Lloyd Akers, 15, and All Breeds Youth Show Grand Champion Loxleigh Broad Marie 9211.
Photo by
Pip Turton
A Tallygaroopna teenager has made his mark on the national dairy stage, securing a career-defining victory at International Dairy Week in Tatura on Monday, January 19.
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Fifteen-year-old Lloyd Akers enjoyed a standout day at the All Breeds Youth Show, first winning Junior Leader with his cow, Loxleigh Broad Marie 9211, before achieving the ultimate honour when she was named Grand Champion of the show.
The success began with a win in the two-year-old milk class, before Lloyd went on to claim Junior Leader Senior Champion Milk Heifer, and ultimately Grand Champion Heifer of the Show — a remarkable sweep of the major youth titles.
For Lloyd, who has been showing cattle since the age of 10, the Grand Champion ribbon was particularly special.
“I wasn’t really expecting that win, but it’s a great feeling,” he said.
“This is my first big win. To not only get first, but then to go on and get grand champion at the youth show, is a feeling I won’t forget.”
The Goulburn Valley Grammar School student said the achievement also meant a great deal to his family.
“I don’t think I’ve ever seen Dad smile so much — it’s his first big win as well,” Lloyd said.
IDW is one of the most prestigious events on the Australian dairy calendar, attracting competitors from across the country and overseas, making Lloyd’s success all the more significant.
Looking ahead, Lloyd already has his future plans in place.
“The plan is to go away to uni and then come back home to the farm and take over,” he said.
Senior Leader Imogen Kath, 17, from northern Victoria, with Ashtaney Viral Sadie of South Australia — Reserve Grand Champion Heifer
Chloe, 16, and Stacey, 17, Gleeson of Koroit, grooming Elm Banks Impress Duchess.
Chelsea Atkins of Kenmar Holsteins, Tamworth, NSW, leads her cow from the ring after competing in the Senior Leader in Milk class.
Junior Champions 2026 Lloyd Akers (Tallygaroopna), Montana Reid (Bona Vista), and Scott Moran (Toolamba).
Scott Moran, 16, and Holstein cow Gayleen of Ferguson Farms claimed Honourable Mention Senior Champion Cow — Junior leader. Pictured with Erin Ferguson.
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