Disclaimer: While all reasonable care is taken, neither Speckle Park International Limited, its Directors, Sub-Committee members (collectively, ‘SPI’) or those involved in the production of this publication accept any responsibility for any errors or omissions or the contents of material prepared by third parties, SPI reserves right to amend any part of this publication as it sees fit. The views expressed in the contents of this publication are not necessarily the views of SPI. SPI expressly disclaims liability for any loss or damage sustained by any person as a result of or in connection with, the information
What another fantastic and successful year it has been for the Speckle Park Youth
Sub-Committee.
With great minds collaborating, the Sub-Committee was able to plan and hold some fantastic events throughout the year focusing on educating future generations as well as those involved in the Speckle Park breed and those wishing to be part of the breed. Events on the Youth Calendar included Beef Australia in Rockhampton QLD, our first ever Education Weekend in NSW, which was a huge success and our final event for the year being the Education Day following the Hot Spot Multi-Vendor Sale in QLD.
With Youth Member numbers rising, it is exciting to see young enthusiasts wanting to be part of the Speckle Park breed. Beef Australia in Rockhampton saw a number of keen Speckle Park enthusiasts interested in learning more about the Speckle Park breed and how to become part of it all.
We have been working alongside the SPI Board to create larger events in 2025, with a view to growing the youth in the Speckle Park breed, promoting the future endeavours of the breed and educating our youth members.
As the Chairperson of the Youth Sub-Committee, I would like to thank the rest of the Sub - Committee members who volunteered their time and expertise to create fantastic events and for the efforts they have put in throughout the year. The 2024 Youth Sub - Committee consisted of:
Chairman: Claudia Humphries
Treasurer/Secretary: Mikayla Black
SPI Board Representative: Robbie Clarke
» Matt Black
» Troy Hepburn
» Angela McGrath
» Suzie Lockwood
We would like to thank everyone in the Speckle Park community for their ongoing support throughout the year and we look forward to hosting some fantastic events in the near future to promote the future of the Speckle Park breed and support future and current Speckle Park members.
If being a part of a fantastic team focusing on the education of the future of the breed is something that interests you, please get in contact with us via email youth@specklepark.org we would love to have you on board.
SPI Youth Education Weekend
This year saw the Speckle Park Youth Sub Committee hold their first ever Education Weekend. The event was hosted by Nether Grove & Luja Speckle Park in Kempsey, NSW. The event was a huge success with over 40 children and adults attending. The day was focused mainly on educating school-aged children who were from local schools around the area of Kempsey, but it was great to see some attendees travel some great distance to attend.
The weekend consisted of educational sessions covering the topics of carcass qualities and break down, veterinary skills and animal husbandry, junior competition skills, cattle assessment and cattle handling in the yards. We had some fantastic experts as well as fellow committee members carrying out the sessions. With this being our first weekend event we also filled in some free time with farmers’ challenges and fun games for all attendees to enjoy.
The feedback after the event was fantastic and all the attendees loved the event and gained some great experience and skills. This event is something we would love to keep running in future years, and we thank those that were involved in the running and organizing of the event.
SPI Youth Education Day
Another year and another QLD Education Day with the Speckle Park Youth Committee running its third Education Day in QLD. This year the event was hosted by Ivery Downs Speckle Park the following day after the Hot Spot Multi-Vendor Sale. The event was successful with many attendees keen to learn all things about cattle and Speckle Park. With the sale bringing many vendors we took the chance to book them in for the day to gain some knowledge from the experts in the world of Speckle Park. The day consisted of a talk on commercial and stud cattle selection from Jack Nelson at Jackungah Speckle Park, EBV cattle selection in relation to the
Park breed from Vaughn Johnston from Ewyn Speckle Park and feedlot operation and cattle handling from Carl Young, Elders.
The QLD Education Day was another huge success, and we thank everyone who has involved in running and organizing the event.
Claudia Humphries Chairman, SPI Youth
Speckle
Upcoming events
Speckle Park Youth Camp 2025
The Speckle Park Youth Sub Committee are proud to present our first ever Youth Camp!
The event will take place at the Hawkesbury Showgrounds from the 6th, 7th and 8th of June 2025.
Additional information will be shared in early 2025 through email and our social media channels.
Yearly wrap
Marketing and Events Sub-Committee Report
It was another big year for the Marketing and Events Sub- Committee, with the ‘main event’ being Speckle Park International’s presence at Beef 2024 where the breed’s exceptional quality, diversity and strong market potential was showcased.
This year’s event provided an excellent platform to connect with breeders, industry professionals, and the broader agricultural community, while shining a spotlight on the unique attributes and value of the Speckle Park breed.
The Speckle Park International stand quickly became a vibrant hub for networking and engagement, serving as a meeting point for both seasoned breeders and those newly interested in the breed. Incorporating a range of promotional material and engaging advertising, the stand facilitated insightful discussions on breeding strategies, genetics, and emerging market trends. The inclusion of Speckle Park steers and Speckle Park infused
heifers at the site, kindly made available by Minnamurra Speckle Park, proved to be a great draw card and visual testament to the key benefits Speckle Park can provide to a range of different programs.
A tremendous amount of work went into what was a very successful representation of the Speckle Park breed at the biggest event on the industry calendar. Speckle Park International is incredibly grateful to the large number of volunteers from both the Marketing and Events Sub - Committee and wider member group for the effort that went into Beef 2024.
The Marketing and Events Sub-Committee devote their time to assist with keeping members informed through the quarterly newsletter, Speckle Park International’s social media presence and other communications. The team are constantly working on a range of initiatives with activities over the past year spanning from breed promotion in broad reaching publications to working more directly with individual members by providing materials and other support for the promotional events.
Speckle Park International’s new partnership with marketing and communications specialist, Squish Creative has been met with great enthusiasm and excitement from the Marketing and Events Sub-Committee. The extensive professional experience brought by Squish Creative will ensure our marketing and communication strategy is well aligned with the Strategic Plan and implemented with success, for the benefit of all members.
Next year promises to provide great opportunities for promotion of the breed on many fronts, including the first Speckle Park World Congress to be held in August 2025, aligning with feature breed events at Brisbane’s Royal Show (Ekka). If you would like details about how you can be involved, please contact that MESC via marketing@specklepark.org
• WG Paddock tours also available by appointment • Paddock bulls also on offer • Private treaty sale set prices first in first serve
TECHNICAL
Yearly wrap
To the SPI Community,
The primary drivers for the SPI Technical Committee (TC) is to implement programs and initiatives that increase the rate of genetic gain for Speckle Park, in line with the strategic plan, to provide resources and education materials to support the membership, and to collate data to showcase the value proposition of our breed to industry.
Our committee has been diligently working through several projects over the past year, building on the momentum gained from turning on single-step genomic analysis and our education initiatives in the preceding period. I have provided a brief outline of the key projects that we have underway.
Breed $Indexes
The big win for our committee over the past 12 months has been the development and release of four new Speckle Park Selection $Indexes:
Domestic Maternal
Domestic Terminal
Export Maternal
Export Terminal
Estimates the genetic differences between animals in net profitability per cow joined for a self-replacing commercial herd that is targeting the supermarket trade.
Estimates the genetic differences between animals in net profitability per cow joined in a typical commercial herd where all progeny are marketed.
Estimates the genetic differences between animals in net profitability per cow joined for a self-replacing commercial bos indicus herd that uses Speckle Park bulls to target the export market.
Estimates the genetic differences between animals in net profitability per cow joined in a typical commercial bos indicus herd that uses Speckle Park bulls and markets all progeny.
In the face of market uncertainty, it is well worth noting that the ability for SPI to turn on Single-Step BREEDPLAN genomic analysis alongside the release of four $indexes in such a short period was very positively received by industry.
Within the next 12–18 months, we will conduct a review of the $indexes with ABRI to ensure that they are performing as predicted and delivering the anticipated output in line with the market specifications for each.
SPI data warehouse
The data warehouse has been up and running for over 12 months and we now have over 500 MSA carcase records in our database.
I’d like to thank the members that have contributed data through the warehouse to date:
» Minnamurra Speckle Park
» TeMooi Speckle Park
» Jackungah Speckle Park.
The data that has been submitted to date has been incredibly valuable to the work of the tech committee and in SPI marketing initiatives over the past year.
You can learn more about the data warehouse and how to submit data through the SPI website, currently listed under the forms page. www.specklepark.org
Crossbred analysis
A major project that our committee has been working on since the introduction of Breed $Indexes, is the development of a Crossbred analysis for Speckle Park, in line with the strategic plan.
Speckle Park EBV’s are currently generated through BREEDPLAN using a Purebred analysis. By shifting to a Crossbreed analysis, the breed will be able to utilise data from commercial speckle park animals which will significantly increase the volume of data points that feed into the analysis.
More data points will not only assist to refine the accuracy of EBVs and streamline the path to ‘turning on’ more traits, the generation of a Crossbred analysis will also open up future opportunities for Speckle Park to be included in industry driven multi-breed analysis.
With support from ABRI, we are currently reviewing the rules and regulations around the implementation of this analysis with the primary aim to maintain integrity of the Purebred herd.
More details will be put out through the board as we work through the implementation.
SCAN ME!
Bull sale survey
In conjunction with our board liaisons, we are currently finalising a Bull Sale Survey which will go out to all SPI members. The intent of this survey is to capture important information on bull sales across geographical regions, including market penetration, bull preparation, and projections of current and future herd numbers.
Please take the time to review and complete this survey when it comes out, the information collected helps to drive prioritisation of the initiatives that our committee undertakes, and also contributes to recommendations that we put forward to the SPI Board.
Gonadal Hypoplasia
Research into Gonadal Hypoplasia (GH) has been ongoing, with a dedicated group working collaboratively with worldleading geneticist to investigate the genetic basis of GH within the breed. A proposal for the next stage of genetic research has been brought forward to the Board, as announced at the AGM. Updates will be provided to the membership as they become available.
Thank you to the members of our committee, Phil Wright (Secretary), Nick Endres (Treasurer), Tim Weller, Mitch Warrener, and Vaughn Johnston (Board Liaison). They have each spent countless hours working on these initiatives with the hope to grow the market share of our breed for all Speckle Park breeders.
As a note to finish on, I am encouraged to have seen an increasing level of interest and engagement from industry signalling a positive shift in market interest for the breed over the past 12 months. Doors are now opening for Speckle Park to engage in industry led projects relating to feed efficiency, sustainability, and eating quality; key traits of importance and drivers of the value proposition for our breed.
We would welcome any members who would like to get involved with the technical committee, and we welcome feedback and suggestions for future programs; you can contact the technical committee via email technical@specklepark.org
Kind Regards,
Naomi Hobson Chairman, SPI Technical Committee
BREEDING & GENETICS
Top sires
Based on number of SPI registered progeny - all time
Animal ID: JKH 300X
Animal name: SPOTS ‘N SPROUTS STANDS ALONE
Date of birth: 11/3/2010
Progeny count: 634
Animal ID: JSF 11A
Animal name: JOHNER STOCK FARM TRADE SECRET
Date of birth: 9/3/2013
Progeny count: 496
Animal ID: GNK 61Y
Animal name: CODIAK PUTNAM GNK 61Y
Date of birth: 2/6/2011
Progeny count: 490
Animal ID: GGG 68L
Animal name: STAR BANK LACERTA 68L
Date of birth: 17/4/2001
Progeny count: 486
Animal ID: MAU K247
Animal name: MAUNGAHINA KIDMANS COVE
Date of birth: 23/9/2014
Progeny count: 441
BREEDING & GENETICS
Top dams
Animal ID: LST E27
Animal name: WARATAH E27
Date of birth: 17/9/2009
Progeny count: 119
Animal ID: GNK 5X
Animal name: CODIAK ACRES NIOME GNK5X
Date of birth: 6/2/2010
Progeny count: 115
Animal ID: GNK 42Y
Animal name: CODIAK AMANDA GNK 42Y
Date of birth: 20/3/2011
Progeny count: 108
Animal ID: NGL L3
Animal name: THREE WAY OH MY
Date of birth: 13/2/2015
Progeny count: 106
Animal ID: GNK 8R
Animal name: CODIAK UNIQUE GNK 8R
Date of birth: 8/1/2005
Progeny count: 102
BREEDING & GENETICS
Top sires with most progeny registered (2022)
Progeny born in 2022 and registered with SPI as at October 2024
BREEDING & GENETICS
Top dams with most progeny registered (2022)
Progeny born in 2022 and registered with SPI as at October 2024
BREEDING & GENETICS
Domestic Maternal Index (DMI)
TOP 20 SIRES
ARDMEEN UNMARKED T39
TRUEBLEU T86
JAD TAHITI T103
MINNAMURRA TRIGGER T41
KAHLEATHA TROJAN $40
JACKUNGAH TRUST THE MAGIC T56 $40
JAD TAURUS T46 $39
MINNAMURRA TOREADOR T98 $38
MINNAMURRA TORNADO T88 $38
MINNAMURRA TEXAN T20 $37
BLACK DIAMOND J17 TOM CAT T1678 $37
PREMIER 2D AC/DC T4 $37
THREE 2 ONE THOMAS
$36
GLENGARRY TRADE WINDS $36
EWYN 11A TRADE SECRET T33 $36
Selection criteria: Calving Year(s): = 2022, Animal is male, Animal is active,
TOP 20 FEMALES
BREEDING & GENETICS
Domestic Terminal Index (DTI)
TOP 20 SIRES
TOP 20 FEMALES
TOUGH LOVE T064
TY ME DOWN T007
WELLERLOU R05 URCHIN T74
MINNAMURRA TALISMAN T3
PHOENIX PARK MR T T26
ALINJARRA TEQUILA SLAMMER T047
TRIGGER T41
TIKI
TONIC T024
TROPICAL STORM T061
TEMPLETON T16
EBBWVALE 1B TRAIL BLAZER T2
ALINJARRA TEQUILA SHOT T045
ARDMEEN UNMARKED T39
TEXAN T20
WEST THOR T5
LANDMARK T205
TWISTED HURRICANE
MOOI THOR T58
TRUMPETER T63
Selection criteria: Calving Year(s): = 2022, Animal is male, Animal is active,
Selection criteria: Animal is
BREEDING & GENETICS
Top Export Maternal Index (EMI)
TOP 20 SIRES
TOP 20 FEMALES
TJB R5
Q48 TEEKA T28
444E UNIQUE Q3
TJB R44
VALLEY 23E TIDY DOLL T2
N08 TEEKA S169
MARGARITA T068
SEA LEVEL NEMERA
4B TORI Q171
PROSECCO T101
KAHLUA T012
SIX STAR 60W REBA H11
Selection criteria: Animal is female, Animal is active,
BREEDING & GENETICS
Top Export Terminal Index (ETI)
TOP 20 SIRES
TOUGH LOVE T064
TALISMAN T3
ALINJARRA THE FIX T013
ALINJARRA TEQUILA SLAMMER T047
ALINJARRA TWISTED HURRICANE
L11 DRIFTER T46
ALINJARRA TY ME DOWN T007
TAMBOURINE MAN T76
TEQUILA SHOT T045
1B TRAIL BLAZER T2
ALINJARRA TONIC T024
MINNAMURRA TEXAN T20
ALINJARRA T REX T034
EBBWVALE L11 THOR T7
EBBWVALE IB TYRONE T3
THUNDER T041
TOUCH OF JUNGLE T062
TIMBER T104
SEA LEVEL TIKI
TROPICAL STORM T061
Selection criteria: Calving Year(s): = 2022, Animal is male, Animal is active,
TOP 20 FEMALES
TEQUILA T009
L11 WHISTLER T51
PROSECCO T101
VODKA U078
L11 LASS R5
CHAMPAGNE
M25 MELLO U81
CREEK BELLA
AMARETTO T103
M25 MILLIE U87
QORKIE S17
SONIC L11 PHILADELPHIA T46 $68
Selection criteria: Animal is female, Animal is active,
BREEDING & GENETICS
Top 20 herds for Domestic Selection Indexes
DOMESTIC MATERNAL INDEX (DMI) DOMESTIC TERMINAL INDEX (DTI)
BREEDING & GENETICS
Top 20 herds for Export Selection Indexes
EXPORT MATERNAL INDEX (EMI)
EXPORT TERMINAL INDEX (ETI)
BREEDING & GENETICS
Top 20 AI sires for Domestic Selection Indexes
DOMESTIC MATERNAL INDEX (DMI) DOMESTIC TERMINAL INDEX (DTI)
E6 WALKER K3
EXTREME E27
CHUCK R43
STAR SOUTHERN AURORA ‘JUSTICE’ R10
WILLIS G12
GROVE 54T WALKER H12
QUINCY Q3
THUNDER ROLLS T10
TOUCH OF JUNGLE T062
Selection criteria: Animal is AI Sire, Animal is active,
BREEDING & GENETICS
Top 20 AI sires for Export Selection Indexes
EXPORT MATERNAL INDEX (EMI) EXPORT TERMINAL INDEX (ETI)
ALINJARRA TOUCH OF JUNGLE T062
OAKEY CREEK S PEGASUS Q1 $67
OAKEY CREEK S COLBY Q3
BELOW SEA LEVEL NITRO
JAD QUISTACAT Q48
JOHNER STOCK FARM UNMARKED 2D $62
SIX STAR SOUTHERN AURORA ‘JUSTICE’ R10
EBBWVALE 444E NIGHTHAWK
LEGACY REVERE 110D
JAD SIZZLER S50 $58
OAKEY CREEK LEGACY FIRESTONE S35 $58
OAKEY CREEK SARATOGA S33 $57
SIX STAR SPC ‘BOJANGLES’ Q100 $54
D.A.M. DOTS 94A ELECTRIC 31E
NOTTA 1B HAWKEYE 444E
BLUE SPARK RAPTOR
TE MOOI SCHWARZENAGER S61
MX EL GUAPO 103E $52
BATTALION UPPER CLASS $52 BLACK DIAMOND 103C RED HOT R1025 $52
Selection criteria: Animal is AI Sire, Animal is active,
STAR SOUTHERN AURORA ‘JUSTICE’ R10
HILL 60W EXCALIBUR 345E
TOUCH OF JUNGLE T062
HILL E11 PINSTRIPE
SPARK
HILL 26T WALKER 60W
GROVE MOONSHINE E10
DIAMOND P214 RUSSIAN ROULETTE R730
101Y LOGIC L11
SIX STAR SPC ‘BOJANGLES’ Q100 $58
1B HAWKEYE 444E
MOOI SCHWARZENAGER S61
EXTREME E27
DIAMOND M34 QUANTUM MECHANICSQ632
Selection criteria: Animal is AI Sire, Animal is active,
BREEDING & GENETICS
Managing inbreeding
Inbreeding is the mating of animals that are related and have a common ancestor.
The level of inbreeding will depend on the relationship between the two mated animals, with the closer the relationship, the greater the level of inbreeding that will occur in the resulting progeny.
Attitudes to inbreeding vary a lot between individual herd masters and breeds. For some breeds that have low numbers of foundation stock, inbreeding is difficult to avoid and levels of inbreeding that are typically not tolerated in other breeds may be required to achieve a herd’s desired breeding goals. In other breeds, the tolerance for inbreeding is typically a lot less to avoid the detrimental effects of inbreeding depression, reduced genetic diversity and the increased chance of the expression of genetic conditions (discussed in detail later in this article). An opposing viewpoint is held by some herd masters who deliberately mate closely related animals (linebreeding) with the perceived objective of concentrating desirable characteristics of the progeny and to breed “consistency”. Because of all of these factors, there is no one answer available to the question of
what the maximum level of inbreeding is acceptable, and cattle producers should be informed regarding the effects of inbreeding so that they can make their own decisions.
