Jake Anthony of Phelan & Henderson & Co, and Nutrien South Gippsland Livestock’s James Robbins were in action at Thursday’s Leongatha Store Sale, the pair set to compete in September’s Victorian Young Auctioneers Competition run by the Australian Livestock and Property Agents Association.
Jake and James will be in a field of 10 at Mortlake, where they earned their finals spots at the recent two-day young auctioneers school, with September’s winner and runner-up to progress to the 2026 National Young Auctioneers Competition at Sydney’s Royal Easter Show.
Simon Henderson of Phelan & Henderson & Co encouraged Jake to take part in the young auctioneers school and test himself against up-and-coming agents.
Simon, who was the National Young Auctioneer of the Year in 1994, said the competition is great for a young person’s career and confidence, as well as building valuable contacts who can help when challenges arise, such as needing agistment for cattle as seasons change.
The National winner earns a trip to the Calgary Stampede in Canada, Simon still fondly recalling his adventure there.
Judging takes account of auctioneering style, diction, ability to identify the value of livestock and achieve appropriate prices, and how you control the sale.
James is looking forward to September’s competition, saying he is fine tuning a few skills and getting a bit more practice in day-to-day selling in the leadup.
“It’s a good thing to have a go at, and get your name out there,” he said, noting the chance to meet people and get some experience under your belt and enjoying the opportunity to test himself in a different setting.
While determined to do his best, Jake said Simon encourages him to enjoy the opportunity.
Jake started out selling bulls, his progress seeing him get a go across all categories at Prime and Store Sales.
“Having a go at a wide range of selling styles, for example cents per kilo, dollars per head, you get a lot of practice,” he said, noting you learn how to use your voice effectively and tailor your style to the type of buyers present.
The Young Auctioneers Competition replicates a Prime Sale approach, the focus on cents per kilo, with cattle weighed after sale.
A competitors’ dinner at the Warrnambool Racing Club on Sunday September 14 will be followed by competition the following day at Mortlake’s Western Victorian Livestock Exchange.