Biloela teen named Ekka prime beef young judge champion

The 17-year-old, who studies at CQ University Rockhampton, had a passion for judging cattle following on from her family’s love of the beef industry.

“My grandfather runs our Goolah grazing company and together we select steers and heifers to put on the market,” she said.

Candice said competing boosted her confidence and improved her knowledge of cattle.

“I like to learn from the judges and everyone else’s opinions but at the end, my comments (in the competition) revolved around how I see the beef industry and how I can see cattle,” she said.

Rockhampton Grammar School student Isabella Hanson also delivered a flawless speech in the competition, leading her to win the RNA prime beef competition.

It elevated her into the state final where she claimed the reserve champion title.

Isabella said she had been taking part in young judges competitions since she was 11 years old.

“I do it for the experience and to have an understanding of cattle,” she said.

While she felt at ease when seeing the clear winners in the pen, she was challenged in other areas.

“I was looking for steers that would hang up well and meet all specs,” she said.

“I feel I have done better (with my public speaking) but I’m happy with my results.”

Both girls took away advice from judge John Manchee, Manchee Agriculture, Yamburgan when he spoke of his time competing in young judges contests.

“A good bit of advice I was taught was do it your way – you might win some or lose some but if you’re not true to yourself then it’s pretty hard to justify your decision,” he said.