When it comes to the exhilarating world of auctioneering, the New Zealand Young Auctioneer's Competition stands as a thrilling platform for young talent to rise. Every year, this prestigious event not only nurtures the future faces of the industry but also celebrates the art of auctioneering.
A seasoned auctioneer and dubbed by some as 'the man behind the NZ Young Auctioneer's Competition', Mick Withers told REX host Dominic George that now in its 13th year, the competition has become an anticipated annual event, attracting a record number of entries this year.
"13 young guys this year, so that's our record entry, I believe in the 13 years we've been going," he said.
The competition, while an entertaining spectacle, has a very important purpose. It aims to elevate the standard of young auctioneers, ensuring they are well-versed in the lore of auctioneering before they step on the podium.
"It's basically to make sure they do know lore before they get up and sell," Withers explained.
"Because there's all sorts of things that can come up when you're selling and it might be something like a dispute over whose bid was the last one, or whether you know someone buys a pen sheep and only wants half, and what do you do with the other half, there's all those sorts of things."
As the competition heats up, the winner of the event gets the opportunity to go over to Sydney next year and have a look at their young auctioneer's competition as well as the opportunity to sell some stock at their auction.
While the competition itself is steeped in tradition, it's not shying away from embracing technology. For the first time, the competition will be live-streamed on the Bidr auction platform, allowing more people to witness the excitement.
"Bidr are coming to the party and they're going to livestream it for us."
It's a platform for young talent, a celebration of the art of auctioneering, and a bridge between tradition and the future.
Listen to the full chat between Mick Withers and Dominic George above.
To check out more episodes listen to the REX Today Podcast anytime on your favourite streaming platforms including Spotify, Apple Music and Rova or tune in to REX Mornings live on Magic from 5 am to 6 am every weekday.
Visit the Rural Exchange Facebook or Instagram page for more information and regular updates from the REX team.