The measurement of inbreeding
The inbreeding level in a specific animal or mating outcome can be measured by way of an inbreeding coefficient. An inbreeding coefficient indicates the probability (between 0% and 100%) that the 2 alleles inherited from the sire and dam at a randomly chosen location on the genome are inherited from the same common ancestor (identical by descent).
The following diagram demonstrates how the inbreeding coefficient is calculated from a pedigree. This animal, Zulu, has a common grand parent (Ajax).
Zulu is inbred because Ajax is a common ancestor.
There are 5 ancestors in the inbreeding loop: Carl – Boris – Ajax – Deb – Eva Zulu’s Inbreeding Coefficient = (1/2)5 = 1/32 = 3.1%
(If any of Zulu’a ancestors were themselves inbred, then Zulu’s inbreeding coefficient would be higher)
Ajax Zulu
Typical inbreeding coefficient percentages are as follows. This is assuming no previous inbreeding between any parents:
The “accuracy” of the inbreeding coefficient value that is calculated will depend on the accuracy and depth of pedigree that is recorded. Animals with a shallow pedigree may have a low inbreeding coefficient simply because their related ancestors are not on the database. The deeper the pedigree, the more accurate the calculation of the inbreeding coefficient.
Effects of inbreeding in beef cattle
Inbreeding can potentially lead to three main negative outcomes being:
1) inbreeding depression in production traits
2) increase homozygosity of recessive genetic conditions, and
3) a reduction in genetic diversity.
Inbreeding depression
Inbreeding depression is a term used to describe the reduction in performance and viability due to the increase in inbreeding levels. The depression caused by inbreeding tends to negatively affect the traits which are positively affected by heterosis from Crossbreeding (the opposite of inbreeding), with these being fertility, survival, growth, and to a lesser extent, carcase traits. Reproductive fitness tends to be affected more than other performance traits.
Recessive genetic conditions
All breeds are likely to contain at least one recessive genetic condition, though in some cases the condition itself, or it’s presence within a breed has not yet been identified. For recessive genetic conditions to be expressed, an animal must carry two copies (i.e. homozygote) of the allele that causes the condition. An animal that only carries one copy (heterozygote) will be unaffected but will be a “carrier” (able to pass on a copy to its progeny).
The most likely way for an animal to inherit two copies of an allele that causes a genetic condition is where a common carrier animal is present in both the sire and dams’ pedigrees (aka inbreeding). The reason for this is that the chance of same genetic mutation that leads to a genetic mutation occurring in two animals is infinitesimal. Thus for one genetic condition allele to be inherited from the sire and the one from the dam, it is highly likely that both parents share a common ancestor who carried the allele. The higher the inbreeding coefficient, the higher chance that both parents will be carriers of the genetic condition and that the individual may be affected by the genetic condition.
Reduction in genetic diversity
Selection in animal breeding systems uses genetic diversity/ variation to improve the population by selecting genetically superior animals for desirable traits. The more genetic variation observed in a population, the bigger the potential genetic gain possible in each generation (see The BREEDPLAN Guide To Genetic Improvement for more detail). An increase in inbreeding increases the level of homozygosity in the population, which means that animals are more likely to breed “true” (similar to parents) but reduces the genetic variation of the population. This in turn reduces the difference between the top animals and the culls, thus the genetic progress possible from selecting the top animals over the average is also reduced.
Linebreeding
Some breeders may argue that “structured” inbreeding programs can be used to produce a single “superior” individual through the stacking of desirable genes for certain production or functional traits (i.e linebreeding). This is common practice in the thoroughbred horse industry. For example, Black Caviar has common ancestry in its pedigree such as a stallion called Vain.
This stallion is both Black Caviar’s paternal great grandsire and maternal great-great-grandsire. She also has a second sire, Silly Season, further back in the pedigree that appears on both the maternal and paternal side.
This approach to produce one superior individual will also result in many more inferior animals through inbreeding depression or appearance of recessive genetic conditions. The aim of beef cattle breeders should be to improve the average performance of the herd. This can be achieved through objective selection and allocation of matings of breeding animals on performance traits (EBVs and Indexes) in conjunction with visual appraisal, while managing inbreeding levels. This will ensure the average performance of a herd (or breed) is improved while the inbreeding level (or genetic diversity) is maintained.
Acceptable levels of inbreeding
The presence of inbred animals in a herd is not a danger (all other things being equal), just that care needs to be taken when determining their mates. For instance, a heifer with an inbreeding co-efficient of say 11% may be over an individual herds threshold for inbreeding. However, if that heifer is good enough to
be retained in the herd, and was mated to an unrelated sire, the subsequent progeny would have an inbreeding co-efficient that is half of it’s dam’s (5.5%) which may well be considered acceptable.
There is no magic level that is considered an acceptable level of inbreeding within a breeding program, with the goal in most breeding programs being to manage inbreeding rather than totally avoid it. Breeding programs that simply avoid inbreeding without considering the genetic merit of the animals used within the mating program are not likely to be economically sustainable in the long term.
Ultimately, the most beneficial breeding program will be the one that results in the progeny with the highest overall genetic merit once the negative effects of inbreeding have been adjusted for.
Average inbreeding coefficient levels of less than 5% within a breeding program are considered low, with inbreeding levels of 5–10% generally considered more moderate levels of inbreeding and warranting more careful management. However, managing the increase in inbreeding level over time is as important, if not more important than managing the overall level of inbreeding within the breeding herd.
Tools to manage inbreeding
Bull breeders have a range of tools available to assist them with genetically improving the average of their herd for production traits while monitoring and managing inbreeding. These include:
Online mating predictor
The online web services area includes the mating predictor function. This facility includes the calculation of an inbreeding coefficient, plus details on the depth of pedigree as a pseudo “accuracy” measure, for progeny from a specified mating (see Figure 1 below).
Mate Allocation Tools (eg. MateSel)
A number of computer based breeding tools are available that enable breeders to optimise breeding outcomes for their herd by creating a mating list based on a list of candidate sires and dams. As well as providing considerable time saving for large herds, these tools allow breeders to balance genetic progress against inbreeding and long term genetic diversity. More information is provided regarding one such tool, MateSel, on the BREEDPLAN website.
See MateSel, on the BREEDPLAN website.
SIRE: MURRAY REGENT
DAM: MURRAY REGENT
Inbreeding coefficient: 16% Min./(Avg.) generation: 7/(11.0) Pedigree display of this mating
Southern Beef Technology Services (SBTS)
Figure 1. Example Outcome from the mating predictor from a half‑sib mating (supplied by ABRI)
BREEDING & GENETICS
Tools of the trade: Crossbreeding
Carefully
planned and well managed Crossbreeding systems offer the potential to deliver significant benefits to beef producers.
The main benefits result from:
» Additional performance as a result of hybrid vigour (also known as heterosis)
» The ability to combine the benefits of different breeds (also known as breed complementarity).
Hybrid vigour (or heterosis)
Hybrid vigour is the amount by which the performance of the Crossbred animals exceed (or differ from) the average performance of the Purebred parents that are used in the cross. An example of this for weaning weight is demonstrated in Figure 1.
This was further illustrated in a Crossbreeding research trial undertaken by the Queensland Department of Primary Industries which highlighted the benefits achieved through a structured Crossbreeding program for weaning weight. This trial included crosses of Hereford, Angus and Shorthorn cattle in Southern Queensland.
The results of this trial are demonstrated in Figure 2.
Compared to the straight bred calves, the F1 Crossbred calves showed an 8.5% increase on average in weaning weight per cow mated. While significant, a larger increase of 23.3% was observed is the F2 calves, being those calves bred from F1 cows. The additional “boost” was obtained from maternal heterosis.
Showing 10kg (or 5%)
Importantly, heterosis is not just observed for weaning weight but in many economically important beef cattle production traits, especially in traits of “low” heritability such as reproduction and adaptability traits.
Figure 3 below illustrates the relationship between heritability and heterosis for different categories of beef cattle traits.
Heterosis or hybrid vigour = extra performance above mid-parent mean
l = Individual heterosis due to the turno animal being a Crossbred M=Maternal heterosis due to the dam being a Crossbred
*Results were obtained from an experiment involving all relevant crosses among Hereford, Angus and Shorthorn cattle.
Source: Breeding for Profit, QE 93015, DPI, QLD, 1993.
Figure 1. Example of hybrid vigour for weaning
Figure 2. Response in weaning weight per cow mated
Traits Heritability Heterosis
Fertility, Mothering Ability, Calf Survival
Birth & Weaning Weight, Milk
Carcase
Reproduction and maternal traits have low heritability and the traditional response to selection in breeding programs will generally be slower compared to high heritability traits. At the same time however, significant improvement in these traits can be made through programs that maximise heterosis.
The inverse is true with carcase traits. Significant and rapid progress can be made through selection for carcase traits in a breeding program, while Crossbreeding has little or no heterosis effect. Growth traits are moderate for both heritability and heterosis, making progress possible through both selection and Crossbreeding.
The amount of hybrid vigour achieved will depend on the type of Crossbreeding or composite system implemented. A composite breeding program is a Crossbreeding system that is stabilised (inter-mating the Crossbreds).
Figure 4 lists the types of Crossbreeding systems, the levels hybrid vigour (both individual and maternal) retained and estimates of increases in weaning weight
cow mated.
To reiterate, to fully benefit from hybrid vigour the cow herd should also be Crossbred to also take advantage of maternal heterosis. Crossbred cows when compared to Purebred females will generally have:
» Increased conception rates
» Improved calving ease
» Increased percentage of calves weaned
» A longer production life (i.e. longevity).
Breed complementarity
Breed complementarity results when combining the strong traits of one or more breeds to compensate for the weak traits of another breed.
For example, a British breed female (eg. Angus, Hereford, Shorthorn) mated to a European breed sire (eg. Charolais, Simmental, Limousin) complement each other exceptionally well.
In general terms, the British breed female contributes early maturity, easy finishing and calving ease while the European breed sire contributes high growth and muscle.
Alternatively, a simple Crossbreeding system could utilise two different British breeds (eg. Shorthorn/Hereford and Angus genetics). This example requires two joining mobs, with the daughters of the Angus sires being joined to the Shorthorn/ Hereford sire and vice versa (known as a criss-cross mating system). These breeds work in this system as they both have maternal qualities, and are complementary in carcase and maturity patterns. In addition, the system is relatively easy to manage, generates its own replacement females, which in turn provide the benefits from the maternal hybrid vigour that will expressed.
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Figure 3. Comparison of Trait heritability and heterosis
Figure 4. Crossbreeding systems and estimated levels of hybrid vigour
Crossbreeding considerations
There some considerations that need to be taken into account regarding the implementation of a Crossbreeding program.
These include:
» Managing and/or sourcing replacement females (depending on Crossbreeding system implemented).
» Crossbreeding programs may require more joining groups than a Purebred system. This could be eased by purchasing replacement heifers although locating a source of heifers available on a regular basis with suitable health status and known breeding may be difficult.
» Hybrid vigour may result in higher birth weights when sires of a high growth rate breed are joined to heifers of a smaller breed. Selection of suitable genetics is essential to counteract this negative.
» Crossbred females may be larger and therefore consume more feed than Purebred females. Research has indicated that productivity per hectare still favours the Crossbred female.
Figure 5. Maximum benefit is achieved when the benefits of Crossbreeding and selection are combined
Selection + Crossbreeding
Selection alone within a herd
The di erence is increased over time
Crossbreeding alone
Random mating within herd
Source: Breeding for Profit, DPI, QLD, 1993.
Selection and Crossbreeding
Crossbreeding should not be seen as an excuse for using “low” performing genetics (i.e. bulls) within a breeding program. Regardless of hybrid vigour, the performance of the Crossbred herd will depend largely on the genetics of the parent, the management level and the environment that is used.
Figure 5 illustrates the benefits of combining selection with Crossbreeding.
Several tools should be utilised within the beef producer’s tool kit to ensure the “best” genetics are used in the Crossbreeding program, including:
1. BREEDPLAN EBVs
BREEDPLAN is a genetic evaluation system for beef cattle breeders offering the potential to accelerate genetic progress in their herds, and to provide objective information on stock they sell to commercial breeders.
BREEDPLAN uses the world’s most advanced genetic evaluation system (based on Best Linear Unbiased Prediction (BLUP) technology) to produce Estimated Breeding Values (EBVs) of recorded cattle for a range of important production traits (e.g. weight, carcase, fertility).
Included in the calculation of EBVs are the animal’s own performance, the performance of known relatives, the heritability of each trait and the relationship between the different traits.
2. BreedObject Selection Indexes
Selection Indexes enable cattle producers to make “balanced” selection decisions, taking into account the relevant growth, carcase and fertility attributes of each animal to identify the animal that is most profitable for their particular commercial enterprise.
Selection Indexes reflect both the short term profit generated by a sire through the sale of his progeny, and the longer term profit generated by his daughters in a self-replacing cow herd.
Utilising both selection and Crossbreeding will result in maximum benefit within a breeding program.
To further discuss the application of Crossbreeding, please contact staff at Southern Beef Technology Services (SBTS) or Tropical Beef Technology Services (TBTS).
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BREEDING & GENETICS
Realised genetic change in Speckle Park
Most Speckle Park breeders will be aware of the genetic trends that are published at the back of their BREEDPLAN herd reports (see Figure 1 for an example). These graphs show the genetic change that has been made in each trait for both the herd that the report was produced for, and the average of the breed over the same period of time. What these graphs don’t show is a direct comparison of the relative genetic progress that has been made in each trait.
Figure 2 plots the proportion of the available genetic variation in each trait that has been captured by genetic selection for the last 5 years. This places each trait on the same scale so that the relative genetic change in each trait can compared.
From this, we can clearly see that the genetic change in the Speckle Park breed is dominated by an increase in growth with minimal change in other traits, including the carcase traits. While growth has obvious benefits for beef production, Birth Weight
(BW) and Mature Cow Weight (MCW) has also increased with corresponding adverse effects on calving difficulty and carrying capacity/environmental impact, respectively. While all growth traits are highly correlated, selection for cattle that bend the growth curve (e.g. moderate BW and good growth, and/or good growth and moderate MCW) is possible if the relevant traits are recorded. While MCW is currently lowly recorded in Speckle Park (<5%), it can be recorded using the same equipment and at the same time as the cow’s calf is recorded for its 200-Day Weight. Recording MCWs will increase selection response for both beef production and environmental efficiency.
Figure 1: Example of a genetic trend found in a BREEDPLAN herd report
The Speckle Park International Selection $Indexes released in late 2023 contain all of the above traits and their interactions with profitable beef production. As a consequence, the trait emphases for each selection index provide a guide to the relative importance for recording each trait. By including Selection $Indexes in your breeding decisions, the appropriate selection emphasis for maximising profitability is given to all traits. However, this may be at the cost of some progress in some individual traits. In addition, by considering more traits, there are more top performing families, and inbreeding is easier to avoid.
We can clearly see that the genetic change in the Speckle Park breed is dominated by an increase in growth with minimal change in other traits
Figure 2: The relative change in each BREEDPLAN EBV in Speckle Park
Have you ever wondered why breeding stock from different areas or in different seasons perform better than their contemporaries? As the master forger said to the art thief, ‘It’s in the frame’. Skeletal mass has a pronounced influence on both muscle development and reproductive rate as the skeleton is the principal repository for key minerals required for growth and reproduction. Skeletal growth is literally on steroids during weaning.
Weaner management begins at conception
The body condition score of the cow at joining and during the first trimester of pregnancy, has a profound effect on birthweight, and milk production during lactation, ipso facto it sets the foundation for weaning weight. This becomes a self-perpetuating cycle. Heavier offspring at 12 weeks enables earlier weaning, which enables more recovery time for dams, meaning better conditioned cows (condition score > 3.5) at subsequent joinings – usually with a lower feed requirement to achieve said goal.
Some take home messages:
» It is cheaper to supplementary feed a weaner than a pregnant or lactating cow/ewe
» It takes twice as much energy to put condition on as it does to maintain it
» The cows which wean the heaviest progeny will lose the most condition during lactation.
Weaning
Variation in weaner weights is inevitable. There could be up to an 80kg differential between an early born calf from a mature (6 tooth or greater) cow born at the start of calving, on a 6 week joining, and a late born heifer calf.
» Mature cow, early calf
Birth weight 40kg + (1.25 kg/ day x 140 days) = 210kg
A diet which is balanced for both energy and protein and contains the requisite minerals and vitamins is imperative for weaner growth and development, particularly during puberty.
Mineral phase
Hydroxyapatite 95%
Other components 5%
(Mg, Na, K, F, Zn, Sr, and C)
Organic phase
Bone matrix 98%
Collagen 95%
Non-collagenous proteins 5%
(BMPs, TGF-B: 2% NCPs)
Bone cells 2%
Osteoblasts
Osteocytes
Osteoclasts
Should these calves be weaned?
The heavy calves? Yes most definitely. There is ample evidence to support the fact that once calves have reached 33% of standard adult reference weight, their rumens are sufficiently developed to thrive without milk. For a typical Speckle Park cow (SRW = 600kg) that equates to 200kg.
The light calves? Yes, however these lighter animals will require a supplementary concentrate to augment their protein requirements.
The obvious solution is to draft weaners into at least 3 mobs, according to weight.
Each of these mobs will have different protein and energy requirements, and a supplementary ration tailored to suit the weight and required growth rates of each group. This is stock in trade for a livestock production advisor.
For steer calves, once they have reached the benchmark 33% SRW weight further growth is a little less important, as compensatory growth can cover early growth inertia later on. For heifer and bull calves, and even growth trajectory during puberty is critical.
Puberty and skeletal development
Under optimum nutritional conditions, bone growth almost doubles during puberty. To counter that, nutritional stress will stifle it. While the roles of calcium, Vitamin D and phosphorous and a number of micro minerals in skeletal development are well known, perhaps what is less appreciated is the role of collagen, a protein, in bone structure.
Protein deficiency during puberty compromises collagen – the matrix upon which the inorganic bone is constructed – which limits the amount of hydroxyapatite (ostensibly calcium and phosphorous) which can be amassed. Bone is the body’s repository for calcium and phosphorus the minerals of greatest importance in growth and reproductive performance.
A diet which is balanced for both energy and protein and contains the requisite minerals and vitamins is imperative for weaner growth and development, particularly during puberty.
Supplied by: Rob Inglis, Livestock
Coordinator, Elders
The real connection: How soil health impacts cattle health
When we think of cattle farming, it’s easy to picture rolling pastures, healthy cows grazing, and the production of meat and dairy products. But what if I told you the health of your cattle begins long before they take a bite of grass? The foundation of livestock wellbeing lies beneath their feet: in the soil. A healthy herd starts with healthy soil, and the importance of soil health to cattle production is more crucial than ever.
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Why soil health matters
My favourite saying is “Soil isn’t just dirt”. It’s a living, breathing ecosystem, teeming with microbes, fungi, insects and nutrients that support the growth of grass and other plants. When soil is healthy, it promotes the growth of nutrient-dense forage, which in turn feeds cattle more effectively. Just like humans need nutritious food to stay healthy, cattle need a diet rich in essential minerals and nutrients for optimal growth, reproduction, and immunity.
Unfortunately, the importance of soil health is often overlooked in livestock farming. But its role is paramount: healthy soil means healthier forage, which leads to healthier cattle, reduced vet bills, and improved farm sustainability.
