MEAT judging is allowing students to learn about the industry and gain vital international contacts.
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Participants in the Australian Intercollegiate Meat Judging Competition want people to know they are about more than just finding the perfect steak.
Meg Parsons is coaching the Charles Sturt University team after her success from last year’s event.
The veterinary science student said the competition gives her a better understanding of the paddock to plate process.
“I’m really interested in Australian agriculture and how, as a vet, I can have an impact on productivity and profitability of meat,” she said.
This unusual hobby has given the veterinary science student a deeper understanding of agriculture, provided new contacts and seen her travel to the United States as part of the Australian team.
"Through the skills, knowledge and contacts I have gained, I'll be able to help producers be more productive and more profitable within their industries,” she said.
"I'm thrilled to be involved as a coach of the Charles Sturt University team this year. I love being able to help others have the wonderful opportunity I experienced.
"Yes, meat judging sounds a little strange, but I strongly encourage anyone interested in agriculture to participate in the program. It is a wonderful journey with so many benefits."
CSU will field a 15-member team for the annual competition which is organised by the Intercollegiate Meat Judging Association to highlight careers in the meat industry and provide hands on training in carcase evaluation and meat science.
They'll join 150 students from other Australian universities and international teams from USA, Indonesia, Korea and Japan.
Lecturer in animal science Michael Campbell, from CSU's School of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, said the program provides students with a raft of skills.
"Along with the competition there are seminars, lectures, careers fair and workshops all tailored to enhance students personal skills and encourage them become leaders in the meat industry," he said.
"They also make contacts with international students and gain an appreciation of the dynamics of the global meat industry.
"It consolidates the skills and knowledge they are learning at university and gives an insight into real industry issues,” he said.
“This competition is really about taking university students and developing them into industry leaders,” he said.
