CEO Update
1 June, 2026
The 2026 Wodonga National Show & Sale delivered one of the most successful and energetic events seen in recent years, showcasing the strength, relevance and continued momentum of the Hereford breed across Australia’s cattle industry.
A total of 38 vendors participated in the event, including five new vendors who all successfully sold cattle during the National Sale on Thursday 14 May. The addition of Legacy Poll Herefords, Double H Livestock, Kylandee Herefords, Haven Grove Herefords and Norwood Herefords highlighted the continued growth and enthusiasm surrounding the Wodonga National Show & Sale.
Proceedings began with the Breed Forum on Tuesday 12 May, which proved to be an outstanding success. Focusing on Livestock Markets & Marketing, the forum featured an impressive lineup of industry-leading guest speakers including Chris Howie (CEO, RMA Network), Stephen Bignell (Market Information & NLRS Manager, MLA), Sam Ditchfield (National Livestock Operations Manager, Woolworths), Matthew Petersen (Veterinary Operations Manager, Zoetis), Tegan Buckley (Owner/Director, Mallee Marketing) and Hannah Bourke (Beef Key Accounts Manager, Neogen). Attendees praised the quality of presentations and discussions throughout the day, with many describing the forum as highly informative, educational and valuable for both commercial and seedstock producers. The forum reinforced the important role Hereford cattle continue to play within modern beef production systems.
Another exciting addition in 2026 was the implementation of the inaugural Trade Fair, which featured 12 exhibitors across the three-day event. The inclusion of industry-relevant businesses and service providers elevated the overall experience for exhibitors, buyers and attendees, creating greater engagement and networking opportunities throughout the event.
The atmosphere across the entire week was exceptional, with many long-time attendees commenting that it was the largest crowd of onlookers and participants they had seen at Wodonga in the last decade. The strong attendance was an encouraging sign for the breed and reflected the continued confidence in Hereford cattle within today’s beef industry.
Adding to the success of the event was the outstanding weather, with sunny Autumn conditions throughout the week in Wodonga creating an enjoyable environment for all involved. The 2026 event also marked the first year operating under a new format and shed layout, with the revised setup receiving overwhelmingly positive feedback from exhibitors and patrons alike. The new configuration created a fantastic vibe and energy throughout the venue and proved highly successful.
The National Show, held on Wednesday 13 May, was judged by Alastair Day and produced impressive results across all classes and divisions, highlighting the quality and consistency of Hereford cattle currently being bred across the country.
A major highlight of the week came when northern New South Wales operation Thornleigh Herefords claimed the prestigious Grand Champion Bull title after 30 years of exhibiting at the Wodonga National Show & Sale. The Delungra-based stud secured the top honour with Lot 20, Thornleigh Vortex V114, a powerful 23-month-old bull that first won the Intermediate Champion title before going on to impress judge Alastair Day in the championship lineup.
The Grand Champion later sold for $55,000 to the partnership of Glendan Park’s Alvio Trovatello and Mawarra Genetics’ Peter Sykes at the National sale held on Thursday 14 May.
Top price honours in the National Sale were achieved by Lot 73, Ke Warra Moonraker V114, which sold for $66,000 to Tim Fincham, Yea. The second top-priced bull was Lot 13, Andtravern Vendetta, exhibited by Andtravern Herefords principals Erin Waters and Jeff Smith, Lancefield, which sold for $60,000 to Yavenvale Herefords, Adelong, NSW.
Other standout results included Lot 36, Glendan Vagabond V037, which sold for $40,000 to Jack Smith, Cascade Poll Herefords, Currabubula, NSW.
Overall sale results remained extremely strong, with 93 of 98 bulls sold to average $12,903 and generate a gross of $1.2 million. Senior bulls averaged $13,109, while junior bulls averaged $12,605, demonstrating continued confidence in the Hereford breed.
The success of the 2026 Wodonga National Show & Sale would not have been possible without the dedication and support of sponsors, organisers, committee members and Trade Fair partners. Their collective efforts ensured the event delivered an outstanding showcase of the Hereford breed.
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