Melbourne Royal prides itself on the quality and experience of judges invited to judge the Melbourne Royal Alpaca Competition and are pleased to announce the industry leader chosen to judge at this year's Show.
Mary-Jo Smith

Mary-Jo Smith was raised in rural Northern Alberta, Canada and graduated from St. Francis Xavier University, Nova Scotia with a Business Degree in 2000. Shortly after, Mary-Jo moved to England to join her Aunt Joy Whitehead at Bozedown Alpacas. Mary-Jo played a key role in developing the Bozedon herd, visiting Peru, Australia, and the United States to select alpacas from top breeders and assess global herd standards to see where the UK compared to the rest of the world. Bozedown Alpacas have a large herd of both Suris and Huacayas, which Mary-Jo enjoys the challenge of improving each year. 

Mary-Jo has been actively involved in all facets of the industry, attending numerous seminars, and participating in various committees aimed at advancing the British alpaca sector. 

Mary-Jo’s judging experience spans across the UK, mainland Europe and Canada. Recent judging appointments have included: 

  • British National Halter Show 2024
  • East of England Show 2024
  • Northern Fleece Show 2023
  • Irish Fleece Show 2023
  • Somerset County Fleece Show 2023
  • Royal Three Counties Halter Show 2023
  • British National Halter Show 2022
  • BAS National Fleece Champion of Champions 2022
  • Northern Ireland Championship Halter Show Heart of England
  • Royal Three Counties Halter Show 2023