The 2014 UniSchool Steer Challenge closing ceremony was held on Friday, September 5 at the University of Western Sydney with more than 150 students, teachers and parents attending.
For approximately 100 days, students from each school were to care for the Poll Hereford steers by feeding and handling them.
Event organiser, Stephen Blunden from the UWS School of Natural Sciences says the challenge is a great way for students to engage in agricultural activities.
‘‘Students are responsible for the feeding and welfare of the steer, picking up valuable skills in animal care and cattle management in the process.
‘‘The challenge has also proven to be a great learning opportunity in communication and personal development’’.
Bede Polding College were the winners of the competition, followed by Macarthur Anglican School in second place and Xavier College in third.
The competition has grown since its start back in 2000 with more than 12 high schools now competing.
The competition allows students to learn more about the agricultural industry as well as provide the opportunity for promotion of agriculture in both schools and the general public.
Students come together at the end of the 100 days to showcase their steers with the winner then being announced.
This year’s individual class winners:
●Champion Junior Judge: Colo High - Grace Ward.
●Champion Senior Judge: Richmond High - Brooke Chandler.
●Junior Champion Parader: Elizabeth Macarthur High - Clare Howe.
●Senior Champion Parader: Elizabeth Macarthur High - Bradley Psaroudis.
●All Ages Judges: Richmond High.
●Champion School — Best Presented Steer: Colo High.
●Students Choice (Display): Caroline Chisholm College.
●Champion School – Led Steer: Richmond TAFE.
●Champion School – Herdsman: Oakhill College.
●Champion School – Combined Beef Appraised Team: Caroline Chisholm College.
●Champion School – Steer Weight Gain: Bede Polding College.
●Champion Carcase School: Xavier College.
