The Sydney Royal Easter Show means something different to everyone, but for Coonabarabran auctioneer Hamish Fauchon, it’s a second chance at winning the ALPA NSW Young Auctioneers Competition. 

Now based in Coonabarabran, the 22-year-old has been practicing his auctioneering skills since he was a kid on the bus coming home from school, selling cattle he was passing to a keen buyer, his brother. 

After getting his start as a stock and station agent six years ago, Hamish’s employer Davidson Cameron & Co turned his workplace from the school bus to the sale yards. 

“The Gunnedah fat sale starts with bulls, so that’s where I started as a young agent…it’s sometimes only one bull, sometimes it’s 10 bulls. It’s just a starting point to get your confidence up and practice,” he said.

“They gave me a few lessons and just listening to other auctioneers you sort of pick up how you want to sound.”

On Friday, 22 March 2024, Hamish will compete against nine other finalists from across the state for the title of best young auctioneer. 

It’s the second time that Mr Fauchon has had the opportunity, after becoming a finalist in the competition last year. 

“I’m a bit more ready for it. Last year I was a bit nervous…and I made a few errors.”

“Hopefully I can keep my cool and get it all right this year.”

After making the move to Coonabarabran, Hamish may have years under his belt at the saleyards, but said atmosphere is everything when it comes to the Sydney Royal Easter Show competition. 

“At the sale yards you get used to it. You’re nervous but it’s the same buyers every week in the same sort of crowd and same setting.”

“When you get to Sydney, you’ve only got three steers to sell, so that’s your only shot.”

Nine auctioneers will also come from across the country to compete for the National title of young auctioneer, which will also be held on Friday 22 March.