BEEF WEEK 2026 East Gippsland Newspapers 14 Thursday, January 29, 2026 What started as a personal quest to support a child's passion for horse riding has blossomed into a thriving local enterprise for one East Gippsland family. East Gippsland Steel Panels, now celebrating just over a year of operation, emerged from a common frustration facing many rural families: the high cost of essential farm infrastructure. According to the owners, Amber and Jed Willmann, the business began when their children became serious about horse riding and required a round yard. "We were surprised by how expensive the panels were and noticed a real gap in the local market for affordable, quality options," they said. "From there, we started offering solutions to our community and advertising through Facebook — and the business naturally grew." What began as a part-time venture to help neighbours has rapidly evolved. The business now fields daily phone calls and messages for quotes, bringing in a bulk order usually once a month. The company specialises in cattle yards and round yards, which have proven to be the most popular items due to their versatility for both general livestock handling and the equestrian community. For the family behind the brand, the rapid growth means no two days look the same. While the husband initially spearheaded the operation, the long-term plan is for the family to transition the workload, with the wife and children taking on a more central role. A key factor in their success has been their service model. Unlike many suppliers where customers must arrange their own logistics, East Gippsland Steel Panels offers delivery and installation - usually fulfilling orders within a week, or two if stock needs to be ordered in. "Our delivery and installation service has also been a big drawcard, making the process easy and stress-free for customers," Amber and Jed noted. Beyond the business success, the venture is driven by a desire to support the local agricultural community during tough economic times. "We love being able to work from home, meet fellow farmers, and help people access quality, affordable products — especially at a time when many families are feeling the pressure of rising costs," Amber and Jed said. "Being able to support our local community while building a family business is incredibly rewarding." Residents looking for affordable yard solutions can find East Gippsland Steel Panels on Facebook. From pony passion to steel success East Gippsland Steel Panels is celebrating just over a year of operation - the business began as a personal venture to support a child’s passion for horse riding. The 2026 Karoonda Park Bull Sale is set to return to Gelantipy on Tuesday, March 17, with buyers able to attend in person or participate via AuctionsPlus. Following the success of last year's sale, where Karoonda Bulldozer topped the ring at $22,000. Prospective buyers, neighbours and friends are expected to line the hay bales around the selling ring, as the Karoonda team, led by Paul Sykes and Lauren and Lynton Hill, prepare each lot for auction. Last year, repeat clients McRae Trading Trust of Hawkesdale in the Western Districts purchased two bulls, including Karoonda Bandsaw at $15,000, bringing their total herd additions from Karoonda to eight bulls. The sale will again focus on temperament, with each bull brought through the ring individually to allow buyers to assess them closely. In 2025, 49 of the 73 bulls offered sold at an average of $8,939, with additional lots selling after the auction concluded. Bulls sold locally and across the region, from Omeo and Benambra to Traralgon, South Gippsland, and the Western Districts. Stud principal Paul Sykes said last year's results exceeded expectations, while Lauren Hill emphasised the stud's gratitude for the ongoing support from clients. Nutrien South East stud stock manager Peter Godbolt praised the Karoonda bulls for their carcase, fleshing and skin quality, noting their reliability for commercial operations. Family and community are central to the sale, with the Sykes family welcoming visitors and creating a relaxed, inclusive atmosphere. The presence of the Sykes grandchildren on sale day has become a familiar and much-loved part of the event. Buyers are encouraged to mark Tuesday, March 17, in their calendars for the 2026 Karoonda Park Bull Sale, with high-quality bulls and top-tier genetics available both in person and online via AuctionsPlus. Gearing up for Karoonda sale The 2026 Karoonda Park Bull Sale returns to Gelantipy on Tuesday, March 17. Ed Bradley - 0412 298 546 | Damien Roach 0427 253 250 OPEN DAY, FRIDAY 1ST MAY, 2026 THURSDAY, MAY 7TH, 2026
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