Kate Cummings, our West Retail Lead, is talented at showing cattle! After representing New Zealand at the 2024 European Young Breeders School in Belgium, she put her hand up to teach children skills for handling heifers at a showmanship event during the Gore A&P Show.
How many children were in your class at the event?
There were 12, all under 14 years old.
Did they all bring a heifer from home?
Yes, most of them had heifers there to compete at the Gore A&P Show. We did provide some heifers as well, if needed.
Do you know what backgrounds they came from?
They were from a mix of backgrounds. Some of the participants came from dairy farming families, but some came from more urban backgrounds. We’ve been helping them get involved in the cattle industry and they have taken a strong interest in it!
What skills did you teach them?
The focus was on showmanship. At their age, it is important to work on their ability to lead and present their animal. Anyone can walk into the ring with a heifer, but having good showmanship skills includes being able to present properly amongst fellow competitors, stand the heifer correctly, and do what the judges require from the leader. The three most important factors: First is the judge, second is the heifer, and third is where you’re walking! Nothing else matters while you’re competing.
Why did you offer to help the next showing generation?
So many people dedicated a lot of time to me when I began competing and it made such a difference in my skills, which is something that I hold a lot of gratitude for. I feel passionate about passing on that knowledge and encouragement to the next generation.
Are young people interested in showing cattle?
I think we’re seeing an increase of people getting amongst it and the ones that are keen are deeply passionate about it. Being involved in this part of the cattle industry can give you so many opportunities (like I experienced travelling overseas), so it’s fantastic to see more youth getting involved.
Does showing cattle at A&P Shows help the dairy and beef industries?
Most definitely – it’s a great chance to showcase cattle industries in positive light. A&P Shows are an experience where town meets country and being able to teach urban locals more about agricultural industries and what they do is an important opportunity. Especially as these industries are fundamental for New Zealand. Some of the best quality dairy and beef cattle is displayed at shows and I feel privileged to be a part of it and to have influenced young handlers through this event.
