Georgia Keeling is one of the energetic minds helping to launch the inaugural All Breeds Beef Youth Round Up, a new sub-event of the Wānaka A&P Show in 2026. We’re delighted to profile her in this month’s Highlights & Happenings newsletter.
Georgia’s journey into the world of cattle showing began in North Canterbury, where she grew up on a small two-acre property with little exposure to livestock. That changed in Year 9, when. at age 14, she joined the cattle handling team at Rangiora High School. Under the guidance of Kay and Phil Worthington and their Australian Lowline cattle, Georgia developed strong skills in stock handling and showing, building a foundation that has fueled her passion for the beef industry ever since.
Today, Georgia works at NZ Beeswax, a company that supplies beekeeping products nationwide and wax products internationally. Alongside her husband, she has launched a Murray Grey stud, starting with a yearling heifer who recently calved her first heifer, marking a special milestone for their growing operation. The couple also welcomed their daughter last year, making it a busy and rewarding season of life as they share their love of showing cattle and A&P shows with the next generation.
Outside of work, Georgia enjoys camping, fishing and smallbore target shooting, activities that keep her connected to the outdoors she loves.
Her first experience at the Wānaka A&P Show was as a participant in the World Hereford Conference 2020 Young Breeders Competition, where she showed cattle for Waiau Herefords. The event left a lasting impression, inspiring her to return the following year to show again and later to volunteer as a steward, both in the ring and behind the desk.
The idea for The Round Up grew from conversations about how to better engage and attract young people to the Show. “It’s been exciting to see the idea come to life,” says Georgia. “We want the event to be inclusive and welcoming to all ages and experience levels, whether you’re coming along with friends or just keen to give it a go.”
For Georgia, the Wānaka A&P Show is a highlight on the calendar, celebrating its stunning setting, vibrant atmosphere and the incredible range of stalls and businesses on display. One of her proudest moments came when she won the Herdsperson competition in her second year at the Show. The prize, a leather halter, is now proudly used on her own heifer.
Georgia encourages anyone interested in cattle or A&P life to get involved. “We’re always on the lookout for helpers at the cattle ring. It’s a great way to be part of the action and experience the Show from a new perspective.”
Sign up to volunteer, or learn more about the All Breeds Beef Youth Round Up here.
Georgia, husband James and baby Darcy (9 weeks) show their first Murray grey stud heifer Georgie at the Christchurch Show in 2024.