COMPETITORS showcased their skills when it came to wool classing and sheep live assessment during the junior judging competition held in conjunction with the annual Merino National School’s Whether Challenge.
With over 300 participants, the overjudge for the Merino sheep judging was Tony Inder, Allendale, Wellington, while Australian Wool Network representatives Greg Sawyer and Brett Cooper officiated the fleece judging.
In the Merino sheep judging Matt Kelly representing Haddon Rig, Warren, was named the overall champion of the day following his win of the senior division and first place for the orals in the 16 years and over age group.
Second to Mr Kelly was Jack Kelly and third was Charlie Coddington from Kinross Wolaroi School, who was also sashed the best junior oral presentation.
The 15 years and under junior division of the Merino sheep judging was won by Maddie Adamson from Queanbeyan High School, with school team mates Toby Mailes in second and Sam Papantoniou in third.
Urrbrae Agricultural High School student Sophie Reynolds, South Australia, proved she had a keen eye for wool when she won the senior section of the fleece judging, before going on to be the overall champion.
Hot on Miss Reynolds heels was Will Kosch from St Paul’s College, Walla Walla, who received second while Riley Gall from Egelabra Merinos, Warren, was placed third in the over 16 years section.
First place in the junior division of fleece judging went to Kara Young from Yanco Agricultural High School, second place was snapped up by Georgia Booth, Hay War Memorial High School, and third was claimed by Marnie Rants representing Narooma High School.
Junior handler was awarded to Yanco Agricultural High School student George Hatty, with Austin Grace, Young, named the senior handler.