Nutrient-rich forage: the key to healthy cattle
Healthy soil is full of organic matter, minerals, and microorganisms that work together to produce robust, nutrient-rich forage. Grass, clover, and other forage plants pull nutrients from the soil as they grow, but if the soil is depleted of these nutrients, the resulting forage will lack the vitamins and minerals that cattle need to thrive.
For example, phosphorus, calcium, and magnesium are critical for skeletal development, milk production, and overall energy metabolism in cattle. If these minerals are deficient in the soil, they won’t be present in the forage, leading to nutrient deficiencies in the animals themselves. This can result in poor weight gain, low milk production, and increased susceptibility to diseases.
The role of soil microbes in cattle health
Healthy soil isn’t just about minerals; it’s also about life. Microbes such as bacteria and fungi play a pivotal role in breaking down organic matter, releasing nutrients that plants (and ultimately cattle) can use. These microorganisms also help plants build stronger root systems, allowing forage to access water and nutrients more effectively.
By fostering a healthy soil microbiome, farmers are indirectly supporting the digestive health of their cattle. A thriving soil ecosystem creates plants that are easier for cattle to digest and are more balanced nutritionally. Just as human health is influenced by gut bacteria, cattle rely on the health of the soil microbiome to support their own digestive systems, helping them process food more efficiently and keep optimal body condition.
When soil is healthy, it promotes the growth of nutrient-dense forage, which in turn feeds cattle more effectively.
Impact of poor soil health on cattle
On the flip side, degraded soil can have serious consequences for cattle health. Overgrazing, poor land management, and the overuse of chemical fertilizers can strip the soil of its natural fertility, leading to soil compaction, erosion, and loss of organic matter. When soil becomes depleted, the forage that grows in it becomes lower in quality, and cattle are forced to eat more to meet their nutritional needs, placing more strain on their digestive systems.
In addition, poor soil health can cause an imbalance in trace minerals like selenium, copper, and zinc, which are crucial for immune function, fertility, and overall animal well-being. Deficiencies in these minerals can lead to reproductive problems, poor growth rates, and increased vulnerability to infections.
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The sustainable solution: regenerative agriculture
The good news is that farmers have the power to improve soil health through regenerative agricultural practices. By adopting techniques like rotational grazing, cover cropping, and minimal tilling, farmers can promote soil health while benefiting their cattle health too.
Rotational grazing allows pastures time to recover between grazing periods, preventing overgrazing and promoting deep-rooted, resilient plants. Cover crops help
protect soil from erosion, increase organic matter, and encourage the growth of beneficial microbes. Reduced tillage helps maintain soil structure and minimizes disturbance to the soil ecosystem.
These practices not only improve the quality of forage but also increase the land’s resilience to drought and extreme weather, ensuring a more reliable food source for cattle. Moreover, healthier soil stores more carbon, contributing to the fight against climate change—a win for the environment and for cattle farmers.
Building health from the ground up
Soil health is the foundation of cattle health. Farmers who prioritize the health of their soil are investing in the long-term vitality of their herds, their land, and their livelihoods. As more farmers adopt sustainable practices to improve soil health, we can look forward to healthier cattle, more productive farms, and a more resilient agricultural system.
In the world of farming, it’s easy to overlook the connection between what’s beneath our feet and the well-being of livestock.
But once we recognize that soil is the very root of the food chain, we can begin to appreciate its profound influence on cattle health. Healthy soil isn’t just a part of the equation—it’s the foundation.
For cattle farmers wanting to improving soil health starts with small steps: assess the current condition of your soil, consult with an agronomist, and begin implementing regenerative practices. In doing so, you’ll be safeguarding not just the health of your animals, but the future of your farm.
Supplied
by: Brendan Magee, Agronomist, Elders
HEALTH & NUTRITION
Genetic success through hormone-free IVF on farm
Mating selection and reproduction methods are two of the most important decisions a cattle producer makes, impacting profit, efficiency and overall sustainability of their operation.
According to the latest data published by the International Embryo Technology Society, 80% of all reported global embryo production was made through in vitro fertilisation (IVF) versus in vivo derived embryo production, commonly referred to as MOET or conventional flushing.
Vytelle, a precision livestock company and pioneer in bovine reproduction and precision breeding technology, says this trend validates producers’ growing preference for IVF as their reproductive method.
“The IVF process offers producers a faster, kinder, and more efficient way to enhance herd genetics,” Vytelle’s Regional Director for Australia and New Zealand, Andrew Donoghue, said.
“IVF is the easiest embryo production method available, even more so with a hormonefree system. The ability to make embryos on a donor every two weeks allows producers to keep up with the competitive genetic pace, all while looking after their cattle welfare and managing their day-to-day responsibilities.”
Why hormone-free matters
“Producers are turning to IVF because they get genetic gain from the donor and sire, not just the sire. They can also double monthly embryo production and gain the ability to collect heifers, pregnant cows, or cows that have recently calved,” Andrew explains.
Using a proprietary process and naturally derived media formulations, Vytelle technicians collect oocytes without the use of follicle stimulating hormone (FSH). Vytelle’s process achieves oocyte collection rates similar to other IVF processes that require several injections of FSH.
“It allows for weekly collection, and is more cost effective – one straw of semen can be used for several donors, plus it’s easier on the animals thanks to little to no donor preparation,” Andrew said.
“Not all IVF media and embryo production are equal. The key to great results is a media designed to mimic the uterine environment, coupled with protocols and standards of use.”
Success lies in the media
Andrew is quick to address the experiences of producers who have tried IVF and found it underwhelming and expensive.
“Not all IVF media and embryo production are equal. The key to great results is a media designed to mimic the uterine environment, coupled with protocols and standards of use,” he said.
“There are various proprietary media formulations found throughout the globe, some designed for FSH injections and others that are hormone-free. In hormone-free IVF systems, FSH is not needed, which saves producers upfront costs and labour.”
Speckle Park producers get results
A first-generation family owned and operated Speckle Park stud in Kempsey, NSW, has observed impressive progress in their breeding program through the use of hormone-free, on-farm IVF technology.
“We’ve trialled reproductive methods before, and our girls would come back different. They’d lost condition and they just weren’t the same personality,” Jade Baker of Luja Speckle Park Stud recalls.
“When we started using IVF with Vytelle earlier this year, it just made sense for us. The convenience of allowing our girls to stay on-farm and the hormone-free status of the process were key points.”
The stud, Luja Speckle Park alongside partnering stud Nether Grove Speckle Park, has successfully conducted two ovum pick-up (OPU) events with 35 individual donors, including 13 donors who participated twice. These events resulted in an impressive collection of 248 embryos, averaging 5.2 embryos per donor.
During an OPU, the technician uses an ultrasound to tactfully remove all available follicles off each ovary, with each follicle housing one oocyte. Once the OPU technician has finished this
quick 15-minute procedure, the oocytes are put into maturation media and transported to a lab, where fertilisation takes place the following day. Hosting the OPU events on-farm offered both convenience and the reduction of stress on the cattle.
“We love that our cattle are only off pasture for a short time and are back to grazing by the afternoon, with no noticeable change in their disposition,” said Jade. “The process has been more effective than conventional methods, and we are already seeing the benefits in genetic improvement.”
As for their future ambitions, the couple remain committed to sustainably growing their herd.
“We’re passionate about the breed and the future of the beef industry,” said Jade. “We’re currently sitting at 100 breeders, with plans to add another 40 heifers soon. It’s been great working with Vytelle to ensure we’re building a herd that is not only profitable but also genetically superior.”
“We’re passionate about the breed and the future of the beef industry. We’re currently sitting at 100 breeders, with plans to add another 40 heifers soon. It’s been great working with Vytelle to ensure we’re building a herd that is not only profitable but also genetically superior.”
Jade Baker
Luja Speckle Park Stud
HISTORY
The start of a new chapter
For decades Greg Ebbeck, a dedicated cattle breeder with other 55 years’ experience in stud cattle had been regularly visiting North America and Canada to purchase genetics and judge cattle in the Hereford industry. It was during one of these trips to the Calgary Stampede in 2005 that Speckle Park cattle first caught his eye.
The Speckle Park cattle being exhibited in the Hoof and Hook competition ranked between 15 to 20th place in the Hoof competition. However, once these cattle were processed on the hook, they outperformed competitors in the carcase classes, winning multiple championships “on the hook.” Greg’s interest was officially sparked.
A year later, back at the 2006 Calgary Stampede, Greg saw a repeat of the results – the Speckle Park cattle didn’t excel in the halter classes but dominated the carcase competitions. They also started winning taste testing events, which further underscored their potential for producing high quality beef. By this time, Greg was convinced Speckle Park had a future in Australia.
In 2005, a group of liked minded couples partnered to form Six Star Speckle Park Cattle Company. This group included notable figures from the Australian cattle industry, such as Greg and
his wife from Doonbindee Poll Herefords, the Kusely family from Bimbidin Poll Herefords, Mark Baker and Mike Todd of Kanimbla Poll Herefords. The partnership laid the groundwork for bringing Speckle Park cattle to Australia in a major way.
In 2006, with a board consisting of the six founding members, the group established the breed society now known as Speckle Park International (SPI). Around this time, they also formed partnerships with leading Canadian breeders including Notta Ranch, Star Bank, Codiak Acres and River Hill Farm Speckle Park. These breeders provided access to valuable genetics, and Six Star secured the rights to select and flush cows and bulls for use in an extensive embryo transfer program.
That same year, Six Star began negotiations with the Royal Agricultural Societies in Australia to obtain permits to exhibit Speckle Park cattle at Royal
Shows. By proving the breed’s pedigree over six generations, they received the necessary approvals, allowing Speckle Park to be introduced more broadly to Australian cattle enthusiasts.
The process of importing Speckle Park genetics from Canada to Australia was an enormous undertaking. After extensive research into the best breeding combinations, the team flushed approximately 85 cows in 2006 across several Canadian studs. In January 2007, 3,500 embryos were shipped to Australia. While Six Star didn’t have the capacity to implant all 3,500 embryos immediately, they implanted as many as possible and marketed others to spread the genetics across the country.
Several influential cattle operations, including Wattle Grove, Waratah and Double L Speckle Park purchased embryos in volumes of 50 to 100, contributing to the breed’s early establishment in Australia. That same year, Six Star acquired the entire Star Bank herd, which included the famous Star Bank Lacerta line. These cattle, managed by Jason Goodfellow at Notta Ranch in Canada, formed the foundation of Six Star’s Canadian operations, which continued to supply Australia with top quality genetics.
The
first Australian-
born calves and commercial success
In 2007, the first Australian born Speckle Park calves, known as the “D models,” arrived. These early calves marked the beginning of the breed’s local presence. Speckle Park’s introduction into the commercial beef industry also began in 2007, with the aim of improving carcase quality and increasing steer growth. The breed quickly made a name for itself in competitions, consistently winning hoof and hook events between 2009 and 2012.
By 2010, SPI had grown to 320 members, and the breed’s popularity continued to rise. Early 2011 sawn the first ever on-property sale of Speckle Park cattle conducted by Six Star. In May 2011, Six Star and Wattle Grove put together a massive display at Beef Week in Rockhampton, attracting hundreds of visitors daily. The commercial buyers were interested with 10 Purebred bulls and 10 Brahckle bulls sold at impressive prices. The Brahckle demonstrated the breed’s versatility and its potential for improving beef quality in northern parts of Australia.
A personal highlight a journey of success
For Greg, there have been many highlights along the way, from winning five champion bull titles at Agribition in Canada to successfully promoting the breed at major events like Beef Week in 2011. Perhaps the most memorable moment was selling his champion bull, Six Star Premier, to Sheikh Mishal bin Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, the Crown Prince of Qatar, further showcasing the global appeal of this remarkable breed.
Speckle Park’s rapid rise in Australia continued throughout the 2010s. In 2017, the breed had its first feature show in Canberra, where Six Star Premier won Supreme Champion, the first all - breed victory for Speckle Park. Later that year, a record-breaking heifer was sold for $32,000 at the Melbourne show’s select sale, further solidifying the breed’s growing reputation.
Looking ahead: a legacy of quality
Today, the operation continues to thrive, with a focus on producing top quality bulls for both commercial and smaller scale breeders. The commitment to genetic excellence remains as strong as ever, with continued embryo programs and regular trips back to Canada to source new genetics. With new bulls like River Hill Silver Tip adding to his breeding line up, Greg retains his original enthusiasm for the future of Speckle Park in Australia.
As the breed grows, so too does its impact on the Australian beef industry, proving that the vision and dedication of those early pioneers have created a lasting legacy.
Meat Standards Australia (MSA) delivers record $326 million in farmgate returns in 2023–2024
Beef producers who consigned MSA eligible cattle have experienced a record in estimated additional farmgate returns according to the latest MSA Outcomes Report for 2023–24.
While the MSA sheepmeat cuts- based model continues to move closer to commercialisation with further supply chain activities undertaken in 2023–24.
Established by Meat & Livestock Australia (MLA) in 1998, the MSA program delivered a record $326 million in estimated additional farm gate returns to MSA producers, up from the previous record of $259 million in 2022–23.
According to MSA Program Manager, David Packer, this is a direct result of increased producer involvement and improvement, processors and brand owners extracting more value from the program to share along the supply chain and dedicated investment into research and development which centres around the goal to make all cattle and sheep eligible for MSA.
“In the past year, more than 3.88 million cattle were presented for MSA grading through 42 Australian MSA-licensed beef processors, the most cattle ever consigned. This equates to over
50% of all cattle slaughtered in Australia, with 3.64 million cattle meeting the minimum MSA requirements,” Dr Packer said.
The dedicated beef producers consigning to MSA have shown their ability to keep improving the quality of their beef. In 2023–24, the average MSA Index that represents the eating quality of a compliant carcase was 58.36, another record set this year, demonstrating the tremendous gains the industry continues to make to produce more beef that meets consumer needs.
“The MSA program continues to play an important role in contributing toward the red meat industry’s 2030 goal of doubling the value of Australian red meat sales and ensuring continued trust in Australian red meat.”
Key to the success and expansion of the MSA program are MLA’s adoption activities that support producers, processors, brand owners and other supply chain stakeholders to adopt eating quality principles to generate value.
MSA PROGRAM DELIVERED A RECORD
$326 million
IN ESTIMATED ADDITIONAL FARM GATE RETURNS
MLA launched the new myFeedback online platform in 2023–24 to assist producers in making data-driven decisions on farm, centred around improving carcase value attributes of eating quality, lean meat yield and health of livestock, in line with market requirements.
By collating animal disease and defect data, alongside carcase and eating quality information, producers can more accurately benchmark their performance.
“myFeedback is being seen as a valuable source for industry to access MSA grading and carcase data in one place. This is an expansion to now include animal disease and defect information from participating processors, allows producers to assess all outcomes that drive performance and carcase value, and identify opportunities for the future.”
Dr Packer said.
A total of 13,923 beef producers consigned cattle for MSA grading,
an increase of 2603 on the total number of beef producers who consigned cattle in 2022–23.
By volume, Queensland processed the greatest number of MSAgraded cattle with 1.8 million head, making up 45% of the total MSA-graded cattle. While New South Wales and Victoria both had increases over 100,000 head. Supporting continual growth of the MSA program was the licensing of three new beef processor sites to bring the total to 42 MSA licenced processing facilities.
Grainfed cattle represented 53% of MSA-graded cattle in 2023–24. The proportion of non-grainfed cattle grew again in 2023–24, representing 47% of MSAgraded cattle – an increase of six percentage points from 2022–23. The increased non-grainfed trend has continued from last year as the herd rebuild continued and seasonal conditions supported by on-farm finishing.
Source: Meat and Livestock Australia, 15 October 2024. Scan the code to access
SCAN ME!
COMMERCIAL FOCUS
A cut above the grade
David Reid, director of NSW based Minnamurra Pastoral Company, is a firm believer in the benefit Speckle Park provide to their program with trial data indicating Speckle Park/Angus-cross hybrids provide a clear productivity advantage, yielding an extra 3% to 5% in meat compared to straight Angus.
Crucially for David, ‘from the consumers’ point of view, the Speckle Park has a breed-unique trait of high intramuscular fat without excess marbling, creating a highly flavoursome, tender and healthy meat to eat.’
Minnamurra are no strangers to the carcase benefits of Speckle Park cattle, having won numerous carcase competitions over many years, including back-to-back accolades in the RNA (‘Ekka’) paddock-to-plate competitions from 2017 to 2021 and again in 2023.
With a keen focus on the collection of data, Minnamurra continue to be impressed by the ability of their Speckle Park cattle to achieve outstanding results through the Meat Standards Australia (MSA) grading system.
Earlier this year, after a challenging start to the season, Minnamurra custom fed 600 milk and twotooth lightweight Speckle/ Angus-cross cattle for 150 days, presenting 429 of them for
processing in April and May at Wingham Beef Exports. Of the entire cohort processed, 53 were females with the balance 376 head being steers.
Achieving an MSA compliance rate of 99.3% across the 3 consignments, the post-kill data revealed 410 head exceeded national averages in key metrics like carcase weight, marbling and eating quality. The kills, conducted on 16 April, 15 May and 28 May revealed an average carcase weight of 364 kg, significantly higher than the national average of 330 kg and the NSW average of 335 kg. They achieved an average MSA Index score of 63.83, fairing exceptionally well compared to the 2021–2023 national MSA Index average of 57.45 and the NSW average of 59.31.
This average positioned the Speckle Park cross cohort in the top 25% of all cattle graded nationally, with the Top 25% percentile sitting at 61.80 for the national index and 62.55 for
the national grain fed index).
The lowest graded Minnamurra carcase still ranked within the top 50% nationally with a score of 58, while 10 head impressively scored 70, placing them in the top 1% nationwide.
The cohort averaged an AUS-Meat marbling score of 3.03, reaching a mouthwatering high of 7, equating to an MSA marble score of 530, significantly ahead of the national average for grain fed cattle of 370. With its high influence on overall grading, an average ossification score of 151 was achieved, well below the national average of 180.
Minnamurra General Manager
Dennis Power says more than 1,500 head were custom fed in feedlots due to dry conditions affecting their ability to finish cattle on grass. “A kill in July of a load of Speckle Park-cross yearlings, which entered the feedlot at less than desirable weights in a large mixed pen during the cold winter months, illustrated the flexibility that Speckle Park Crossbreeding affords us. “They entered the feedlot at an average of 345kg, and after 103 days, exited on July 22 at 548kg for a respectable 1.96kg average daily gain. The carcases were impressive, given that they were from very ordinary cattle with 95% meeting MSA grading.”
Most recently, Minnamurra had 104 steers processed and graded on 6 November, demonstrating the impressive ability of Speckle Park to finish on grass. Data produced from this cohort noted the carcases averaged an MSA Index score of 62.66, once again comparing very favourably to the national 2021-2023 average for grass fed cattle of 58.08 and the NSW average of 59.31. Notably, the group also exceeded national averages for MSA marbling scores (achieving 414 against a national average of 350 and a NSW average of 400), ossification (achieving 131 against a national average of 190 and a NSW average of 170) and hot standard carcase weight (achieving 320kg against a national average of 307).
Livestock consultant Andrew Hosken emphasised the importance of MSA grading in today’s evolving cattle markets. “MSA-graded cows often fetch prices 100c/kg higher than non-graded ones,” he noted. He reviewed Minnamurra’s kill data from over 500 Speckle Park Crossbred cull cows across different seasons and abattoirs, noting that these cows averaged a fat cover of 12.7 mm, with 73% grading MSA and an average index of 53.1.
