2026 Australian Highland Cattle Society Inc National Show
About
Australia's biggest and best Highland cattle show!Join us in Bathurst for the 2026 National Show of the Australian Highland Cattle Society, held over the June Long Weekend, 5–7 June 2026 at the Bathurst Showground. This is the largest Highland cattle event in Australia, bringing together breeders and cattle from across the country for a full weekend of competition, community and country atmosphere.
WHAT TO EXPECT
Up to 100 Highland cattle will be on display across the weekend, with a full program of events including:
- Highland cattle judging with an internationally renowned judge
- Junior and open handler competitions
- Grand parade of champion animals
- Trade stalls
- Highland Cattle merchandise and displays
- A fun costume competition
- Food, community atmosphere and plenty to see throughout the day
Whether you’re a cattle enthusiast or simply looking for a great day out, there’s something for all ages. It’s the largest Highland cattle event in Australia and a great chance to see these iconic animals up close.
EVENT DATES & LOCATION
📅 5–7 June 2026 (June Long Weekend)
📍 Bathurst Showground
TICKETS
Tickets can be pre-purchased (Saturday & Sunday only) or are available at the gate (Friday, Saturday, Sunday). Pre-purchase your tickets to skip the queue and receive the digital Show Program free!
Tickets allow entry on a single day and are nonrefundable for any reason.
Please note, the 2026 Show Program will be released on Saturday 6 of June 2026.
WHAT IS THE BEST DAY TO ATTEND THE AHCS NATIONAL SHOW?
It depends on what you’d like to see!
Friday 5 June – Great for families and those curious about the educational side of Highland cattle. You can watch Junior Judging, Graded Females, and Market Steers. Please note, Friday will feature less stalls and spectator activities than Saturday and Sunday - therefore, Friday entry ticket sales are at the gate only.
Saturday 6 June – Stud Judging Day 1! See the top female and male Highland cattle judged individually, then watch the Paraders competitions, including Junior, Senior, Open and Novice classes.
Sunday 7 June – The big finale! The day begins with judging Stud Steers, Calf at Foot, then Champion judging, including Supreme Exhibit, and Group Classes. Don’t miss the Grand Parade and Costume Classic, perfect for a fun family experience.
In short: Saturday and Sunday are the most action-packed for spectators, while Friday offers a more relaxed, educational glimpse into the world of Highland cattle. Please note Friday entry tickets are at the gate only, and Friday will feature less stalls and spectator activities than Saturday and Sunday.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Q: Can I see the cattle up close?
A: Yes – there will be plenty of opportunities to view Highland cattle throughout the showgrounds, both in and out of the judging ring.
Q: Can we pat the cows?
A: Maybe - this is at the discretion of the animal’s owner or handler.
The AHCS National Show is a livestock competition, not a petting zoo, so we ask all visitors to please respect the animals and their exhibitors.
Do not touch or approach any cattle without first asking permission from the owner or handler. Many exhibitors are happy to chat and may allow interaction when it is safe to do so.
Q: Is this event only for cattle breeders?
A: Not at all – while the show is a major event for Highland breeders, spectators are very welcome and no prior knowledge is needed to enjoy the day.
Q: Is the event suitable for families?
A: Yes – the National Show is a family-friendly event with plenty to see, including cattle judging, demonstrations, trade stalls, food, and family friendly activities.
Q: Will there be food and stalls?
A: Yes – there will be trade stalls and food options available on-site during the event.
Q: Is the event pet / dog friendly?
A: No, unfortunately dogs are NOT allowed at the event. This is for the safety of cattle, exhibitors and spectators. If you bring a dog, you will be asked to leave with any monies paid non-refundable
SAFETY AROUND ANIMALS
Highland cattle are large, powerful animals, and your safety - as well as the safety of exhibitors and livestock - is very important to us.
Do not touch or approach any cattle without first asking permission from the owner or handler. Many exhibitors are happy to chat and may allow interaction when it is safe to do so.
Please follow these guidelines while on the showgrounds:
- Cattle being led have right of way - always move aside and allow at least 2 metres of space
- Do not touch or approach animals without permission from the owner or handler
- Observe all signage and do not enter restricted areas, including cattle preparation and holding zones
- Be mindful that cattle can be unpredictable and may react to loud noises or sudden movements
- Children must be closely supervised at all times
- No running, shouting, or sudden movements around livestock
TERMS AND CONDITIONS
For information about this event, please contact the 2026 AHCS National Show Committee at show@australianhighlandcattle.org
By purchasing a ticket you agree to receive information about the Event by email from the Event Organiser.
PHOTOGRAPHY AND MEDIA
Photographers and videographers will be present throughout the event to capture images and footage of exhibits, exhibitors, and general show activities. By entering and attending the show, exhibitors acknowledge and consent to being photographed or filmed. Images and video captured during the event may be used by the AHCS for future promotional, marketing, educational, and editorial purposes, including but not limited to social media, websites, publications, and advertising.
ABUSIVE OR THREATENING BEHAVIOUR
All exhibitors/spectators are required to extend courtesy at all times to show officials, fellow exhibitors and members of the public attending any show. In the event of any person attending the show being abusive or exhibiting threatening behaviour towards any person at the show, the show committee is entitled to request such person leave the show venue, with any monies paid non-refundable.
DOG MANAGEMENT POLICY
NO DOGS ALLOWED. If you bring a dog, you will be asked to leave with any monies paid non-refundable.
By entering the event, you agree to follow all directions from event staff and exhibitors to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone.
Dates
Saturday 6 June 2026 - Sunday 7 June 2026 (UTC+10)Location
Bathurst Showground
28 Kendall Avenue , Lot 1, Bathurst NSW 2795
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2026 Australian Highland Cattle Society Inc National Show
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