What’s the Ag Alliance?
For those who haven’t heard of it, the Yorkes Ag Alliance is a new program where students from CYS and Maitland Lutheran School team up to study senior Agriculture.
Without this alliance and the support of our Ag teachers, Mrs L and Mr Matson, I wouldn’t have been able to study Ag in Year 12 at all so I feel incredibly fortunate that this subject and team came about when it did.
Our learning
This year, we’ve learned so much already—from how to safely operate machinery like tractors, changing wheel bearings to forming strong bonds with our three steers: King Patch Junella, Mighty Percivall Ashvell and Prince Red Bayview.
Spending time with the cattle is honestly one of my favourite parts of the week. It’s such a nice break from the regular classroom and gives me something really hands-on and calming to look forward to.
Teamwork
As a team, we’ve been working hard to build our skills, confidence and relationships with each other—and with the steers!
I’ve also really grown personally. After studying Ag throughout high school, I feel so much more confident, especially when it comes to speaking up and getting involved.
I’m actually looking forward to the shows in Term 3 and chatting to students from other schools—something I probably wouldn’t have done a few years ago.
Upcoming events
We’ve got some exciting events coming up. In Week 2, we’re heading to Jamestown to continue building our skills and confidence in preparation for the shows.
Then in Week 4, it’s off to Kadina for the Copper Coast Show, where we’ll compete in junior judging, the on-hoof competitions and take part in the Grand Parade. Week 6 brings the big one—the Royal Adelaide Show, which, I think is 10 times bigger and better than Kadina.
Morning tea thank yous
We recently held a thank you morning tea to celebrate the amazing support we’ve had so far from local farmers, parents, community members and school staff. It was great to show everyone our progress and let them meet the steers (who were very well-behaved!).
I’ve loved being part of the YAA, and I’m really proud of how far we’ve come in one semester. I’ve tried to be a positive and confident influence on the team, and I hope I’ve been able to help encourage others. This experience has helped me grow as a leader and a person. I’ll definitely carry what I’ve learned here with me beyond school.
Sophie Davies | Year 12 Student
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