THE competition was tough at the first part of the Bega AP&H Hoof and Hook competition last Monday, but quiet achiever Ron Dowton triumphed for the second year running.
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Angledale farmer Mr Dowton was awarded the champion hoof ribbon for an exceptional 413kg Limousin steer, while the Cullen brothers, John and David, nabbed reserve champion with a 396kg Simmental cross Limousin steer.
Organisers were pleased with the turnout, with 32 entries in the hoof competition, above the 25 expected.
Mr Dowton, who is known in the local farming community as a man of few words, noted only that Monday’s competition was “very tough” as he accepted his ribbon.
John Cullen accepted the reserve champion ribbon on behalf of the Cullen Bros Bemboka farm.
“It’s a fantastic day, good form all around and all the calves came up well," he said.
“Thanks need to go to the Bega AP&H Show Society for doing so much work to make this competition happen.
“All we really do is the easy part by showing up with our cattle.
“This event is like two grand finals so I’m looking forward to see what happens with judging in Moruya."
Mr Cullen was referring to the “hook” part of the competition, where all 32 entrants in the hoof heats were sent to Afflicks Abboitors in Moruya to be judged on Wednesday by Brian Cummings, technical specialist (beef breeding and genetics) with the NSW Department of Primary Industries.
Champion on the hook came from the Monaro farm of Barry and Lynnette Tozer, reserve champion went to Bronte Johnson of Bega.
The prize-winning carcasses were purchased by Bayside Butchery in Batemans Bay and Midtown Meats in Narooma.
Locally, JD's Meats in Bega, Tathra Quality Meats and Seafood and Goodall's Quality Meats in Merimbula bought carcasses from the judging.
Robert Hain, stud principle of Gunyan Poll Hereford stud, was the hoof judge.
Mr Hain was impressed by the quality of beef cattle on show.
“The field in each class was of a very high standard,” he said.
“Everyone who showed here today should be very proud.”
Also at the hoof portion of the competition were students from Narooma and Bega High Schools.
Students had spent months raising vealers for exhibition at the Hoof and Hook for the Westpac junior judging, with Narooma High School nabbing the winner’s trophy this year.
The presentation dinner will be held on May 30, which provides a great opportunity for the beef producers to review their results, enjoy a sociable evening and listen to guest speaker Andy Harbourne.
To book a ticket, call Judy Adams on 0409 296 886.
