Power of pedigree clear in Arubial's next wave of Wagyu bulls

THIS IS BRANDED CONTENT FOR ARUBIAL WAGYU

In Queensland's Western Darling Downs, Laird and Sonia Morgan, have embarked on a transformative journey, shifting from traditional cattle farming to spearheading Wagyu production. Their evolution from scepticism to award-winning success is a testament to their determination and a profound appreciation for Wagyu beef.

The Morgan's being unfamiliar with the Wagyu breed, drastically shifted after an eye-opening experience at the annual Wagyu conference in Yeppoon in 2015. Their perspective changed after three days of indulging in Wagyu beef, sparking a genuine passion that led them to purchase their first Wagyu heifer, which set a new course for their breeding endeavours.

Returning home they began extensive research which led them to acquire some of the top Wagyu genetics in Australia at the time, meticulously selected through Breedplan evaluations. From having no Wagyu breeders nine years ago, the Morgans operation encompasses 3500 females this year, while employing a multi-faceted approach spanning paddock to feed yard. Their strategy, fuelled by education and deliberate breeding initiatives, drove their herd's expansion throughout challenging seasons. Leveraging their feedlot capabilities at Lillyvale, the Morgans nurtured and sustained their growing herd with constant access to feed through dry seasons, amassing Wagyu cattle and fortifying their industry position.

"With a balanced focus on genetics, nutrition, education, and weaning, we have established breeding programs that produce predictable, quality outcomes. Employing reproductive technologies such as AI, ET, and IVF, alongside early weaning practises, and customised nutrition regimens, we're steadfast in our pursuit of growth. We are dedicated to producing quality bulls that perform for our clients right from the outset of the animals' development," Laird said.

Arubial Wagyu and Lillyvale Feedlot have embraced technologies such as GrowSafe and Wagyu Feeder Check. By integrating GrowSafe utilising Net Feed Efficiency, the Morgans will gain insights into individual animal performance, while enhancing growth management, labour efficiency, and overall animal welfare. Wagyu Feeder Check adds another layer of precision by verifying sires and establishing confidence across the supply chain. Data collected across critical parameters is amalgamated into an in-depth index for each animal. This index serves as a strategic tool in strengthening the resilience of the Wagyu beef industry. The incorporation of these technologies marked a major leap in Arubial's quest for enhanced breeding decisions.

"GrowSafe and Wagyu Feeder Check will provide crucial data that informs our breeding strategies, driving the progression and development of our herd sires and sale bulls."

This year marks a new chapter of Arubial's journey as the Morgans introduce the next drop of Fullblood Wagyu bulls for sale. To date, Laird has facilitated bull sales privately and through agents, offering assistance and breeding advice to suit clients' specific breeding endeavours.

Previous Arubial sires, including Arubial Bond, United, and Regal, have garnered global reach through ABS semen sales. The upcoming drop of Arubial bulls is the product of meticulous breeding programs, curated to suit clients across Fullblood or first-cross markets.

"We're looking forward to presenting our bulls on the website for their initial inspections. We're introducing a novel approach to advertising our bulls that's a bit left field from traditional methods, but we believe it's a positive move forward given the available technology and our client's needs."

Despite past fluctuations in the Wagyu market, the Morgans remain confident in their article and are committed to their passion.

"We aim to transform the bull-selling process with a platform that provides clients with a collection of high-quality data, empowering them to make decisions based on facts rather than speculation.

"As these young bulls prepare to enter the industry spotlight they'll feature on the website in the coming month. We hope this year's sale bulls are the first to ignite a new era of Wagyu genetics on the global stage."

THIS IS BRANDED CONTENT FOR ARUBIAL WAGYU