Recently, 149 long grass-fed Speckle Park cross cows, all of which had reared a calf, were processed. These cows averaged 314 kg in carcase weight with a fat cover of 19 mm and 93% graded MSA, yielding strong premiums. Mr Hosken highlighted the Speckle Park cross’s noted ability to forage in dry conditions, allowing them to maintain condition and contribute to their overall success.
Stephen Moy, livestock manager at Wingham Beef Exports, stated that they have been processing Minnamurra cattle for years, consistently noting their high carcase quality. “The quality of carcase has always proven of a high standard. Over the last few years, we’ve killed a higher number of Speckle Park cross cattle than
previously, both young and old grass fed and also longer grain fed. The Minnamurra cattle have proven to have higher than expected marbling, with grain fed cattle up to AUS-Meat 8 and many others at 3 to 4+. Cows and young cattle have consistently met high MSA grading.”
National 21–23 HSCW Ossification
Grass fed cattle, processed 6 November
MSA Marble Score
Ossification
HSCW
COMMERCIAL FOCUS
Budgee Valley Beef
The heart of Budgee, just south of Toowoomba Queensland, is home to Budgee Valley Beef, a 100% grass fed and finished paddock-to-plate beef business run by Matt and Karla McCarthy, a passionate couple dedicated to producing top quality beef for their community.
Their journey unfolds on the historic 453-acre family farm, Ascot Park, which Matt purchased from his parents, Stephen and the late Jenny McCarthy, in 2022. This farm has a storied past, dating back to 1941, when it first established itself as a leading dairy farm known for its awardwinning Jersey cows. Today, three generations later, the legacy continues with Matt and Karla’s commitment to sustainable beef farming.
Budgee Valley Beef operates as a direct-to-customer beef producer, ensuring that all their 100% grassfed beef is raised on their own pastures, with cattle grazing freely on the well maintained property. Their herd is a blend of Speckle Park and Angus cattle, selectively bred to balance premium carcass traits and yield. The cattle are processed locally, where a nearby accredited abattoir and butcher cuts, cryovacs and labels each cut for freshness.
Matt’s journey in agriculture started at a young age, breeding his own Jersey cattle as a boy. But, before returning to his farming roots, he took a detour into carpentry, completing his apprenticeship at 19 and founding a commercial building company, which still operates today. This background instilled in him a unique perspective, blending the practical with the strategic, which has been invaluable in running the farm with a business mindset. “Taking over the farm in 2022, I had my own ideas for a new direction for Ascot Park, moving away from dairying which had ceased 4 years earlier. Being conscious consumers and big meat eaters ourselves, we could see the demand for quality grass fed beef, so together we decided to start Budgee Valley Beef to produce premium, ethically raised beef for our community,” Matt explains.
Karla, meanwhile, came from a different background in property, marketing, and business startups. Her experience made launching Budgee Valley Beef feel natural, and her skills in building brands and reaching customers have been a key ingredient in the business’s early success. Together, they embarked on transforming Ascot Park into a hub for premium, ethical beef production, driven by a shared passion for quality and sustainability.
The couple’s young family is deeply woven into their farm life. They share the property with their daughters Eleanor and Leila and son Oliver. Matt’s father, Steve, remains involved in day to day operations, lending his expertise to the next generation.
In 2023, as Budgee Valley Beef began to take shape, they tested the waters by selling beef to friends and family. The response was enthusiastic, by January 2024, their website was live, and they saw sales beyond their expectations. Now, Budgee Valley Beef offers customers quarter, half and whole cow portions, educating them on the diverse cuts beyond the more popular rib and eye fillets. Orders are delivered to customers’ doors, primarily across southeast Queensland and northern
New South Wales, with scheduled runs to areas like Rockhampton, Bundaberg, Hervey Bay, Maryborough, and Moree.
Their logistics are tailored to ensure freshness and quality: every week, they process and hang beef for 10 days to ensure tenderness, always having fresh cuts ready to fulfill orders promptly. This fastpaced operation requires close attention, from feed management to logistics, with Matt and Karla working tirelessly to meet demand while maintaining the highest standards.
Matt, captivated by the breed years ago, saw Speckle Park as a way to increase the genetic diversity and the quality of the beef produced on farm. ‘Apart from looking great, they stood out for their premium carcase traits and versatility. As we got serious about going down the paddockto-plate road and wanting to improve our herd, I realised that Speckle Park offered the perfect balance of yield and tenderness, which aligns with our goal to provide the best beef possible’ says Matt. The breed’s easy calving and strong maternal traits have also made herd management smoother, a key factor in their farm’s sustainable operations.
From a marketing perspective, the visual distinctiveness of Speckle Park helps Budgee Valley Meats to distinguish their product in the marketplace. ‘Customers are often intrigued by the look of our Speckle’s, and this helps us tell a more compelling story about the beef we raise.’ Karla shares, “We have had customers specifically ask for a Speckle Park beast. It’s exciting for us when this happens because we can see that investing in a quality herd is paying off.”
Looking ahead, Matt and Karla have exciting plans. They envision expanding their delivery reach, exploring ready made meal options, and potentially even offering agritourism experiences, such as farm tours or stays, to connect more customers with the farm. They’re also committed to continuously innovating and improving, drawing inspiration from their customers, many of whom are enthusiastic supporters of Speckle Park.
In all their endeavours, Matt and Karla are grateful for the support from their loyal customers and the agricultural community. They’re proud to be part of the Speckle Park community, excited to continue sharing their story, and looking forward to what the future holds for Budgee Valley Beef and their family.
FOCUS
From carcase to champion: The Stenzel family’s journey with Speckle Park cattle
In the heart of southeast Queensland, Brad and Sharon Stenzel run a family owned meat wholesale business, Farmers Choice Meats, that spans two locations in Churchill and Carole Park.
Known for their high quality beef carcases, Farmers Choice Meats has been a key name in Queensland’s meat industry, and Speckle Park beef has become a valued part of their selection over the years. But beyond the wholesale business, the Stenzel family’s commitment to quality beef production has grown into a dedicated passion for raising champion cattle through their family-led Minto Crag Pastoral.
In 2021, Brad and Sharon’s children; Emily, Katie, and Jacob stepped into the world of led steer competitions, representing Minto Crag Pastoral with their first Speckle Park steer, aptly named ‘Cookies and Cream’.
Jacob showed Cookies and Cream at multiple events across Queensland and northern New South Wales, marking the beginning of an impressive journey into the competitive world of cattle shows.
For Brad, this journey aligns with his long standing preference for high quality British and European cattle, including the Speckle Park breed. As with any breed, he acknowledges that quality can vary, but he sees immense potential in the Speckle Park breed, both for show and for the consumer market. The focus at Farmers Choice Meats is always on the quality and yield of the carcase, ensuring that customers receive only the finest beef. This dedication has translated into notable success for Minto Crag Pastoral, particularly in led steer carcase competitions.
The Speckle Park breed, with its superior carcase qualities, has played a starring role in many of these wins. Minto Crag Pastoral’s Speckle Park achievements include Reserve Champion Heifer Carcase with “Lizzie” at the Brisbane RNA in 2023, Grand Champion Carcase at the 2023 Colin Say & Co Beef Extravaganza with “Shannon” (a Speckle Park steer from Sowden Cattle), Reserve Champion on the hoof at the Rosewood Show in 2023 with “Martha,” and back-to-back Grand Champion Carcase titles at the Colin Say & Co Beef Extravaganza in 2024 with “Speckles.” They also took Champion Heifer Carcase at the same event in 2024 with “Jaffa,” a Speckle Cross heifer.
He sees great potential in their carcase qualities and believes that Speckle Park has a valuable place in Australia’s beef industry.
The focus at Farmers Choice Meats is always on the quality and yield of the carcase, ensuring that customers receive only the finest beef.
Minto Crag Pastoral’s most recent accolades with Speckles saw him earning an enormous 93 points out of a possible 100 on the hook. Speckles scored a perfect 30 out of 30 across the Saleable Meat Yield categories of rib eye area, rib fat depth and calculated yield – boasting a calculated yield of 75.2%. Speckles also secured full marks for eating quality with an MSA index score of 63.1.
Speckle Park performed exceptionally well across the board in the 2024 Colin Say & Co Beef Extravaganza. In addition to Minto Crag Pastoral’s elite achievements, the Champion and Reserve Champion Butcher Carcases went to Speckle Park infused animals, both exhibited by E & M Dawson and the Blackhills Show Team. Producing consistently high MSA index scores, the 14 Speckle Park and Speckle Park infused animals entered in the extravaganza achieving an average MSA index score of 63.53 compared to the event average of 61.64.
With a new season on the horizon, the Stenzel family is already preparing for the 2025 show season with three Speckle Park steers selected as potentials. One of these steers is the 2024 Hot Spot Charity Steer, showcasing their commitment to supporting both the breed and the local community. The Stenzels’ dedication to Speckle Park cattle also plays a key role in their breeding program, with a quarter of their herd being Speckle Park cows. Crossbreeding these with a Limousin bull, they are producing a line of promising calves, some of which may well be the next champions in the show ring. Looking ahead, Brad is confident that Speckle Park cattle will continue to be central to both Farmers Choice Meats and Minto Crag Pastoral. He sees great potential in their carcase qualities and believes that Speckle Park has a valuable place in Australia’s beef industry. For the Stenzel family, the journey with Speckle Park cattle has been both rewarding and inspiring, and they are excited to see where it will take them next in the show ring and beyond.
FOCUS
The Speckle Park journey for Benbullen: From chance encounter to successful enterprise
In 2016, Lashay and Nicky stumbled upon the Speckle Park breed quite by accident during a trip to various locations in Victoria.
While gathering information for the Year 12 Food Studies class Lashay was teaching, they noticed an advertisement for ‘Hanging Rock Beef’ displayed in a local hotel. Intrigued, they decided to visit the farm, where owner John graciously guided them through his cattle and explained the breed’s unique qualities. After sampling some of the meat, they were sold on the breed.
Soon after, they purchased a line of Angus heifers in calf to Speckle Park bulls, followed by F1 Speckle Park animals from JAD Speckle Park, eventually acquiring their first Purebred cows from the Scone Speckle Park Sale. Over the years, they established a small Speckle Park stud named Benbullen Speckle Park. They now run alongside a commercial herd consisting of around 200 cows and calves.
Why Speckle Park?
Most importantly, the eating quality of the beef grabbed their attention from the outset. ‘It just had such a difference to anything that we’d ever experienced before’ says Nicky. ‘We ate the meat first, then we traced the breed and ten long years later, we feel we’re at the point where we’re so proud of what we produce and our story about producing it.’
“We have spent a lot of money on genetics and following the traits that make the meat tasty. The melting point of Speckle Park [fat] is actually a lot lower than the other European breeds like your Angus and your Hereford so that eating quality is abundant” says Nicky.
Lashay and Nicky quickly recognised the benefits of raising Speckle Park cattle, particularly during the challenging conditions
of the recent drought. With only marginal land, they were fortunate that the breed’s hardiness allowed them to maintain their herd without the need for culling simply due to climatic pressures.
Transitioning to paddock-to-plate
The quality of the Speckle Park meat had been impressive local butchers and chefs alike, who praise its exceptional texture and taste, noting it is easier to work with compared to other meats.
Having operated several local pubs, Lashay and Nicky envisioned a way to showcase Gippsland produce, especially the unique qualities of Speckle Park beef. After renovating a building, they established the Maffco Brewery and Taphouse, which features a restaurant, and an in-house butcher shop run by Lashay’s brother. This setup allows them to develop smallgoods and utilise the entire animal, a task they found challenging yet rewarding.
The decision to pivot to a paddock-to-plate model was also motivated by a desire to create their own enterprise and reduce their dependence on market fluctuations.
‘Something I am particularly proud of’ Nicky says ‘is, being on a small scale like we are, we don’t do things intensively, so we’ve destocked to do this regenerative farming practice that we do and the benefits have just been fantastic. I do a lot of work with Hannah, our agronomist, about putting carbon back into the ground and giving back to the environment. It’s a stress-free environment for the cattle and that really shows in the eating quality too. So, by the time they get to the processor, the eating quality surpasses anything that’s tracked and lot fed. Gippsland has a reputation for turning out some of the best grassfed quality beef in the world. We are really proud that everything we breed on our farm is born there and it doesn’t leave our farm until it comes to the plate.’
Consumer and chef feedback
The response from customers at the brewery and restaurant has been overwhelmingly positive. Repeat buyers have commented that they’ve never tasted meat quite like it. Chefs working with Speckle Park beef have also praised its qualities; they have found that it cooks more quickly than standard cuts, and they appreciate the flavour and tenderness of both primary and secondary cuts. One local pie maker even remarked that the quality of the meat was too good to be cooked for four hours and then placed in a pie.
Looking to the future
As they continue to grow their business and solidify their brand, Lashay and Nicky are excited about the future of their Speckle Park journey. Their commitment to quality, sustainability, and local produce positions them well in the evolving food landscape, and they look forward to further showcasing the exceptional qualities of Speckle Park beef to an ever-expanding audience.
COMMERCIAL FOCUS
Speckle Park boost profit in short-fed programs
The ability to consistently and efficiently produce premium quality beef is critical in sustaining a highly profitable beef operation.
In breeding consultation with Jack Nelson from Jackungah Speckle Park, Katunga Fresh in Strathmerton, Victoria, have been achieving these results by using registered Speckle Park bulls in its program.
Katunga Fresh have been consigning 1st and 2nd cross Speckle Park steers from British bred cows to HW Greenham and Son for a number of years, regularly achieving premiums for MSA graded carcases.
The Speckle Park infused steers were processed at the age of 24 months after having been finished for 150 days at the Katunga Fresh feedlot on a Total Mixed Ration consisting of barley, canola, silage and hay.
In an example of the outstanding quality Katunga Fresh are experiencing from their Speckle Park cross steers, in one consignment in April 2022, the average MSA index score achieved
was an outstanding 65.3 points. This compares exceptionally well to the national average MSA Index score for the 2022/2023 year for MSA compliant carcases of 57.52 and the grain fed national average of 57.26 points. Of the 55 steers processed in the consignment, even the carcase receiving the lowest MSA index score of the entire draft achieved an admirable 60.82 points.
In further comparison to national MSA benchmarking performance, 96% of the Speckle Park cross steers from the Katunga Fresh consignment ranked in the Top 25%, with all 55 steers falling comfortably in the Top 50% of steers processed nationally that year.
At that time, HW Greenham and Son offered producers a premium for carcases with an MSA index score of 62 points and above. This strong result saw an impressive 96% of the Katunga Fresh draft qualify for the premium payment.
The average MSA index score achieved was an outstanding 65.3 points
Marbling is widely understood to have a very positive impact on eating quality of certain cuts. Evidenced by the presence of intramuscular fat deposits, marbling is assessed from the 5th to 13th rib on a chilled carcase, with nutritional management and genetics proven to be the two largest contributors to marbling of a carcase. Within the MSA grading system, marbling scores range in increments of 10 from 100 to 1,190. Through the grading process, the Katunga Fresh draft achieved an average MSA marbling score of 510, with highest marling carcase achieving a score of 790. Compared to the Victorian average MSA marbling score of 370 that year, the steers fared remarkably well, outperforming the Top 25% with the top steer sitting in the top 5% of steers processed in Victoria that year.
Ossification is a very important (but lesser known to the consumer) contributor to eating quality. In simple terms, an ossification score is determined by reference to the physiological maturing of a carcase. As an animal matures, cartilage around bones gradually turns into bone itself. Although correlating with age, an animal’s nutrition and development can affect the speed at which ossification occurs. Measured visually in the chiller
by an MSA accreditor, ossification scores range from 100-590, in 10-point increments. The following table shown below prepared by Meat and Livestock Australia describes for the vertebrae regions at specific ossification scores, noting an approximate age based on what is to be expected from a carcase in optimum condition. Exerting significant influence over the MSA index scores of carcases, eating quality is reduced as ossification increases and typically, animals with fast growth rates that reach processing faster have greater capacity to achieve lower ossification scores.
Despite their age of 24 months, the Katunga Fresh steers achieved an average MSA ossification score of 139.
With ossification and marbling being the key carcase traits impacting the MSA grading and MSA index scores, it is no surprise to see Speckle Park consistently proving its superiority where it matters most!
MSA Traits
MSA
Sacral vertebrae
COMMERCIAL FOCUS
Focus on quality in the Northern Valleys
For Jason, owner of Northern Valleys Quality Meats in Bindoon, Western Australia, the path to success has been shaped by his deeprooted experience in the meat industry. With over 35 years spent working in boning rooms and abattoirs across Australia, Jason’s journey to discovering and incorporating Speckle Park into his business was both unexpected and transformative.
Jason’s career began in the butchering trade, where he worked with a variety of beef breeds, including Murray Grey, Limousin, and Angus. Over time, however, as the Australian beef market evolved, Jason’s attention was drawn to the rising popularity of Speckle Park. When he first encountered Speckle Park meat in the processing room, he was astounded by the exceptional quality of the product.
“I couldn’t believe the difference in the quality of the meat,” Jason recalls. “The taste, tenderness, yield, and fat cover were consistently superior. It was a game-changer for us.”
One of the key factors that stood out to Jason was how the temperament of Speckle Park impacted the overall quality of the meat. Known for their temperament and docile nature, Speckle Park cattle don’t experience the stress levels associated with more
excitable breeds. This calmness has a direct effect on the tenderness and flavour of the beef.
“Speckles don’t seem to get as fat as Simmental or other breeds, and they are so quiet, which really helps with the tenderness and flavour. Processing is also a massive difference because they are so calm – they don’t have the same muscle tension, so the meat is more consistent.”
Jason’s business began using Speckle Park about four to five years ago, sourcing most of his stock from trusted breeders like Tony Trainor of Gin Gin Speckle Park and Errol from Kamarah Speckle Park. Both breeders supply grass-fed cattle, with fat scores consistently ranging between 5 and 6, making them perfect for premium meat production.
One of the standout features of Speckle Park, as observed by Jason, is their excellent yield
and consistent fat coverage. The breed’s rump and brisket cuts are particularly notable for their even fat distribution and square form. The forequarters also have a more even, well-formed muscle structure, further enhancing the overall carcass quality.
“I’ve been in the business long enough to know what works, and Speckle Park is incredibly consistent,” Jason says. “The yield is averaging around 76–78%, which is a huge difference compared to other beef breeds. The product speaks for itself.”
Northern Valleys Quality Meats is a traditional butcher shop that prides itself on quality craftsmanship. Jason’s wife, Kath, joined the business eight years ago and has been instrumental in its continued success. With her help, the business has expanded its customer base and further developed its reputation for premium meat products.
The shop is known for making its own small goods and processing farmed stock, including private kills. In fact, the demand for custom cutting services is so high that the available spots for private stock processing are fully booked out until March 2025. This success is a testament to the quality and consistency of the products they offer—especially their Speckle Park beef.
Jorden, who started working at the butcher shop seven years ago, now runs the day-to-day operations. His passion for quality meat, particularly Speckle Park, has helped solidify the shop’s reputation.
“Jorden is always excited when Speckle Park comes through the door,” Jason says. “We know exactly what to expect when we see it. The consistency in yield and taste is unmatched.”
The future of Speckle Park in Western Australia
Looking ahead, Jason and his team are working on expanding the reach of Speckle Park beef within the Perth and surrounding areas. Jason hopes to bring more local butchers on board and encourage others to see the benefits of incorporating Speckle Park into their own businesses. As he puts it, Speckle Park is a breed that “everyone needs to get onto.”
