The Royal Queensland Show is the perfect setting for proud primary producers to showcase the fruits of their labour and the prime cattle pavilion is no exception.
The coveted 2017 Queensland Country Life champion single steer award went to Jason and Megan Livingstone, Ballycasheen Limousin Stud, Maidenwell, and the couple were pleased home bred bloodlines led to their win.
The Livingstone’s steer was a 21-month-old, 688kg purebred Limousin affectionately named Helix after his recently deceased father- a bull Mr Livingstone described as “something special.”
Mr Livingstone said despite the sire’s successes, Helix was never destined for stardom in the led steer arena.
“He was pampered from birth and was broken in to be a led steer but he wasn’t very successful- there was obviously better cattle on the circuit at the time,” he said.
“The process wasn’t wasted on him though- he’s impeccably quiet and has a cheeky side as a result which increases his value in both a personal and practical sense.
“He’s just a lovely natured, well performing animal with the correct structure and style for this style of competition.”
Mr Livingstone said he was pleased to receive the broad ribbon with Helix as the steer was regrettably the last of his pedigree.
The couple have run their Limousin stud for nine years with a win in the same class three years ago, but agreed this year’s victory felt particularly special with their “little mate.”
“It was Helix’s first entry in a prime class and he seems right at home,” Mr Livingstone said.
“We didn’t bring any stud cattle to the show this year and we’ve been coming for the last seven years.
“Megan does all the hard work with the cattle, I just order the grain and cart them so its been a nice change.
“There’s something about the Ekka, its a great atmosphere no matter your capacity of participation.”