THE Landmark CGU SA Junior Heifer Expo is celebrating its 30th anniversary this year and continues to be Australia's largest and most successful beef youth event.
In the past three decades more than 5000 young participants from both city and country backgrounds have spent four days of their July school holidays at the Adelaide Showgrounds participating in the fun and educational program.
Many have gone onto successful careers within the beef and broader agricultural industries.
This year's event has attracted 183 entrants - aged from 8 to 23 years of age - from six states across Australia and parading 16 different breeds of cattle.
The youngest entrant was eight year old Lewis Golding, Hahndorf who was spending some time with his Shorthorn heifer Windsor Station Lady, cleaning his halter for the show ring.
The buddy system is designed for older participants to help younger entrants.
Heifer Expo president Mark Llewellyn said the event provided a great platform for beef industry youth to further their education and learning, and build friendships with others passionate about cattle and agriculture.
It continues to grow from strength to strength, with record attendance at Tuesday's education program.
"As a past competitor myself I know the friends you gain in the industry are lifelong," Mr Llewellyn said.
"It is a real testament to see former participants going onto great things in the industry and becoming leaders in their field with so many lecturing in our education program."
* Full report in Stock Journal, July 17, 2014 issue.
Catherine Miller
Stock Journal's livestock editor and South East correspondent.
Stock Journal's livestock editor and South East correspondent.
