On July 19th, Fred Barrett of Oceanbrae Farms in Belmont, Prince Edward Island served as host for the Canadian Milking Shorthorn Society Field Day and
AGM along with the rest of the Barrett family. What came as a surprise was that he would also be presented with the Distinguished Service Award, the Society’s highest individual honour.
Fred’s journey with the Milking Shorthorn breed spans decades. He has served as CMSS President for two terms, providing leadership and guidance during critical periods. His more than 30 years as a director exemplify his enduring dedication to the Society and the breed. Fred has also taken on numerous leadership roles as chair of multiple committees, demonstrating his willingness to serve and his deep passion for the breed’s prosperity.
Fred has promoted the Milking Shorthorn breed in numerous ways. Fred and his family have achieved the distinction of being 2-time Master Breeders, a testament to their excellence in breeding and herd management. For over 35 years, Oceanbrae Farms exhibited at the Royal Agricultural Winter Fair—a tradition that embodied the family’s pride in showcasing the breed on the national stage. Fred’s commitment to the breed’s promotion is also evident through his participation in numerous regional shows across Prince Edward Island and the Maritimes, as well as at the National Show in Lindsay. Through these fairs and exhibitions, Fred built a network of connections within the breed. Fred and his family have also hosted numerous provincial and national field days over the years to bring breeders together in fellowship. In addition, Fred has been asked to judge Milking Shorthorns within Canada as well as in the United States and New Zealand.
Fred’s impact is also felt through his role as a frequent consignor of high-quality animals to National and Online Sales. Numerous herds throughout Canada trace their genetics back to Oceanbrae cattle, which have been sold to all ten provinces and even across the border into the United States. This generous sharing of genetics has helped elevate the breed’s standards and expand its reach nationwide.
Beyond his achievements and contributions, Fred is known for his mentorship. He has mentored many new breeders, guiding them with enthusiasm, knowledge, and encouragement. His efforts ensure that the passion for the Milking Shorthorn breed continues to thrive through the next generation.
Fred was nominated for and presented with this award by fellow DSA recipient and past CMSS Secretary James Knott of Clarksburg, ON. Since it was first presented in 2008, ten individual breeders or couples have been awarded with the Distinguished Service Award. This award recognizes those that have made a significant contribution to the Milking Shorthorn breed in Canada. Considerations include lifetime contributions to the breed, service to the Society as a director, committee member, sale or show volunteer, and promoter of the breed to the larger dairy industry. Recipients of this award also receive an honourary lifetime membership to the Society.