“I’ve got friends who are just starting to get into the breed now,” Jason says. “They can’t believe the quality of the beef, and they’re already seeing the difference in their calves. When customers ask me for a product that is going to yield well and taste amazing, I don’t hesitate—I tell them, you can’t go past Speckle Park.”
This word-of-mouth endorsement has made a real impact, with customers driving from as far as Mandurah, two hours away, to buy Speckle Park beef from Northern Valleys Quality Meats. Jason’s reputation for quality speaks volumes, and customers trust his expertise in selecting the best cuts for their needs.
Speckle Park’s growing popularity with consumers
Customer feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, and social media platforms like Facebook have played a crucial role in spreading the word. Jason regularly posts updates on the shop’s Facebook page, and when Speckle Park beef is advertised, customers quickly take note. The demand is high, and the consistent quality of the product is a significant factor in customer loyalty.
“The feedback we get from customers is fantastic,” Jason says. “They’re always telling us how great the beef tastes and how much they appreciate the consistent quality. We’ve definitely built a loyal customer base thanks to Speckle Park.”
The benefits of Speckle Park for Northern Valleys Quality Meats
The decision to incorporate Speckle Park into their business has had a significant positive impact. The breed’s consistent yield, superior fat cover, and exceptional tenderness are qualities that perfectly complement Jason’s high standards for meat production.
Speckle Park’s unique attributes align with the values of a
traditional butcher shop, where the focus is on craftsmanship, quality, and customer satisfaction. Jason’s ability to source such a consistently high-quality product has allowed his business to thrive, even in a challenging industry.
“We’ve been using Speckle Park for about four to five years now, and the difference is night and day compared to other breeds,” Jason concludes. “The consistency is what sets it apart, and it’s that consistency that has helped our business grow. It’s a superior product, and I wouldn’t go anywhere else.”
For Northern Valleys Quality Meats, the breed has become a cornerstone of their business, and as they continue to grow and expand, Jason’s message is clear: “Speckle Park is the future of the beef industry.”
As more producers and butchers discover the benefits of Speckle Park, it’s clear that the breed’s reputation for producing consistent, high-quality beef will continue to grow, and Northern Valleys Quality Meats will be at the forefront of that movement.
For anyone in the beef industry looking to improve their product, Jason’s advice is simple: “Get onto Speckle Park. It’s a superior product, and it’s changing the game.”
COMMERCIAL FOCUS
EKKA steer success: A triumph for Tanview Speckle Park
In the scenic hills of Boonah, Queensland, Tanview Speckle Park operates a 550-acre farm at the foot of the Great Dividing Range. This picturesque setting provides an ideal backdrop for a thriving cattle breeding program that has evolved significantly since its inception. Established with a passion for high-quality livestock, Tanview began its journey into the world of stud cattle with Limousin cattle in 1996.
In 2022, Tanview made the strategic decision to acquiring 2 Speckle Park foundation females from Wattle Grove. This marked the beginning of their venture into the Speckle Park breed, which has quickly flourished. In the intervening period, their herd has expanded to 14 stud animals, reflecting their commitment to quality genetics and sustainable farming practices. Today, Tanview manages around 150 breeders, including 40 commercial Speckle Park animals, alongside a diverse range of pure Limousin and Limousin Crossbreds.
This year at the EKKA, Tanview proudly showcased Dotty, an impressive F2 Speckle Park steer, a standout from their growing herd. Sired by Sandra Jane’s R21—the first Speckle Park bull purchased by Tanview—and out of a brought in F1 cow, Dotty quickly distinguished himself among competitors. His remarkable carcase quality earned him 2nd place in class 6B (Led Steer Carcase 461kg to 490kg), ultimately going on to take out the coveted Meat Standards Australia Eating Quality Award. With a live weight of 471 kg and
Today, Tanview manages around 150 breeders, including 40 commercial Speckle Park animals, alongside a diverse range of pure Limousin and Limousin Crossbreds.
a dressed weight of 270.6 kg, Dotty’s stats were impressive: he achieved P8 fat of 12mm, rib fat of 8mm and a meat yield of 63.4%.
Achieving a carcase competition score of 89 out of 100, achieving full points for rib fat depth, fat colour, marbling, meat yield, EMA and Tanview were rightly incredibly proud of the result.
The allure of the Speckle Park breed lies not only in their remarkable meat quality but also in their gentle temperament and adaptability to various environments. This has made them a perfect fit for Tanview’s breeding program. Currently, they are utilising a leopard bull from Alinjarra Speckle Park, selected for his low birth weights, for breeding with their commercial animals, comprising Speckle Park, Limousin and some Lowline females. The first drop of calves from these muchconsidered joinings are showing a great deal of promise for Tanview.
Reflecting on their journey so far, Tanview are enthusiastic for the road ahead. Each competition and each successful breeding season reinforces their commitment to excellence and innovation in the cattle industry. With Dotty as a prime example of their hard work, dedication and selection processes, the Tanview Speckle Park team is poised for continued success, eager to explore new horizons in the world of cattle breeding.
Tanview Speckle Park team is poised for continued success, eager to explore new horizons in the world of cattle breeding.
COMMERCIAL FOCUS
Focus on faster finishing
Simon Eriksen, founder of Neat Meat, believes enhancing beef finishing efficiency is crucial for the future of New Zealand’s red meat industry. He emphasises the need for farmers to adapt by changing beef breeds to expedite cattle growth. Thoughtfully, Eriksen notes ‘farmers should not hold stock over three winters. It’s more advantageous to achieve the full value of the animal at 500 days rather than 1,000.’
Eriksen highlights the importance of finding ways to add value to lesser-known cuts of meat beyond premium options. He also sees the dairy industry as a growing source of beef, particularly as expansion of hill country beef herds becomes limited. In the North Island alone, over 180,000 stock units have been replaced by trees, equating to about 20,000 cattle. With a projected 3% decline in the national cattle kill this year, that’s approximately 115,000 fewer beef cattle.
He predicts that beef breeds that cross well with dairy cows will see significant growth, presenting a substantial opportunity for the Speckle Park breed. Additionally, the dairy sector faces the challenge of managing around
2 million bobby calves each year, which Eriksen views as an opportunity for the broader meat industry.
Eriksen’s journey in the meat industry began in a farming family near Gisborne, in New Zealand’s North Island. After earning a degree in agribusiness from Massey University, he worked in London, where he raised wild boar for free-range pork. In 2001, he launched Neat Meat, initially supplying Australian beef to Auckland restaurants and forging strong relationships in the hospitality sector. He later transitioned to New Zealandsourced meats and diversified into branded products, including Angus Pure.
Together with his brothers Will and Tim, Eriksen expanded Neat Meat to now encompass various brands. In 2010, the company acquired Harmony Meats, incorporating organic beef and lamb. A partnership with Mike and Sharon Barton in 2014 led to the introduction of Taupo Beef. Today, Neat Meat manages 20 meat and poultry brands, including the recently launched Speckle Beef, which is distributed to 60 restaurants and premium butchers and is exploring export opportunities in the Pacific Islands.
Speckle Park cattle are noted for their size, temperament, moderate birth weights, rapid finishing, and high marbling percentages. Eriksen believes the breed represents a synthesis of the best traits for efficient beef production. Neat Meat’s processing partners include Alliance Group and Taylor Preston.
To incentivise quality, Neat Meat offers farmers premiums based on marbling scores, providing additional compensation for higher-quality beef. The company sources cattle primarily from trusted finishing farmers who raise Speckle Park F1 steers and heifers.
Neat Meat manages 20 meat and poultry brands, including the recently launched Speckle Beef
Eriksen emphasises the significance of good genetics and farming practices, along with strong supply chain relationships, in building a successful meat brand. He sees the evolution of beef branding as a combination of lessons learned over the past two decades, with Angus Pure focusing on breed, Taupo Beef emphasizing environmental care, and Speckle Beef reflecting a comprehensive approach focussed on quality.
Grading and verification play essential roles in ensuring a quality consumer experience. Eriksen believes that by paying farmers a premium, Neat Meat can deliver quality products backed by a compelling story, from paddockto-plate. He envisions a future where consumers have diverse options, similar to selecting wines,
with butchers and restaurant staff sharing authentic narratives about their meat offerings.
Neat Meat delivers top-quality meats directly to consumers, providing restaurant-quality products right at their doorstep with their distinction being founded in sourcing the finest meats and poultry from carefully selected farmer partners, ensuring they are raised with care and prepared with precision.
‘Neat Meat’s mission is to deliver all products in the most convenient, efficient, and sustainable manner,’ says Eriksen. ‘This approach not only meets customer demands but also pays proper respect to the hard work of our farmers. Innovation is key to staying competitive and ensuring the growth of Neat Meat.’
Eriksen believes that by paying farmers a premium, Neat Meat can deliver quality products backed by a compelling story
New Zealand’s Speckle Beef
In his role as partnership manager for the Speckle Beef brand, Grant Bennett oversees a network of 20 cattle finishers and suppliers, coordinating efforts to ensure a consistent supply Speckle Park beef to restaurants and retailers throughout the year. Having worked closely with Simon Eriksen, Speckle Beef is distributed via the Neat Meat network.
Speckle Beef Bennett, who also runs his own Totara Hill Speckle Park breeding business, does not charge any fees or take a cut from the transactions. This ensures farmers receive full payment based on the meat company’s prime beef schedule as well as the marbling premiums offered by Neat Meat.
‘We collaborate with finishers to guarantee a year-round supply of Speckle Beef, taking into account seasonal variations and weather patterns,’ Bennett explains. ‘This sometimes involves relocating cattle that are close to being finished and finetuning stock management and genetic selection.’
In his procurement role, Bennett emphasises building trust within the brand and with the people involved. Other livestock agencies also assist in coordinating these efforts.
Bennett anticipates the annual volume of Speckle Beef will exceed 5,000 head of cattle within the next 12 to 18 months. Simon Eriksen, principal of Neat Meat, acknowledges Bennett as the founding partner of the Speckle Beef program, stating that without his contributions and cattle genetics, the program would not have come to fruition.
Bennett is passionate about the Speckle Park breed, highlighting its docility, growth rates, and ability to develop marbling with the appropriate fat cover on New Zealand’s pastures. ‘We can tell a compelling story about how we finish the cattle because while genetics account for about 40%, the rest involves feeding and processing,’ he notes. ‘The goal is to achieve marbling at a young age and finish before the second winter, which brings environmental benefits.’
Following a recent trip to Fiji, meeting with executive chefs and resort managers, Bennett noted ‘a clear message of wanting a grass fed, more sustainable option, with a lower environmental footprint, without sacrificing the quality of the beef.’ In Bennett’s eyes ‘Speckle beef ticks a lot of these boxes.’ The images above show rib eye, sirloin and eye fillets from Speckle Beef compared to those from a Wagyu. While the Wagyu shows marginally better marbling, the cuts are from the 300kg carcase of a 34mth old, 200-day grain fed animal. Comparatively, the Speckle Beef is from the 310kg carcass of a 20mth old animal fed only on grass. ‘The difference in resources needed to raise the Wagyu as compared to the Speckle Beef are enormous, both in terms of dollars and the impact on the environment. With the increased demand for sustainably produced, quality beef, Speckle Park undoubtedly has a significant role to play in the future of the red meat industry.’
This article was originally written by ‘Staff Reporter’ and has been adapted to feature in The Speckle Park Annual magazine.
COMMERCIAL FOCUS
Kaipara dairy farmers embrace Speckle Park cattle
Stephen and Andrea Bracey, dairy farmers in Kaipara on the northwestern side of New Zealand’s North Island, strongly advocate for the use of Speckle Park over dairy cows.
For the past 6 years, they have reared about 50 Speckle Parkcross calves alongside 60 Anguscross calves, including female dairy calves and some Jerseycross calves.
The Speckle Park/dairy-cross calves are noted for their calm temperaments and vigorous feeding, right from birth. Andrea has observed impressive growth rates, particularly when selling heifer calves at 8 months and 18-month-old Crossbred steers before their second winter. Recently, she sent a group of 25 steers to Wellsford Saleyards, where they averaged $1,250, or $3.20/kg for 390 kg live weight.
While they aspire to finish their cattle for high yields and marbling, the Kaipara climate and terrain prioritises dairy replacements.
‘Speckle-crosses are rarely seen in the saleyards because they are often sold privately on Trade Me, where demand is high,’
‘Speckle-crosses are rarely seen in the saleyards because they are often sold privately on Trade Me, where demand is high,’ Andrea noted.
The Braceys carefully plan their mating season, starting with 3 weeks of artificial insemination for their 480 Crossbred dairy cows, followed by 10 days of semen from Speckle Park sire Below Sea Level Pondersoa, owned by the local Bellamy family at Below Sea Level Speckle Park
Following this, both Purebred Speckle Park and Angus bulls are used for tail-end matings. With Below Sea Level’s focus on bulls with favourable Birth Weight EBVs, the Braceys are using Purebred Speckle Park bulls in natural matings this year, targeting calf weights of 30–35 kg.
In their operation, the calves are fed milk powder for about 12 weeks, aiming for over 100 kg live weight before weaning.
Last August, 30 of their Speckle Park-cross heifers were sold privately for around $650 each at approximately 140 kg in the Kaipara region, often attracting premium prices.
Previously, the Braceys used Angus bulls over later-cycling dairy cows but, found that these Crossbred calves often lost weight during feed shortages. After trying a Speckle Park bull as a temporary measure, they noted that the Speckle Park-Angus progeny outperformed their pure Angus counterparts. “The Speckle Park-crosses may appear lighter framed, but they carry more meat and maintain condition better, looking their best at sale time,” Bracey explained.
The Bracey family also enjoys meat from their Speckle Parkcross steers, noting good marbling from cattle that hadn’t reached 2 years of age. ‘He wasn’t very fat, but he was still good eating,’ Bracey remarked.
Below Sea Level operates a herd of 200 registered Speckle Park cows, making it one of the largest herds in New Zealand. John and Jan Bellamy, along with their children Cory and Danielle, focus on low Birth Weight calves, high fertility, and docility. They aim for intramuscular fat while raising their beef cattle alongside a 600-cow dairy herd.
Each year, Below Sea Level sells around 20 two-year-old Speckle Park bulls to repeat clients and aims to sell 30 females annually. They meticulously scan and DNA test all cattle before sale and eagerly await feedback on their bulls’ performance and progeny results.
With a
commitment
to
enhancing
their genetics, the Bellamys have imported semen and embryos from Canada
With a commitment to enhancing their genetics, the Bellamys have imported semen and embryos from Canada, where they have visited twice to experience the breed’s popularity and the hospitality of local breeders.
On a nearby Ruawai farm, Below Sea Level has an additional 70 Speckle Park heifers, 150 calves, and about 80 bulls. ‘We prefer to rear our bulls to 2 years old to evaluate their performance on grass alone,’ Jan noted.
Both farms feature hard surfaces to protect cattle during wet periods, supplemented with silage. The imported Speckle Park genetics have adapted well to the varying conditions. ‘Speckle Park are meeting our clients’ needs by finishing in prime grading within 2 years,’ Jan concluded. The breed’s distinctive spotted coats are particularly appealing to clients, especially when using white Speckle Park bulls over dairy cows.
The breed’s distinctive spotted coats are particularly appealing to clients, especially when using white Speckle Park bulls over dairy cows.
This article was originally written by Hugh Stringleman and has been adapted to feature in The Speckle Park Annual magazine.
COMMERCIAL FOCUS
Speckle Park: A sustainable choice for farmers
Gavin Tayles, a finishing farmer from Riversdale in the South Island of New Zealand, emphasises the strong market potential of Speckle Park cattle.
‘In our experience, Speckle Park and dairy crosses are easy to rear, have solid sustainability credentials, and produce high-quality prime beef from what might otherwise be bobby calves’ he says.
For the past 5 years, Gavin and his wife Kylie, have increased their involvement with Speckle Park crosses, planning to market close to 200 steers and heifers in the Speckle Beef program this year. Up to 80–100 of these animals will be F2 crosses from once-bred F1 Speckle Park heifers.
The Tayles’ view Speckle Park as a dual-purpose breed, noting its ability to produce distinctively marked calves from dairy cows. This trait helps identify animals that are intended for beef rather than accidental dairy replacements.
Their goal is to finish cattle within 2 years, a target made more achievable with the Speckle Park program. Until recently, the limited availability of early-maturing genetics forced them to take their Speckle Park crosses through a
second winter, supplementing with fodder beet. ‘With the new genetics coming through and refining our system, we expect to bring those kill dates forward’ Gavin explains.
He anticipates that the early deposition of intramuscular fat (IMF) combined with the Speckle Beef program will make achieving their finishing goals more attainable. Gavin believes that IMF marbling may be stronger in SP-Kiwi crosses compared to SP- Holstein-Friesian crosses.
There is ongoing work to tailor the right sires to different dairy breeds based on calf growth weights, low birth weights, gestation lengths, and IMF scores. Kylie has found Speckle Park calves to be particularly easy to rear compared to other beef breeds. This year, she has successfully reared 130 SP-cross calves, with hopes of increasing that number to 260 next year, sourcing calves from South Island dairy farms that utilise Speckle Park genetics during later mating stages.
The marbling premiums above the prime beef schedule incentivise the Tayles’ to commit to producing Speckle Beef and to scale up their operations. They have also purchased weaners and 18-month cattle to boost livestock numbers, with their farm capacity estimated at around 300 calves reared and finished annually.
In previous years, their Speckle crosses yielded and IMF-graded better than other dairy-beef crosses. ‘That gave us confidence to continue along this path and grow our numbers’ Gavin notes.
The Tayles’ are particularly interested in utilising what would otherwise be wasted bobby calves, aligning their practices with environmental sustainability. ‘The dairy-beef calf maximises the carbon footprint of the dairy cow, making it an efficient way to produce low carbon footprint beef’ he explains.
Gavin’s experience with the eating quality of Speckle Park-dairy cross beef indicates it is at least equal to, if not better than, that of pure beef.
This article was originally written by Hugh Stringleman and has been adapted to feature in The Speckle Park Annual magazine.
