This statement is true when reflecting on the success of exhibitors from the Riverina at the Sydney Royal Easter Show. It also applies to our cropping farmers who will “show up” for winter sowing no matter what.

Yes, we need rain, yes it’s dry. But if lessons are to be learned from the past they will “show up” and simply do what they do best. To succeed at Sydney Royal Easter Show you have to be good. Years of breeding goes into the livestock that earn the wins and plenty of spit, polish and preparation goes into making them look good too.

Yes, objective measurement is important and figures count but the visual impact of showing stock can’t go without recognition. To see this region do so well on the national podium is heartening.

It shows we are getting it right. From stud sheep to watching school students earn top kudos the awards for the Riverina and southern NSW have flowed.

Wagga can lay claim to having the rural achiever, Cootamundra has the top auctioneer and the winners in the livestock section have been from this region too. 

Those who assist school show teams and show young people agriculture in this way deserve respect as well. 

In an evolving industry where everything is measured the argument for not showing livestock will continue. However, the lessons in showing, shining your boots, brushing and clipping a prize steer and demonstrating respect to the judges and stewards has a value that is treasured and not measured.