‘Tickled pink’ - Sam Thomas continues family legacy with NSW Young Auctioneer’s title
Before a jampacked crowd at the Sydney Royal Easter Show, Sam confidently demonstrated his market knowledge, impressing buyers and judges to win top honours in his field.
The accolade comes just one year after securing the Max Bailey Encouragement Award at the 2025 competition.
“I had confidence in my ability, but you never know how it will go on the day. I’m relieved and happy!” Sam said.
Representing Nutrien Milling Thomas, Dubbo, Sam was flanked by family and friends for the big occasion.
This included his father and boss Peter Thomas, who has proven a key inspiration throughout the early stages of his young career.
“(My father Peter) is one of the best auctioneers I have ever seen, and I get to work with him for which I am fortunate to do,” the young agent told The Land.
Speaking on his win, Sam reflected on the rich history his family shares with the livestock industry, and other inspirations who could not join him on the day.
"Two people I should mention (include) my (late) grandfather Mervyn Thomas who bought into the Milling business from John Milling, which (is now) Nutrien Milling Thomas, a joint venture I'm proud to represent.
"Another mention is (my late grandfather) Gregory Shanks, who worked in the saleyards at Dubbo…I hope they are proud."
For Peter, a 1992 ALPA National Young Auctioneer title winner in his own right, his son’s achievements have inspired an infectious sense of pride.
"This is a lifelong dream, you want the best for your kids…(his grandfathers) looking down would be tickled pink,” Peter told The Land.
Though having only been in the industry for the past three years, Sam is motivated to continue growing his clientele before returning to the competition stage at the national level.
"I love spending time at Dubbo Saleyards, it's an unreal place to be in terms of auctioneering.
“I get to sell there every Thursday, it’s been a great time to be an agent.
“From here, competition-wise it is straight to the national championship this time next year, and I am looking forward to it.
“To be a part of the auctioneering competition is unreal. You get to meet people of a similar age, hone your skills as an auctioneer and as an agent…just picking the brains of the instructors there is a very good experience, and I’d recommend it for everyone.”
‘Go out and have fun’ - National runner-up buoyed by family’s enduring support
In the 2026 national competition, Sam Moy demonstrated his skills and expertise, securing runner-up honours in his Sydney Royal debut.
Taking to the stage, Sam, who represents Nutrien Ag Solutions, Taroom, also carried the legacy of three generations on his back.
In the crowd was his father, Stephen Moy, the 1997 national competition winner, and his agent grandfather, Bruce.
Speaking with The Land, the 24-year-old said the presence of his family was a calming force throughout the day.
"It means a hell of a lot to have them here, they were there in Brisbane when I won (the 2025 ALPA Queensland competition). There was no pressure (this time around), I was just told to go out and have fun and give it a red-hot shot," Sam said.
“It was a great competition, and a great bunch of blokes that made it all sweeter.
“A massive thank you to everyone at Nutrien who has helped me, too many to name, but they know who they are.”
Sam will go on to represent Australia in the New Zealand young auctioneers competition in Christchurch later this year.
Pride and professionalism in green
Sam and Sam were also joined by Jasper Bourke, Nutrien Ag Solutions Corowa and Cody Benson, Nutrien Ag Solutions Mount Gambier, in their respective competitions.
These four livestock agents put in a tremendous effort and wore the Nutrien shirt with pride. Together, they exhibited great passion for the industry and continue to offer a sound insight into the bright future of our leaders in livestock.
