Breeding program comes alive

The Seymour Alternative Farming Expo could not be better timed for the cattle and sheep breeding programs at Gunyado Bazadais and Dohne Stud in Kerang East.

Darren Gurnett manages the stud with his wife Michelle Sutcliffe and their 11-year-old son Harrison.

This autumn’s calving should mean a display of an alternative breed of cattle being explored by the family.

“We will have two new calves from a cross of Bazadais over Black Angus,” Darren said. “It’s the start of our new breeding program.”

Darren has ventured into this program due to the popularity of black cattle selling for beef, and wants to see if black Bazadais can follow suit.

The growth and development of the Australian Brahman has been described as the greatest livestock revolution in history.

It has transformed the northern beef industry into an efficient and highly profitable enterprise which contributes millions of dollars annually towards domestic and export income.

In the more temperate weather conditions found in Victoria, Brahman offer improved drought resistance, a boost in production by up to 40 per cent through hybrid vigour and an ability to increase overall herd fertility, milk production and reproductive longevity.

More than that, they provide an outcrop in genetics that has the potential to increase stud value.

The Rockhampton Brahman Week Sale is the largest bull sale in the Southern Hemisphere. At last October’s event, a total of 779 Brahman stud and herd bulls were sold for an average of $16,843, with two bulls reaching $200,000 each.

For more information on how to maximise your herd, email the Australian Brahman Breeders Association at abba@brahman.com.au or visit the Brahman site at the Seymour Alternative Farming Expo.

On display also will be some of the stud’s South African Dohne sheep, which are being bred on the property for increased size and are already known for their high fertility rate, rapid lamb growth and fine wool produced in dry conditions.

“I just love the breed,” Darren said.

“The breeding program has been moving in leaps and bounds.

“The wool yields are almost as good as that of Merinos.”

In addition, visitors can view Harrison’s Shropshire sheep, which he breeds on his own while also dabbling in cattle management.

Darren’s take on his son’s involvement and ability is that of a proud father.

“Does he get involved? My oath he does!”