CROSSBREEDING to achieve a high level of hybrid vigour, opting for breeds with strong maternal aspects and the consistent introduction of quality genetics has provided Casino district weaner specialist Ron Dean the foundation required to continue to produce sought-after lines through a tough season.
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Mr Dean, "Clifton Pines", Mallanganee, sold 93 European Union-accredited Hereford/Simmental steers to a top of $650 at the George and Fuhrmann sale at Casino last week.
The bigger portion of his heavier calves, including this pen of eight- to 11-month-olds, averaged $602, went to Upton Pastoral at Walcha.
He said weights were back about 30kg on last year's offering due to the extremely dry spring and summer but returns were only back $23 a head, which he said was "very pleasing".
"The calves did surprisingly well considering the conditions and we only supplemented with cottonseed pellets for a short period in spring because we just couldn't justify the additional cost of buying in expensive feed," he said.
"I think cows with the ability to keep milking have proven very important this season."
The two-breed rotation at "Clifton Pines" allows for both the generation of replacement heifers and the introduction of new genetics via bull purchases.
When heifers reach three-quarters Simmental content, Hereford bulls are put back over them.
Shan Goodwin
Journalist for The Land on the North Coast.
Journalist for The Land on the North Coast.
