FRIDAY morning marked a special event when some hoof and hook steers, prepared by Wagga school children, were loaded onto a truck destined for Yea in Victoria.
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Students from the Wagga Christian College farewelled their steers. Initially the steers would have been entered in the coveted hoof and hook competition at Royal Melbourne Show.
However, COVID-19 pandemic restrictions meant the show was cancelled. In leu of the major event the Royal Agricultural Society of Victoria (RASV) will host a hoof and hook competition at Yea on the weekend.
Wagga Christian College student, Isobel Moane, Year 11, said it was sad to see the steers load up on the truck and leave the school.
"Even though we know this is what we have been preparing the cattle for, it is still sad to see the steers go," Miss Moane said.
"It is our hope that they do really well after the preparation they have had," she said.
Miss Moane said although the COVID-19 pandemic had affected the industry the school children and college cattle team still had the opportunity to work closely with cattle, care for them and continue to expand their skills.
NSW EXHIBITORS ARE:
- Billabong High School
- Finley High School
- Yanco Agricultural College
- Condobolin High School
- Wagga Christian College
- The Riverina Anglican college
Although some of the competitions such as handlers or paraders events won't go ahead the steers will still be scrutinised by judges on their live attributes and carcase yield.
Chief executive officer of the Royal Agricultural Society of Victoria, Brad Jenkins said it was great to provide the competition and allow schools and tertiary institutions to enter exhibits.
"It enables students to continue preparing their livestock and importantly complete their curriculum obligations," he said.
"We were pleased by the positive response and support for the new RASV Hoof and Hook Competition with 135 entries received," he said.
In a year that has caused immense disruption to many, especially to the many schools and colleges involved in the competition, it is wonderful to provide a platform to promote and celebrate excellence in agriculture,"
Due to the restrictions surrounding the COVID-19 health crisis no exhibitors or public are able to attend.
Only essential personnel will be permitted onsite at Yea Saleyards.
With various restrictions still in place throughout Victoria and New South Wales, RASV Beef Cattle Committee chairman avid Bolton said there was an opportunity to watch on the livestream.
Finalists will be livestreamed from 2pm to 4pm on Saturday, September, 26 via the RASV website. The RASV greatly appreciates and values the contribution of the Murrindindi Shire Council for providing the Yea Saleyards facility.
The RASV Hook and Hook Competition will take place at Yea Saleyards on Saturday, September, 26 with the event livestreamed via the RASV website from 2pm to 4pm.
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