The 17-year-old student from Katamatite was named champion young parader at the Royal Adelaide Show on September 3.
Sienna is a first-generation dairy farmer growing up milking cows, rearing calves and driving tractors.
Now in Year 12 and school captain at Sacred Heart College Yarrawonga, Sienna hopes to one day become a qualified embryo technician. She was runner-up in the paraders’ competition last year.
“My family definitely are the main reason I now have such a love for showing dairy,” Sienna said.
“I have Dad’s love of cows, Mum’s support and her determination for me to succeed, my brother’s skills building all my new gear, and my sister by my side at all the shows to learn new things.
“I grew up on a dairy farm and started with American cattle with my family, which we run together.”
When asked about winning, Sienna said, “I’m pretty stoked; not many words I can say, to be honest.”
She received a halter from Goulburn-based store The Cattle Shop.
Runner-up was William Phillpot, 19, of Murray Bridge, representing South Australia.
Showing dairy cows has been a big part of William’s life since age 12, when he attended the SA Dairy Youth Camp and met mentor Bridget Liebelt. Today, William regularly shows top-quality stock alongside Bridget at local and interstate events, and works at Daish Irrigation and Fodder in his home town.
“I can’t believe it,” William said, after the competition was run.
“I never thought I would make it this far and I guess if you keep trying and keep practising you can make it to achieve your goals.”
The championships are held in a different part of Australia each year.
Agricultural Shows Australia chair Jacqueline (Jac) Wilson-Smith said the event showcased agricultural excellence, boosted the industry and shone a light on outstanding achievements.
“These young competitors are the future of agricultural show competitions, which are so important to the growth of Australia’s food and fibre industries,” she said.
“The nationals are a fantastic opportunity for them to develop their skills, gain valuable experience and go head-to-head with the best in the country.”
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