Youth Shows add to Cape Dairy Experience

Yonela Sodlaka

"In a province where agriculture plays an integral role in the community and the economy via production of invaluable products and through exports of these products, it is important that the youth are aware of the career opportunities available for them in this vibrant sector," says Johan Ehlers, CEO of Agri-Expo.

"During this event and the South Africa Cheese Festival, we make sure that children enjoy an agricultural experience that not only educates, but enthuses and makes them curious as to the wide range of possibilities in terms of careers," explains Ehlers.

"This sport is not yet so well-known with those living in and around the cities," says Breyton Milford, project coordinator of Agri-Expo and chairperson of the Western Cape Agriculture Youth Society. "The Youth Show is an acknowledged sport for boys and girls from all communities, even those who do not have access to farm animals. These learners develop a love of agriculture by learning to care for a variety of animals, to prepare them for a show and then to handle them in the ring." Agri-Expo was fundamental in the establishment of the Western Cape Agricultural Youth Society in 1999.

Cape Holstein Youth Show Championships

"Following on the success of last year's Youth Show for beginners at the first Cape Dairy Experience, we decided to give more youngsters an opportunity to lead a cow or goat around the show ring," says Milford. "One of the highlights will undoubtedly be the Cape Holstein Youth Show Championships that will be presented in honour of the 100 year anniversary of the Holstein Breed Society. Experienced learners, dressed to the nines, will prepare and show their animals in three age categories."

The Dairy Experience also offers many other fun-filled farm activities such as milking mock cows, dog-jumping performances, ice cream eating competitions and more.

For more, go to www.capedairy.co.za.