A CITY-born 'junior' with a passion for sheep has won his third state meat sheep junior judging title.
Daniel Lutz, 21, grew up in the city but has always had a commitment to agriculture and sheep.
He attended Urrbrae Agricultural High School, which he says acted as a stepping-stone to building some good relationships in the sheep industry.
Having gained a Diploma of Agriculture at the University of New England, Armidale, NSW, Daniel is now working several jobs, including with several studs.
"I look for early-maturing sheep, thick-boned and well-balanced with sirey appeal," he said.
Mr Lutz is now eligible to compete at the national competition to be held at the Sydney Royal Show next year.
He said the entire junior judging process was a great experience.
"A lot of people can judge a sheep in the paddock but to actually judge in a ring, and give a speech in front of everyone, it builds confidence," he said. "And you also meet a lot of great people. They always have a good overjudge so you learn a lot."
Mr Lutz said junior judging was a great way to encourage the next generation into the industry and the show.
"It's great the show does events like this," he said. "It shows why the show has been going all these years - because of the way they get youth involved."
* Full report in Stock Journal, September 11, 2014 issue.
