Australian Pinzgauer Breeder's Association plays host to world congress

The Australian Pinzgauer Breeders Association has welcomed farmers from Slovakia, Austria, South Africa, and Canada.

The 13-day tour took attendees to Sydney and Kiama, which was followed by a visit to Manildra Group, Bomaderry, and David and Sue Boyd's dairy farm Conglo at Terara before the group continued to Canberra to see the capital's sights, Yass SELX, a Parkes sheep property, DPI's Orange Agricultural Institute, the Blue Mountains and Cairns.

While at Kiama, the group visited Julia and Steve Roso's property, Fairfield, at Jerrara, where they run about 40 registered Pinzgauer breeders and their calves.

The concept for the congress was initiated in 1972 with the first gathering taking place in South Africa.

Australian Pinzgauer Breeder's Association director and tour coordinator Laurelle Price said the tour group comprised farmers, farm employees and their connections, and Pinzgauer association delegates.

"They have been saying how amazing Australia is," she said.

"They loved the harbour cruise we did - it was a perfect, warm, sunny day."

Mrs Price said the visit to Orange Agricultural Institute, where attendees heard from scientists about their research projects, was particularly well received.

"The visit to the research centre was a hit. People found that absolutely fascinating," she said. "There were talks about their projects with insects, livestock and plants."

It was the 13th congress, which are held every four years, except during COVID-19 lockdowns.

"They have enjoyed visiting properties and seeing how the breed is performing in other countries," Mrs Price said. "They get to see properties that they wouldn't see as a regular tourist and learn how they operate their farms.

"It's a great social gathering that bonds us - we are like one big family."

Sepp Wadlegger, British Columbia, Canada, runs 65 Pinzgauer breeders on his family's farm.

"We have probably had Pinzgauers for 15 to 20 years," Mr Wadlegger said.

"My Dad is Austrian, and he had them when he was growing up, so he always wanted the breed on our farm.

"We were Hereford farmers, and we converted our whole herd to Pinzgauer.

"The cattle here are very similar in frame and colouring to ours; there isn't much difference - they're very healthy-looking animals."

Mr Wadlegger had visited Australia once before, seeing much of the west coast.

"This is beautiful country here, so I would say today has been the highlight so far," he said.