SHOW RESULTS
Sydney Royal Show
JUNIOR AND SENIOR FEMALE
9M & NOT OVER 12M
1st Black Diamond 24E USA U2398 Black Diamond Speckle Park
2nd KJ Hill Unique KJ Speckle Park Hill
3rd Wattle Grove Vegemite U102 Max Humphries
OVER 12M & NOT OVER 14M
1st Epic Uptown Amy U9 Epic Speckle Park
2nd Jackungah HS 109F Kassy U123 Jackungah Speckle Park
3rd Black Diamond Q532 Unibrow U2289 Black Diamond Speckle Park
4th Jackungah R12 Luo’s Secret U07 Jackungah Speckle Park
HC Black Diamond Q532 Unsweetened U2293 Black Diamond Speckle Park
OVER 16M & NOT OVER 18M
1st Black Diamond P207 Treasure T2267 Black Diamond Speckle Park
2nd KJ Hill Taylor KJ Speckle Park Hill
3rd KJ Hill Tia KJ Speckle Park Hill
OVER 18M & NOT OVER 19M
1st Bonkonia Tommy Bonoknia Speckle Park
2nd Bonkonia Taiga Bonkonia Speckle Park
3rd KJ Hill Tasha KJ Speckle Park Hill
HC KJ Hill Tamara KJ Speckle Park Hill
OVER 19M & NOT OVER 20M
1st Jackungah HS D102 Eileen T91 Jackungah Speckle Park
2nd Jackungah HS D102 Eileen T93 Jackungah Speckle Park
3rd Killarney Tori Killarney Speckle Park
4th Celamba Jewel of Justice Celamba Speckle Park
OVER 20M & NOT OVER 24M
1st KJ Hill Tabitha KJ Speckle Park Hill
2nd KJ Hill Tess KJ Speckle Park Hill
OVER 24M & NOT OVER 30M
1st Jackungah 01B Luo’s Secret S52 Jackungah Speckle Park
2nd Toebelle My Fair Lady Celamba Speckle Park
OVER 30M & NOT OVER 36M
1st Jackungah HS J301 Bambe S27 Jackungah Speckle Park
2nd Black Diamond N86 Silky Touch S1606 Black Diamond Speckle Park
OVER 36M
1st Blue Spark H6 Exquisite P05 Kellane Cattle Co
2nd Jackungah Nellie Q11 Jackungah Speckle Park
3rd Black Diamond 54Z Party Time P191 Black Diamond Speckle Park
HC Topiram 1D Sky Blu Topiram Speckle Park
JUNIOR CHAMPION FEMALE
Jackungah HS D102 Eileen T91 Jackungah Speckle Park
RESERVE JUNIOR CHAMPION FEMALE
Epic Uptown Amy U9 Epic Speckle Park
SENIOR CHAMPION FEMALE
Blue Spark H6 Exquisite P05 Kellane Cattle Co
RESERVE SENIOR CHAMPION FEMALE
Jackungah HS J301 Bambe S27 Jackungah Speckle Park
GRAND CHAMPION FEMALE
Blue Spark H6 Exquisite P05 Kellane Cattle Co
JUNIOR AND SENIOR BULL
9M & NOT OVER 12M
1st Black Diamond 5E UP All Night U2453 Black Diamond Speckle Park
2nd Epic Umpire U12 Epic Speckle Park
3rd KJ Hill Unreal KJ Speckle Park Hill
OVER 12M & NOT OVER 14M
1st Black Diamond Q532 U-Bolt U2276 Black Diamond Speckle Park
2nd Jackungah Undervalued U129 Jackungah Speckle Park
3rd Eaglehawk Creek Magnum Eaglehawk Creek Speckle Park
OVER 14M & NOT OVER 16M
1st KJ Hill Under the Tank KJ Speckle Park Hill
OVER 18M & NOT OVER 19M
1st Bonkonia Tailgunner Bonoknia Speckle Park
OVER 19M & NOT OVER 20M
1st Black Diamond 827F Tropical Rum T2153 Black Diamond Speckle Park
2nd Celamba Unicorn Celamba Speckle Park
OVER 20M & NOT OVER 24M
1st Jackungah HS Top Deck T30 Jackungah Speckle Park
2nd Black Diamond 105D Tomahawk T1747 Black Diamond Speckle Park
3rd Jackungah HS Trophy Wife T33 Jackungah Speckle Park
OVER 24M & NOT OVER 30M
1st Black Diamond J17 Tom Cat T1678 Black Diamond Speckle Park
2nd Six Star Found The Fame Tooronga Speckle Park, Six Star Speckle Park & North East Genetics
3rd Black Opal Jim Sharp Celamba Speckle Park
GROUP CLASSES
PAIR OF FEMALES NOT OVER 24M
1st Black Diamond Speckle Park
2nd Jackungah Speckle Park
3rd KJ Speckle Park Hill
PAIR OF BULL NOT OVER 24M
1st Jackungah Speckle Park
2nd Black Diamond Speckle Park
3rd KJ Speckle Park Hill
SIRE’S PROGENY
1st Spots N Sprouts Fury 109F
2nd MX EL Guapo 103E
DAM’S PROGENY
1st Six Star 50S Eileen D102
2nd Waratah Waratah Teeka J107
BREEDER’S GROUP
1st Jackungah Speckle Park
2nd Black Diamond Speckle Park
3rd KJ Speckle Park Hill
JUNIOR CHAMPION BULL
KJ Hill Under the Tank KJ Speckle Park Hill
RESERVE JUNIOR CHAMPION BULL
Black Diamond 5E UP All Night U2453 Black Diamond Speckle Park
SENIOR CHAMPION BULL
Black Diamond J17 Tom Cat T1678 Black Diamond Speckle Park
RESERVE SENIOR CHAMPION BULL
Jackungah HS Top Deck T30 Jackungah Speckle Park
GRAND CHAMPION BULL
Black Diamond J17 Tom Cat T1678 Black Diamond Speckle Park
BEST EXHIBIT
Black Diamond J17 Tom Cat T1678 Black Diamond Speckle Park
SHOW RESULTS
Brisbane Royal 2024
JUNIOR FEMALE
8M & UNDER 12M
1st Jackungah HS P207 Good Girl U160 –Jacwkungah Speckle Park
2nd Sweetacres Gina Sweetacres Speckle Park
3rd Superb Unanimous Supurb Speckle Park
4th Ivery Downs Unmistakable U47 Ivery Downs Speckle Park
5th Black Diamond P207 Ultimate Touch U2856 –Celamba Pty Ltd
GRAND CHAMPION FEMALE Black Diamond N86 Silky Touch S1606
GRAND CHAMPION MALE
Sowden Bite The Bullet
CALF BULL
BULL 6 MONTHS AND UNDER 9 MONTHS
1st ROSEWOOD UNICRON U10
2nd IVERY DOWNS UNDERTAKER U48
BULL 9 MONTHS AND UNDER 12 MONTHS
1st BLACK DIAMOND 5E UP ALL NIGHT U2453
2nd IVERY DOWNS UNANSWERED PRAYER U9
3rd IVERY DOWNS UNFINISHED BUSINESS U22
BULL 12 MONTHS AND UNDER 15 MONTHS
1st JACKUNGAH UNDERVALUED U129
2nd SOWDEN SGT PEPPER 2D
3rd BETH VIDE UMPIRE U11
CALF CHAMPION MALE
JACKUNGAH UNDERVALUED U129
RESERVE CALF CHAMPION MALE
SOWDEN SGT PEPPER 2D
JUNIOR BULL
BULL 19 MONTHS AND UNDER 21 MONTHS
1st SUPERB TOP SHOT
2nd BLACK DIAMOND 827F TROPICAL
3rd JACKUNGAH TEN OUT OF TEN T68
JUNIOR CHAMPION MALE
SUPERB TOP SHOT
RESERVE JUNIOR CHAMPION MALE
BLACK DIAMOND 827F TROPICAL RUM T2153
SENIOR BULL
BULL 21 MONTHS AND UNDER 24 MONTHS
1st SOWDEN BITE THE BULLET
2nd JACKUNGAH HS TOP DECK T30
3rd JACKUNGAH HS TROPHY WIFE T33
BULL 24 MONTHS AND UNDER 30 MONTHS
1st BLACK DIAMOND TEST RIDE T1668
2nd BLACK DIAMOND P207 TAKE FIVE
3rd BLACKOPAL JIM SHARP
BULL 30 MONTHS AND UNDER 36 MONTHS
1st WATTLE GROVE HALL OF FAME S723
2nd ROSEWOOD STOCKADE S4
SENIOR CHAMPION MALE
SOWDEN BITE THE BULLET
RESERVE SENIOR CHAMPION MALE
BLACK DIAMOND TEST RIDE T1668
GROUP CLASSES
EXHIBITORS GROUP
1st BLACK DIAMOND SPECKLE PARK STUD
2nd JACKUNGAH SPECKLE PARK
3rd SOWDEN CATTLE
SIRE PROGENY STAKES
1st SUPERB SPECKLE PARK STUD
DAM PROGENY STAKES
1st SUPERB SPECKLE PARK STUD
2nd ROSEWOOD SPECKLE PARK
Image supplied by Beef Australia
MEMBER SPOTLIGHT
Everest Speckle Park
Stud Name Everest Speckle Park
Owners Names Colin and Linda Shields
Location Oakey, QLD, 4401
Total head we run 60 stud cattle and 300 commercial breeders.
Property size
A total of 1845 acres spread across two properties in Oakey and Nutgrove, QLD.
The introduction of the Speckle Park breed into our predominantly Hereford herd improved the scale and performance of our breeders and calves, whilst maintaining their bulletproof temperament. The maternal strength and mothering ability has been enhanced, leading to improved growth rates and body structure of the progeny. Another significant factor that has hooked us on the Speckle Park breed is the eating quality. The quality speaks for itself with the marbling and fat scores we have received from every beast, not to mention the tender, juicy, flavoursome taste!
Who’s involved?
Third generation dairy farmers, Colin and Linda Shields, from Marmor in Central Queensland moved to Oakey in 1990 where we now run a seed stock herd in conjunction with a herd of 300 commercial breeders at “Pinnacle”, Nutgrove, QLD. Our son, Neil, and grandsons, Reggie, Tom and Oliver, also contribute to the energy pool which is Everest Speckle Park.
QUEENSLAND
What’s your operations primary purpose?
Everest Speckle Park has evolved from our passion for cattle and soil management. Sustainable operation practices and customer focus are priority at Everest Speckle Park. Our core aim is to provide from our paddock – the cleanest, highest, and freshest quality beef to your plate! We do private kills at Maclagan Meats to provide superior eating quality meats to the Everest paddock-toplate operation selling full beasts, halves, quarters, eighths and recently added individual mince and sausage cryovaced packs.
Do you have any notable success stories you can share?
Everest Speckle Park has been heavily involved in the Darling Downs Show circuit over the past 4 years. We use showing to promote our stud and to evaluate our breeding against fellow Speckle Park breeders, and eventually all other breeds once we get into the Supreme judging.
We have also been able to cooperate with Downlands College Toowoomba and Maclean High School, NSW, providing cattle for their show teams. This has been a tremendous success in promoting the Speckle Park breed to future
breeders, handlers and enthusiasts who attend these two schools because of their agricultural program. We wholeheartedly thank these school boards and pupils for their enthusiastic support of this program.
In a showcase of exceptional skill and expertise, the annual ‘Butchers Choice’ Carcase competition took place on the 14th of October, 2023. The event, held at the picturesque Oakwood Ranch, brought together seasoned butchers, cattle farmers, and meat enthusiasts to celebrate the art of selecting and preparing the finest cuts of meat. Among the competition’s participants, it was our steer no.13 who emerged as the winner, earning the prestigious ‘Butchers Choice’ title.
Everest Speckle Park is renowned for its commitment to raising top-quality cattle. The farm’s dedication to ethical and sustainable farming practices, coupled with the utmost care for animal welfare, has made it a goto destination for those in search of premium beef. Colin Shields, the proud owner of Everest Speckle Park, has consistently demonstrated his expertise to the quality of beef production. No.13 that won him the ‘Butchers Choice’ title was a striking example of the Speckle Park breed’s characteristic marbling, tenderness, and flavour.
Another measure of success is the positive feedback we are receiving from clients who have purchased commercial and stud cattle which have performed extremely well in their operations.
What are your future goals and aspirations?
Everest Speckle Park will continue making extensive use of AI, ET and IVF technologies in order to increase genetic selection intensity and reduce generational interval in the herd, allowing customers to purchase tomorrow’s Speckle Park genetics today. Selling commercially relevant functional, fertile, and docile cattle to clients is our primary objective. We will continue to showcase our animals in the show ring and actively encourage the next generation to become passionate and heavily involved within the Speckle Park community.
What advise would you give to someone considering getting started with Speckle Park cattle?
Research, research, research. Educate yourself. Caveat emptor must be kept in mind. It’s no fluke that good cattle keep cropping up in great cow families.
If you had to pick a favourite animal who would it be and why?
Miss Wattle WGS G59 is the matron of our herd. Her pedigree is packed with royal Speckle Park blood; Notta Pho-Finish JMG 54P, Kara KEP 4K, Lacerta GGG 68L and John Wayne CWC 50S. She has reproduced prolifically with a range of sires; it is our belief that the latest progeny by Minnamurra Pagoda is filling us with hope that they will be prominent providers of superior genetics into the future. She is a true curve bender in the breed with moderate birth weight, short gestation length and eight production traits in the top 10% of the breed. Mature weight, retail beef yield and milk in the top 1% of the breed. Miss Wattle truly is Speckle Park royalty and holds a special place in our hearts!
At the 2024 Brisbane Ekka, Miss Wattle was represented with a granddaughter who placed first in her class, a son who placed second in his class and two other granddaughters who were fourth and fifth in the same class.
Everest C5R R24, S24, Q4, T23, T24, U2 and U4 are all descendants of Miss Wattle and have represented Everest with distinction in the local show circuit.
Only breed from the best and then breed them better.
MEMBER SPOTLIGHT
Bonkonia Speckle Park
Stud Name Bonkonia Speckle Park
Owners Names Scott Purcell & Tia Smith Location Merton, VIC, 3715
Total
Stud,
Growing up, myself and my brothers competed across the Australian rodeo circuit riding bulls. During that time we imported genetics from high calibre PBR bucking bulls and bred our own bulls, which was challenging on leased country to say the least. We just weren’t set up properly to run bucking bulls. We were forever repairing fences and being forced to buy the neighbours (quote) “bloody floppy eared, coloured calves that were just born”.
We decided to disperse all the rodeo cattle in 2018 and just breed beef cattle.
Right at the time of selling rodeo cattle, I was fortunate enough to try a steak from one of my friends that had just processed a Speckle Park steer. I’d never had a steak like it! It was a no brainer from that moment on, we wanted Speckle Park Cattle.
Who’s involved?
Myself and my partner Tia and our 2 boys, Beau & Tucker.
What’s your operations primary purpose?
Firstly, our main goal is to put a high quality produce on the table time and time again, through selective breeding, data recording, culling and learning.
In the bigger picture out goal/ dream has always been to bring the kids up in a farm environment. Being first generation farmers has its challenges, but we believe that the quality of speckle park beef is reliable enough for us to throw our eggs into this basket knowing that its providing us the opportunity to live an agricultural lifestyle.
Do you have any notable success stories you can share?
I could talk about showing success and genetic gain etc, but I think starting our beef business ‘Bonkonia Beef’ is our biggest and most relevant success yet.
I love working out at the end of each month how many people have purchased speckle park beef from us or how many meals we’ve created. I absolutely love seeing the end produce and receiving feedback from customers. It’s a pretty cool feeling.
VICTORIA
What are your future goals and aspirations?
Tia’s parents have just bought the Balmattum Butchery in Euroa, so in the short term we don’t only plan to supply the shop with speckle park beef, but we plan to push our beef down into some high-end restaurants in Melbourne & surrounds.
Long term I’ve always had a vision of getting to the stage where we can offer a premium price for everyone’s speckle park steers to put through the beef program. I want this business to work for everyone in the breed, not just us.
What advise would you give to someone considering getting started with Speckle Park cattle?
Try a steak, do your research, talk to reputable breeders and get a stock agent that is pro Speckle Park.
If you had to pick a favourite animal who would it be and why?
Bonkonia Taiga T6 (now owned by MAK Ag). She was a heifer that we didn’t want to sell, she packed a punch where it counts, structurally flawless, fertile, had a successful showing career and she was such a sweetheart. She was one of a kind. But like everyone we had bills to pay, so now she roams the paddocks at MAK Ag.
What is the funnies nickname you have ever given to one of your Speckle Park cattle and how did they earn it?
Our son Beau (4) named a bull “Fatboy” . (self explanatory)
MEMBER SPOTLIGHT
Pine Ridge Speckle Park
Stud Name Pine Ridge Speckle Park (Willybee Pastoral)
Owners Names Leon Gill and Megan Lister
Location Wudinna, Eyre Peninsula, SA
Total head we run 230 breeding cows consisting of South Devons and Speckle Park X & 21 pure breed speckle park breeders plus bulls.
Property size 5000 acres owned,1400 acres leased. Use cropping, cattle and feedlot.
We had been looking for another breed to cross with our South Devons (we now have a South Devon mob and a speckle mob). Speckle Park was suggested, and they ticked all the boxes such as growth rates, yield, meat quality, moderate size, temperament and calving ease to name just a few of the qualities that appealed.
We are in a low rainfall, hot marginal area and have found that the speckle park breed thrives and cross excellently with our South Devons. We breed our own replacements and only buy in Purebred bulls and heifers. All our calves are born from natural joining, and we are an autumn calving herd due to our conditions.
As a breed I think this is what we need to promote in part is the Crossbreeding potential, bring schools and youth into the breed, they are our future. And to make the right decisions in our own breeding programmes to fit the commercial industry. It is has been a learning experience going from a commercial operation to starting a stud, and we will continue to expand our knowledge and ideas for the future of our operation and the breed.
SOUTH AUSTRALIA
Who’s involved?
Us and our two boys aged 12 and 14
What’s your operations primary purpose?
Initially to enhance what we were doing with our South Devons and to produce a more premium product for our local butcher market from our feedlot, which the speckle park has done for us. Which has now expanded into the stud with breeding and selling Purebred and Crossbreed breeding stock. Goals are to breed low birthweight, easy calving and great finishing cattle, which would fit well into any operation being stud or commercial.
Do you have any notable success stories you can share?
When were able to start selling animals as future breeders and not to the butchers. Topping the market with our yearlings. Helping Wudinna Area School to start up their Speckle Park stud, assist and advise in the running of their programme, and helping to coordinate and donate steers for their Adelaide show led steer programme (We have also provided speckle park steers to other schools). Which we have received a number of ribbons over the years on hoof and hooks.
What are your future goals and aspirations?
To keep helping out schools with their cattle programmes, donating steers for the schools to utilise, get the future cattle breeders passionate about speckle Park. To showcase what Crossbreeding can do for other breeds, to support others in their speckle journey, to produce an animal that can fit in anywhere, being it commercial or stud.
What advise would you give to someone considering getting started with Speckle Park cattle?
Research and know what you want to achieve with your cattle and then choose Speckle Park. Go for it, you don’t know if you don’t give it a go, you will be pleasantly surprised.
If you had to pick a favourite animal who would it be and why?
Daisy and Fredia, both hand reared, both twins, who rear an amazing calf every year, both have a bit of an attitude and are both descended from the same cow, they have a lot of family in the herd in their maternal line.
What is the funnies nickname you have ever given to one of your Speckle Park cattle and how did they earn it?
Bobette, she was a twin, brothers name was Bob, and of course she was a freemartin, so was destined for the freezer, I also got her
hide tanned, so Bobette is now on the floor. Hay prong, decided to walk into the hay forks and impaled herself. Survived and had a healthy calf. Tigger pure breed because she is bouncy like Poohs friend Tigger.
Arley Farm Speckle Park
We purchased Arley Farm in 2019 unstocked. Other beef cattle breeds were prevalent in WA’s southwest and, with our blank canvas, we were keen to look at alternatives to diversify away from the ‘norm’. We were introduced to Speckle Park, and immediately liked not only the look and temperament of the animals, but also the appeal of the meat marbling and yields that were becoming so highly regarded in Canada, NZ and on the east coast. We felt that we had a real opportunity to build on and enhance the WA market for this breed.
Being a Speckle Park breeder in WA certainly has its challenges. The beef price has been down across the board for the last twelve months, and the Speckles are still not reaching the same highs as other breeds. We do however believe in what the breed has to offer for meat quality and carcass yields, and understand that it is a slow process to get the notoriety for Speckle Park that we are seeking. We are working hard to spread the word through numerous avenues, from butcher shops to dairy farmers, and remain excited to be flying the flag for Speckle Park here in WA.
WESTERN AUSTRALIA
Who’s involved?
