Cathy Soall
I became involved with cattle parading quite accidentally. My step daughter, Emma, who was a
student at Tumut High, became involved in cattle parading and parents were asked to help with the
cattle team travelling to Canberra Royal.
I volunteered and during the time at the Canberra Royal I met other parents who were helping,
along with Marg Bowden and their teacher, Tony Butler.
What an amazing group of people! It was a real joy to attend the shows over the next couple of
years.
I watched Marg and Tony Butler mentor, teach, organise and network and I was in awe of the
tremendous personal labour, effort and dedication required to keep the program running.
I have seen young people go through this program and develop confidence and pride in their own
accomplishments. They became valuable members of the community, able to contribute to our
town.
A program like the cattle show team provides hands on and practical activities that some students
thrive on. They work in a team environment and are provided with advice and encouragement.
When handling animals, every student here is equal. Those that have more experience, pass on
advice to the newer recruits. To handle a 440 kg steer, you must have competence and confidence.
Without both, the steer will certainly show you who is boss.
My step daughter has grown as an individual, learning how to pass on information, she has also
learnt how to delegate, be patient, have staying power and importantly the feeling of not coming
first, second or third even though you have given everything you have while being gracious and
taking constructive criticism. She has also experienced the joy of efforts being rewarded!