Juniors shine at GSSM as 15 year old secures her place at Sydney Royal

The Great Southern Supreme Merino has returned to Bathurst for a second year, attracting 268 exhibits from studs spanning from Victoria to the New England.

The event also offered an opportunity for the industry's future stars to show their skills, with about 25 participants competing for a chance to qualify for a place in the Sydney Royal Show junior judging competition.

Samantha Noakes of Karowara Plains, Bedgerabong, won the competition, ahead of Sam Frost, 13, of Thalabah, Laggan, in second and Tom Alcock, 16, of Greenland, Maffra.

Miss Noakes has qualified to judge at Sydney in the past, but 2025 will mark the first time she is old enough to compete.

Her strategy when judging is to compare the sheep overall while being aware of any small differences. Productivity had to be one of the main considerations, she said.

Miss Noakes hopes to remain in the agricultural industry and study towards a veterinary science degree in the future.

The junior judging class was conducted by Stephen Chalmers, Nutrien, and Jono Merriman, Koonwarra, Boorowa.