Seven judges from across Australia and New Zealand put their skills to the test at the National Young Judges competition yesterday, and Harris Thompson, Boyup Brook, Western Australia, secured the top prize.
The evening competition attracted a large crowd as the competitors set to judging Santa Gertrudis heifers, Charolais heifers and Shorthorn bulls.
In the final round, the young judges gave a two minute verbal analysis on the breed of their choice, with Harris Thompson named champion, Joe Tones, Jandowae, Queensland, the reserve and Demi Bird, Sheffield, Tasmania, in third position.
Mr Thompson was really happy with how he performed and how closely his comments reflected those of the over judge, Tom Baker, Woonallee Simmentals, Millicent.
“I was really happy that I could line up with a judge like Tom Baker, it was really amazing – he’s a bit of an idol,” Mr Thompson said.
With a family Murray Grey and Charolais stud, Venturon Livestock, Mr Thompson looks for the commercial appeal of the beast, as well as the breed characteristics.
“I like a good carcase, but structure is definitely the key for me because if an animal cant get around, what’s he going to do.”
Also putting in strong performances were Cooper Carter, Tumut, NSW, Emma Hollitt, Gisborne, New Zealand, Harry Turnham, Gisborne Vic, and Alexandra Thompson, Yorketown, SA.
