A local brand has made a notable entrance into the agricultural scene by winning top honors at the Stanthorpe Show, held on January 30-31, 2026. Sundown Lamb, the product of the Freeman Pastoral Company’s operation at Ballandean Station, secured both first and fourth place in the prime lamb carcase competition. This year’s show marked a significant occasion, celebrating the 150th anniversary of the Stanthorpe Agricultural Society.
Wayne Wayte, manager of Ballandean Station, expressed his surprise and pride at the results. “We just thought we’d put some in the show to see how they went,” he stated. The winning carcase, which dressed out at 23.6 kg, was praised by judge Brad Grogan from Stanthorpe Quality Meats for its minimal wastage. In contrast, the fourth-placed carcase weighed 28.6 kg but had more trim and therefore less profit potential.
Sundown Lamb’s journey into the branded lamb market follows a shift from wool sheep to White Dorpers eight years ago. Wayte noted that Dorpers are particularly well-suited to the bushland environment, offering better foraging capabilities compared to the previously used Corriedale breed. The brand name derives from the adjacent Sundown National Park, grounding the product in its local heritage.
Celebrating 150 Years of Agricultural Tradition
The 2026 Stanthorpe Show not only highlighted local agricultural talents but also served as a testament to the enduring appeal of agricultural shows in the region. Show president Brett Boatfield reflected on the significance of the event, stating it was a massive success in all respects. Although the society is celebrating a milestone anniversary, this year’s show was the 146th, having been interrupted on four occasions due to world wars, the Spanish flu, and drought.
The event featured various competitions, including a successful Boer goat and mini-goat section, which attracted nearly 200 entries combined. Boatfield remarked, “I believe it’s one of the biggest goat sections in Australia – we had a judge from South Africa.” He also noted that the attendance exceeded expectations, with many guests attending both days and expressing a desire to explore every aspect of the show.
During the opening ceremony, Ann Leahy, the Minister for Volunteers, presented a plaque to Neville Bryant, a 90-year-old patron of the Showman’s Guild of Australia, in recognition of his long-standing commitment to the event.
A Glimpse at the Competition Results
The prime lamb carcase competition featured notable performances from various entrants, with the following results announced:
– **1st Place**: Ballandean Station
– **2nd Place**: Mitchell Mascadri
– **3rd Place**: Muirlawn Pty Ltd
– **4th Place**: Ballandean Station
– **5th Place**: McDougall Family Trust
– **6th Place**: NTR Ag Pastoral, The Ridge Stud sheep
In addition to the lamb competition, the show recognized excellence in sheep breeding, awarding the Champion ram to Glenrae Cattle Co and the Champion ewe to Eisentrager Dorpers and White Dorpers. The latter also claimed the title of Supreme sheep of the show.
The vibrant atmosphere of the Stanthorpe Show exemplifies the community’s dedication to preserving agricultural traditions while adapting to modern practices. As local enterprises like Sundown Lamb take center stage, they contribute to the ongoing legacy of the region’s agricultural heritage.
