Agriculture News

Working Dog Demonstration

On Thursday 14 November, the SJA steer handling team were lucky enough to have local cattle agent and working dog trainer, Zac Ede, demonstrate his talented working dogs and stock handling skills. This was a valuable experience for our students, learning the processes involved in training a working dog and tips on how to overcome training challenges. Our students were able to relate Zac’s dog training concepts to their work in handling and breaking in cattle. 

We would like to thank Zac for his time and efforts and creating this valuable learning experience for our students.

Sheep Shearing

As part of Year 9 Agriculture, students study sheep and fleeces. On Monday 28 November, contract shearer Jamie De Waal, from De Waal Shearing, sheared the school's sheep. This was a fantastic learning experience for our students as Jamie involved them in the shearing process and students were able to assist him and have a go themselves. We would like to thank Jamie for his time and willingness to share his expertise!

Laura Smith

Agriculture Teacher

Merriwa Show

A very keen group of students competed in the Merriwa Show Junior Judging competition in September, with their performance and behaviour a credit to themselves and the school. With over 60 students in their classes, winning a ribbon was something very special. All students should be very proud of their efforts, with the head judge stating that it was one of the biggest competitions he had ever judged, and commented on the interest all students had shown.

The main prize winners for St Joseph's were:

Under 15 Merino Fleece : 1st Matilda G

                                                   2nd Isla W

Under 15 Merino Sheep : 3rd Chad B

Under 15 Meat Sheep : =3rd Matilda G

Sue Allott

Agriculture Teacher

Singleton Show

On 28 September, the St Joseph’s Alpaca Team competed in a variety of events at Singleton Show. It was  a very memorable day. All students received a place in their classes. Students competed in preliminary and open classes in both stockmanship and showmanship. 

Major awards were gained in:

• Open Classes

                             Alyssa E - Reserve Champion

• Preliminary classes

                             Shyanne B - Champion

                             Grace P - Reserve Champion

Congratulations to all students. Thank you to the judges and volunteers for helping and making the day happen. And a very big thank you to Ms Allott for taking time out of her weekend and coming to support the students. Thank you Saphire Park Alpacas, for letting us borrow your Alpacas!

Report by the Alpaca Show Team