New Zealand triumph at tri-nations competition

The annual competition took place on British soil for the first time at the Great Yorkshire Show earlier this month.

Six of the best butchers from Britain, New Zealand and Australia tackled a side of beef and whole lamb carcase over two hours. The task was not only to expertly butcher the meat, but also to create an innovative display using creative cuts.

Nick Allen, EBLEXsector director, said:

“The Tri-Nations Butchers’ Challenge is a test of skill, innovation and speed in butchery techniques.

“It recognises the highest level of talent in this sector, while encouraging the sharing of best practice and encouraging the next generation of butchers into the profession.

“We operate in a global marketplace. On paper, we are competing for sales but we all want the trade to grow, where possible, and to ensure that people across the world maintain the meat-eating habit.”

Each team adopted a theme for their display with Australia opting for a modern twist on classic butchery, Britain creating a haunted moors setting and New Zealand giving their display a royal theme.

The competition followed a week-long study tour which was organised by EBLEXand gave the antipodean visitors a detailed insight into the host country’s beef and lamb trade. During the tour the butchers visited an English beef and lamb producing farm, a range of retail outlets including some top butcher’s shops and London’s Smithfield Market.

New Zealand also won the 2013 competition, when they were the host nation. Plans are already in place for the 2015 competition which is set to take place in Australia. To get a flavour of the competition check out the short EBLEX video journal from the day .