We celebrated our 30th Anniversary in 2016

In 1986 a body of Singleton Beef producers decided to form a group to organize a Hoof and Hook competition.  This group was initially called the Singleton Hoof and Hook Competition. The organisation has now changed its name to reflect the diversity and activities of the group to: Singleton Beef and Land Management Association Incorporated.

Our first Hoof and Hook competition commenced in 1986 and saw strong competition from local exhibitors and soon became one of the best competitions of its type in NSW.  We changed the name of the event to the Singleton Prime Stock Competition and is for Beef producers to enter their Prime Beef cattle to be judged by an experienced Cattle Judge. With interest increasing from the Schools and the introduction of a Paraders Competition and the Led Steer/Heifer section has allowed Schools to compete against other Schools. This is for students to show off their parading and ring craft skills under the watchful eye of a Paraders Judge. 

Following the hoof judging those cattle entered in the hoof and hook sections are sent to the abattoirs, processed and then judged to assess each carcase for its quality and fit to market specifications. This event is very insightful for all students as it allows the students to compare the aspects and influence of breed, body types and feeding techniques both in the ring and on the hook. THIS EVENT IS CURRENTLY ON HOLD DUE TO CHANGES IN BIO-SECURITY LEGISLATION.

With strong interest in theses competitions it became apparent that there was a need to have more Educational Activities for School Students and in 1993 the Singleton Junior Judging Competition was established and has been held annually since. With up to 250 students attending this event from Primary and Secondary Schools. Districts include the Central West, Hunter Valley, Manning Valley and Central Coast. The event takes the form of a skills based competition and aims to provide an avenue for students to practice and apply knowledge acquired from their agricultural studies in the selection of beef cattle. Students from 8 to 18 years of age compete in 3 age categories assessing animals against criteria important for beef production. Students, participating as individuals and in teams of three, assess bulls, heifers and steers for market suitability, ranking the animals in preferential order. Students are also required to support their decision with a brief oral presentation. THIS EVENT IS CURRENTLY ON HOLD DUE TO CHANGES IN BIO-SECURITY LEGISLATION

With a need to keep abreast of the ever changing market trends we currently focus on Field Days and Technical Information Days to inform Cattle Poducers of changes in Market requirements and what the consumer demands. These days assist producers in marking informed decisions on seed, fertilizers, weed and pest control, animal Health products and farming techniques.

We have grown from organising one event each year to running Field Days, Bus trip(s) and an Annual Dinner with Guest Speaker and our social Christmas Dinners.