Meet The Team

A family run estate spanning four generations

Meet Team Hamilton

We’re Caroline and Graham Hamilton, the proud fourth generation to run Cairns Farm, where we've raised our three children - Alistair, Bobby, and Jo. Each of our kids brings something special to the table: Joanna is the creative force behind our interior design, Bobby tackles the finance and funding aspects, and Alistair manages projects as our talented onsite joiner.

Our passion for countryside living is deeply rooted in our love for the land, and we’re dedicated to diversifying and expanding the farm to ensure it continues to thrive for generations to come while bringing fun and hospitality to every occasion! 

Graham Hamilton

I grew up on Cairns Farm alongside my brother and sister, surrounded by the rolling hills and hard work of farm life. I was sent off to boarding school followed by agricultural college in Edinburgh before setting off on a fifteen-month adventure around Australia with my then-girlfriend, now wife and business partner, Caroline. Upon returning home, I joined my father in running our hill sheep farm. I married Caroline in 1987 and she has been an integral part of the family & the business, helping to shape its future.

Never one to shy away from a challenge, I spent a decade building houses to make ends meet before returning to the farm to develop the thriving business that Cairns Farm is today. A true workaholic, I can often be spotted riding across the hills on my quad bike, with our loyal farm dog, Fin, faithfully trotting behind or riding onboard

Beyond farming, I have a lifelong love of rugby, having played for over 40 years before swapping the pitch for the sidelines, where I now cheer on the Currie Chieftains each week. I am also passionate about hiking, skiing (though I do not get to go as often as I would like), and escaping to sunny destinations with friends.

Despite my many ventures, my heart remains firmly with the land, the sheep, and the simple joys of farm life.

Caroline Hamilton

For nearly four decades, I’ve called Cairns home — raising a family, running our farm, and living a life full of food, community, rugby, and muddy boots. Together with my husband Graham (we met at Agricultural college!), we’ve raised three grown-up kids, welcomed two grandchildren (with another on the way!), and built a life rooted in the Pentland Hills.

In 2021, we launched Cairns Farm Estate — a dream to create a stunning events venue that keeps this fourth generation of Hamilton’s working together, building a sustainable future. Our vision? A place of natural beauty where unforgettable memories are made.

I’ve worn many hats — farmer by trade, shepherd by passion, farmers market trader and organiser, proud creator of our own farm produce brand. Local food and education have always been close to my heart. These days, I’ve turned my focus to the land itself — planting trees, weaving wildlife corridors through our hills, and leading conservation projects aimed at restoring ecosystems and boosting biodiversity. It’s a big mission, but with our neighbours across the Pentlands, we’re making it happen — one wildflower, hedgerow, and waterway at a time.

When I’m not supporting Currie Chieftains, you’ll find me in the garden, on a hill walk, back at the pottery wheel, or planning my next adventure. I love great food, good wine, and the hope that one day I’ll ski like a pro, ace a tennis match, and grow a garden bursting with colour and flavour.

Erica Sawyer

I’m a passionate Wedding and Events Coordinator with a love for creating unforgettable stories.

Originally from Hertfordshire, I moved to Scotland to embrace the stunning scenery & wildlife. Working at Cairns Farm is the cherry on top of the cake. When I’m not coordinating events, you’ll find me outdoors – walking, painting or running around on a muddy lacrosse pitch.
I love exploring a new hobby and have turned my hand to silver jewellery making, needle felting, painting, candle making and many other exciting projects. 

For me, creativity and connections are at the heart of everything I do, so let’s make something extraordinary together.

Janice Simpson

I have worked with the family at Cairns Farm since 2022 following retirement from Banking, then education.

I live with my husband about 30 minute drive away, and have one married son and an adorable 4 year old grandson.

 I enjoy sunshine holidays with friends and family, some of which are like a ‘Busman’s Holiday’ with the Hamiltons! We have been friends of the family for 20 years so we know each other very well.

I love my job here at Cairns and can think of no better place to enjoy a celebration here – totally unbiased opinion of course!

Lisa Walker

I am originally from Sweden and moved to Scotland 13 years ago to study, and I’ve never looked back! I met a Scotsman, got a couple of dogs, got married here at Cairns farm, had a son and now I’m lucky to be working here as a Wedding Coordinator. I love being part of such an important day for our couples and helping them create memories they will cherish forever.

 

When I’m not coordinating weddings, you’ll probably find me outdoors – hiking, enjoying good food, coffee, and wine with friends, or playing beach volleyball. I also love going on adventures with my son Leo and dogs, Nova and Atlas.

Jan Livingstone

Originally from Plymouth, I moved to Scotland 35 years ago at the age of 21 and have called it home ever since. I have a wonderful daughter, Rebecca, and a lively seven-year-old field spaniel, Coco, who keeps me on my toes.

Cooking is a true passion of mine—exploring new recipes, experimenting with flavours, and learning more about nutrition, especially since becoming celiac, which completely transformed my outlook on food. I love using fresh ingredients from our own vegetable patch, making home cooking even more rewarding.

Outside the kitchen, you’ll often find me walking in nature with Coco, swimming, or taking on a new DIY or decorating project. Gardening is another favourite pastime, and there’s nothing more satisfying than growing your own produce.

One of the best feelings is arriving at Cairns Farm—the peaceful setting and the wonderful people here create such a relaxing atmosphere. It’s a place that instantly brings a sense of calm.

My happy place? Either in the kitchen with my daughter, preparing a delicious meal, or out in the hills with friends. And if there’s a glass of New Zealand Shiraz involved—well, that’s just the perfect finishing touch!

Antonina Carmichael

I have a strong connection and love for Cairns Farm and the surrounding area having been brought up just along the road.  I have known the Hamilton Family for 30 years having baby sat as a teenager for Alistair, Bobby and Jo! 

I have a love for the outdoors, sea, fresh air and animals.  Until recently I spent all my spare time looking after, training and competing in dressage.  However after a bad fall I have, for the moment, given up and my time is now spent walking, sailing, socialising and holidaying.  I hope to get back to skiing too!  I am very much enjoying my new found freedom!

I have an agricultural events and administrative background and feel that Cairns Farm is the perfect fit for me.  We are all very much looking forward to the future here at Cairns Farm, it looks very exciting!

Roy Vucago

Hi, I’m Roy, a farm laborer and maintenance hand at Cairns Farm,

Originally from Auckland, New Zealand, I’m of Fijian descent.

My journey has taken me around the world, where I had the privilege of playing Rugby in New Zealand, Australia, Spain, and Scotland. It was through rugby that I met the Hamiltons.

Before this, I spent four years in Sydney, Australia, where I completed technical training in welding and steel fabrication right after high school. My diverse background in both hands-on trades and sport has given me a strong work ethic, a focus on teamwork, and a deep appreciation for hard work. Whether on the farm or in the workshop, I take pride in being part of a team and tackling any challenge that comes my way.