SCHOOLS and stud breeders are being offered a unique chance to go head-to-head and showcase their steers in Stock Journal's new virtual competition, Steer Showdown.
After the 2020 Royal Adelaide Show was cancelled in April, the Royal Agricultural & Horticultural Society of SA beef cattle committee has worked tirelessly to proceed with a steer carcase competition at Teys Australia's Naracoorte abattoir in early September.
But with no plans for an on-hoof judging this year, Stock Journal has stepped in to host a once-off online judging of these live steers in a must-see event.
To be aired across several nights in late August on Stock Journal's website, Steer Showdown aims to ensure exhibitors receive the recognition they deserve for months of hard work and preparation.
It will also be a chance for the steers to be promoted - not just across the state, but to a much bigger audience.
Stock Journal editor Jacinta Rose said the company was thrilled to be hosting Steer Showdown, which would serve both as a great educational experience, as well as showcasing the outstanding quality of cattle bred in SA.
For some students, competitions like Steer Showdown and the Royal Adelaide Show's steer carcase competition will provide their first insight into the livestock industry, giving them a glimpse into the exciting career possibilities agriculture offers.
- Jacinta Rose, Stock Journal editor
"While nothing could truly replicate the electric atmosphere of the Royal Adelaide Show, I am thrilled that the Stock Journal can give students a platform to have their efforts recognised not just by an experienced judge, but also by their peers, parents and communities who may be able to watch the judging for the first time, thanks to the online format," she said.
"For some students, competitions like Steer Showdown and the Royal Adelaide Show's steer carcase competition will provide their first insight into the livestock industry, giving them a glimpse into the exciting career possibilities agriculture offers.
"Stock Journal has been informing and supporting SA's rural sector for more than 115 years, and we are proud to be able to play a small role in the development of the next generation of cattle producers."
RA&HS beef cattle committee chairman David Copping is pleased Stock Journal is offering the online competition.
"It is an exciting innovation that we can't wait to watch unfold," he said.
Like many schools, at the time of the show's cancellation Naracoorte High School already had three steers on feed; a Shorthorn and two Limousins which are also an important part of the Year 11 and 12 ag curriculum.
Therefore agriculture teacher Emma Phillips was keen to be part of the groundbreaking competition.
"For us having exposure at Adelaide Show is important in promoting the school so this (Steer Showdown) still allows us to do that and the students can have a hand in the process and learn how to use different marketing tools," she said.
"In these trying times we are seeing online marketing being used more and more."
Steer Showdown, which is open to all entrants of the show's carcase competition, is being backed by the Rural Marketing Agents Network, Hills Farm Supplies based at Mount Barker and Australia's largest family owned meat processor Thomas Foods International.
Entrants will be required to submit the weights of their steers in early August, along with a three-minute video of each of their steers and a side-on profile photo.
The steers will then be divided into weight classes - light domestic, heavy domestic and export.
During the live-streamed event, an appointed judge will provide feedback on each animal and place the classes.
The final night will culminate in the division champions vying for the grand champion steer, with $500 up for grabs.
A best presented school steer prize is being donated by Limitless Show Supplies.
The entry form can be found here, with applications closing July 24.
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