from Ian Smith of Argyle for $2,200. With the guidance and support of his father Shawn, Castleton took a genuine interest in livestock and had a keen eye for quality.

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I stopped by his family’s pen in Barn 4 at the Keystone Center to see their Shorthorn cattle. He stood proudly in front of his latest purchase, which he had already displayed twice at Ag Ex and which he may display at the big cattle show in Regina this month.

When Castleton bought the calf from Smith, he gave the young cattle rancher a pocket knife and a measuring tape, both engraved with “Armac Shorthorn” – a small gesture that brought him much joy.

“It is heartening to see young people like Castleton taking such an active interest in the beef industry. The Shorthorn breed, known for being docile and manageable, has become a great choice for 4-H kids, primarily since its birth in Smith’s barn.

“Over time, I have provided calves to more young 4-H members who find these calves easy to work, train and lead. It’s a pleasure to support the next generation of cattle producers and watch their enthusiasm for the industry grow.

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Casselton stood proudly in Brandon’s living room, eager to talk about his journey. When asked his name, he answered confidently and added that he was there “to show cattle.” He shared that he bought his show animal from Ian Smith, paying for it himself – a real point of pride.

Casselton beamed with his father by his side as he spoke about his love for livestock. “Yes, I showed it several times,” he said. And when asked about his results, he smiles and talks about his achievement: “Today, I won a third and a second. » A promising young breeder, Casselton’s enthusiasm and accomplishments are a testament to his dedication and passion for the industry.

Casleton’s father Shawn shared more about their livestock interests. “So how many cattle do you have?” » he asked, then he proudly replied, “Well, with this heifer, he will have… once bred and calved, he will have eight females.

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When asked about his livestock, Shawn laughed, “I don’t own anything. I run a feedlot, so I take care of a bunch of cattle. I just don’t own them all. He described the operation: “We feed a few thousand and put about 1,500 on the grass. » It’s clear that while Casselton is building his herd, his father is playing a major role in the industry, working with large numbers of cattle every day.

When asked if he had always loved cattle, Casselton said, “Yes.” And when asked why, he simply replied: “I don’t know. I just like cattle.

With a smile, it was clear that was reason enough. Sometimes the best passions don’t need a reason, they come naturally.

Shawn said, “That steer over there is from his 4H heifer from last year. We won the Lundar Fair with the cow-calf pair and also took victory in 4H. He smiled and added, “I guess he wants in.”

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Hearing the pride in Shawn’s voice and seeing Casselton’s dedication, it’s clear that the passion for livestock is becoming a family heirloom.

Shawn laughed and asked, “Who funds you, Casselton?” Tell them. With a smile, Casselton replied, “My grandmother is the bank. Shawn laughed and added, “If he needs money, she helps him, then he sells cattle and pays her back.” It works better than my bank: no interest charges! »

Casselton has a strong support system within his family for his fledgling beef business.

Ian Smith reflected: “I know I could have achieved more; other Shorthorn breeders told me I was selling him too cheap. But it’s not me. I was a kid once, just like this little guy.

Its approach highlights its commitment to supporting the next generation of agriculture. He appreciates the opportunity to help young livestock enthusiasts like Casselton at a higher price.

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I had the privilege of attending the first Manitoba AG EX, launched in 1973, and watching the Keystone Center grow. I attended the winter and summer fairs, as well as the livestock exhibition, making three trips a year and remaining there five days or as long as the exhibition continued.

The Brandon Agricultural Society was founded in 1882 to promote agricultural products, marking the beginning of what is now known as the Manitoba Summer Fair. Originally held at 10th and Victoria Avenue, the fair moved to the Keystone grounds in the late 1800s. As demand for another event grew, the Brandon Winter Fair was started in 1906, focusing on the sale of livestock and the improvement of livestock breeding. This fair has expanded to include educational sessions, government exhibitions and industrial exhibitions.

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In 1967, the two fairs merged to form the Manitoba Provincial Exhibition. Three years later, the Brandon Winter Fair received the honor of becoming the Royal Manitoba Winter Fair following a visit from Queen Elizabeth II. Manitoba AG EX, launched in 1973, has become the largest all-breed cattle show in the province. Today, all three events are taking place at the Keystone Center.

— Harry Siemens is an agricultural journalist, podcaster, speaker, writer and broadcaster

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