'CAT OF THE YEAR' 2024
Meet Our Judges
KIT FUNG (CFA - HONG KONG)
We are delighted to welcome Kit back to New Zealand after judging for us at the 2019 National Show Kit lives in Hong Kong and works for Hong Kong Police Force.Kit is a CFA All Breeds Judge.He breeds American Shorthairs since 2006 owned 5 National Winners and over 20 ID Divisional Winners. He also owned the first Longhair Manx in Asia, which achieved the GPD Title. He used to handle some other breeds included Persian, Exotic, Maine Coon, Ragdoll, British Shorthair, Oriental Longhair.He has also been many places for judging cats around the world, including most of Asia Countries, Europe, USA, Australia & New Zealand.Besides a cat lover, he also loves music, photography, and travel.
TROY WILLEMS (FCCV Melbourne)
Born and raised in Queensland, I have always been an avid animal lover, with a particular passion for cats. My childhood was filled with the joy of raising an array of pets, from dogs and cats to guinea pigs, birds, and even tropical fish. Our family pets were always lovingly adopted, regardless of breed, and they became cherished members of our household.In 2005, my life took an exciting turn when I stumbled upon an article about Bengal cats. The concept of these domesticated hybrids with Asian Leopard Cat lineage instantly captivated me. Following extensive research, I knew I had to introduce these magnificent felines into my life. In early 2006, I joined the FCCV as a breeder, operating under the Voodoocatz prefix, and soon acquired my first breeding pair.My journey into the world of cat shows began in late 2006, showcasing my first male. Although he was not suited for the show bench, I persevered and found success with my home-bred show cat, Voodoocatz Khanji. Khanji possessed the perfect temperament and thoroughly enjoyed every aspect of the show
circuit, eventually achieving the prestigious titles of CCCA Champion and Emerald Grand Champion.Alongside my involvement as a breeder and exhibitor, I delved into the world of cat stewardship with the FCCV, where I had the privilege of working with esteemed domestic and international judges. An exciting opportunity to undertake the Group 2 & 3 judge's courses presented itself, and I eagerly embraced the challenge. I successfully obtained my open judging license for Groups 2 & 3 in January 2017, and I relish the opportunity to evaluate short-haired cats at events nationwide.During 2023 I took my judging knowledge to the next level to become an all breeds judge and successfully completed my Group 1 judging licence requirements. As a newly appointed All Breeds Judge with the FCCV I’m excited to continue my career across local, interstate, and international assignments.My journey from a childhood surrounded by beloved family pets to a dedicated judge in the world of feline beauty and grace has been a remarkable and fulfilling one
DAVID SCADDEN (Catz Inc Rotorua)
My wife Jacqui & I have had a huge break in breeding any cats but had our first Templecat litter (of 1!) last year, under the Magwai prefix which we have bred Birmans since 1985.We both originate in the Wairarapa in the sunny South Eastern part of the North Island of New Zealand.We moved to Rotorua, in the Bay of Plenty in 2008. One of the major tourist destinations in the country, the scenery is striking and we are very central to other cities and beautiful destinations.Our other great love are our Bengals, which we originally imported into the country in 1996 and bred successfully under the LapLepid prefix.We have three children who have now left home and two grandsons.We have two Temple Cats, one Birman (or longhair Temple Cat variant, depending on the registering body), one
Bengal and a Maine Coon to keep us pretty busy. Other interests include good wine, genealogy, music and collecting and restoring Ford Capri's.I started judging in 1992 and reached the status of All Breeds in 2005, learning a great deal about all aspects of felines along the way.I really enjoy judging and try to talk to and educate the spectators as much as possible on the various breeds. I feel that a cat show has to be entertaining and informative. I enjoy meeting fellow cat fanciers from around NZ and other parts of the world.I have had the privilege of judging all three National shows in Australia and New Zealand over the few years and would love to be able to judge felines in other countries in the world.I have recently become an All Breeds International Judge with CATZInc and looking forward to becoming more involved with the organisation.