ALBS Summer Magazine 2022

LIMOUSIN

Record breaking Limousin

Female, Summit Krystal L35, sold for $55,000

2022 Summer Edition

Looking back on 2022 we can all reflect on the resilience that is required in the rural industry. We have no control over the weather and mostly no control over nature.

Many areas of the East Coast had two to three times the average annual rainfall and the damage and destruction from this has been horrendous. In southern Victoria, 2022 has been the wettest I have experienced in my lifetime.

Over the last six years the farming community have worked through drought, fires, flooding rains and a covid pandemic. On top of this you are experiencing high inflation caused by the effects of Covid on production around the world and the war in Ukraine has led to massive increases in farming costs. If you have survived all of this, you have shown the resilience and strength Australians and New Zealanders are known for. From this surely you have a successful future in front of you.

On the Limousin front we are continually challenged by our competing breeds and I encourage you to expand your use of science and technology to ensure you are genetically advancing your herd through the use of Breedplan and DNA testing.

The most successful breeds in Australia and New Zealand are the breeds that have members using the most data to increase genetic gain and provide potential buyers with this information. This is proven through data provided by MLA and other sources.

Another challenge that all beef and red meat producers face is the environmental pressure related to our carbon footprint and methane emissions. Fortunately, Limousin cattle appear to be well positioned with high feed conversion rates and high meat yield. Currently the Irish Limousin Society are working on proving the benefits and value of Limousin cattle compared to other breeds.

Our Breed Advancement team are collecting this information and following up on the effects of the F94L gene which was discovered in the Limousin breed at the University of Adelaide about 22 years ago. The F94L gene may become an even more important part of the future of Limousin than it has been already. The work on this will be ongoing.

You will have noticed in the media the pressure on beef production with the arguments from emerging environmental groups about the impacts of red meat production. As producers we need to all do our bit to combat this in a science based and factual manner.

FROM THE PRESIDENT

From the start of 2023 the Australian Limousin Breeders Society will be reporting animal suffixes in a different format whereby our suffixes will align more with other breeds.

This has developed out of the improvements and changes you as breeders have made for the Limousin breed here in Australia and New Zealand. Fifty years ago, when Limousin were introduced into Australia and New Zealand they were horned and apricot, now they are mostly polled with a high number of homozygous polled stock, and we have black and homozygous black animals with some variations in between.

The management of Protoporphyria has been very strong as well. Australian and New Zealand breeders have adapted the breed to suit Australian and New Zealand conditions and markets.

The ILROnline system has been rolled out to all members and will be fully functional for guests to search for animals and breeders From 1st February 2023 the old system will then be closed down.

Thank you for your support in Limousin across Australia and New Zealand during 2022 and best wishes for a very successful 2023 I look forward to catching up with many of you during our 50th Anniversary of Limousin in Australia and New Zealand Celebrations.

Chris Meade President

A family venture:

Right: Chris's granddaughter Zahra with one of the Pelican Rise heifers.

A RECORD BREAKING YEAR FOR LIMOUSIN CATTLE SALES

The 2022 Limousin Sale season finished off as being a record breaking year for the breed. There was exceptional demand for Limousin bulls across Australia, driven by the strong national beef and veal prices from continuing tight cattle supply numbers, as national herd numbers continue to rebuild The recent flooding events on the east coast did not appear to impact the demand for Limousin cattle. The clear advantages Limousin genetics provide in muscling, dressing percentage, feed efficiency, and growth, led to the breed being in high demand all year with bulls averaging $9,875 which was $1,186 or 14% higher than 2021. Queensland ($11,670) and New South Wales ($10,180) led the way on average bull sale prices.

The number of bulls sold was also higher at 396 head which was 32 higher than 2021, at a clearance rate of 87%. Gross sales totalled $3.91m with Queensland ($1.69m) and South Australia ($1.07m) being the two biggest states on gross sale numbers, closely followed by New South Wales ($865k).

There was a new Australian Limousin top price bull record of $42,000 set at the Mandayen 2022 annual bull sale in South Australia. The 2022 Top Bull Sale average was $13,273 set at the inaugural Flemington on-property bull and female sale.

Demand for Limousin females was also strong in 2022 with 79% of those offered selling for an average of $6,990 A new Australian Limousin female record price of $55,000 was set at the recent 2022 Summit Livestock spring selection sale.

