By Alana Mitchelson
PAKENHAM’s best up-and-coming livestock auctioneer has revealed there is always something new to learn from every sale.
Jamie Quinlan began attending livestock sales in his early teens with his family. He would tape auctions on his phone and listen to them back, picking up rhythms and other technique tips that he has incorporated into his own style of elocution over the years.
“It’s a hard industry to break into. You’ve got to stick at it and find a good role model,” Mr Quinlan said.
“When you’re serious about it, I highly recommend going to an auctioneer school where you get training with specialist voice coaches to perfect your voice and execution.
“A good way to start is to have a go at selling livestock that aren’t expected to sell for much money and build up your experience from there.”
Representing Elders Pakenham at this year’s Victorian Young Auctioneer of the Year competition on Monday morning, Mr Quinlan was a favourite to win after placing as last year’s runner-up.
But the competition in the ring on Monday 13 September was fierce, and Elders Swan Hill’s Toby Newnham seized first place with Elders Camperdown’s Jack Hickey securing a close second place.
Nine young stock agents from across Victoria showcased their auctioning skills at the state titles hosted by Victorian Livestock Exchange in Pakenham for the fourth year in a row.
Each auctioneer sold nine head of cattle – three lots of three – before buyers and a crowd of about 200 as well as a judging panel of expert livestock agents.
Australian Livestock and Property Agents Association (ALPA) southern regional manager Liz Summerville said that Mr Quinlan, along with the other young auctioneers, competed to a high standard and performed very well.
She said each competitor was evaluated on their diction, values, voice and manner as well as their ability to establish their presence and a unique style.
“I tried to be the best auctioneer I could be and I felt I sold very well on the day,” Mr Quinlan said.
“There was a good atmosphere in the ring. It’s nice to have it on home ground.
“We get to show off how good our cattle is in this region but I guess that does mean more pressure for me because I virtually know everyone here.
“Elocution at competitions is a bit different to everyday selling and there were some really good auctioneers competing this year.”
The competition concluded with two charity auctions conducted by last year’s winner Zeb Broadbent from McKean McGregor in Bendigo, with livestock donated by the Seebeck and Marriott families.
More than $18,200 was raised to support the work of the Black Dog Institute, a world leader in the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of mood disorders such as depression.
Mr Newnham and Mr Hickey were awarded trophies and a cash prize of $1000 and $500 respectively.
Both will continue to represent Victoria at next year’s Sydney Royal Easter Show for the 2017 ALPA National Young Auctioneers Competition.
