IS IT WORTH IT ? The Canadian Western Agribition
Forty Australian cattle breeders were at Regina, Saskatchewan, for the Canadian Western Agribition 2019. Although that fact alone does not answer the question, I will try to sum it up here in bullseye: GENETICS If it is your intention to visit the CWA to source genetics - it is well worth it -provided you have studied the genetics, know exactly which and why you want those genetics, and what exactly you hope they will add to your stud or commercial herd. This means looking at what’s on sale, identifying the people you'd like to speak to, and (of course, as we all love) pitching up and comparing the sometimes-sophisticated marketing with your own expert 'bullseye' on what you like in an animal.
This year I selected a spectacular dozen before arriving at Regina. After walking the stalls, it came down to 4 favourites, and happily, and as per our breeding plan, we were successful in securing 2 of those 4. One was a rank outsider - and though I like the pedigree - the photograph of Enticing was not enticing at all. In the flesh though, she was beautiful: I fell in love and we bought her. Conversely - high on our list was a young bull that in every respect ticked all the boxes - and I was excited to see him. Unfortunately, he had bad feet and had to be crossed off my list. My take out ? if you’re going to buy animals or genetics it is critical first to see the animal 'in the flesh'.
THE EXPERIENCE If you are looking for an experience as a cattle person and would like to see an example of an exceptionally well-run show, CWA is certainly worth it. The facilities are outstanding, the management of the arenas is excellent, and the great atmosphere and camaraderie are an integral part of this beautifully-run show. THE RELATIONSHIPS If you are looking to meet good people with whom you can liaise to learn more about this Speckle Park breed - it's worth it: There are so many knowledgeable people, steeped in the history of the breed, plus many eager new breeders with exceptional animals and enthusiasm to engage with Australians.
THE ADVENTURE Finally -if you’re looking for a cattle show adventure with a tour - this is a great choice: Vancouver is an exceptionally beautiful city, and a few nights' stopover will pepper your visit with a wide variety of interesting things to do: Just a hop-skip-and-jump from either Victoria or Seattle. Regina Itself is flat but for Aussies the crisp, clean snows, and lightly sprinkled "snow trees" are magical. The show's main arena also has rodeo, barrel racing and a host of other interesting activities. And on the way back to Australia, you might stop in at Calgary for an authentic modern cowboy experience, hats, boots, buckles and all. Or, as we did, you might relax in Hawaii for a few nights. THE PRICE? First-time attendees can (on application) receive between $1200-$1300 support from the CWA to attend, and generally, I would estimate a total cost of about AUS$ 7000 per person or roughly AUS $10-$12,000 per couple for 7 to 10 days (Including flights If you book early) and depending on your choices of stopovers and accommodations. MY CONCLUSION The verdict on travelling to CWA? In my view it is worthwhile provided you are clear about goals and well-researched on both your genetic acquisitions and your trip-planning - to make sure you get the most out of it. * The Bred heifers (below) were bought by BigWig, Circle B and KFC Farms Inc (in collaboration)
