ANGUS producers, Noel and Louise Brown, are strong believers of supporting the future of agriculture.
The Browns own “Allynbrook Park”, a 600-hectare property at Halton, between Gloucester and Singleton, that runs about 300 Angus breeders.
Based on Knowla, Greswick and Urban Angus bloodlines, the Browns calve in spring and aim to wean progeny by April.
“We target the weaner market to sell to restockers and feeders. They generally sell very well,” he said.
“We do keep some steers that are grown out and pasture finished at our 400ha property on the Lachlan River near Forbes.
“Some heifers are retained to calve by two and a half years. We also buy in some animals. Animals are culled for age, fertility, temperament and mothering ability.”
Angus are selected for their good mothering ability, ease of calving, marketability and the animal’s ability to be good foragers.
“The cows are good mothers and good foragers. They do well and we don’t have too many problems,” he said.
“The Angus breed offers more marketability and a better price.”
Into the future the Browns are looking at increasing stock numbers through pasture improvement and utilisation of their Central West property more.
They have developed a good relationship with Saint Ignatius’ College, Riverview, over the years from steer donations.
This year they are starting a program to include the school’s agriculture department in the breeding stock side of the business.
“The aim is to allow students to apply the knowledge learnt in class to hands on learning experiences where they can make decisions and monitor outcomes,” he said.
“Agriculture is an important part of the economy that provides a food source. With the average age of farmers increasing, every year we need more younger people coming through the industry.”
Mr Brown believes more local communities should support their schools to get them involved in regional shows to signify agriculture and ensure the longevity of these events.
Virtual taste test winners at Sydney
The relationship between Noel and Louise Brown Allynbrook Park, Halton, and Saint Ignatius’ College Riverview, began with the Browns annually supplying an Angus steer for the RAS Steer Competition held at the Sydney Royal Show.
Generally the school selects its steer in November to be fed for up to 120 days. During this time students work to prepare the animal for the show ring.
This year the “Allynbrook Park” steer prepared by Riverview was awarded a first place in the virtual taste test section of the class. This is awarded to the steer with the highest eating quality across a range of cuts, determined by Meat Standards Australia grading assessments.
To receive a score in this section, carcases need to have a pH of less than 5.7 and minimum rib fat of three millimeters.
Angus had many successes in the virtual taste test sections with five winners. These wins included steers from Scone High School and Frensham School, Mittagong.
Steve and Amity Chase, Waitara Angus, Trangie, received first place for both their steers in their respective classes. They also exhibited the champion virtual taste test carcase.
