The Burnet County Livestock Show returned to the Burnet County Fairgrounds January 8–10 for its 59th year, continuing a long-standing tradition of celebrating youth, agriculture, and community support across Burnet County.
Organized by the Burnet County FFA and 4H Livestock Show Association, the annual event provides young exhibitors with the opportunity to showcase their livestock and agricultural mechanics projects, culminating in a premium auction that directly supports their future goals.
Months of preparation were evident throughout the show.
Students devoted countless early mornings and late afternoons to feeding, caring for, and training their animals, while others spent long hours designing and constructing ag mechanics projects.
The result was a showcase that reflected not only technical skill, but also the values of responsibility, perseverance, and pride in a job well done.
Behind each exhibitor stood a network of support from Agricultural Science teachers, Ag Mechanics instructors, and Texas AgriLife Extension agents, whose steady guidance and mentorship play a vital role in student success.
The show featured a wide range of divisions, including Angora, Boer, and Dairy Goats; Heifers; Sheep; Swine; Market Goats, Lambs, Steers, and Swine; Broilers; Rabbits; and Market Turkeys.
Inside the ag mechanics area, students displayed innovative and skillfully crafted projects that highlighted both creativity and technical expertise, underscoring the hands-on learning that defines agricultural education programs.
Excellence and achievement were recognized throughout the event, with several awards presented. The Outstanding Senior Award was presented to Miley Evans and Tyler Belk.
The Johnny O’Connor Lifetime Achievement Award honored Bob and Johnice Nelson, to whom the 59th show was dedicated.
Student exhibitors were also recognized with the Top Breeder Award in memory of Robert Jacoby, the Top Hand Award in memory of Buck Zimmerman, and the Honor Award, celebrating dedication, leadership, and achievement among participating youth.
Throughout the threeday event, members of the Burnet County Livestock Show Junior Board, along with FFA and 4-H students, worked tirelessly behind the scenes maintaining smooth event operations. Their efforts exemplified the teamwork and service that are hallmarks of the show.
Community support once again proved essential to the event’s success. Sponsors, auction buyers, and volunteers came together to support student exhibitors, and “community support helps ensure that all eligible exhibitors are able to participate in the premium auction,” organizers noted.
Proceeds from the sale are often used to fund future projects, purchase animals, or help offset college expenses.
This year’s auction also introduced a new feature designed to increase student earnings. Updated software and a large screen mounted inside the barn allowed buyers to follow bids and addon donations in real time.
“It allowed buyers to add to the pot in real time, creating additional opportunities for exhibitors to benefit from add-on donations beyond the winning bid,” said Kari-Beth Ringstaff. Cold Copper Commodities was recognized as the top overall buyer of the 2025 Burnet County Livestock Show. Now, approaching six decades, the Burnet County Livestock Show remains more than a competition.
It is a celebration of agricultural heritage, youth achievement and a community united in investing in the next generation of leaders.
LIVESTOCK ...see Page 9
