A Glenstrae Girl All Grown Up: Skarlotte's New Chapter at Smethurst Park

One of the greatest joys of breeding Highland cattle is watching their stories continue long after they leave our farm.

Last year, we said goodbye to Skarlotte of Glenstrae, and while she'll always be one of "our girls", it has been so special watching her thrive with her wonderful family at Smethurst Park. We absolutely love receiving updates and seeing photos of her new adventures.

Recently, Skarlotte welcomed a beautiful heifer calf, Skara Brae of Smethurst Park (AI).

Skara Brae with owner Troy Smethurst, Smethurst Park.

• Dam: Skarlotte of Glenstrae

• Sire: Gusgurlach of Mac-Ladanae

Hearing how well everything went made our hearts smile. Skarlotte had a quick, unassisted delivery two days before her due date, settled into motherhood beautifully, and little Skara Brae was on her feet almost immediately, eager to find breakfast. 

Proud mama Skarlotte with newest addition, Skara Brae of Smethurst Park.

The story behind Skarlotte's name

Skarlotte's name has always carried a little piece of our family story.

It came from two names: Skyler and Charlotte.

Skyler was chosen to honour the person who helped us in 2017 choose Skarlotte's mum as our next breeding female. Charlotte came from my three-year-old nephew, who couldn't decide which name he liked better. As he bounced between "Skyler" and "Charlotte", we laughed and simply merged them into Skarlotte.

Over the years, that tradition continued with her daughters.

Kari Henriette carries part of her mum's name, while "Henry" honours my eldest brother, Richard Henry, who passed away in 2023.

Lotte Angela also takes part of Skarlotte's name, with "Angela" recognising her sire, Lauriston Angelo.

And before them all came Skarlotte's very first calf, Blinky Bull, our little grey calf born amongst the gum trees. Those early memories feel like yesterday, yet here we are watching Skarlotte raise another generation in her new home.

Watching their stories continue

People often ask whether it's hard to see cattle leave Glenstrae.

The truth is, it is.

But moments like this remind us why we do it. Knowing Skarlotte is so loved, so well cared for, and raising beautiful calves makes saying goodbye worthwhile. Seeing Skara Brae arrive safely feels like another chapter in a story that began here and continues at Smethurst Park.

If you'd like to follow Skarlotte, Skara Brae, and the rest of their fold, be sure to follow Smethurst Park on Facebook and Instagram.

We can't wait to watch this little girl's story unfold. ❤️