Cattle Competition History

Development of Early Stock

From the outset, the founding members of the RAS were committed to the development of early cattle stocks in the Colony. The Society’s original 1822 prospectus states:

When we contemplate our Colony, as adapted to breeding of cattle, we have great reason to be satisfied; for, with very small efforts, we have attained to considerable merit in our horned stock…The importation of still finer breeds will raise our cattle to excellence, and make them eagerly sought for in the markets…

To that end a subscription fund was established for the purpose of importing improved breeds of cattle and other livestock, and prizes were awarded at the first Show in 1823 to recognise superior animals. Three of the original thirteen classes at that Show were for cattle:

Best Colonial-bred Bull, not more than three years old

Second-best Colonial-bred Bull, not more than three years old

Best two-year old heifer, Colonial-bred

In 1858 when the Society reconstituted itself (initially as the Cumberland Agricultural Society) its prize schedule noted awards for:

Best & second-best bull, any age

Best & second-best bull, two years old

Best & second-best cow, any age

Best & second-best heifer, two years old

Best & second-best fat bullock

Best & second-best fat cow

Classes were divided into Colonial Bred and Imported, but these were further divided into breeds for the first time in 1862 with Durhams, Hereford, and Devons listed. Separate dairy breeds were not introduced until 1875.

During this period important support for the cattle industry was provided when the first Australian Stud and Herd Book was published by the Society in 1870.

Many breed classes and other innovations have been introduced over the years (see timeline below), but the biggest change occurred in 1986 when Beef and Dairy were split into separate competitions. In total forty-seven perpetual trophies are currently awarded in the Cattle section at the Show.

Timeline

(Please note: some breeds are no longer shown or may have not been shown consistently following their first appearance.)

For a complete list of Supreme Dairy Cow winners, click here.