The stud cattle are a major drawcard to Beef Australia. Dominating the centre ring for much of the week, attendees are treated to a smorgasbord of breeds, colours, and sizes.

But for a lot of stud breeders, Beef Australia is more than a marketing strategy, it's a social event. The exhibitors start bumping in well before the gates officially open and their campsite is abuzz with laughter, gossip and good old fashioned breed competitiveness, kicking off with an interbreed tug of war. Listen here to hear what breed caught the attention of those outside of the Centre Ring and why. Podcast host Jayne Cuddihy also caught up with some of the seasoned Beef exhibitors and learned what goes into the preparation of their prize specimens.