Applications are now open for places on the five-strong Australian team set to compete at the 20th anniversary Young Breeders School in Battice, Belgium, in late August with young dairy men and women representing all dairy breeds encouraged to apply.
An Australian team competed at the Young Breeders School for the first time in 2019, with all team members finishing in the top third of the results, three in the top fifteen. With the event, formerly known as the European Young Breeders School, not taking place due to the COVID pandemic over the last two years, team leader Justin Johnston is looking forward taking an Australian team back to
Belgium.
“For anyone looking to pursue a career in the dairy industry this is an incredible opportunity,” says Mr Johnston. “The Young Breeders School is the international reference point for training and show preparation, with almost 200 competitors from around the world expected to take part.”
Leadership development is at the heart of Australia’s YBS program according to 2019 team member Julia Paulger.
“Standing alongside four friends as part of the first Australian team was an unbelievable experience – one I won’t forget. The memories and friendships we made and the experience we gained will last us a lifetime. Based on my experience I see this initiative playing a really important part in developing and broadening the horizons for Australian dairy youth for many years to come,” says Ms Paulger.
Formerly called the European Young Breeders’ School, the increasingly international nature of the school, including welcoming Australia’s first team in 2019, has seen the COVID-delayed 20th rebranded as the Young Breeders School to reflect the global reach of the event more accurately.
Backed by Melbourne Royal, Holstein Australia, Jersey Australia and a growing number of dairy industry businesses, applications are open to 18 to 25 year olds planning a future career in the industry. As well as competing at the School, the Australian team will take part in an educational tour through Holland and Belgium.
The five-day event, run by the Association Wallonne de l’Elevage, involves hands-on workshops including bedding, showmanship & clipping, as well as classroom-based sessions such as marketing and herd promotion. After three days of workshops and practice, participants put their skills to the test in stock judging, showmanship & calf classes.
Rohan Butler, Holstein Australia Chief Executive Officer, says the Association is proud to support the Australian 2022 Young Breeders School team.
“This initiative has been put together to assist emerging leaders in the dairy industry develop valuable leadership skills. It also presents a unique opportunity to experience that first hand and start building international relationships early in one’s career,” says Rohan.
Provided by Holstein Australia