Overall, 2022 finished off with a bang and was yet another exceptionally strong year with consistent demand for Limousin genetics, both bulls and females, across Australia There were some favorable market trends towards black and polled cattle. Breeders that have been utilising measurement and genomics have been able to make increased genetic gain towards these trends and are reaping the rewards in the current market. With the increasing shift in market demand for high muscling, feed efficient, and high yielding cattle, the prospects for Limousin cattle in 2023 are also incredibly favourable

Georgia Pugh neXtgen Agri Breed Advancement Team

UPDATES FROM LIMOUSIN YOUTH

The 2022 Limousin Youth Association AGM was held via zoom in August and welcomed the incoming 2022/23 LYA Committee:

President: Chloe Bailey

Vice President: Caitlin Rodham

Jnr Vice President: Tate Purdue

Secretary: Phoebe Eckermann

Treasurer: Lenise Mantell

General Committee: Zeke Groom (2022/23

LYA Ambassador), Brittany Jones, Jacob Kerrisk, Olivia Laney, Victoria Lee, Bibiannah Peattie and Bianca Wood

The team promptly organised a development weekend which was held in September at the Genetic Hub office in Wagga Wagga. Over two days, the committee attended workshops including team building, public speaking and communication, and problem-solving activities.

During this time, the committee presented proposals for consideration for the 2023 National Limousin Junior Show and discussed goals in relation to the event.

Subcommittees spent time brainstorming ideas for projects they wanted to deliver over the next twelve months.

The committee worked hard to see another successful LYA calendar produced and distributed ready for 2023. This has become an important annual fundraising activity for the LYA with profits used to support LYA Scholarships. The committee would like to thank everyone who supported the LYA by advertising in our calendar.

Another successful fundraising activity recently organised was the Christmas merchandise release which included custom LYA caps and spray jumper/pants. There was a lot of interest in these products, and the committee thank everyone that supported the pre-order.

The committee are looking forward to seeing our youth members at the 2023 National Limousin Junior Show after a very positive 2022 event. Planning has begun with some exciting projects in the works.

Image L-R: Zeke Groom, Tate Purdue, Bianca Wood, Brittany Jones, Phoebe Eckermann, Jacob Kerrisk, Caitlin Rodham, Chloe Bailey

LIMOUSIN YOUTH SCHOLARSHIPS

2022/23 LYA Ambassador

Written by recipient Zeke Groom

Firstly, I would like to introduce myself and explain how I have made it to this point in the industry. I started in the cattle industry by showing steers as part of my school’s show team as a sport in year 7. This decision then took me on a journey that introduced me to the agriculture industry. It has taken me to qualify and place in the ribbons at Sydney Royal, lead bulls in sales, meet people I have learnt from, lead grand champion animals and place as a grand champion myself. All of this is from a kid who wouldn’t even pat a dog when I was younger After attending the youth show earlier in the year, my love for the industry grew bigger after being chosen for the ambassadorship and the Primrose Limousins SA Junior Heifer Expo scholarships.

So far as the ambassador I have had the opportunity to promote not only myself but the Limousin breed, and youth as well. Over the last few months, I have attended numerous shows including being invited to attend Melbourne Royal. At these events I have had the opportunity to assist the cattle committee with stewarding and it has been a great experience to network with members of the breed. I’d like to pass my thanks on to David Bolton and Jasmine Green for their support.

Over the remaining half of my ambassadorship, I plan on attending Canberra and Sydney Royal and various other small shows and networking with breeders to better deliver my project as per my ambassadorship.

I wish all the breeders a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year, and please feel free to reach out if you ever feel like having a chat.

2022 Brentvale Limousins Team of Three Steer Award

Written by Chloe Bailey

The LYA were fortunate to have Brentvale Limousins generously donate a steer in support of our team of 3 steer scholarship. Brentvale Aftershock S6 or ‘Footie’, as he was nicknamed after Jason Foote, was awarded to Phoebe Eckermann (Aruma Limousin), Bianca Wood and Tate Purdue (Sapphire Livestock).

The team of three presented Footie at the Melbourne Royal Hoof and Hook competition which saw the steer place first in his export class and selected as part of the Borthwick trophy. Congratulations to the team for presenting the steer at a high level and a massive thank you to Brentvale Limousins for their support of the LYA program.

Pictured with the steer (L-R): Bianca Wood, Tate Purdue, Phoebe Eckermann

2021 Primrose Limousin SA Junior Heifer Expo Exchange

Written by Bek Bayly

Bek Bayly and Primrose Limousins offered a youth member the opportunity to attend the 2022 SA Heifer Expo through the Primrose SA Heifer Expo Exchange 2021 Scholarship. Bek, a current youth member and former President of the Youth Committee offered the scholarship because she wanted to encourage other young people to attend the Expo in Adelaide. She has attended the camp for many years, has learnt so much from the experience and appreciated the education sessions with industry leaders.