The farm is managed and run by Farm Manger Tim Elliot, together with his 2IC Jimmy Garland.
What’s your operations primary purpose?
After four years of breeding, we are now establishing a stud herd that we are proud to show off and some exceptional bulls are coming on line. We are also growing our commercial herd, maintaining a no-nonsense attitude toward culling our animals based on fertility, structure and temperament.
We believe that Speckle Park cattle offer a better alternative to the consumer for exceptional eating quality. We find that the breed is still relatively unheard of within WA, and especially for those not within the cattle industry. Our experience tells us that all those who have tried the Speckles’ meat, love it. Our goal would be for the breed to become a household name where people choose butcher’s shops based on the fact that they stock Speckle Park.
We see also that the Speckles have proven to be hardy and highly adaptable in Queensland’s north; bringing hybrid vigour into the station cattle, and hope that we can bring the same to WA’s northwest and far north regions.
Do you have any notable success stories you can share?
This year saw Arley Speckle Park’s first lot of bulls come through for sale. We are proud to say that we have sold twenty of our bulls off -farm, receiving great feedback and return customers.
In our commercial operation we are crossing our Speckle bulls over black angus females and are seeing excellent results early on. We look forward to measuring this at weaning time in November.
What are your future goals and aspirations?
We feel that for the breed’s future success, we need to promote the final product. We believe that the meat speaks for itself, and the hurdle that we now face is encouraging meat sellers to stock and label the Speckle Park meat and differentiate it from the other meat on the shelf.
Commercial meat producers, need to feel confident that, by injecting Speckle Park into their existing stock, they will enhance the yields and eating quality of their product.
We would hope to become an operation built on strong customer relationships and see buyers return year-on-year to buy our bulls to enhance their commercial operations, and their herds’ carcass attributes.
What advise would you give to someone considering getting started with Speckle Park cattle?
As a relatively new breed in the WA market, we believe that first impressions count. We would encourage anyone considering getting started in Speckle Park to ensure that the cattle that they are producing presents the best attributes that the breed has to offer.
At Arley Speckle Park, we believe that genetic selection is the most significant input in determining the outcome of your herd. We have sought genetics from the eastern states, WA, New Zealand and Canada to try to get the best foundation, for both our stud
and commercial stock. We have also sought breeding stock for our commercial herd from some of WA’s most reputable cattle farmers. We are stringent in our assessment of the cattle based on their temperament and maternal nature, as well as their structure and fertility.
For new entrants into the Speckle Park market, we would encourage them to be just as strict with their animals as we have endeavoured to be.
If you had to pick a favourite animal who would it be and why?
MAU N264 Nikko This bull from Maungahina has made his mark on our herd producing good, sound consistent progeny.
Roscrea Speckle Park
Speckle Park checked all the boxes for us in terms of meat quality. This breed is known for its exceptional marbling and ideal fat covering, which results in consistently high-quality, tender beef. Additionally, Speckle Park cattle exhibit significant hybrid vigor when crossed, and they are recognized for their high yields and soft carcases.
We take great pride in our Speckle Park operation, not just for the quality of our cattle but also for the strong community around this breed. Speckle Park cattle have a unique blend of hardiness, temperament, and exceptional meat quality, making them a fantastic choice for both breeders and commercial producers. We believe in continuous improvement and collaboration, and we’re excited to see how the breed evolves. It’s rewarding to be part of a community that shares a passion for sustainable practices and high standards in livestock production. We look forward to contributing to the future of Speckle Park cattle!
Who’s involved?
Geoff and Kim Jones
TASMANIA
What’s your operations primary purpose?
Primarily, we focus on meat production and raising highquality animals. We aim to enhance the marbling and tenderness of the beef, ensuring a premium product for our customers. Additionally, we prioritize genetic diversity and health to produce robust cattle that thrive in our environment. Overall, our goal is to create a sustainable breeding program that contributes to both our operation’s success and the industry’s standards.
Do you have any notable success stories you can share?
We were thrilled when one of our bulls we breed, JRS Roscrea Maverick 108, won Champion of the World Genetics and Marketing in 2019, as well as being named the Speckle Park Champion of Asia and Africa. This recognition highlighted the quality of our breeding program and our commitment to excellence in the breed. SGS Speckles Purchased Maverick from us at the Melbourne show and went on with showing him where he won 2019 Toowoomba Royal Show Grand Champion Speckle Park Bull.
What are your future goals and aspirations?
Our future goals include expanding our breeding program to enhance genetic diversity and improve overall quality. We aim to develop cattle that excel in both meat production and adaptability to various environments. Additionally, we aspire to increase our presence, promoting the benefits of Speckle Park cattle. Education and collaboration with fellow breeders will also be a focus, as we believe in sharing knowledge to elevate the breed as a whole. Ultimately, we strive to contribute positively to the industry while maintaining sustainable practices.
What advise would you give to someone considering getting started with Speckle Park cattle?
We would recommend starting with thorough research on the breed’s characteristics and advantages. Connect with experienced breeders to gain insights into best practices and challenges. When selecting cattle, prioritize quality genetics to ensure strong foundations for your
herd. It’s also important to develop a solid management plan that focuses on nutrition, health, and breeding strategies. Lastly, stay engaged with the Speckle Park community through events and forums—networking can provide valuable support and resources as you grow your operation.
If you had to pick a favourite animal who would it be and why?
We’re not supposed to have favorites, but if I had to choose one, it would be Flash. WGS H68 He was our first bull, and we developed a special bond—he truly was Kim’s bull, allowing her to handle him with ease. He wasn’t as keen on me brushing him, but that just made him all the more memorable.
We also have Jadore and Eyeliner, who are still part of our herd. They were among the first heifers we purchased, and their personalities have always stood out. We tend to name our favorites, while the others are identified by numbers, but Flash, Jadore, and Eyeliner will always hold a special place in our hearts.
What is the funnies nickname you have ever given to one of your Speckle Park cattle and how did they earn it?
While we don’t have any particularly funny nicknames at the moment, I’m sure we could come up with a few if we had a good laugh in the cattle yards! There are always moments that could inspire a playful name—like when one of them decides to make a run for it or gets a little too curious about something. Those spontaneous antics often lead to some memorable moments and nicknames!
Fox Tail Hill
Stud Name Fox Tail Hill
Speckle Park
Owners Names Troy Hepburn
Location McKees Hill 2480
Total head we run 60 stud and 70 commercials
Property size
We now own a 100-acre farm to run all our stud cows and calves as well as 20 acres on our home property mostly for our show cattle now. We also lease 3 properties which adds up to roughly 350 acres which we run some stud but mostly our commercial herd.
Why we chose speckle park is due to the shear carcass quality. We now run our operation around producing quality meat. Showing steers in carcass competitions around our local shows. Supplying meat to Smith’s Butchery Casino NSW which I manage, supplying quality beef around our local area even to quality restaurants. Speckle Park cattle are easy fattening, great yielding and exceptional meat quality
As an active member of the Speckle Park Youth Committee I have proudly been involved in many initiatives including Youth Days & Camps. This has given me much enjoyment and increased my passion for this ever growing breed. I am proud to be a part of this group and encourage any Junior members to join so you can explore your passion in a likeminded environment.
Who’s involved?
Our operation is a family run business. We all play an important part in making what we do successful. As a family we work together to prep, feed, show, advertise and sell our cattle to a great standard. We are proud of what animals we have produced and what we do at Fox Tail Hill Speckle Park.
NEW SOUTH WALES
What’s your operations primary purpose?
Our goal here at Fox Tail Hill Speckle Park is to hopefully end up buying a butcher shop to supply high quality meat to our local areas and even expanding to high quality establishments later. We are also building up our Stud herd producing constant quality breeders.
Do you have any notable success stories you can share?
We are overly proud of our success as a stud, showing off what we are breeding and producing. We have had ongoing success at shows, many Ekka champions from 2018 senior champion female, 2019 senior and junior champion female, 2023 junior champion female and again this year reserve senior champion female and breeders group with a consistent line up. For Sydney Royal we purchased a steer from Tania Paget and prepped this steer for 10 months to go on to win heavy weight champion and then going onto being a part the team that won the Stan Hill Memorial. Our ongoing success at our local shows placing highly with both stud and steers every year, last year taking out grand champion steer hoof section at all three competitions.
What are your future goals and aspirations?
We believe that breeding a more consistent herd that we can then produce consistent high-quality meat for any occasion. We have found great interest in producing quality steers & heifers for meat purposes thus expanding our commercial market.
As we are a family run operation, we also have individual aspirations with Kate commencing and growing her stud Fox Tail Hills Speckle Park and myself wishing to expand my newest venture, Top Notch Fitting & clipping services, in which I service clients ranging from Victoria through to Queensland.
What advise would you give to someone considering getting started with Speckle Park cattle?
My advice would be to give it a go. Speckle Park cattle are the perfect animals to start with for any operation as they are easy fatting, great temperament and exceptional eating quality perfect for producing steers. Speckle Park cattle have great temperament and are easy to work with for breeding stud animals and commercial operations. I believe
speckle park is a breed you can’t go wrong with and certainly cattle that can only be improved.
If you had to pick a favourite animal who would it be and why?
Fox Tail Hill Never Forget Me will forever have this favourite title, Why? Not because Dad (Wayne) has framed photos of her throughout the house everywhere taking all available space for even family photos because of how stunning this cow is, but truly because this cow has proven herself over and over again. I would have to say she is one of the most successful animals in our herd winning many champions herself and producing champions that have proven themselves again. We have never been disappointed by this cow as she continues to produce outstanding progeny.
What is the funnies nickname you have ever given to one of your Speckle Park cattle and how did they earn it?
Fox Tail Hill Call me Daddy has to be the funniest yet and why we called him this, well I’ve never seen a bull that matured as fast this, a bull looking like a bull ready to work by 12 months old not to mention somehow found ways to open gates to get in with his girls.
Watson Land and Livestock
We really appreciate the maternal ability, and longevity of the Speckle Park females. These cows can calve on their own, and raise an outstanding calf every year with no special treatment. We also appreciate the exceptional carcass quality, and feed efficiency of these cattle. We will never go without Speckle Park beef in our freezers.
Who’s involved?
We are a family owned operation located in Ontario, Canada. We milk 220 Holstein cows in a robotic dairy barn and run a herd of approximately 120 Speckle Park females. Our family has been farming here since 1956. Phillip and Glynis bought the dairy farm from His parents in 1996. In 2001, their son, Peter purchased His first Speckle Park female. Tom also acquired multiple Speckle Park females before we became incorporated in 2017. Peter & Elizabeth have been blessed with 6 children; Emily, Earl, Hannah, Toby, Hailey & Sage. Tom & Ann-Marie have also been blessed with 5; Kade, Rhett, Jace, Raeah & Kinzie.
What’s your operations primary purpose?
We love to follow cow families. We believe that behind every good bull is a great cow. When selecting herd sires, it is critical for us that they have an exceptional Dam. Our breeding program has always been focused on breeding for balanced, functional cattle with good feet and legs, and a strong emphasis on udder quality. We aim to breed cattle that exemplify all of the characteristics that drew us to Speckle Park in the first place. We believe there will always be a place for easy-keeping, trouble -free cattle.
Do you have any notable success stories you can share?
One that comes to mind is exhibiting the Grand Champion Speckle Park Female at the Royal Agricultural Winter Fair in Toronto last year. Watson Leopard Trillium 7J is a homebred female that represents the type of females we aim to produce.
What are your future goals and aspirations?
Getting Speckle Park bulls into commercial herds. We don’t mean selling just any & all of our bull calves. In order to maintain integrity within the breed, it is important to us to cull out any and ALL structural issues. In order to promote a breed as highly maternal, cull the underproducing, less efficient cows. NOT ALL BULLS deserve to be bulls. And NOT ALL COWS deserve to be bull mothers.
What advise would you give to someone considering getting started with Speckle Park cattle?
Tour Around. Find the people who have the breeds best interest at heart. The people with a clear vision & purpose for their breeding program. Those are the people who will sell you honest hard working cattle that you’ll be happy with. I’ve heard a saying once “You came here because you didn’t like it there. So don’t try to make here like there. If you don’t like it here, you shouldn’t have left there in the first place”
Our breed has gotten to where it is today because we have something different to offer the cattle industry; feed efficiency, calving ease, maternal ability and exceptional carcass quality, all inside a unique, recognizeable package. Trends will come and fads will go, but good cattle will stick around.
If you had to pick a favourite animal who would it be and why?
We would have to say Watson Leopard Trillium 7J. Her pedigree contains 12 of our own herd bulls and matrons, including her maternal granddam; Petemar
Tequilla 1N who was the first Speckle Park animal born in our farm, back in 2002, and lived to be 19 years old. While Trillium has been hanging banners since she was a calf, the real reward has come from seeing he in production. We feel she best represents the type of female we are breeding for.
What is the funnies nickname you have ever given to one of your Speckle Park cattle and how did they earn it?
Having lots of kids around means we’ve had everything from Peanut to Polarbear.
Middle Creek
Stud Name Middle Creek Speckle Park
Owners Names Tom & Kath Power and our two boys Fergus & Alfred
Location Little River, Banks Peninsula, Canterbury New Zealand
Total head we run 25 Stud cows, 40 commercial cows
Property size 120ha of steep hill country is the home of our stud. We work alongside my parents managing a 1200ha property were we calve approximately 250 Angus/Speckle cows and run 3000 ewes.
Speckle Park got our attention after seeing Maungahina on a TV show here. We then purchased a bull to use commercially and we were just super impressed with the do ability of the cattle and all the carcass quality. That coupled with the eating experience, it was an absolute no brainer for me. I can see a big future for the breed and I would like to be part of that going forward.
One thing I have really enjoyed about this breed is meeting all the people that are involved with it, and I look forward to meeting many more.
Who’s involved?
Myself and my wife Kath, along with a keen interest shown from my parents too.
What’s your operations primary purpose?
To breed bulls that have a commercial relevance and deliver performance not only in the dairy industry but the beef too. My driving force going forward is to really try to break the breed into the commercial beef industry.
MIDDLE CREEK
------------ EST 2021 ------------
Speckle Park NEW ZEALAND
Do you have any notable success stories you can share?
In 2023 we won the Canterbury A&P Show Steer competition with an F1 steer.
What are your future goals and aspirations?
For our stud, I’d like to grow our cow numbers to 50 cows, and to build the Middle Creek brand as a trusted stud that breeds cattle that do preform. For the Speckle Park breed, my desire is to see it grow in popularity based on performance not just the colour of their coat.
What advise would you give to someone considering getting started with Speckle Park cattle?
For anyone wanting to get into the breed, get to know the breeders, see if their breeding objectives match yours. Is their operation similar to yours? The decisions you make today will effect your operation for years to come.
If you had to pick a favourite animal who would it be and why?
My favourite Cow would have to be Premier R20, we purchased her in 2022 and she’s just the type of cow we want to breed. Also it would have to be Middle Creek Ted. He was a standout from a calf and was the first bull we ever sold so will always be a favourite.
Our farm and our home are located in Boyd, Wisconsin, USA.
Total head we run Total No of Head: 30+ Head Cattle. Currently we have 10 registered cows with calves at their sides and a couple cross bred cows. We have four bred heifers and five steers that we are raising out to finish. Three ET calves we bottle fed and raised. One herd bull –RH Justified 120J
Property size
We live on an 88-acre farm that has been in the Sonnentag family for roughly 100 yrs.
We also lease a 54-acre pasture in the summer months for our bred heifers and steers.
Easy question, they are beautiful! Growing up in Wisconsin on a Holstein dairy farm may have had some influence (black and white cattle have always been a favourite) but we spent years researching beef breeds from all over the world. The traits that this breed possess are just too hard to pass up. Speckle Park are known for their longevity, docility, efficiency and incredible meat quality. I felt this made Speckle Park a top contending breed with those traits. Now toss in the looks of a bull like JSF Wallstreet or US All Out! The opportunity to own beautiful Purebred cattle like these animals and sell our bulls to commercial breeders to improve their overall herd with some outstanding F1 crosses was just another reason why we took that first step into the breed in 2020.
UNITED STATES
Who’s involved?
It is a family operation but the driver behind most if it is our daughter, Brynlee Sonnentag. She is in the house to eat and sleep, besides that you’ll find her outside with the cattle. Now that she is 13, she does most of the feeding, washing, and blowing of our show cattle by herself.
What’s your operations primary purpose?
Wattle Grove said it best. Our Purpose – We Raise Beef Not Brand. The looks of these cattle are attractive but it’s the quality of the beef that you get from the Speckle Park breed. Our goal is to grow and develop an outstanding herd of Purebred Speckle Park cattle. In 2020 we started with three head. We have grown our herd internally and by outsourcing high end embryos and semen. Most recently we added 10 straws of Battalion Upper Class Q43 and three sexed heifer embryos off the Underhill Future Forward sale. Not that a monetary value stamps the quality of a person’s herd, but one goal of mine is to sell an HC (Hay Creek) animal for $10,000.
Do you have any notable success stories you can share?
We have shown and sold breeding stock to several different states. Our daughter Brynlee has been in full participation of the ASPA show and sale in 2023 & 2024. Brynlee brought a bred and owned heifer calf to the show in 2024 and consigned her to the 2nd annual Speckle Park national sale. To watch Brynlee participate at any event with her cattle, not just the ASPA events, is really heartwarming and a win in our book.
What are your future goals and aspirations?
We are always striving to add new genetics and be a little better year over year. We will continue to add top end genetics to our program so we can provide top end genetics to our customers. For the first time we will have Purebred market steers available this fall. Brad is active on the ASPA board. This year the association chose a heifer calf from our herd, HC Martini, to be given away to a junior member at the MN Beef expo. Brad is also assisting with the first release of the ASPA magazine. We know that if you can get these animals in front of people, they can’t help but notice them. One of our goals, since the beginning, is to get
these animals in the show ring any chance we get so that we can get the attention of fellow cattlemen and start a conversation about Speckle Park!
What advise would you give to someone considering getting started with Speckle Park cattle?
Attend events if possible, make calls, make connections, get involved any way possible. Call the members of your association. Everyone that I have met or talked to within the Speckle Park breed is incredibly helpful. Use that knowledge and kindness to your advantage. Speckle Park is in the beginning stages here in the United States so our community is tight knit and excited to grow. That is one big plus for the breed and what helped draw us in.
If you had to pick a favourite animal who would it be and why?
It’s a pretty tough to pick just one and of course we all have a different favourites.
Brad – US Happy Hour (The OG and just an incredibly docile cow that just cant be beat.)
Lacey – RH Just Dandy (Just walks up and always wants to be scratched)
Brynlee – Greenwood Martins Kalysta 91K (One of my favourite show heifers I have. She loves feed)
Lowyn – Hay Creek Luna 3L (First calf that is hers)
Brayden – Greenwood Hershey Kiss (The first heifer on the farm that we halter broke)
What is the funniest nickname you have ever given to one of your Speckle Park cattle and how did they earn it?
Well, we have an ET calf that looks outstanding named HC Milo. Plans were to use him as a breeding bull but he just wasn’t equipped properly. He is now one of our favourite steers we call Uno (if you catch my drift).
MEMBER SPOTLIGHT
Scollop Speckle Park
Stud Name Scollop Speckle Park
Owners Names
Robert Martin & Glen Crooks
Location Northern Ireland
Total head we run 300 head in total.
Property size We run three operations now on the farm at home.
