Ag students from across the South East were able to learn some of the finer points of judging livestock and grains at the Naracoorte Showgrounds on Monday, preparing them well for the upcoming show season.
Nearly 70 secondary students from five schools, including first-time participants Keith Area School, attended the successful Young Judges Workshop organised by the South East & Border Shows Association.
They were divided into groups and rotated around six sessions learning from respected stud breeders and industry participants, as well as getting a chance to judge a group of Poll Dorset rams.
The lecturers for the day were Viterra field services officer Anthony Gregurke (grains), Callowie Merino stud's Richard Halliday, Bordertown (Merino sheep), Emily and Scott Davidson, Morton studs, Lucindale (meat sheep), Mark and Lyal Llewellyn, Jillangalo Red Angus stud, Willalooka (beef cattle), Quality Wool's Andrew Keach (wool) and SA Country Shows executive member Amanda Lock who ran the meat sheep judging trial.
Workshop committee member Rosemary Miller said it was a pleasure to give young students a greater insight into the livestock and grain industries.
"The enthusiasm and involvement of the participants reflected the success of the day," she said.
"We are hopeful many students will be encouraged to become more involved and participate in Young Judges competitions at upcoming country shows."
Eight students; Cameron Atkinson, Henry Dahlitz, Cody Nunn, Will Krop, Rupert Fletcher, Henry Dennis, Henry Haynes and Ben Frick were presented with encouragement awards of free passes to the 2019 Royal Adelaide Show.
