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Young Maddie Beare inspires with passion for dairy industry

By James Manley

Sep 29, 2026

Peppermint Vale handler/leader Maddie Beare, 16, prepping Jersey Cherrylock Roulette V Merle, 16 months, to be led at the Shepparton Show. Photo by Rechelle Zammit

For a 16-year-old, Tatura’s Maddie Beare has a rare enthusiasm for the dairy industry.

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“I’ve always loved the dairy industry,” she said.

This has driven the Year 11 Greater Shepparton Secondary College student to compete in the Youth Cattle showing at the Shepparton Show.

Maddie has been surrounded by the dairy industry her entire life.

“Dad was a milk truck driver. A lot of his mates had dairy farms; he was always out there helping them,” she said.

From Tatura: Peppermint Vale handler/leader Maddie Beare, 16, prepping Peppermint Vale Apple Delight, 16 months. Photo by Rechelle Zammit

She has been mentored by Jasmine Cordy, co-owner of Peppermint Vale Jerseys and Holsteins in Mooroopna North West and a dairy steward at the Shepparton Show.

Maddie completed her first handling class at last year’s Shepparton Show as part of a school group. It was here she first met Jasmine, with whom she has formed a close relationship.

“I see myself in her,” Maddie, the daughter of Amy O’Connell and Paul Beare, said.

Since then, she’s competed at the Kyabram Show, the Rochester Show, Dairy Week and the Victorian Winter Fair.

Preparing for an event such as the Shepparton Show takes a fair bit of work. Before the event, cattle must have their halter breached, engage in regular exercise and be clipped and fitted.

On average, Maddie visits the property around once a month, where she’s been learning all the skills associated with showing cattle.

Planning to participate in cattle showing for the foreseeable future, she encourages other young people to get involved.

The youth show will take place in the multi-purpose pavilion from 6pm on Friday, October 9. Handlers compete in three age categories; 8 to Under 13, 13 to 17 and 18 to 25.

Entries for the Youth Cattle section of the show close on Thursday, October 1. For more information drop into the Shepparton Show office at 307 High St, Shepparton, or call Jasmine Cordy on 0427 244 553.