MOVE over boys, it’s the New England Girls’ School livestock team that is proving to be a force in agriculture.
The NEGS squad blitzed the male-dominated competition at the recent Upper Hunter Beef Bonanza, where more than 700 students from across the state did battle a Scone.
NEGS participated in the cattle handling, junior judging and steer sections.
In the 14 years paraders section, Emma Costello from Walcha finished first, while Amelia Ghiggioli was third out of a field of 160 students.
Older sister Isabella Ghiggioli was also finalist in the 16-17 years paraders.
Costello’s win topped off an impressive year, having represented the New England North West zone in cattle handling at the 2013 Sydney Royal Easter Show.
She was also crowned the overall champion junior judge and most successful competitor at Wingham Beef Week in May.
The junior members of the NEGS livestock team were also in form.
In the 12-13 years competition, Armidale Year 7 student Amber Strelitz and Gunnedah boarder Olivia Carter were brilliant in a field of 130 competitors.
NEGS agriculture teacher Mark Fisher said he has been impressed with the students and their results.
“This has been a stellar year for the NEGS livestock team and I am incredibly proud of the students who were, as always, impeccably behaved and presented and displayed outstanding teamwork, sportsmanship and support to each other,” he said.
“A great weekend was had by all. Everyone was very tired but in great spirits thanks to a couple of days of great company and comradeship.”
Mr Fisher also acknowledged the support and assistance of NEGS agriculture assistant Lyall Cameron and the many parents who donated their time, cattle and money to the team.
