Approximately 150 students from across the Warrumbungle region descended on Binnaway for the 2021 Young Judges Day on Tuesday, 23 February.

Students from Coonabarabran, Mendooran, Binnaway, Baradine and Dunedoo judged poultry, beef cattle, meat and wool sheep and learnt about boer goats, auctioneering, agronomy and ag technology.

The Larkin Family Shield for the high achiever of the day who demonstrates a willingness to learn, is respectful and participates to the best of their ability was awarded to eight-year- old Armani Thompson, from Mendooran Central School.

Coordinator, Simone Wilson, from Binnaway Central School, thanked everyone who participated, volunteered to help on the day and brought in animals.

“It has been fantastic to see the way the Warrumbungle community are supporting what we are doing and see value in it,” Ms Wilson said.

“Unfortunately, due to COVID, we had to turn away students from other regions who wanted to participate, however, hopefully in future years we can open it up again.”

Baradine Central School Year 11 student, Ashanti Pennell said she enjoyed the day.

“I liked the ag tech section from Central West Local Land Services and learning about all of the different technology in agriculture,” she said.

Ms Wilson said she hoped rural industry bodies as well as private individuals would continue to support the day.

“It’s fantastic to see rural industry service providers giving students exposure to new career opportunities, new technologies and practices in the agricultural industry.”

Ms Wilson thanked the judges, stewards, sponsors and livestock exhibitors as well.

“We are extremely grateful to the National Drought and Flood Agency, DNA Earthmoving, the NSW Department of Education and Binnaway Central School for sponsoring the event. Without their support it would not be possible.”