A unique search is underway across the country to find and crown Australia's finest camel. The inaugural 'Australia's Best Camel' competition, launched by the Australian Camel Industry Association, is calling for entries from owners and breeders nationwide.
Judging Criteria and Competition Details
The competition is not just about looks. A panel of expert judges will assess each entry based on a comprehensive set of criteria designed to evaluate the animal's overall quality and contribution to the industry. Key factors will include conformation, temperament, training, and the animal's performance in work, sport, or breeding. The aim is to highlight the versatility and value of camels in modern Australia.
Entries for the competition are now open and will close on Friday, June 27. The much-anticipated winner will be officially announced and celebrated at one of the outback's most iconic events: the Boulia Camel Races in Queensland, held from July 18 to 20. This timing strategically places the award at the heart of a major gathering for camel enthusiasts and the broader rural community.
Boosting the Profile of the Camel Industry
Organisers from the Australian Camel Industry Association state that the competition's primary goal is to promote and recognise excellence within the national camel sector. By showcasing outstanding animals, they hope to increase public awareness of the camel's many roles, which range from tourism and racing to milk and meat production, and even environmental management through targeted grazing.
"This is a fantastic opportunity to celebrate these remarkable animals and the people who work with them," a spokesperson for the association said. "Camels are an intrinsic part of Australia's history and a growing part of its sustainable agricultural future. This competition will help put a spotlight on the best of the best."
How to Enter and What's at Stake
Camel owners from all states and territories are encouraged to participate. The entry process involves submitting detailed information and photographs of the camel for the initial judging phase. The competition is expected to draw entries from working camels in remote stations to well-known stars of the racing and festival circuits.
Beyond the prestige of the national title, the winner will receive a significant honour within the industry, potentially increasing the value and profile of their animal. The announcement at the Boulia Camel Races, an event that attracts thousands of visitors to far-west Queensland, ensures the champion camel will gain widespread recognition.
This novel competition underscores the enduring and evolving relationship between Australians and camels, animals that were first introduced in the 19th century and have since become a unique part of the nation's cultural and agricultural landscape. It promises to become a key annual event for the pastoral community and animal lovers alike.
