Easter Show SUCCESS

A team of 20 Agriculture students from TAFE NSW Richmond are celebrating their success in cattle competitions at this year’s Sydney Royal Easter Show, placing in both the middleweight steer and the Simmental stud classes.

This achievement comes as the demand for skilled professionals in the agricultural sector is on the rise, with job growth expected to be 5.8% over the next five years.

“This is the first year we’ve had a team purely made up of Certificate III in Agriculture students,” said Gareth Hough, TAFE NSW Teacher.

“Preparation for the Easter Show began late last year; it takes a lot of time and dedication to get the animals up to the required standard.”

Students were not only responsible for presenting the animals during the competition but were also involved in the breeding process as part of their studies. Two of the 10 animals entered by TAFE NSW were bred on- site, providing students with a comprehensive understanding of animal husbandry.

“Participating in the Royal Easter Show allows students to meet people in the industry, including breeders, and see what’s currently happening,” explained Mr.Hough. “It’s a fantastic Bridget Archer opportunity to gain experience and knowledge from people who have been working in agriculture for generations.”

The competition experience proved to be a valuable learning opportunity for students like Sara Mallison, a 23- year-old from Baulkham Hills who is already working in the industry.

“I chose to study at TAFE NSW to gain more skills to benefit my career path,” said Sara. “As part of the Easter Show, I had the opportunity to enter the Open Paraders’ Competition and experience being part of a steer auction.”

Being involved in the Show allowed Sara to network with industry professionals and gain practical skills. Her dedication was evident as she was responsible for parading the steer that received a highly commended placing Fiona Archer echoed the sentiment that involvement in the Show was a highlight of her TAFE NSW studies.

Students play a crucial role in preparing the animals for competition, a process that demands dedication and early mornings.

“We’d get up between 4:30 and 5:00 am most mornings,” said Fiona. “We’d take the animals out of the stables, clean up, prepare feeds and water, wash them, shampoo them, brush and blow dry them.”