Kempsey High School’s hard-working Agricultural students achieved unprecedented levels of success in dominating Wingham Beef Week held from May 14 -18.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
In their eighth year entering the competition, featuring 4200 students from 27 private and public schools from all over NSW, Kempsey High had its most triumphant tilt yet, taking out all four individual and team categories in the Bootoowaa Pastoral Company Beef Appreciation program.
“I don’t think any school has ever achieved that in the 31 years the competition has been running,” Kempsey High Agricultural teacher Gavin Saul said.
“We’ve had great individual results in the past but this year was one of the most successful as a team – the depth of performance was exceptional.
“The results and skills showcased by our students indicate industry standards are being taught and adhered to, and that’s what the industry needs.
“I can’t be humble about this one, I really think it’s an achievement worth acknowledging.”
Year 11 students Alex Schofield and Liam Whalen led the charge. The pair were crowned Individual champion and reserve champion respectively.
The scores from the top four individuals from each school were then combined to determine the champion team, with the next four results going towards the reserve champion team total.
Alex and Liam formed half of Kempsey High’s Champion team with Paton Simpson and Ruby Weismantel also contributing valuable points.
The school’s reserve representatives were Riley Dickinson, Tom Harwood, Kirra Davison and Amber Steger.
Standout Alex Schofield was elated with his own execution under the pressure and the knowledge shown by his school mates.
“I’m pretty happy with my performance but seeing our school do well and the other students do well was the highlight,” he said.
“I was heaps proud, surprised to win but extremely happy with the results.”
The astute meat connoisseur, who would like to pursue a career as an arborist when he graduates, considers Kempsey High’s agricultural program superior to others he’s seen because of the high level of student involvement.
“Students are given a specific role – whether it’s cattle, sheep or pigs,” he said.
“The variety helps to expand their knowledge of agriculture.”
