Community & Business
10 March, 2023
On-farm cattle comp now part of annual show
A NEW competition that will showcase the quality of beef being produced on the Tablelands has been launched as part of the annual Atherton Agricultural Show.
The On-Farm Beef Cattle Competition will enable beef producers to promote their brand without the logistical problems associated with getting their cattle to the show, as well as the costs involved.
Atherton Tablelands Agricultural Society show manager Kylie Lang said the organisation was excited to announce the introduction of the competition to this year’s event.
“There’s a lot of cost involved in getting cattle to the showgrounds and also these cattle are not used to being around a lot of people or noise as studs often are,” she said.
“With changes in the economy and the viability of producers preparing animals to have them ‘Show ready' for the annual show, we concluded that we need to do more to promote our local producers and farmers.
“Talking with a local producer and show exhibitor for many years about how we could grow our show’s Beef Section and show more support to our local producers, he commented he would like to see an on-farm competition.
“I took this feedback to the committee and the decision was made to introduce the On-Farm Competition in 2023.”
Ms Lang said it was hoped the new competition would provide an opportunity to more local beef producers to promote their brand with minimal outlay, time, and cost to them.
Judges and stewards will visit properties who enter the competition in late May.
“All competitors in the On-Farm Competition will also be given the opportunity to hold an exhibition stall at the Atherton Show to be held on 10-11 July,” Ms Lang said.
“Here they can showcase their brand and all of their achievements.”
Ms Lang said there would be a number of categories – Tropical, European and British, and Small – with eight classes within those categories.
The competition is open to all producers in the Atherton Tableland and Mareeba region. Entries close on 1 May. To enter, go to www.athertonshow.com.au and click on the Competitions tab
