This year the competition will feature all hook classes with double the prize money on offer — a total of more than $13 000 up for grabs.
Judging will be carried out by qualified Aus-Meat chiller assessors on Wednesday, August 5, following transportation of the cattle to Nolan Meats at Gympie the day prior.
Reserve champions and champions will also have their carcases auctioned to the highest bidder via a livestream.
The Royal National Agricultural and Industrial Association of Queensland's beef committee chair Gary Noller said it was important the RNA found a way to continue to run the competition in some capacity.
“Our dedicated exhibitors have been preparing their cattle for the show since before the Ekka was cancelled in April, so it's important we provide an avenue to recoup some of their investment,” he said.
“The carcase information helps exhibitors to promote their bull sales from late August to October during spring bull sale season.”
Mr Noller said with three school classes in the Led Steer Competition, it was also vital to continue to provide educational support to students and teachers.
“Exhibitors will receive photos of both the live animal and the carcase, combined with data, so they can be used as an educational tool for agricultural students,” he said.
The cattle will be delivered to four nominated saleyards on Monday, August 3 for transportation to Nolan Meats.
The saleyards are Glen Innes (NSW) and Murgon, Toowoomba and Silverdale (Queensland).
Entries for the Led Steer Competition close on Friday, June 12.
To enter, go to: www.ekka.com.au/competitions
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