British butchers in training for Tri-Nations contest

The 2015 challenge will be hosted by current champions New Zealand, following the success of last year’s competition which took place here in the UK.  This year’s six-man team, supported by EBLEX and managed by Dalziel’s Danny Upson, has been practising hard to ensure they have the best chance of beating their Australian and New Zealand counterparts when the competition takes place this September.

Following several intense sessions working together at Leeds City College, the team headed up to Perth to showcase their skills in front of the crowds at the Meat Trades Fair. Working under the watchful eye of fellow butchers and to a strict deadline gave members of the team their first taste of what to expect in Auckland.  

Practice sessions have focused on the practical and innovative skills of the team, with the development of a theme to help showcase the quality of homegrown product and talent.  The team has been faced with crafting an original and creative display and turning an entire lamb, and a half side of beef, into a range of small and appealing products. During the actual contest, they will be challenged to recreate these displays in just two hours in front of a large audience.

Team GB captain, David Lishman, who has been leading the side’s preparations, said: “This year’s British team has massive enthusiasm and top-rate butchery skills. Our practice sessions have demonstrated just what a talented group we have, and boosted our confidence to push the Kiwis and Aussies hard for the title.

“Our focus so far has been on developing a theme and the various cuts to highlight exactly what we can do. With a side of beef, side of pork and a full lamb carcase, there is a considerable amount of meat to use and display. Small goods and sausage products are also an important element to the competition, enabling us to showcase the wealth of great expertise in the group.”

James Wilde, EBLEX head of communications, said: “Supporting homegrown butchery talent remains a priority for EBLEX. The Tri-Nations Butchers Challenge is a platform for highlighting the valuable role butchers play for modern consumers, as well as encouraging the international exchange of best practice.

“Our recent independent butchers report outlined that shoppers are returning to their butchers to ensure they get a consistently high quality product. We are delighted to support and nurture the talents of our butchers and wish them well in Auckland.”

To follow Team GB’s progress, head to the Tri-Nations Butchers Challenge Facebook page.