Breed defies market decline
admired for their work ethic
THE last six months have shown how tough the commodity beef market can be in an over supply situation.
Now, more than ever, commercial cattle operations need access to a variety of markets to reduce the effects of market downturns.
The EU market, major supermarket contracts and MSA premiums all have held firm this year, but to access these markets a British breed cross is a huge advantage.
Herefords are certainly docile, efficient and productive.
They are the ideal breed to cross over Bos Indicus and Euro cross cows to increase meat quality, improve temperament and increase fertility.
They have the ability to lift MSA grading percentages, and increase access into the feedlot system, and are one of the favoured breeds for meat brought for major supermarkets.
Hereford and Hereford cross cattle fit extremely well into the EU market and the PCAS system, both premium markets and expanding markets.
The “whiteface” stamps cattle British breed cross removing any doubt of authenticity.
Excellent temperament is one of the Hereford breeds most well-known attributes and a trait which is only appreciated when you don’t have it.
Cattle that possess good temperaments will impact positively on a herd, and in turn result in a successful breeding program.
Cross breeders who purchase at the Southern Cross and Wallan Creek sales regularly comment on how Herefords improve the temperament of their weaners.
Fertility is a major trait Herefords are renown for.
Fertility is the profit driver in a commercial beef herd and Herefords help here in two ways.
Firstly, Hereford bulls can handle large numbers of cows.
One of last year’s purchasers stated how he “admired the work ethic” of the Hereford bull he purchased to put over Santa cows.
Secondly, the F1 female sired by the Hereford bull will have increased fertility and longevity – proving that Hereford genetics delivers outstanding results to cross-breeding programs.
This was again proven by a recent major three-year study hosted in the USA – The Harris Ranch Trial.
The project conducted by the American Hereford Association and California State University, indicated an increased pregnancy rate of 7% for the Hereford-cross females over the Angus-cross control group.
Therefore resulting in a larger increase in fertility when crossing over breeds that have fertility issues.
Two major Queensland sales – Southern Cross and Wallan Creek will be offering 152 outstanding Hereford bulls on Tuesday, September 10, and Thursday, September 12, in the Dulacca region.
All bulls will be fertility tested, blooded, vaccinated against vibrio, three-day sickness and 5 in 1, have carcase scans and performance data.
The Nixon and Reid families have been presenting consistent lines of herd improvers for many years, with bulls having impressive weight for age, exceptional muscling, slick skins and quiet disposition.
Both sales are serviced by GDL and Elders and either the agents or vendors can be contacted for further information.
Sale catalogues are available online or by request.
Visitors are most welcome.