EKKA (Brisbane Royal Show) is always a highlight on our calendar, and this year was no exception. A small, dedicated team of students, selected through a competitive process, worked tirelessly for months preparing their animals for this prestigious event.
This year’s team included Laura Moorhead, Seona Chapman, Amanda Penfold, Matilda Penfold, Lachlan Hooper, and Hugh Cleton, all of whom represented our program with excellence.
We set off early on Saturday morning, stopping overnight in Goondiwindi before continuing on to Brisbane the following day. Sunday afternoon was filled with activities such as weighing, class allocations, and final preparations, including washing and clipping the cattle.
Monday was Paraders Day, and a huge congratulations goes to Lachlan Hooper, who placed 3rd out of 95 competitors – an outstanding achievement!
Tuesday featured the Junior Heifer and Steer classes, and our team had high hopes due to the quality of our animals. Those hopes became a reality:
- Our heifer Tweety Girl, prepared and paraded by Seona Chapman, was awarded Reserve Champion Heifer.
- Our steer Sam, prepared and paraded by Amanda Penfold, also claimed Reserve Champion Junior Steer.
On Wednesday, during the Open Class, our black steer Sylvester placed 7th in a very competitive lineup.
The auction followed soon after judging, with our Reserve Champion animals selling for up to $15.50/kg, and all entries fetching very pleasing prices. After the sale, the cattle were transported to the processing plants.
On Friday night, the carcase results were released, and we were thrilled to learn that we had won the title of Grand Champion Heifer Carcase – an incredible result, especially considering the animals had travelled so far and endured much warmer conditions than they were used to.
A few special thank-you’s:
Ray and Ruth Penfold: Your generosity in trucking our cattle to the show is so deeply appreciated. It’s a massive journey, and we’re grateful for your time and support.
Laura Kirk: As always, your enthusiasm, experience, and sense of fun are invaluable to the team. You bring so much joy and laughter to the whole experience!
The Kirk Family: Thank you for your continued support and for providing us with such high-quality animals. Your contribution is a cornerstone of our success.
Ash Morris: We were excited to exhibit the Hereford Shorthorn Cross Steer you provided, an impressive animal and a great addition to our lineup.
Finally, to our incredible students: Your work ethic, commitment, and team spirit are what make this all possible. Watching you grow, enjoy, and excel in this space is truly a privilege.
Thank you all for making this year’s EKKA such a rewarding and memorable experience!
Mrs Libby Dawes, Director of Agricultural Studies and Equestrian
