KEMPSEY teen Charlie Supple has returned home from two cattle shows with high honours.
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The 13-year-old and his assigned steer won various cattle categories at the Inverell Hereford’s National Youth Show last month. Charlie won reserve junior champion in the paraders’ and reserve champion steer. On top of this, he was also crowned junior champion and junior judge.
As part of the judging, Charlie was required to examine four animals in 10 minutes. The animals were assessed on things like hip to pin placement and their muscle and fat distribution. Charlie then had to do a verbal presentation explaining what he thought of the animals and why he ranked them they way he did.
The show attracted some 120 competitors.
Charlie also attended the Angus Youth National Roundup in Armidale last month where he received first place in the heifer class and third in the paraders.
Herdspeople, like Charlie, also work behind the scenes to ensure their animals are meticulously cared for during the show, including feed, water, a clean space and animal welfare.
The Kempsey High School student said he enjoyed leading the animals around and got hooked on showing after attending the Kempsey Show two years ago as well as the Tamworth Landmark Beef Championship.
“It’s something different. You learn a lot from the shows,” he said.
“You learn about things like how to walk them properly inside and outside the arena, correct footwork and how to position them right.
“It also feels good when you get complimented by judges. When you get ribbons it makes you feel like you’ve got it all down pat.
“But I don’t do it to win. It’s a bonus really. For me it’s just a good experience.”
Charlie has been asked to lead a Bulliac Angus from Miles in Queensland at the 108th annual Guyra Show which will take place on February 19 and 20.