Farmer in Focus – Minto Galloways
How did Scottish cattle become a Canberra staple? Just ask our Farmer in Focus, Minto Galloways. Established in 1989, Minto Galloways has built a strong reputation as a premium-quality meat producer, renowned for its commitment to tradition, sustainability and excellence.
Galloway cattle originated in the rugged landscapes of Scotland, where cold, wet and challenging conditions shaped their unique characteristics. Minto Galloways’ elevated property, located just off the Barton Highway, mirrors these conditions remarkably well. With cold winters, hot and dry summers, and an average annual rainfall of 630mm, the farm provides an almost ideal environment for Galloway cattle to thrive.
Driven by their strong ties to Scotland, the owners made the journey to learn more about the breed and its origins. What they discovered reinforced their commitment to Galloway cattle. Their original harsh environments contribute to exceptional meat quality, with natural marbling, lower saturated fat levels, and higher Omega-3 content. This experience confirmed their decision to maintain a 100% full-blood Galloway herd, preserving the breed’s distinctive qualities. Just recently, the team had their meat analysed by the Australian National Measurement Institute. It found a higher protein, Vitamin A, good HDL cholesterols and Iron. Additionally, a lower amount of bad cholesterol and saturated fats than the Food Standards Australia standard for this cut of beef.
In 2024, Allan and Katie took over the marketing of Minto’s grass-fed beef from Allan’s parents Greg and Chris, and Allan says that customers at the Market will regularly see their son Hamish and his family working there too, which brings all four generations into the trade – a great family business indeed.
When we asked Allan what he most enjoys about being a Galloway producer, he said it is the opportunity to educate people about regenerative farming practices and animal welfare.
“It’s been a real unexpected joy about selling directly to our customers at the Farmers Market. Most small farmers care about their animals and the future of their land but lack the channels to communicate this to customers,” Allan said.
Allan added that farming animals can sometimes have a bad reputation but knowing how and where your produce comes from can help a consumer make the best choices regarding animal welfare, quality, taste and price.
Allan says they love getting to know their customers and seeing their growth in confidence, trying to cook different dishes.
“As we enter our 20th year at the Market, we are looking forward to bringing quality, humanely raised beef to our customers. And we really love getting to know even more members of the Market community,” said Allan.
“A recent conversation with a customer about the way we make bone broth for our grandchildren inspired this customer to give it a go for her grandchild and to place an order for marrow bones for them as well,” Allan continued.
Allan’s go-to meal right now is a quality steak served with seasonal veggies from the market. How could you go wrong?
Minto Galloways’ dedication has also been recognised in the show ring. The stud has enjoyed continued success at both the Royal Canberra Show and the Royal Easter Show in Sydney. Most recently, Minto Galloways was awarded the prestigious Grand Champion Galloway Female at the 2025 Royal Canberra Show. We’re already looking forward to seeing them compete again in 2026!
Minto Galloways is currently working to increase their rotational grazing practices and continue their improvements to their ethical farming practices.
And this year at the Market, Minto is proud to start stocking Stockinpiggle, pasture-raised pork and chicken. They had been customers of Stockinpiggle for many years, so they were excited to have their range on offer. They have been slowly educating their customers on the value of their heritage breeds and ethically raised meats and small goods. Stockinpiggle has such a broad range of products that if Minto Galloways do not have the product you are looking for, they welcome special orders.
Stop by and say hi to the farmer and his family at Minto Galloways on your next visit to Market to find out more about their family farming story and where your local produce comes from.
