The course included simulated and real auction practice, tips from speech pathologists, critique of technique and feedback from other experienced auctioneers.
Jacob Brennan from Mulchay Nelson Livestock in Tatura is trying to improve his own personal skills and has attended the school for the past three years.
‘‘I have been keen on auctioneering since I left school,’’ Mr Brennan said.
‘‘The course is great because it peels things right back and gives you tips to improve technique and stop bad habits.
‘‘Auctioneering is a firecracker environment and it is so important to know your stock values and your buyers, so you can always get the best result for your vendors.’’
Hamish Falla from Landmark in Wangaratta is also looking to improve his skills and fine-tune a few things.
‘‘Being a good auctioneer adds another string to your bow,’’ Mr Fella said.
‘‘The course has been really good, especially hearing from the older agents who have been doing it for a living and know what it’s all about.’’
Mr Fella also said hearing from the speech pathologists on how to protect and project their voice was interesting, and something he had never really thought about.
ALPA southern regional manager Liz Summerville said the group hosted auction schools across the country.
‘‘Education is important in any industry to keep up to date and to create network opportunities,’’ Ms Summerville said.
Of this year’s participants, 10 will be selected to compete at the Victorian Young Auctioneers Competition in Pakenham in September.
‘‘The state winner and runner-up will compete at the national competition in Sydney with the winner going on to represent Australia at the Calgary Stampede,’’ Ms Summerville said.
