Exhibitors of stud cattle, and particularly those who exhibit led steers at agricultural shows, are in mourning following the news of the sudden death of Joe Tones earlier this week.
Joe, who was just three days shy of turning 18, was the son of John and Judy Tones and brother to Libby, who lived at Jandowae.
According to family friend, Allison McCabe, Joe was successful with anything he put his hand to, especially when it came to showing cattle.
“He was a major part of the Dalby State High School agriculture team,” Allison said.
Joe hated the microphone in judging competitions at first, but soon grew to love judging cattle and had real success winning numerous judging competitions.
He loved showing his led steers, winning many shows; he was humble in success and gracious in defeat.
“The fire in his heart was fueled every year to have better success, and he worked hard in his job so he could do what he loved most, showing his steers,” she said.
At the 2017 Ekka, Joe won the state champion stud young judge title, representing the South Burnett sub chamber.
A well respected cattleman in the making, Joe had a real passion for the industry, and could definitely select the good cattle.
“He really loved his show steers, and his knowledge was beyond his years when it came to cattle,” Allison said.
Joe had absolutely no bias when it came to breeds and he judged the cattle for their attributes and not breed.
“He was inspirational to not only his peers but anyone who had the privilege of working alongside of him,” she said.
Joe’s family always supported his dreams and helped him achieve success in the show ring and in every day life.
There was something about Joe that the people he came into contact with loved and he touched the hearts of many.
He will be remembered for being a gentleman, a hard worker with a kind heart, an Aussie larrikin, and a cheeky jokester.
“Joe really was a shining light taken from us way too soon.”
Helen Walker
Helen is the Toowoomba-based journalist who loves nothing better than covering anything horse sport related, however she covers all commodities and personality yarns. Over the years she has lived in Brisbane, Rockhampton, Longreach and Roma filing stories for the 'bible of the bush'. Contact 0459 827414.
Helen is the Toowoomba-based journalist who loves nothing better than covering anything horse sport related, however she covers all commodities and personality yarns. Over the years she has lived in Brisbane, Rockhampton, Longreach and Roma filing stories for the 'bible of the bush'. Contact 0459 827414.
