Nudgee leading the way

It may have only been a small showing of Senepol cattle at this year's Brisbane Exhibition, but judge Andrew Raff said for him there was more to it than the number of cattle parading before him in the show ring.

The Senepol cattle were prepared and shown by students from the Brisbane-based Nudgee College, and Mr Raff, stud principal of the Raff Angus stud based at King Island, said what schools and colleges like Nudgee are doing is a 'wonderful thing'.

"The agricultural experiences provided in a school environment are a great opportunity. Breeds like the Senepol's should be commended for allowing school children to have these opportunities," Mr Raff said.

The students from Nudgee College couldn't agree more. Year 12 student Tristan Anderson from Maryborough began showing cattle with Nudgee in 2012. He said for other students like himself, showing cattle was a great way for the 'bush kids' to feel at home.

"It's also a way for the students from the city to have a go," Tristan said.

"Showing cattle is an educational experience and there seems to be a lot of career opportunities as a result."

At Nudgee, there is a Cattle Club which is open to students from year five and up. From there, the older and more experienced students who have 'earnt their colours' join the show team. The show team attends anywhere from a dozen to 20 shows per year, including Sydney, Rockhampton, Longreach, and all areas in between.

This year students from the Nudgee College exhibited 23 head at the Ekka Across three breeds.

Pictured; Nudgee College students Tristan Anderson, Maryborough, Rhys Galdal, Bourke, NSW, and Wayde O’Sullivan, Collinsville, prepared and paraded the grand champion Senepol exhibit, Wiangaree Park L0005, reserve champion female, Wiangaree Park L0004 and third place-getter, Wiangaree Park L0003.