Allister McArthur was a breeder of Ayrhsire cattle at Cherry Bank Farm, Howick, Quebec. His was the highest scoring herd of Ayrshires in the type classification program on the continent. He also bred the highest scoring homebred cow of the breed, as well as at least seven Royal Agricultural Winter Farm Champions or Reserve Champions. Several sires bred at Cherry Bank bred daughters which were national champion producers.

Mr. McArthur achieved prominence as a classifier for Ayrshire, Jersey and Brown Swiss breeds, and a judge for all six breeds of dairy cattle. He judged the Royal Agricultural Winter Fair 11 times, and a large number of other prominent shows in Canada, the United States of America, Australia, and Scotland. He demonstrated judging and classification particularly in the United Kingdom, where he achieved an excellent reputation as a goodwill ambassador for Canadian cattle breeding. In fact, his friendly personality, his hospitality, and his collaborative style made friends for him and those he represented wherever he travelled.

Mr. McArthur was a prominent and active member of his church and served as chairman of the school board. An effective communicator in all his roles, Mr. McArthur was fluently bilingual.