![Simmentals for Kazakhstan Simmentals for Kazakhstan](/images/transform/v1/crop/frm/silverstone-agfeed/2078912.jpg/r0_0_1024_663_w1200_h678_fmax.jpg)
TAPPING in to the live export trade is a door that recently opened for Graeme (pictured) and Jean Smith, "Warrowie", north east of Colac, Victoria.
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The pair run a purebred Simmental herd and were approached by Elders International Trading to fill a contract for Simmental meat bound for Kazakhstan.
Mr Smith said the commercial market for the breed was narrow, which set him apart from the rest.
"They had oodles of Angus steers but they they had an order for Simmental meat and they couldn't find them in the country," he said.
"They're scarce."
Mr Smith said the interest was exciting and the price offered was firm based on domestic and overseas markets.
The 23, 10-month-old heifers weighed 340 kilograms and fetched $850.
The heifers spent a fortnight in quarantine at Heywood, Victoria, before leaving via boat from Portland bound for overseas.
For an operation that sells entirely over the hooks, Mr Smith said the export market would now be on his radar.
He normally aims to sell his Simmentals as milk vealers.
"It's about having different options," he said.
- SIMONE NORRIE