1. We raise Friesian X Speckle Park or Aberdeen Angus calves out of the dairy herds to supply our beef enterprise. (200+ head) We use some of these females for our intensive Embryo Programmes (30 Recipients Approx). The end goal here is to have 30 pedigree breeding females.
2. Pedigree Herd of 10 breeding females with Calves at foot. 1 x Herd Bull
3. We have 25 commercial females for breeding next year
That’s my fault (Glen)!
If you asked me at the start, why? The answer would be short. I liked how they looked, and I liked how they performed.
Ask me now. The answer is twofold.
Practical answer is I like their calving ease, maternal instincts, docility and how they perform with such low maintenance.
The inner child in me however must admit, I enjoy the surprises at calving. Will it be Classically marked, Leopard, White Pointed or Black. How will the trait results come back. And how can I then play about with the markings and traits to stack our odds in breeding a showstopper.
I would like to take this opportunity to shout out Pat Morrison at Lanmore Speckle Park, he introduced me to the breed.
Dalton at Greenwood Speckle Park for A. Being an easy guy to do business with and B. Being my go to for any queries or advice.
IRELAND
Who’s involved?
Robert is my father-in-law and together we run the farm. I also have a full-time job as the Growth Manager for a livestock nutrition company here in Ireland and the UK (Agritech). Broadly speaking, I hand rear the Dairy x Calves for the beef operation and take care of the calving and breeding season. Robert manages the land and the day to day running of the farm. But we can both reverse roles and step up when needed. It’s very much a joint effort.
What’s your operations primary purpose?
Our main goal HAS to be, to push the breed here in the UK and Ireland from being a ‘Rare breed’ to competing with the bigger Breeds. As breeders, we all KNOW their worth, how do we help others realize? is the question. That’s what excites me. We are way behind Canada and Australia. It is my hope that we catch up.
In my humble opinion, to make Speckle Park Relevant in the market here in the UK, we have to Breed them bigger without sacrificing what defines the breed. We must compete commercially whilst keeping a close eye on the direction the agriculture industry is going.
Do you have any notable success stories you can share?
Our very first Bull Calf born here was Scollop Krackerjack. He was bought by an AI Centre and his semen is now being used across both the dairy and beef industry in Ireland both North and South and being exported worldwide.
We have 2 Bulls from this years crop going to another breeder in the south of Ireland and we have 1 going to a very reputable Angus Breeder in Scotland. AI companies will no doubt purchase other bulls from this years crop and we are humbled by the interest being shown in our Calves. It is worth noting though, these are all ET Calves at this stage. We invested exclusively in Embryo Pairings of what we believe to be the Elites
within the breed in order to set rock solid foundations. So credit goes to Dalton @ Greenwood Speckle Park for the pairings and to all the other great breeders out there who bred the sires and dams of those pairings.
What are your future goals and aspirations?
It’s very simple. We endeavour to have the Prefix ‘Scollop’ stand for quality and consistency and be internationally recognized amongst other breeders and domestically amongst commercial outfits.
What advise would you give to someone considering getting started with Speckle Park cattle?
Do not hesitate! It will be simply the best decision you will ever make and then surround yourself with experienced veterans that can help guide you through the potential pitfalls. I have drawn advice from many sources, Greenwood, Ivery Downs and Six Star to name a few.
If you had to pick a favourite animal who would it be and why?
Here at Scollop, I’m going to say that we have been extremely lucky in this year’s crop of calves to have 3 females that I just can’t pick a favourite from. ‘Labido-Labido, La-De-Da and Lo n Behold’ keep your eyes peeled for these three girls. The Speckle Park god’s have been kind.
Follow us on Instagram @the_calfman
AROUND THE WORLD
Canadian Speckle Park Association: 2024 in review
As the fall season begins, we’re excited to share the progress and initiatives that reflect our commitment to growing the Speckle Park breed and its presence in the marketplace.
Annual general meeting and new initiatives
At our June AGM in Manitoba, members gathered for impactful discussions on the breed’s future. Next year’s AGM will be held in Nova Scotia, marking the first time we’ll meet in the Maritimes—a testament to our coast-to-coast expansion efforts and the enthusiasm of our Maritime breeders.
Speckle Park branded tags and verification programs
This fall, we’re introducing Speckle Park-branded identification tags, created in response to breeder feedback. These tags will support our producers in marketing their beef as a premium choice and will be available to breeders using registered Speckle Park bulls. The branded tag program with ensure that calves sporting our branded tags are at least 50% Speckle Park, which we believe with boost confidence in quality and increase demand for Purebred genetics.
New marketplace platform
Our new “Marketplace” page on the CSPA website offers breeders an effective platform to market Speckle Park feeder cattle and replacement heifer groups. This tool aims to create an additional marketing channel for Speckle Park cattle, fostering a stronger, more direct network between breeders and buyers.
In June, we launched the first Estimated Progeny Differences (EPDs) on the Canadian Speckle Park Registry.
Launch of EPDs on the Speckle Park registry
In June, we launched the first Estimated Progeny Differences (EPDs) on the Canadian Speckle Park Registry. These initial EPDs are genomic-based and will become more reliable as more data is entered. We’re enthusiastic about how this tool will evolve and strengthen in the coming years.
Successful ‘Taste to Believe’ event
One of the most exciting events this year was the “Taste to Believe” dinner, a high-end tasting experience designed to showcase Speckle Park beef’s exceptional quality. Organized by breeders Rob and Janice Harasymchuk, Harv and Fran Fehr and Vince Stevenson, the event invited 60+ industry professionals—cattle feeders, restaurant owners, and media—to experience five distinct beef dishes prepared by Red Seal chef Derek Martens. Attendees praised the rich marbling, texture, and aroma of the meat, with feedback from chef Martens calling the beef “spectacular.” The success of this inaugural event exceeded expectations, and a template has been created for others to replicate similar events, further spreading awareness of Speckle Park beef’s premium quality.
Youth engagement and new junior programs
In April, we elected our first Canadian Junior Speckle Park Board of Directors to represent young members nationwide. The Canadian Speckle Park Junior Point Shows Program, also launched this year, celebrates youth achievements in both conformation and showmanship. Additionally, our Youth Stockperson of Excellence Award, sponsored by Underhill SPECS, will be presented at the Canadian Western Agribition (CWA), recognizing one junior member who shines in advocating for the breed.
Supporting 4-H and expanding bursary opportunities
Our 4-H program had an extremely successful year, awarding over 140 prizes to young exhibitors exhibiting Speckle Park or Speckle Park influence cattle across Canada.
Additionally, this year, junior bursary winners will be announced at the CWA banquet, supporting youth committed to Speckle Park cattle.
The Canadian Speckle Park Association values its relationship with Speckle Park International and looks forward to continued collaboration to promote Speckle Park beef globally.
AROUND THE
WORLD
USA Hello from ASPA!
This past year has been a strong year for the American Speckle Park Association with several new members and cattle being sold across the US to new producers getting started with Speckle Park. We expect this rapid growth to continue over the next several years. ASPA also launched its first official publication, look for it online at www.americanspecklepark.com .
This year ASPA will be participating in the Minnesota Beef Expo’s Minnesota Youth Beef Experience Program (MYBEP). In this program, a Speckle Park heifer donated by Hay Creek Speckle Park and the American Speckle Park Association will be awarded to a deserving youth during the expo. The youth will be responsible for raising the heifer, reporting to their mentor, and returning to the MN Beef Expo in 2025. Special thanks to the Sonnentag heifer for providing the heifer for this program.
News from our youth and junior membership, this year the first scholarships were granted from the Keith Kissee Memorial fund. ASPA Juniors Mackenzie Harris, Brynlee Sonnentag and Brayden Sonnentag were all granted a scholarship. These three members are out promoting the breed and their love of agriculture.
This year the first scholarships were granted from the Keith Kissee Memorial fund. ASPA Juniors Mackenzie Harris, Brynlee Sonnentag and Brayden Sonnentag were all granted a scholarship
The ASPA Board of Directors welcomed new director, Ali Wright from Cross W Cattle in Gering, Nebraska. Ali and her family operate their farm in Western Nebraska where they farm, feed cattle, and run a herd of momma cows. Ali brings a wealth of industry knowledge to the board and the association. You can read more about their family, operation and cattle in the recent Center Stage issue.
Coming this fall, we hope you will join us in person or virtually for the Annual Sale at the Cattlemen’s Congress January 5–6 in Oklahoma City, OK. Be sure to follow us on Facebook and through the ASPA website for upcoming events and news.
Becky Miller
American Speckle Park Association
Australian Beef Sustainability Framework
The Australian Beef Sustainability Framework (ABSF) was launched in 2017 as an initiative of the Red Meat Advisory Council to create a pathway of best practice for the Australian beef industry and track performance against a series of critical indicators aligned to the themes of best animal care, environmental stewardship, economic resilience and people and the community.
Australian Beef Sustainability Framework vision
A thriving Australian beef industry that strives to continually improve the wellbeing of people, animals, and the environment.
The ongoing development of the ABSF is informed by globally accepted standards that require the application of principles including stakeholder inclusivity and responsiveness and materiality. Priorities and indicators will continue to be responsive and refined through materiality and stakeholder consultation. Since its launch considerable effort has been committed to improving the indicators and collecting evidence to substantiate industry’s sustainability performance and progress. Currently, the ABSF contains 24 priority issues and 53 indicators to monitor progress against recognised standards and metrics.
Fast Fac t s
The beef industry contributed $20. 1 billion to Australia’s GDP in 2021–22.
Australia produced 1 .9 million tonnes carcase weight of beef and veal in 2022 – equivalent to 29.2 billion meals of recommendedred meat daily intake
2 .7 million cattle were turned o from feedlots in 2022, representing 46% of all cattle slaughtered.
Globally, beef consumption increased 1 . 2% between 2021 and 2022.
8 5% of red meat and industry employees live in rural and regional areas in 2021/22.
The Australian cattle herd reached
28.7 million head in 2023.
On average, Australians consumed 2 3.7kg of beef per capita in 2022 – approximately 460g per person per week.
187,916 people were directly employed in the red meat and livestock industry in 2021/22 and an additional 245,473 jobs were supported by the industry
661 , 392 live cattle were exported in 2023. This is a 13% increase year on year
The ABSF is used to:
» Advise industry investment for continual improvement in areas most important to customers and stakeholders
» Help protect and grow access to investment and finance by providing evidence of performance and improvement
» Foster constructive relationships with stakeholders to work collaboratively on improvement
» Promote industry transparency and progress to customers and the community.
The ABSF does not:
» Establish or endorse measurement systems at an individual business level
» Provide an accreditation or certification system
» Endorse prescriptive management practice
» Create additional paperwork for individual businesses.
The Annual Updates are prepared with reference to the Global Reporting Initiative Standards which are a modular system of interconnected standards allowing organisations to publicly report the impact of their activities in a transparent way. This year’s report is comprised of 64 pages and can be accessed via the ABSF website –sustainableuastralianbeef.com.au
Some highlights from the Annual Update are as follows:
The Australian beef industry is committed
to the following five goals:
Best A nimal Care
E nvironmental Stewardship
Climate
Economic Resilience
People & Community
The Australian beef industr y is guided by the five domains of animal welfare. The industr y provides all cat tle with an environment in which they can thrive in accordance with these domains
By 2030, the Australian beef industr y will demonstrate it s net positive contribution to nature.
The Australian beef industr y will achieve net zero greenhouse gas emissions across it s produc tion and processing sec tors by 2030
The value of Australian beef industr y produc t s and ser vices doubles from 2020 levels by 2030 resulting in a profitable and resilient industr y.
The Australian beef industr y is trusted, at trac tive to a diverse work force, a source of pride and belonging, and makes a positive contribution to the food securit y of Australian and international communities
The Framework principles are:
Relevance
The priorit y is impor tant to our cus tomer s, the communit y and the Aus tralian beef indus tr y, and is within the indus tr y ’s scope of influence
Inclusivity
The cons truc ti ve v iews of indus tr y, cus tomer s, consumer s, government and communit y groups as to how indus tr y can continuousl y improve per formance will be considered
Credibility
Decisions about themes, priorities, indicator s and recommendations are grounded in ev idence They can, or have the potential to be, monitored and managed
Practicality
Indicator s are realis tic The indus tr y is able (within scope of influence) to make changes that represent value to the value chain through continuous improvement
Transparency
The indus tr y can prov ide an open and hones t pic ture of per formance using the mos t appropriate data
Best A nimal Care E nvironmental Stewardship
» Animal Husbandr y
» Biosecurit y
» Processing Prac tices
» Lives tock Transpor t
» Health & Welfare
» Biodiver sit y
» Soil Health
» G roundcover
» Balance of Tree & G rass Cover
» G HG Emissions & C arbon C apture
» Water
» Was te
Economic Resilience
» Climate Change Resilience
» Produc tivit y
» Profitabilit y
» Market Access
People & The Community
» Food Safet y & Qualit y
» Nutrition
» Work , Health & Safet y
» Labour Prac tices
» Communit y Contribution
» Diver sit y
» Antimicrobial Stewardship
» C apacit y Building
Source: Australian Beef Sustainability 2024 Annual Update, Red Meat Advisory Council. Accessed via www.sustainableaustralianbeef.com.au website.
Highlights
81% of producers are adopting prac tices to improve soil water retention
In 2021 , the Australian beef industr y had reduced it s net CO2e emissions by 78 2% since 2005
Almost 160 million hec tares sur veyed of grazing land is being ac tively managed for biodiversit y, greater than the size of all European Union farms combined
In 2023, there was a 13% increase in live cat tle expor t s (584,123 to 661 , 392), with the mor talit y rate remaining at a record low of 0 05%
Significant increase in prices of livestock flowed on to a 49% increase in the beef industr y’s contribution to Australia’s G DP bet ween 2021 and 2023.
Challenges
58% of beef producers are either purchasing renewable energy or generating their own on farm
The Eastern States Young Cattle Indicator (EYCI) dropped by almost 40% between July and September 2023, triggered by a dry seasonal outlook and high stock numbers after a multi-year herd rebuild.
In 2021 , carbon sequestered in vegetation on beef cat tle proper ties increased to 31 31 Mt CO2e
Prolonged summer temperatures and high humidity may lead to heat stress events, with the feedlot sector actively working with a ected feedlot operators and stakeholders, including Chief Veterinary O cers, government agencies and the RSPCA, to respond to these events.
The Australian beef cat tle industr y had 100% compliance with antibiotic Maximum Residue Limit s for the second consecutive year
Delays in the release of key data sets have made it di cult to provide updates against industr y priorities and indicators
An El Nino weather event a ected areas of eastern Australia in the second half of 2023, as the percentage of Natural Resource Management regions achieving healthy groundcover thresholds decreased to 57.41%.
Ongoing emergency animal disease risk in near-neighbour countries continues to create uncertainty in the beef industry.
Deteriorating security in the Middle East caused delays and logistical issues key strategic shipping routes, a ecting meat and live exports from Australia.
Calendar of events
January
30 th Whiteline Speckle Park
Beef Week Open Day
Offering: Bulls, females and genetic lots
Venue: Winchelsea, VIC – on property
February
1st
Mansfield Amaroo Speckle Park
Mansfield Amaroo Stock and Land Beef Week
Offering: Bulls, females and genetic lots
Venue: Mansfield, VIC –on property
8th Multi-Vendor
Great Southern Land Speckle Park Sale
Offering: Bulls, females and genetic lots
Venue: Online via Stocklive
12 th Coldwell Speckle Park
Coldwell Speckle Park
Inaugural Speck Tacular and Herd Reduction Sale
Offering: Bulls and females
Venue: Kenton Valley, SA – on property and online via Auctions Plus
21th Wattle Grove Speckle Park
Wattle Grove Speckle Park
Private Treaty Female Sale
Offering: Females
Venue: Oberon, NSW –on property
March
8th Multi-Vendor
Nether Grove & Luja
Speckle Park Invitational
Open Day
Offering: Bulls, females, genetics and commercial lots
Venue: Sherwood, NSW – on property
22 nd Multi-Vendor
Hot Spot Autumn Affair
Offering: Bulls, Females and led steer/heifer prospects
Venue: Colinton, QLD –on property and online via StockLive
27nd Toowoomba Royal
Royal Show
Offering: Show commences – see schedule for cattle event dates
Venue: Toowoomba, QLD
April
4th JAD Speckle Park
7th JAD Speckle Park Bull + Female Sale
Offering: Bulls, females, genetics and commercial lots
Venue: Yeoval, NSW –on property and online via StockLive
11th Sydney Royal
Royal Show
Offering: Show commences – see schedule for cattle event dates
Venue: Sydney, NSW
28 th Alinjarra Speckle Park
Alinjarra Speckle Park Sale
Offering: Bulls, females, genetics and commercial lots
Venue: Hernani, NSW –on property and online via Auctions Plus
May
2 nd Bathurst Royal
Royal Show
Offering: Show commences – see schedule for cattle event dates
Venue: Bathurst, NSW
9 th Multi-Vendor
The Blueprint Opportunity Sale
Offering: Bulls, females and genetic lots
Venue: Pine Lodge, VIC – on property and online via StockLive
29 th Minnamurra Speckle Park
Minnamurra Autumn Sale
Offering: Bulls, females and commercial lots
Venue: Coolah, NSW –on property and online via Auctions Plus
Calendar of events
June
6 th–
8th SPI Youth
SPI Youth Camp
Venue: Hawkesbury Showgrounds, NSW
August
TBA Speckle Park International
Inaugural Speckle Park World Congress
4th–9 th Brisbane Royal Royal Show
Offering: Beef cattle events - see schedule for class dates
Venue: Brisbane, QLD
15th Oakey Creek Speckle Parks
Oakey Creek Speckle
Parks Annual Bull & Female Sale
Offering: Bulls, females, genetics and commercial lots
Venue: Manilla, NSW –on property and online via StockLive
22 nd JAD Speckle Park
2nd Annual JAD Speckle Park & Angus QLD Bulls Sale
Offering: Bulls
Venue: Rolleston, QLD – on site and online via Auctions Plus
24th Beki Speckle Park
Tablelands Better Beef Open Day
Offering: N/A
Venue: Kairi, QLD –on property
30 th Adelaide Royal Royal Show
Offering: Show commences – see schedule for cattle event dates
Venue: Adelaide, SA
September
5th Minnamurra Speckle Park
Minnamurra Spring Sale
Offering: Bulls and commercial lots
Venue: Coolah, NSW –on property and online via Auctions Plus
13th Hawthorne Stud
Hawthorne Stud Open Day
Offering: N/A
Venue: Coulson, QLD –on property
13th Multi-Vendor
Upper Hunter Spring Speckle Park Sale
Offering: Bulls, females and genetic lots
Venue: Scone – on site and via StockLive
20 th Multi-Vendor
Hot Spot Spring Fling
Offering: Bulls, females and commercial lots
Venue: Colinton, QLD –on property and online via StockLive
25th Melbourne Royal
Royal Show
Offering: Show commences – see schedule for cattle event dates
Venue: Melbourne, VIC
26 th Wattle Grove Speckle Park
Wattle Grove Speckle Park
Triple Treat Sale
Offering: Bulls, females, genetics and commercial lots
Venue: Toowoomba –on site and online via StockLive
October
4th Hillview Speckle Park
3rd Annual Hillview Speckle Park
Production Sale
Offering: Bulls, females, genetics and commercial lots
Venue: Leconfield, NSW – on property and online via StockLive
December
31st Multi-Vendor
The Caboolture Mazda Beef Grand Prix NYE Celebration & Sale
Offering: Show steers & heifers
Venue: Colinton, QLD –on property and online via StockLive
