Highland Cattle Show hailed as a success

THOUSANDS turned out at the Geelong Showgrounds for the 2024 Australian Highland Cattle Society National Show last weekend.

Running from June 7 until June 9, the Saturday and Sunday events were open to the public, who got to see a high-quality display of animals.

Show convener Hugo Howse said it was an incredible three days with beautiful weather and believes everybody had a great time.

“It was brilliant, on Saturday we had a lot of kids for a big part of the day, the cattle pavilion was open so that people could actually walk around through the pavilion.

“There were plenty of exhibitors to ensure safety of the public but also engage the public and be able to get people close to the animals, there was a great atmosphere.”

Geelong Lions were a not-for-profit partner and were ran off their feet during the event, serving up burgers and highland pies.

Judging took place on the Sunday, where the supreme exhibit was chosen, something Mr Howse said is always a highlight of the event.

Larimar of Amrabull Park AI, exhibited by Amrabull Park Heritage Breeds, took out this year’s title.

Mr Howse said the bulls were judged in two parts: as a beef breed and for their highland characteristics.

“For an animal to combine those properties in a balanced and breed appropriate manner, he was exceptional; just a big, beautiful, hairy bull.”

For the first time an international judge was appointed, with Jacob Lawson from the United States deciding on the winner.

“He’s universally recognised as the best spoken and most knowledgeable judge in the world,” Mr Howse said.

“He was magnificent, he took the time to assess the animals [and] gave incredibly good feedback to both the crowd and the exhibitors.”.

Champion Senior and Junior bulls were also awarded along with Champion Senior and Junior Females.