Quality genetics continue to reap rewards

This year’s two-year-old bull sale season finished recently as 130 studs nationwide put their best bulls forward at auction, private sales and paddock selections.

Callum Stewart, PGG Wrightson Livestock National Genetics Manager, said the campaign exceeded expectations.

“Quality genetics continue to reap good rewards for all concerned. Across the whole season the nationwide clearance rate was 85 per cent, while the average sale price grew stronger as the season progressed. 

“Most transactions this year ranged between $20,000 and $68,000. Angus was probably the strongest breed, the wide range of different breeding programmes supported by commercial farmers was also notable. Different programmes suit the needs of different farmers, and breeders are coming through to meet the criteria their clients are setting. Our studs are enhancing commercial breeding, thinking well ahead to meet emerging trends in genetics, and therefore making the most of the market. 

“When you also incorporate AI into a commercial breeding programme, it becomes possible to quickly and effortlessly enhance EBVs,” he says.

Catalogues at this year’s sales were trimmed as a consequence of ongoing land use change. 

“Due to the number of sheep and beef farms going to forestry, breeders were careful not to offer more bulls than the market required. That said, following plenty of summer and autumn grass growth, the bulls put up for sale displayed exceptional condition: purchasers were offered the pick of some of the best cattle in many years.

“Farmers focus on herd improvements to fit breeding programmes: purchasers are seeking three to five heritable traits in the bulls they commit to buying,” says Callum.

Yearling bull sales are next on the calendar. Callum Stewart says reduced commercial cow numbers make introducing the right genetics an even higher priority.

“For example, with the changes coming into the dairy sector around bobby calves, appropriate genetics can make a substantial difference at little or no extra cost. Farmers need to select genetic traits to fit the mould, which in dairy is easier birth, while also ensuring a quick rate of growth. You can do that with good quality genetics, prioritising three to five genetic traits, rather than just the usual one or two they might be more used to focusing on. 

“Keeping that in mind when selecting yearling bulls is an effective way to add value and cash in on the way through for minimal extra cost,” he says.

More than 60 yearling bull sales are scheduled around the country through the six weeks from late August, with private sales also set to play a big part in the yearling bull programme.