Crowds flocked to the cattle yards at Pakenham’s Victorian Livestock Exchange (VLE) on Monday to watch the state’s best sellers compete in the young auctioneer competition.
Buyers placed bids and spectated as 10 men took the stand to auction cattle.
Joe Allen of Elders, Euroa was announced the 2018 Australian Livestock and Property Agents (ALPA) best Victorian young auctioneer – bestowed with a trophy and ribbon.
In a speech after his victory, Mr Allen acknowledged those who helped him achieve the top gong.
“I’d like to say well done to all the boys – it was very good competition this year,” he said.
“I’ve got to thank the boys at Shepparton, who would be chasing a few cattle around right now.
“It takes more than just an auctioneer to be an agent.”
In the lead up to the event, the young auctioneers attended the ALPA auctioneers school in Bendigo and the competitors were chosen based on their vocal talents, body language, facial expressions and their overall performance.
Joshua McDonald from SKB Rodwells, Warrnambool, was honoured as the runner up.
Both Mr McDonald and Mr Allen will represent Victoria at the 2019 ALPA National Young Auctioneers Competition held at the Sydney Royal Easter Show.
The winner of the 2019 ALPA National Competition will have the opportunity to represent Australia at the International Livestock Auctioneer Championships held at the Calgary Stampede in Canada.
The determined auctioneers were judged by three livestock agents who were selected based on their industry experience and strong selling backgrounds.
They evaluated phraseology, values, voice and manner, unique presence and style.
The night before the competition, competitor’s friends, family and industry members attended the annual ALPA Victorian Young Auctioneers Competition Dinner.
A highlight of the night was the charity auction, which raised more than $20,000.
The funds will be donated to support the work of Legacy Australia, a charity dedicated to caring for the families of incapacitated and deceased veterans.
