ONE of the oldest dairy heifer competitions in Australia continues to exhibit high-quality cattle as it nears its 50th birthday.
The Mount Torrens and Districts 49th Dairy Heifer Competition and Field Day drew exhibits from six different farms around the area between Birdwood and Charleston.
It was a case of last but certainly not least when it came to the judging, as the final farm the convoy visited - Andrew and Sonya Maxwell's Glenmax Holstein stud at Charleston - won three out of a possible four awards.
Glenmax Jazz Janis was praised by judge Grant Liebelt, Grantley Holsteins, Paris Creek, for her open rump.
Janis was judged best heifer and was in the winning group of three heifers.
"They are three big, tall, upstanding heifers which excel in width, power and strength," Mr Liebelt said.
The Maxwells also had success in the mature cow class, winning the best mature cow award with Glenmax Blitz Lily.
The nine year-old cow has had five calves and has produced more than 15,700 litres in her current lactation.
The best in-milk heifer award went to Kevin, Lorraine and Craig Zilm, Birdwood.
Judge Bill Leggat, Craigbank Holsteins, Murray Bridge, said Lily was a powerful cow with good feet, legs and pin width. He also admired the "tremendous strength" in her loin.
Mr Leggat judged an entry from the Zilm family, Birdwood, as the best in-milk heifer.
The competition will celebrate its 50th birthday next year and celebrations are planned to mark the milestone.
* Full report in Stock Journal, April 10, 2014 issue.
