From Friday to Sunday, judges struggled to separate the top competitors for the herdsman title, which is awarded to participants who display discipline, responsibility and give a helping hand to others. 

“The herdsmen judges said they wished they could hand out lots more awards,” promotions officer Jessie Ryder said.

Around 80 youth travelled from far and wide to take part in the event, including one girl from Mount Riddock Station in the Northern Territory. Bridgette Cadzow won a bursary at her local show and decided to use it to attend the Inverell event.

“She really enjoyed the show and made a lot of friends. We’re confident she’ll want to come back next year,” Jessie said.

Organisers combatted the heat with an emphasis on early starts and water related games. 

“The quality of cattle was surprisingly good considering the conditions,” Jessie said.

“Everyone who exhibited should be very proud of themselves.”

Dress up competitions added to the fun, with children and cattle both donning colourful costumes. 

The burgeoning farmers were keen to learn all they could about the industry, and listened intently to a mixture of talks from industry professionals.  Roger Evans from Bovine Scanning Services spoke about cattle scanning, while Ryan Morris of Tarraganda Shorthorns focused on show products and cattle preparation.

The University of New England’s Pete McGilchrist discussed meat science and Struan Pearce from studstocksales.com took the groups through livestock marketing and photography.

Queensland’s Alexia Nixon took home the Grand Champion Herdsman prize, while Inverell’s own Beau White left an impression as the Senior Champion Parader.

Jacinta Cooper secured the Breed Ambassador title and Paul Murphy was awarded the Most Potential Breeder.