The Royal Launceston Show had everything on offer for animal-lovers this year from dogs through to livestock but the introduction of miniature goats at the 2019 event proved a hit.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Petit Paradis Mini Goat owner Stephen Fagg, who has been showing for three years, said it was no surprise showgoers were gravitating towards the mini goats as they were "super cute".
"...one of the important things for all of us is we bring our goats along so people and particularly children can interact with our animals," he said.
"We're lucky enough to do it everyday but these children here have probably never had the chance to get up close to a goat and actually pat them or feed them.
"For me that's what agricultural shows are all about."
Breeders Mr Fagg and Cindy Fagg have been involved in the Australian mini goat industry for the last six years and have 21 goats at their Broadmarsh property.
Mr Fagg said the breed had become more common as a way for people with smaller acreage to maintain their property naturally but warned they should not be underestimated.
"Look they're great pets, they're very smart and you can train them...you can train them to walk on a lead, to do obstacle courses...they're very intelligent," he said.
"You do need good fences because they are very clever and they will find a way through to eat your rose bushes or your vegetable garden."
He said one of their goats Georgie, who took home Best in Show for her category, loved to wander into their kitchen to "help herself" and they had to keep an eye on her.
"We have to make sure that we keep the door shut or she's in the kitchen helping herself," he said.
"She likes Nutri-grain and carrots, but Nutri-grain is one of her favourites."
IN OTHER NEWS:
Strict size regulations are in place for the miniature goats category in show, for females it's about 57cm in height at the shoulder and about 60cm for males.
Each mini goat is measured before entering the arena and if they are above the height regulations are not allowed in show.
As miniature goat state representative Mr Fagg said the focus was always on keeping strong characteristics and health markers for Tasmania breeders.
"We want to keep a strong animal, not just keep breeding for height."
"All the breeders...will make sure that you get information on their genetic history, they're vet checked, they're also checked against particular diseases which are prevalent around the place and we have blood tests to make sure.
"They're always registered, so that you have comeback if you buy a mini goat that it stays a mini goat."