Scottish Crofting Federation set for landmark 40th anniversary gathering in Inverness
FOOD and drink produced in the Highlands and speakers from across the region will be at the heart of a gathering marking 40 years since the founding of the Scottish Crofters Union in 1985.
The Scottish Crofting Federation (SCF) will bring its annual Gathering to the Highland capital on Saturday, November 15, marking 40 years since the founding of the SCU in 1985.
The day-long event at the Lochardil Hotel will focus on the theme From Croft to Kitchen (Eader Croit is Cidsin), examining how crofters can help build a resilient, sustainable food system for Scotland.
Jim Fairlie MSP, Minister for Agriculture and Connectivity, will open the Gathering before a series of discussions, workshops, and exhibitions exploring the potential of small-scale food production and the policy support needed to make it viable.
Speakers will include industry leaders and working crofters such as Pam Brunton, chef and co-owner of the award-winning Inver Restaurant, discussing sustainability, seasonality, and supply chains.
Also lined up is Jo Hunt of Knockfarrel Produce, on the economics of small-scale food production.
Sally Crowe, Caithness crofter and This Farming Life contributor, will talk on regenerative crofting and storytelling to support local enterprise.
Sandy Granville, Lewis crofter and founder of Hebridean Mutton and Highland Beef, wil lspeak on developing direct-to-consumer meat sales.
Helen O’Keefe, founder of The Green Bowl, will talk on innovation and building local food networks.
Beth Rose, of Birchwood Croft, is lined up to discuss the role of crofting in food security and the barriers faced by producers.
Glenys Maclean, Isle of Skye Free Range, addresses the challenges caused by limited abattoir provision in the Highlands and Islands.
An exhibition space will showcase crofters and partner organisations working across food, land, and climate.
The Gathering will conclude with the Croft Gathering Dinner, a celebratory meal created in collaboration with chef Walter Walker and featuring produce grown and raised by crofters, including Glenys Maclean (Skye Free Range), Lenice and Alex Townend (Rowan Barn), and Jo Hunt (Knockfarrel Produce).
The evening begins with a drinks reception sponsored by Dingwall-based GlenWyvis Distillery, followed by live music from island trio Marloch.
The dinner will also commemorate 40 years of crofting advocacy, with reflections from historian and award-winning author, Professor Jim Hunter, the first director of the Scottish Crofters Union and author of The Making of the Crofting Community.
SCF chief executive Donna Smith said: “As we celebrate 40 years of crofters organising, this Gathering looks to the future and how small-scale producers can play their part in creating a resilient, sustainable food system for Scotland.”
The event is open to all. Tickets for the day programme and the evening celebration are available now via the SCF website.