Since she was a young girl proudly leading the Bundaberg Christian College steers around the local showground, Maddie Davidson has dreamt of auctioneering on the saleyard stage.
Ten years later and she would make her long-awaited debut, selling two Angus cross steers in support of the Dolly’s Dream foundation at a local sale in Wauchope on 23 October.
A week later and the 27-year-old was still struggling to put the feeling into words after finally taking the reins on stage.
“It was really good. It all went off without a hitch and I didn’t choke which was my biggest fear,” Davidson said.
“It’s a huge rush of adrenalin but I was very fortunate we had a hobby sale on afterwards, so I went to help out with that as well and everyone was there to give me a big hug and show their support.
“It’s hard to describe what it means but I have just followed auctioneering for such a long time now and it’s hard to believe I finally gave it a crack.“
Davidson said she had all but given up on a career as a livestock agent until she joined the Nutrien Boulton’s team six months ago.
“It is something I’ve wanted to do for a very long time but due to different life circumstances I thought I had missed my run and that it was something I had to let go of,” she said.
“I used to show cattle through school, I’ve worked on properties and now live on a family farm with my husband, so I’ve always had an interest in livestock.
“When my husband and I moved to Walcha two years ago I started working for another local merchandise store but as soon as a position came available at Nutrien Boulton’s I took the opportunity to join the team.
“I am officially based in the Walcha office in an admin-based role, but Mat Larkings and Simon Newton gave me the push and confidence to finally give auctioneering a crack,“ she said.
“They both sell, and I have loved being able to follow them and watch what they do the last couple of months.”
Dolly’s Dream congratulated Maddie Davidson on her very first livestock sale.
“We are thrilled to celebrate this special milestone as Maddie auctions two head of steers on behalf of Nutrien Boulton’s in support of Dolly’s Dream.
“Maddie first reached out to Tick and Kate Everett, Dolly’s parents after losing Dolly, offering her support through her own business, Max and Jelli,“ the Dolly’s Dream team said.
“Since then, she has been an unwavering advocate, organising fundraisers and spreading messages of encouragement, all while pursuing her dream of becoming an auctioneer.
“A huge thank you to Nutrien Boulton’s for standing alongside Maddie and for your continued support.
“We couldn’t be prouder of Maddie and the heart she puts into everything she does.“
