EDUCATIONAL RESOURCES
Further Reading LinksMeat Breeds Sheep
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- Sheep Producers Australia provides an industry overview: https://sheepproducers.com.au/about-us/our-industry/
- The National Meat Breeds Sheep Judging Championship rules and regulations can be found here: https://agshowsaustralia.org.au/member-resources/national-competitions-guidelines/
- An overview of breeds in Australia can be found here: http://www.sheeponline.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/Breeds-of-Sheep-in-Australia.pdf
- Meat Breeds Sheep Fat Score: https://www.mla.com.au/globalassets/mla-corporate/prices–markets/documents/minlrs-information-brochures-etc/mla_sheep-assessment-manual_jan-2017.pdf
- For a comprehensive list of Meat Breeds Sheep terminology: https://e09b7fcb-5fb8-482c-89cc-0eaa088a2226.filesusr.com/ugd/af7c66_4014104c95d74c87b05a160c86a3c620.pdf
- For diagrams to help score a sheep’s conformation: https://www.wool.com/globalassets/wool/sheep/welfare/breech-flystrike/breeding-for-breech-strike-resistance/visual-sheep-scores-producer-version-2019.pdf
Beef Cattle
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Cattle Council of Australia provides an industry overview for students and people new to the industry: https://cattlecouncil.com.au/assets/files/Beef-sheet-full-set%20(1).pdf
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An overview of breeds in Australia can be found here: https://www.vetvoice.com.au/ec/farming/cattle-breeds/
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For a comprehensive list of terminology check out: https://e09b7fcb-5fb8-482c-89cc-0eaa088a2226.filesusr.com/ugd/af7c66_4014104c95d74c87b05a160c86a3c620.pdf
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Dairy Cattle
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Dairy Australia provides an industry overview and education resources for students, teachers and people new to the industry: https://www.dairyaustralia.com.au/
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An overview of dairy cattle breeds in Australia can be found here: https://www.dairy.edu.au/information/australian-dairy-cows
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For an example of a dairy cow being judged watch this video: https://www.ekka.com.au/competitions/agriculture/young-judges/
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Poultry
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For a comprehensive list of terminology check out: http://www.openpoultrystandards.com/Instructions_to_Judges
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Alpaca
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Australian Alpaca Association provides an industry overview which can be found here: https://alpaca.asn.au/
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A list of the most important characteristics in order of importance can be found here: https://alpaca.asn.au/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/breed-standards-document-.pdf
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A comprehensive overview of the two breeds: https://alpaca.asn.au/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/Young-Judges-Manual.pdf
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Merino Sheep
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The Australian Association of Stud Merino Breeders provide an industry overview: https://merinos.com.au/
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For diagrams to help score a sheep’s conformation: https://www.wool.com/globalassets/wool/sheep/welfare/breech-flystrike/breeding-for-breech-strike-resistance/visual-sheep-scores-producer-version-2019.pdf
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Merino Fleece
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An overview of the Merino wool industry: https://www.woolmark.com/fibre/what-is-merino-wool/
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For diagrams of fibre in the judging categories: https://www.wool.com/globalassets/wool/sheep/welfare/breech-flystrike/breeding-for-breech-strike-resistance/visual-sheep-scores-producer-version-2019.pdf
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A video run-through of judging: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=28S_CuMpptM
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Download the most recent version of the fleece judging instructions from National Council of Wool Selling Brokers of Australia: https://www.woolbrokers.org/resources/fleece-judging-instructions-and-points
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Beef Parading
This educational content has been developed as part of the Project: Education of Sustainable Agri-Food Production Program. This project is jointly funded through Agricultural Shows Australia and the Australian Government’s National Landcare Program
promoting the role and significance of Australian Agricultural Shows to the wider community
Around Canberra
Five ways to explore while your partner is at the conference
Joining us in Canberra for the Agricultural Shows Australia 2027 Conference? While your partner attends the conference, take the opportunity to discover Australia’s capital at your own pace. From national landmarks and fascinating stories to art, gardens and spectacular views, there’s plenty to fill a morning or afternoon.
1. Step inside Australian Parliament House
Discover the architecture, art and stories behind one of Australia’s most recognisable buildings. Join a guided tour to learn about Parliament and explore the place where national decisions are made. If Parliament is sitting, your visit may also offer an opportunity to watch proceedings.
Suggested time: 1–2 hours
Bookings: Explore the available tours and check individual booking requirements.
2. Reflect at the Australian War Memorial
Take time to discover the personal stories of Australians who have served in war and on operations. Explore the galleries and commemorative spaces, including the Roll of Honour and Hall of Memory, for a moving insight into Australia’s history.
Suggested time: 2–3 hours
Entry: Free; general entry currently does not require a ticket. Check visitor updates before arriving, as redevelopment may affect access to some galleries.
3. Discover our stories at the National Museum of Australia
Explore the people, places and events that have shaped Australia through fascinating objects and exhibitions. Set beside Lake Burley Griffin, the Museum offers an inviting way to spend a few hours discovering our shared history, followed by lunch or coffee with a lake view.
Suggested time: 2–3 hours
Entry: Free general admission. Selected exhibitions, tours and experiences have additional charges and booking requirements.
3. Discover our stories at the National Museum of Australia
Explore the people, places and events that have shaped Australia through fascinating objects and exhibitions. Set beside Lake Burley Griffin, the Museum offers an inviting way to spend a few hours discovering our shared history, followed by lunch or coffee with a lake view.
Suggested time: 2–3 hours
Entry: Free general admission. Selected exhibitions, tours and experiences have additional charges and booking requirements.
About Ag Shows Australia
Agricultural Shows Australia represents over 580 shows nation-wide and works to engage, influence and promote the essential value of Australian Agriculture.






