Parading to the Royal

AFTER a lengthy absence, the junior beef cattle parader’s zone qualifying final for entry to the 2015 Royal Easter Show, will once again be staged at this year’s Wingham Show on Saturday March 14.

Securing the return of this year’s event was not only the desire of the show society, but also the majority of participants have applauded the societies efforts, especially secretary, Raelene Marshall who made a very persuasive presentation to the Agriculture Societies Council.   

It is seen as not only significant for our show but also there is a substantial “spin off” to the Wingham business community as the competition brings parents, teachers, helpers etc to our town.

Competitiors are expected from not only the local area but also from as far north as Coffs Harbour and south to Gloucester, Hunter and Central Coast.   

Seventy seven juniors competed at our 2014 show without the major attraction of a Royal Show qualifying final.   

Most, but not all, were Agricultural students from seven high schools.

It is the dream and aspiration of any junior cattle enthusiast to show case their talents and passion for agricultural excellence by being able to compete at the Sydney Royal Show.

Our local Wingham High School has produced many State finalists and for many years has been a nursery, along with our show society, for developing and nurturing young people to pursue a career in agriculture.  

Just last year for example, Wingham High agricultural students Nikita Gallagher and Jonty Hemmingway competed credibly in the junior judging State final at Sydney Royal.   

Prior to this Rachael Relf qualified and competed in both the State judging and parading State finals.

It is ironic our judge for this year’s junior events is also a former Wingham High Agriculture student who graduated in 1995.   

I refer to Patricia Scrivener from Bonny Brooke Angus Stud at Yarrowitch.  

Trish won her first zone final and competed at Sydney Royal in 1995 after winning many grand champion parading and judging awards at many shows including Sydney and Brisbane Royals.   

She has also judged and competed successfully in New Zealand, England and Ireland.

It is important to recognize and acknowledge the contributions made by Wingham Beef Exports in fostering and encouraging our youth.  

They not only provide major sponsorship funding for the event, but also provide education and a hands on insight into all aspects of beef, cattle selection, processing, assessment, grading, marketing and career opportunities.   

General manager of Wingham Beef Exports Grant Coleman said, “In the interests of the beef industry in general we have a responsibility to encourage, assist and nurture our youth”.   

For example Grant said “it was in our interest to assist Patricia in her project, we have employed Rachael Relf who recently graduated with a Bachelor of Agriculture degree, similarly Jonty Hemmingway, who was so successful in the show ring last year is also working with us, both furthering their knowledge and gaining hands on experience.

Tremendous sponsorship donations for this year’s show will see cattle exhibitors and juniors competing for prize money and trophies to the value of $1,700.