Delivering Droughtmasters that excel

THE Riverland Droughtmaster herd is backed by over 65 years of dedicated Droughtmaster breeding and production of stud and herd bulls.

The stud’s breeding programme is focused on structural soundness, fertility, performance, and docility, traits that directly influence the profitability of our clients’ cattle. Environmentally adapted, the herd is bred to excel in a range of challenging conditions. They have proven they can handle harsher times and the droughts of Central and Western Queensland as well as the often-wet conditions of the Atherton Tablelands.

Preference is given to females that exhibit parasite resistance, calving ease, sound udders and good re breed rates, and we continue to put reproductive pressure on females with an annual pregnancy test and culling. Bulls are required to have optimal scrotal size and motility and morphology at a young age to identify those that have early sexual maturity combined with good performance data. A thinner tropical hide and its associated light sheath is preferred.

Riverland cattle are selected for a docile temperament and have been for a long time. As one of the most desired attributes of a purchased bull it makes for an easy move into their new herd and a safer working environment. Preference is for easy-doing, low maintenance cattle which in turn breed females with better conception rates and steers with improved performance.

“Our focus has always included commercially relevant traits in our stud cattle – growth, fat cover and weight for age. We invest in the best available genetics for our sires, seeking a balance of fertility and carcass traits, and superior growth in a structurally sound package”.

Grass fed stud and herd bulls are motility and morphology tested and are usually available throughout the year, with selected stud bulls offered at auction in October. Females are occasionally available by private treaty.

“We look forward to being part of the Better Beef Open Days, with stud breeders, heifers and bulls on display on Sunday 13 August”.