AGRICULTURAL science students from high schools across the South East and Western Victoria gained practical cattle handling experience at the Mount Gambier Showgrounds yesterday.
Over 80 students braved the rain for the annual South East Cattle Handlers Workshop – a full day of hands-on seminars for Year 8 to Year 11 students to learn ringcraft, cattle care, clipping, washing and drying techniques, breeding technologies and the fundamentals of livestock judging.
The seminars were presented by volunteers from the South East Cattle Handlers Committee and Garry Glasson of animal health company Zoetis.
Committee president Danielle Tulak said the workshop prepared students for careers in primary industries.
“We have 88 students here today which is up on last year when we had around 60,” Ms Tulak said.
“Every year we have more students register because it’s an opportunity for invaluable practical experience.
“Students are divided into smaller groups and rotate through six different sessions with experienced lecturers from our committee before we all gather for the junior judging competition in the afternoon.”
Committee volunteers present practical demonstrations on showing cattle, preparing cattle for livestock judging, the best techniques for washing and drying and presenting in the show ring.
Rellum Farm Simmentals, Glentanner Angus, Cara Park Salers, Chalon Maine Anjou and Poll Herefords, Elywarra Sands Murray Greys and Ebenezer Park South Devons supplied cattle for this year’s workshop.
