The Landmark CGU SA Junior Heifer Expo has attracted close to its highest number of entrants in the event’s 34 year history.
Eight-year-old twins Emily and Maddison Hann, Lucindale, entered for the first time this year because they wanted an opportunity to prepare their Angus heifer’s Moonlight and Jedda for the judges.
Emily said getting involved in the event was a way to learn new skills and make new friends.
One-hundred and ninety-seven participants will enter the showring during the four day event and 20 youth are involved in the two-day education program.
Coordinator Justine Fogden said the education program was introduced in recent years to allow youth without an animal or experience in leading cattle a chance to get involved and decide if they are interested in entering the full program next year.
“This year about six of the 19 education participants came back for the full program,” she said.
“Numbers were up because with the beef industry being so positive at the moment, a lot of schools are preparing steers for the show now.”
“It is a big learning curve for everyone involved and the entrants learn life skills.”
The winner of the senior champion herdsman and the prestigious North American study tour scholarship will be announced on Thursday.