Stockyard has claimed three gold medals and one Class Champion at the 15th annual Wagyu Branded Beef Competition, showcasing excellence in three classes at the event.
Two gold medals were awarded to Stockyard Kiwami in Class 1, Fullblood and again in Class 2, Pure Bred Wagyu. Stockyard Silver was awarded a gold medal and named Champion in Class 5, Wagyu marble score 5-7.
The win in Class 1 is particularly meaningful for Stockyard, as the winning entry was produced by Stockyard Pastoral, the company’s own Wagyu breeding program. Located in the New England region of NSW, Stockyard Pastoral, managed by Ryan (pictured) and Zara Smyth, has been in operation for five years and continues to produce exceptional award-winning Wagyu beef through a focus on genetic selection, cattle care and nutrition.
As one of the leading branded beef competitions in Australia, the Australian Wagyu Association (AWA) seeks to promote excellence in Wagyu beef production. A panel of 36 judges consisting of sponsors, chefs, restauranteurs, food critics, Wagyu producers, butchers and industry personnel put over 50 branded entries through their paces with judges rating each entry for tenderness, flavour, juiciness, and overall liking.
Branded Beef Competitions celebrate dedication and consistency throughout the entire supply chain, where numerous suppliers collaborate to create an exceptional product. These wins mark Stockyard's 34th since the inception of the Wagyu Branded Beef Competition in 2012 and its best result in a given year.
Lisa Sharp, CEO of Stockyard, expressed her excitement upon receiving the prestigious awards, saying, “Winning three golds and a Class Champion award at AWA's branded beef competition is a thrilling achievement and a true testament to the excellence of our product, particularly given the calibre of the competition.”
Ms Sharp added, “We’re particularly pleased that the winning beef in Class 1 – Full Blood Wagyu originates from Stockyard’s own Wagyu breeding program, which continues to go from strength to strength.”