AAA - WA Region ‘You Are The Judge

WA Region “You Be The Judge” Extravaganza

2020 has been a difficult year across the world due to Covid19 and restric�ons placed on gatherings has made it difficult to hold events and engage members. WA Region decided to run a mock show with par�cipants judging the animals with an overseeing judge on hand. The concept was to give members an insight into the setup and running of a show, as well as a rare opportunity for a “hands on” judging experience. Animals were entered by exhibitors prior to the show, and a mock catalogue generated. Once the alpacas were penned by exhibitors the first por�on of show day was dedicated to the ‘why’s and how’s’ of se�ng up and running a show. This included budge�ng, facility choice, insurance requirements, judge selec�on and a general explana�on of why things are done in a certain way. Jenny Jackson was the Overseeing Judge for the day, and had the final say in placings. Sophie Stacey as Chief Steward helped guide par�cipants along the way. Recogni�on was given to Jenny's vast experience, and the fact that a judge takes �me away from their life to add value to the industry, and more specifically each event, such as this show. “You be the Judge Extravaganza” a�racted 50 animals, 25 par�cipants and 14 ‘judges’ for the day, including 4 youth par�cipants, who were well supported by members to have a go. Each sec�on of the show was judged by a paired couple. The sec�ons allocated to each pair was listed in the catalogue, based on request made on the entry form. Jenny would then oversee and provide whatever support the par�cipants required or requested, thus catering for all skill sets. Ribbons and championships were given, with Jenny giving orals on the classes. Some of the more confident par�cipants gave their own oral reasoning. Each sec�on judge was awarded a ‘Champion Prize’ for par�cipa�ng and these prizes were kindly provided by the par�cipants themselves. During the judging process, Jenny spoke generally and specifically about many aspects of alpaca, shows and judging. A myriad of topics was covered, impar�ng a wealth of knowledge to a�endees. We hope as an organisa�on we can run similar events in the future, showcasing alpacas, and engaging members both old, new and poten�al.