Best young meat sheep judges to face off

Agricultural Shows of Australia announced the finalists in the prestigious competition this week, which will feature the best young meat sheep judges aged from 15 to 25.

The other finalists include Brendan Lamont from Tambellup, WA; Georgia Lee from Harristown, Qld; Reece Webster from White Rock, NSW; Tayla Hansen from Taupiri, NZ; Erin Douglas from Mornington, Vic; and Molly Cornish from Bridport, Tas.

For Qld finalist Georgia Lee, 25, it won't be her first time competing on the national stage, having previously competed in the national finals twice.

Originally from Brisbane, Ms Lee became involved with competing at shows through her school agriculture program.

"It's a good way to get kids involved in agricultural shows," she said.

"My older sister got involved, then I did and then my younger brother and sister got involved and my mum became quite involved from there as well."

Ms Lee, who qualified before she turned 25, is now looking to put her best foot forward before she ages out of the competition.

"Third time's the charm, I'm hoping," she said.

"My fingers and toes are crossed but I've had a look at some of the other finalists and I think it's going to be quite a tough competition."

Now based in Pittsworth, Ms Lee works as an assistant in nursing in aged care and is studying a Bachelor of Paramedicine.

Ms Lee said she plans to balance her chosen career with continuing to assist at shows as a steward.

"It gives me an opportunity to pass on some of my knowledge to more young people," she said.

ASA chairman Rob Wilson said the competition is designed to recognise the best new talent in livestock judging nationwide.

"It's an extremely prestigious event and positions at the nationals are keenly contested," Dr Wilson explains.

"These young people are the future of agricultural show competitions which are crucial to the continual improvement of Australia's food and fibre. The national competition is a coveted opportunity to grow personally and professionally by practising skills against the cream of the crop."

Qld Ag Shows president Kerri Robertson said in a meat sheep judging competition, it is important for the assessor to relate the form of the animal to its function.

"Livestock producers, breeders, feeders and buyers all judge and evaluate livestock for their potential as either breeding or market animals," she said.

"The task of judging is a subjective one, based on selected production systems and changing market conditions. It is important that entrants are able to use their skills and articulate their approach."