Dannevirke: Auctioneer Tristan makes voice heard

Tristan Gordon came a close second. Photo / Christine McKay

Tristan Gordon has been a stock agent for just 18 months, but he's already proving his auctioneering style is a winner.

Gordon, 24, who works for New Zealand Farmers Livestock, came a close second in the national Heartland Bank Young Auctioneers competition at the Canterbury A&P Show recently.

"I was gutted. I lost by just two points," Gordon told the Dannevirke News. "The chap who won has been a stock agent for nine years and this was the third time he'd taken part in the competition."

But the young stock agent is a winner his clients believe. "He (Tristan) goes the extra mile," one client said.

As an auctioneer, it's important to be confident, Gordon says.

"You've got to get the crowd involved and grab their attention. I really enjoy it," he said. "As a stock agent, it's vital you're honest. You don't want to make a sale just for the sake of making a sale. I've a lot of good clients and this job is about being out there talking and keeping track of what's going on."

The convenor of the national auctioneers competition, Mick Withers, said there were many facets to being a good auctioneer.

"They must have sound knowledge of the livestock they're selling, including current market values and confidence in their own ability and that of the company they represent without appearing arrogant," he said.

And, of course, auctioneers need a voice that has clarity and be quick-witted, knowing where humour is appropriate.

"The saleyards and auction ring are the shop window for stock and station firms and it's here the company's performance is often judged," Withers said.

Gordon said the three-day competition was tough. "We had to auction a stud bull and a stud heifer on day one, then the next morning we were interviewed on our knowledge of all the laws and regulations involved with this job. And there are a lot."

After the interview segment, five finalists were selected to go into the final phase of the event, auctioning a stud bull and heifer and a Jersey heifer.

"I learned a lot from competing," Gordon said.

After moving here 18 months ago, Gordon says he's definitely going to stay.

"I've been looking for a house to buy because I really like Dannevirke," he said.

And yes, Gordon does go that extra mile for his clients, not only buying and selling their stock, he organises trucking as well.