Page 11 - The Outdoor Showman JAN-MAR 2019

CATTLE
West Gippsland is well known for its dairy and beef cattle. The region was built on the back of dairying and while this has declined over the years it is still a strong feature at the Annual Show.
The renowned dairy breed, Holsten takes centre stage with a special feature Show.
Supported by Holstein Australia, the Holstein feature Show gives local breeders an opportunity to Show their dominance.
Entries from across the state are always received in the Holstein classes including 18 heifer and cow classes as well as the all- Australian calf, best udder and junior and senior champion and reserve champion titles.
Dairy classes include both Holsteins and Jerseys. Major awards in the dairy rings include champion dairy heifer and champion dairy cow and there is always strong competition for the most successful Holstein and Jersey exhibits.
Local beef breeders also dominate in the cattle rings. Traditionally the cattle rings are a great display of West Gippsland’s strength in dairy and beef cattle industries.
Lastyearanewbeefformatwasintroduced with all breeds being judged together in the same ring.
In past years entries have been divided into British and European breeds with overall interbreed judging to determine the best beef cattle of the Show.
However, with entry numbers declining, organisers decided to restructure the beef program with the aim of making the classes more interesting for both judges and exhibitors.
The all breeds beef classes also feature junior heifer and bull classes as well as senior female and beef classes.
Junior and senior championships are awarded as well as a grand champion exhibit and supreme beef exhibit.
Beef entries from a variety of breeds will include Simmental, Limousin, Gelbvieh, Pinzgauer, Belgian Blue, Angus, Red Poll, Lowline, Hereford, Poll Hereford, Murray Grey and South Devon.
The animals on Show don’t stop at just cattle and horses there also is a wonderful poultry which has been a feature of the Show for many years.
The goats are always popular with the crowd, as are the fine budgerigars.
HORSES
The horse section has been the backbone of the Warragul Show. It has always been well supported with many exhibitors keen to enhance their chances of acceptance at later Royal Shows.
For the past two years the horse Show sections have been held on Sundays. This program change has proved a real winner with exhibitors. Many like the quieter atmosphere away from the hustle and bustle of Show day and the carnival.
Many also like to prepare on the Saturday so that everything is perfect for the ring on the Sunday.
Sunday’s three ring event offers many opportunities for those seeking red, white, blue or tri colour ribbons.
The always popular Clydesdale, heavy horse and harness sections are held on the Saturday.
A decision some years ago to accept on the day entries has proved a real winner, boosting income from what was already a well-supported section.
JAN-MAR 2019 THE OUTDOOR SHOWMAN 9