Nigel Spink
Nigel Spink, Challambi, Tooma, NSW, started his Charolais stud in 2011, aiming to replicate the extra performance, muscle, yield and growth possible from the breed in his own line of cattle.
Mr Spink said initial challenges of marketing his cattle and essentially “pinching” clients from other seedstock producers were overcome and he was finally able to enjoy the physical process of breeding Charolais cattle.
“I love seeing the endless possibilities of artificial insemination and embryo transfer literally come to life,” he said.
“It’s very rewarding to see your goals realised.”
Mr Spink said he was a strong supporter of genomics and breed plans, with figures becoming more important for meeting market demands in beef production.
“The market is changing all the time and the consumer is always right,” he said.
“We have to be able to produce what the want.
“From what I hear genomics for the Charolais breed in Australia is a long way behind what they’re achieving in other countries.
“At its full potential, genomics could fast track sires into our herds years quicker than we could without them and put us five to seven years in front.”
Lauren Platzer
Lauren Platzer, Sanlara Park Charolais, Karrabin, Queensland, became involved with beef cattle aged 13 when her local school’s cattle showing team unlocked a passion for success in the industry.
Miss Platzer said she most enjoyed working with genetics to find the best combinations for the type of animal required, be it for a commercial line or to sell within the stud.
While she said technology was opening doors for those already involved in the beef industry, Miss Platzer said it was frustrating for those without a “foot in the door” to reap the rewards.
“It is near impossible for young people without a family history in the industry to get a good start,” Miss Platzer said. “Everything is so expensive and the government doesn’t offer any assistance.
“They (the government) don’t realise there are young people keen to get stuck in who, with a little help, will be the people feeding the nation in 10 to 20 years’ time.”
Miss Platzer said she would like to see genomics made more accessible for the everyday producer.
“At present genomics seems to be something you need to spend a lot of money on and not necessarily targeted at smaller producers,” she said.
“Our stud is not our primary source of income, we do it because we love it, so the Young Breed Leaders forum is shedding some light on the future of genomics within our wonderful industry.”
