Show enables students to learn about cattle

Show enables students to learn about cattle

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Kelmscott Senior High agriculture students Alanah Dunstan, William Nuttall, Claire Heenan and Malory Clarson. Photograph – Richard Polden.

A group of agriculture students held their own cattle camp to get themselves ready for this year’s Perth Royal Show appearance. 

Staff at Kelmscott Senior High School decided to host the cattle camp last Friday and Saturday at the school, as the students were unable to attend the usual yearly event held at Brunswick Junction. 

Head of agriculture Derek Edmondson said he did not want the students to miss out on the opportunity. 

“The camp was designed to give students some intensive training in cattle husbandry, handling and parading and practicing all the activities and skills that will be required when the show cattle team attends the Perth Royal Show later this year,” he said. 

“It provided students with confidence to handle 400-kilograms plus of beef cattle in front of a judge and audience as at the Royal Show the students will need to lead their animal into the ring and be judged by industry professionals.” 

The camp also included various talks from industry professionals including Professor David Pethick who spoke about meat quality and Dr Sue Low who spoke about animal nutrition and careers. 

Professor Herb Rovray helped students judge the quality of their stock and Kym Thomas judged the school’s handlers and their stock.

Students currently in year six are encouraged to apply for the school’s specialist agriculture program. 

Applications close on May 31.

Call 9495 7454.