Finley’s Ashley Haynes Butchery was briefly showcased on the special interest program on Sunday.
Landline reporter Tim Lee started the episode on Australia’s high-performing butcher team at the recent 2025 World Butchers’ Challenge in Paris.
He then came to our own local butcher for insight on the industry.
The show discussed how Australian butchers have been closely following the team's achievements at the Paris competition, which create inspirations and aspirations generated in the industry by the team.
Ashley said he was approached by the show about three weeks ago, and spent about three hours with the Landline team.
“It came about from the World Butcher championships, anyone in the trade would’ve noticed it, and the Landline people got in touch with us.”
“It was a huge thrill to be involved in the program and to have a world title in our trade is huge.
“On away soil with different products and equipment, it is fascinating to see the different things they can produce, and for the Australian team to get third in Paris was a really fantastic achievement.
“Butchery is not always the most glamorous industry, but it was great the show could shine a light on the industry and some of the great work that is being done.”
The TV segment also explored the intergenerational quality of Australian butcheries, as exemplified by Ashley Haynes Butchery.
In the show, Ashley described how the family’s connection to the industry began with Normie Haynes in Tocumwal.
All four of his sons, including Ashley’s father who branched out to Finley, followed in his footsteps.
Butchery in the family now spans four generations with Ashley’s son Harry taking up the trade.
“Harry’s just started,” Ashley said.
“He’s in his second year of his apprenticeship, and he’s enjoying it.”
Ashley’s daughter Sarah was also shown working at the business.
“My daughter Sarah is home at the moment and has been for the past six weeks, before she starts her job as a speech pathologist.
“She’s always helped out, while going through university.
“It has always been her part-time job, and she has a great rapport with the customers.”
Ashley made sure to also mention the generations of apprentices that the local butchery has helped, which continues today.
“Over the journey we’ve put through many young apprentices, including one young apprentice, Marlon Webster, who recently finished his apprenticeship and is the most recent in a long line of young men.”
On the show, Ashley also spoke about the role of a local butcher in communities, as well as the changes in local butchery over time.
“The role a butcher plays in any town is important.
“It’s like any small business and it is important the town supports them.”
For those who missed it, the episode is available on ABC iview.
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