Agriculture

Agriculture News
What a fantastic term it’s been for Agriculture students at our school! One of the highlights was our involvement in the Camden Show, where we ran an interactive display about the importance of Trees on Farms. It was wonderful to welcome so many of our new Year 7 students to the Ag Team: Lucas, Amelia, Alicia P, Blair, Blake, Oliver, Charlotte, Chloe, Jack, Japjeet, Latifa, Liarna, Tyler and William. These enthusiastic students joined our regular team members: Caitlin, Jonathan, Sybella, Alicia B, Milla, Ruby, Hannah, Nadia, Paige, Jacob, Aiden, Isabella, Keanu, Kristian, Tanneah, Charley, Sophie, Rylee and Zara. Together, they did a fantastic job speaking with show visitors, helping children complete craft activities and introducing our popular alpacas, Smudge and Willow. It was heartening to hear so many positive comments from members of the public about our students’ knowledge and friendliness.
Our Alpaca Team competed in Showmanship and Stockmanship classes, proudly bringing home plenty of ribbons. Special congratulations to Alicia, Ruby, Isabella and Rylee who were involved in the Camden Show Junior Ambassador Program. They took part in a variety of roles across the show, with Rylee being named Runner-Up Junior Ambassador – a well-deserved recognition. Our Poultry Team also had a successful show, receiving multiple trophies including Champion School Exhibit.
A big congratulations goes to Ms Last, who was awarded an Excellence in Agriculture Award at the show for her work with our Cattle Show Team – a wonderful acknowledgement of her commitment and passion.
The excitement continued the following week at the Sydney Royal Easter Show. Our Agriculture students enjoyed the chance to see a wide range of livestock and experience all that the show has to offer. Our Poultry Team again impressed the judges, taking out the title of Most Successful School Poultry Exhibitor, and our Year 9 Elective Class earned First Place for their Layer Project Poster. The Alpaca Team continued their success in the show ring, and Sophie and Isabella competed in the Alpaca Young Judges Competition, where Sophie was awarded Overall Champion Young Judge – an outstanding achievement!
Meanwhile, our Cattle Team has begun preparing a Murray Grey steer for the Greater Sydney Schools Cattle Competition. Students have been formulating rations, monitoring growth and training the steer to lead. Some team members recently attended a training day to further develop their skills in grooming, leading and livestock judging. Team members include Sophie, Jacob, Rylee, Will, Sybella, Caitlin, Alicia, Ruby, Nadia, Aiden and Isabella – all showing great commitment.
Year 7 students have been enjoying the fruits of their labour – literally – by harvesting their tomatoes and making delicious tomato soup, perfect for warming up during this chilly weather.
Finally, several of our Agriculture students had the opportunity to attend Discover Ag, an inspiring careers event showcasing the wide variety of agricultural pathways available to students today.
It has been a busy and rewarding term. Congratulations to all involved – we’re proud of your efforts and achievements!
Ms Atkinson
Agriculture