A CROWD flocked to the cattle yards at the Queensland Royal Show to see the state’s best sellers compete in the young auctioneers competition. Eager buyers and supporters placed bids and watched on as nine young men and one woman took the stand to auction quality cattle on Friday. In line with tradition, young auctioneers attended the ALPA QLD Auctioneers and Selection School before 10 of the state’s best sellers were chosen on their vocal talents, body language, facial expressions and their overall performance. Brent Williams, Elders, Charters Towers celebrated success in winning the trophy and ribbon alongside runner-up Anthony O’Dwyer, GDL, Dalby. Following her performance, TopX Roma’s Sarah Packer urged other women to follow in her footsteps after marking her second year in the competition. “I’d just like to say it’s been an absolute honour to be the first and only female competitor in this competition alongside a group of very talented young men,” Ms Packer said. “Unfortunately my age is going to get the best of me for the young auctioneers next year so I’d like to challenge any female out there to have a go at auctioneering. “I’d love to be able to see a female up here competing next year and the years to come in this competition.” Other competitors included Corey Evans, Aussie Land and Livestock, Kingaroy, Jack Henshaw, Landmark, Mareeba, Brady Jackson, Elders, Maura, William Loudon, GDL, Miles, Alexander Riley, Ray White Rural, Roma, Jake Robinson, Landmark, Roma and Wyatt Wrigley, Ray White Eastern Rural, Dalby. Speaking with Queensland Country Life during the judging, former ALPA national winner Lincoln McKinlay said there was a fine line of auctioneers performing. “They’re extremely consistent and I definitely wouldn’t like the judges job today. They are a very even line of auctioneers,” he said. Mr McKinlay encouraged anyone who wanted to progress in the industry as auctioneers to pursue their goals at full speed. “Put everything into it because if you want to be the best, you’ve got to be dedicated and passionate,” he said. “Get in contact with your local agent and go from there – that’s how I did it.” Mr Williams and Mr O’Dwyer will compete at nationals next year.