Nar Nar Goon's Luke Gardiner will be heading to Adelaide this September to contest the national finals in dairy cattle judging, with Luke one of six young judges chosen from across the country, each to represent their own state.
The 20-year-old is studying agriculture at the University of Melbourne and grew up on a stud dairy farm, where his interest in breeding and showing cattle began.
He's developed a strong interest in judging, inspired by his dad John Gardiner, who Luke says taught him everything he knows about judging and dairy cattle.
A standout show moment for Luke came at the 2025 International Dairy Week, where he part-owned the Supreme Intermediate and Grand Champion in the Holstein Show, View Fort Lambda Butter.
He purchased a half share in her after last year's show, making the win especially rewarding.
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"I competed in Young Judges once two years ago where I came third and this year was my second time competing," he said.
"I started competing because I love judging and aspire to judge major shows across Australia and the world."
His successful nomination was announced by Agricultural Shows Australia with the 2025 National Championships to be hosted by the SA Country Shows at the Royal Adelaide Show from 1-6 September.
This year the Dairy Cattle Judging final is sponsored by Vytelle, a precision livestock company reshaping how cattle producers worldwide optimise their herds.
Vytelle's Regional Director Australia/New Zealand, Andrew Donoghue, said the company is proud to support the event.
"Vytelle is focused on the future of beef and dairy sustainability and we're helping producers make faster, more accurate genetic progress," he said.
"These young competitors represent the future of our industry - curious, capable and committed to driving innovation in the dairy sector."
The Dairy Cattle Judging final will be held at 4.30pm on Wednesday 3 September.