I try to get to the saleyards as often as I can and one thing I really enjoy is watching the younger agents go about their daily activities. It is very clear they all enjoy their chosen profession but what really strikes me is the level of professionalism and passion for the agency industry. This was also evident at the 2017 ALPA National and NSW Young Auctioneers Competition held at the Sydney Royal Easter show earlier this month. The ten NSW and eight National competitors grew in leaps and bounds by having the experience of selling in front of 2000 people in the big top amphitheater and another 6400 livestreaming the event. If this is a litmus test, the agency industry is in very good hands.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
The Riverina was definitely highlighted as a fantastic training ground for stock agents with Hamish McGeoch from Landmark Wagga winning the competition and runner up Sam Gemmell Elders Cootamundra. Will Stoddard from Elders Wagga was awarded the Max Bailey encouragement award. It just goes to show that hard work, dedication and sacrifice bring results and rewards.
However, it must be acknowledged that there are many people behind the scenes working to assist these young agents make their way to Sydney. Agencies invest a great deal of time and effort in training their young agents however families and friends also play a major part. It was very pleasing to see agency colleagues, family members and friends of the competitors attend the ALPA Young Auctioneers Gala Dinner the night before the competition with over 330 people in attendance. This dinner showcases the best young auctioneers in the country while allowing those who have supported the competitors to kick up their heels and enjoy the wonderful hospitality the ALPA dinners are renowned for.
One of the highlights of the dinner was the charity auction. The ALPA Board chose the John Logan Foundation as their charity for 2017. Just under $20,000 was raised for this very worthy charity and Wagga local agent, Mark Logan was in attendance to represent his late brother’s charity.
While not everyone can take home the silverware, simply taking part in the ALPA NSW Young Auctioneer’s Competition at the Sydney Royal Easter Show is a great experience. I challenge all stock agents who are 25 years and under to have a go at the 2018 ALPA NSW Young Auctioneers Competition. Use the next twelve months to practice and perfect the art of auctioneering. Come along to an ALPA Auctioneers school and don’t be afraid to get up and sell at every opportunity - There are great rewards on offer and the experience is well worth it.
We all look forward to Hamish and Sam representing NSW at the 2018 ALPA National Young Auctioneers Competition.
