Entries have opened for the competition, which sees more than 100 animals compete annually and provides learning opportunities and industry insights into the science and skill required to breed cattle to suit the domestic and export markets.
All entrants are assessed on genetic selection, nutrition and animal handling — vital elements that influence the blend of live judging and carcase scores, assessed by the Meat Standards Australia (MSA) grading system.
Finley High School won Grand Champion Carcase in 2022 with steer, Progress Magic Man.
Agriculture teacher Robyn O’Leary described the steer as “a very safe packaging, met all the specifications, and fitted in beautifully with what the competition requires”.
The school also took home the Bott-Burston trophy, awarded to the most successful school or college exhibitor across both the led and carcase judging.
Finley High School will return to the 2023 Melbourne Royal Show, with 35 students busily preparing to defend their title.
“We’re bringing around 16 to 18 carcase animals and we’re especially excited about one we’ve bred ourselves, so we’ve got our fingers crossed,” Ms O’Leary said.
“There is a lot of work going on to get organised and show-ready and the students are doing a fantastic job.”
Entries close Tuesday, July 25. Judging will take place on September 23 and 24, with the winner announced on September 30.
For more information, go to: https://www.melbourneroyal.com.au/beef-carcase/
