3 minute read
President’s Perspective
Matthew Collins, CSA President
Without any doubt the most significant event that has affected the majority of Australia in 2022, is the October rainfall that was the second highest on record. Some regions in New South Wales and Victoria recorded an October average rainfall that was the highest on record. It was amongst the tenth highest for Queensland, South Australia and Western Australia. Unfortunately, significant flooding affected large areas of Eastern Australia across October and in some areas over prolonged periods or in multiple events. Our thoughts go out to all members who have suffered erosion, loss of livestock, crops, property and fencing damage as a result of flooding and rainfall. On top of this is the financial cost of repairing property, fencing, roads, culverts and crossings in the post Covid era where shortages of materials and supplies are occurring Australia wide.
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In contrast 2022 Spring Bull sales have seen record prices and clearances throughout the country that is a very strong indicator of the confidence and optimism currently in the Charolais breed. Leading into the Spring the previous record price for a Charolais bull was $83,000 set back in 2017. This record was broken by Lot 10, Palgrove Ringo who sold for $115,000 (and two other sires) in the Palgrove Annual Sale on 9 September, 2022. Subsequently Moongool Stud at Yuleba sold Moongool Revolution for an Australian Breed price $265,000 at their Annual Sale on 19 September, 2022. Our congratulations are extended to the Price family of Moongool Charolais on this result.
Beyond these exceptional results the majority of 2022 Spring sales have recorded increased bull sale numbers and a significant escalation in the sale price compared with last year. It is pleasing to hear in conversation with members how many Charolais Bull sales are following the industry trend that has occurred nationwide.
At the commercial end of the market a large number of studs are enjoying premium prices for Charolais calves from feedlots that have had previous success and recognise the quality associated with Charolais beef. There is little doubt that our marketing is hitting the spot. The Federal Board of the Charolais Society is recognising the continued growth that is expected in the demand for Charolais sires and has been discussing changes to the regulations that will see revision to the current rules relating to recording sires. The regulations have been updated to offer members a Control Sire Option that will allow control of AI semen in use. Fees will apply and registration of progeny will require authorisation from the owner. There are other conditions that allow the registered owner to remove the controlled status of the sire however once removed the sire will not be eligible to be reinstated again as there will be other conditions that will prevent that occurring. The ownership of a natural service sire is required unless written authorisation is received from the owner. If you purchase a stud sire you must ensure the animal is transferred to your ownership.
The Society has compiled and circulated a Regional Directions Guideline that is intended for the regions to use as an administrative guide that outlines the Society’s obligations for volunteers holding office in the regions. This is intended to assist incoming regional executive staff when changes occur to ensure they are clearly are aware of their accountabilities in their position.
In the July 2022 Charolais Magazine we explained that there was a strategic planning session underway to create structure and framework for the next five years operations of the Society. These discussions have occurred in the last two Board meetings and we expect decisions will be finalised by the end of this year that will better inform us of the opportunities ahead for the Society.
As President it has been a pleasure to work with our office team throughout the year. Hayley, Lucy, Deearn and Colin solve the problems daily and are always willing to do the next step to assist you the customer. We are truly fortunate to have such capable and professional individuals on hand that makes my role much easier.
In closing I would like to wish all our members a happy Christmas and a prosperous New Year.
