FORESTRY nominees are being sought for Lantra Scotland’s 2025 ALBAS – which highlight the talents of people involved in the land-based and aquaculture sector. 

Designed to celebrate the achievements of individuals, schools, businesses and partnerships, the awards recognise successful trainees of all ages and encourage employers to invest in the next generation of talent, while promoting the many rewarding careers available.

Industry categories in the ALBAS cover trees and timber, horticulture, game and wildlife, animal care, and land-based engineering. 

As well as prizes for overall winner, runner-up and modern apprentice of the year, there are awards for higher education, school pupil, secondary schools, research project, CARAS (Council for Awards of Agricultural Societies), mentor award, the Tam Tod Trophy for outstanding young learner, and the Anna Murray Award for Partnership Working. 

Dr Liz Barron-Majerik MBE, Scotland director for Lantra, said: “The awards highlight the dedication and achievements of everyone involved and of course becoming a finalist can make a huge difference to people’s self-confidence and careers too.” 

Last year’s Trees and Timber Learner of the Year was Kevin Pearson, a forestry apprentice at Rural Skills Scotland, while the Scottish School of Forestry UHI Inverness’ Harry Evans secured the Higher Education Award HNC. 

Kevin Pearson claimed the Trees and Timber Learner of the Year gongKevin Pearson claimed the Trees and Timber Learner of the Year gong (Image: Supplied)

Deadline for entries to the ALBAS is Monday, December 2, and winners will be announced at a prestigious ceremony at the Crieff Hydro Hotel on Thursday, 6 March 2025. Call Lantra Scotland on 01738 310164, email scotland@lantra.co.uk or visit www.scotland.lantra.co.uk/learner-year to find out more about the ALBAS.