School Steer Spectacular no bull for students chasing career in beef

Dozens of high school students from southeast New South Wales have put their knowledge of beef production to the test at this week’s 2025 School Steer Spectacular in the Shoalhaven.

The annual event held at the Nowra Showground on Tuesday and Wednesday was the culmination of a three-month project that aimed to expose students to a potential career in the agriculture industry, with a focus on the beef cattle sector.    

“This is a fantastic event that gives students real-life, hands-on experience in an industry that is vital to the Shoalhaven’s agribusiness,” said Mayor Patricia White. 

“We are incredibly proud to support the School Steer Spectacular and are delighted to host the event in the Shoalhaven, as we hope it will encourage more school leavers to consider a career in the industry in our region,” Cr White said. 

“I’d like to congratulate the students for their participation and wish them luck as they showcase their skills and knowledge. We hope to see this event continue long into the future,” she said.  

This year, 11 schools participated with 180 students engaged to prepare steers that had been provided by local beef producers to compete for awards.  

Boorowa Central School was crowned the winner with the Grand Champion Led Steer while Max Gorey from St Gregory’s College won the title of Champion Parader.  

Judging was based on the merits of the steers and the knowledge and skills of the students gained throughout the project. 

The project also provided local beef producers with an opportunity to gain valuable feedback on the suitability of their cattle to meet market specifications.  

The event was organised by the South Coast Beef Producers Association with support from Shoalhaven Council through the organisation’s Business Partnership Program.  

The program provides various streams of funding for local organisations to deliver workshops, information sessions, mentoring programs, events or forums that celebrate and create new opportunities for Shoalhaven Businesses.  

For more information about the School Steer Spectacular visit the South Coast Beef Producers Association web page.  

To learn more about Council’s Business Partnership Program visit the Tourism and Economic Development website.