The Kilkivan State School Cattle Team has just returned from the Wide Bay Interschool Hoof & Hook competition with huge smiles.
The annual event was held in Maryborough this year and involved 19 schools and more than 220 students.
Teams travelled from Yeppoon, Kilcoy, and everywhere in between.
The Kilkivan team shone above the rest, bringing home the prestigious Best Presented School Award for 2025.
This award incorporates the presentation of students, cattle, stalls, camps, and the overall attitude and connection of the team.
“We are always so proud of the pride our students take in themselves, their cattle, and their school,” said cattle team co-ordinator, Teresa Day.
“It was great to see them recognised with this award.”
The students also held their heads high in the Young Paraders and Young Judges events, with several students being awarded broad ribbons.
“We had three students out of six in the ring for the Overall Champion Young Parader, which just highlighted the level of talent in our team,” Mrs Day said.
In Young Judges, the students judged four pens of cattle, placing and giving their speech to the judge on one pen.
“Our students spoke confidently, and many were again rewarded with place ribbons.
“We are so proud of the dedication and passion of these students; they work hard, learn quickly, and have fun while they’re doing it.
“Our Hoof & Hook team ranged from Year 7 to Year 10 and of all levels of ability and experience.
“It was so nice to watch them interact during the week, cleaning each other’s shoes, helping tie ties, and just looking out for the safety of each other,” Mrs Day said.
Next year’s Wide Bay Interschool Hoof & Hook is being held in Nanango, and Mrs Day said the Kilkivan team is already looking forward to it.
