The Rolls-Royce of Cattle Handling in Aberdeenshire

After 36 years at Chapel Baris Farm in Stonehaven, Scotland, David Drinkwater knows what good cattle handling should look like. Originally running a dairy operation, the farm now finishes Limousin and Charolais heifers to around 600kg across a mix of arable land and grass. But as the herd grew, David found that his old Ritchie crush and gates were no longer up to the job, especially when working alone.

“It wasn’t the safest way of looking after the cattle or myself,” David recalls.

Searching for a Safer, Smarter Cattle Handling System

When he decided it was time to upgrade, David began researching different systems online. One design immediately stood out: Te Pari.

“What I liked was the way there were no corners in the pens. The cattle just seemed to flow naturally,” he says.

David reached out, and soon Giles and Eric from Te Pari were standing in his yard. Together they discussed his needs, such as handling up to 50–60 cattle at one time, and Te Pari designed a layout tailored specifically to his farm. After measurements, drawings, and final sign-off, the plans were sent to New Zealand for fabrication.

“The team were very professional,” he says. “Eventually we ended up with the system we’ve got now and I’m delighted with it.”

Easy Installation & Smart Design

David prepared the site himself with help from a friend, using the Te Pari concrete rake to create a safe, grippy finish. Once the system arrived, it was fully installed in just two days by the Te Pari guys.

Classed as a mobile system, it also came with significant tax benefits, which was an unexpected bonus.

A Year On: Safe, Stress-Free Cattle Handling

After 12 months of use, the difference has been transformational.

“It really does work well. It’s very safe. I handle all the cattle on my own now,” David says. “Even my grandkids help, they just stand in the safe zone. The cattle flow naturally.”

His new Te Pari Lenta MX3 Crush, complete with squeeze mechanism, has been a game-changer for handling both 300kg stores and 700kg finishers. Full access around the animal makes clipping easy, and if a beast goes down, the crush opens fully for safe release.

Everything operates from the back, headlock, gates, and the three-way shedding unit.

“As you release one, the next is already coming in. You get a continuous flow, so it’s really handy.”

The elevated walkway has become one of his favourite features.

“I wasn’t sure at first, but it’s absolutely stress-free. You’re above the cattle, you can see everything, and dosing is so easy. I’d recommend anyone installing a system to include the walkway.”

A System Built to Last

During a trip to New Zealand, David visited the Te Pari factory and saw his own system being built.

“It was impressive to see. These aren’t just gates welded together; they’re inserted, welded, and robotically finished. You can see the quality.”

“The Rolls-Royce of Cattle Handling Systems”

Reflecting on the upgrade, David believes the investment was worth every penny.

“That system cost the front axle of a new tractor, and I’m safe,” he says.
“I’ve handled cattle all my life with crushes tied up with bits of string. Now we’ve got what I would consider the Rolls-Royce of cattle handling systems.”

Most importantly, he adds:

“When you go out in the morning, you’ll come back in for your dinner.”

Watch the video testimonial from David!