The scholarship sees the recipient attend the Expo with Bek helping them make the most of the opportunity. Charlotte Dendy, Junee NSW was the successful applicant in 2021 and in July this year she and Bek made the trip to South Australia with two Primrose bred Limousin steers to compete in the Expo.

The week was full of education sessions, Junior Judging, Animal and Paraders competitions, along with a quiz and assignment.

Charlotte had great success throughout the week coming home with 2nd in her Paraders class and 4th overall in the Intermediate age division

Charlotte recognised the Expo as a “cracking experience”, she enjoyed the structure of the event and how the expectations are a lot higher than other youth shows she has competed at. Charlotte’s favourite part of the event were the educational sessions held on the first day by industry professionals. Charlotte looks forward to making the trip back to SA next year for the show and wishes Zeke Groom, the 2022 scholarship recipient all the best and hopes he enjoys the event as much as she did.

2022 Summit Livestock - Most Potential Breeder Award

Written by Chloe Bailey

We are incredibly grateful for the continued support from Hayden and Jasmine Green, Summit Livestock, who generously donated a registered 11month-old Limousin heifer as part of the Most Potential Breeder scholarship at the 2022 National Limousin Junior Show

After a high calibre of applicants were interviewed, the successful recipient was SA based LYA member Tate Purdue, Sapphire Livestock. The heifer, Summit Magic S33, is by Summit Custom-Made P11 and out of Summit Magic Q63 The heifer has adapted well to her new environment and forms part of the foundation herd for Sapphire Livestock.

Recently, the heifer has been artificially inseminated and is due to calve next spring

Image Supplied: L -R Bek Bayly and Charlotte Dendy

Tate Purdue and Jasmine Green

The 2-Year-Old Australian Limousin cow, Progress Queen of Hearts Q8, has just been awarded the prestigious Miss World title in the recent international online competition.

Bred by Peter Kylstra of Progress Limousins, Yanco NSW, this stunning young female competed against 26 representatives from around the globe before taking out the top award.

When asked about the win Peter explained, he was very humbled by the result and will need a few more weeks for the acolaid to sink in. "To me, this is just a dream come true and something you could never predict, after breeding Limousins for 35 years being recognised by your international peers is a huge honour."

Queenie as she is better known at home has had an impeccable show season this past year, after calving down in August at 23 months she went on to be crowned Supreme Beef Female at this year's Canberra Royal and then Supreme Limousin Exhibit at Sydney a few weeks later, she also made the final line up in the famous Urquhart trophy.

"For me, the most rewarding part to this story is this cow is homegrown, her sire, Progress Moose is still our walking herd Sire and her Dam, Progress Queen of Spades is easily one of our best brood cows."

He continued. "Some would even say Queenie was designed to be a great one with parents like that Over the years I have tended to 30 of her ancestors on a daily basis and can remember every one of them. The Exotics, the Queenies, the Siestas and the Mimi’s, they all show up in her pedigree."

Progress Queen of Hearts Q8, is owned by Mr Grame Hopf (one of Australia’s Leading Livestock Judges) from Murwillumbah NSW.

Queenie was purchased by him as a yearling at an online auction during the Covid period, she has never made her way up to the north coast home as of yet. "We might just get a few more shows under her belt before we retire her." Peter highlighted, "With the World Congress next year in Melbourne, it is too tempting not to take her there."

It is looking like most of New Zealand is flush with feed going into early summer after a reasonably kind spring, albeit wet for some. Calving is all wrapped up, artificial insemination completed, and the bulls have been going in over the last few weeks.

It always takes a bit of thought as to which bulls should go with which cows or heifers, keeping them far enough apart and having a backup plan if there is a breakdown. I have found over the years that mating in easier paddocks especially in the first cycling period is effective in preserving bull wellbeing. This is not always easy when often much of your farmland is steeper hill country.

The Otago/Southland hoof and hook competition finally went ahead in September after several delays due to covid and staff shortages. Limousin were represented in all categories and were reserve champion on both hoof and hook in the intermediate category and first placed in the senior section with a 387kg steer with a 141 EMA.

New Zealand’s live export trade will cease to exist next year after the government decided to ban all live exports (sheep and cattle). Seventy yearling limousin heifers will be part of the next consignment to sail to Asia early next year.

The consequences of finishing live exports on the NZ beef industry will be interesting to watch as export numbers have been significant over recent years and these cattle will now come on to our domestic market which may see an oversupply.

Currently New Zealand sheep and beef farms are being converted to conifer plantations at an alarming rate resulting in less grazing land for sheep and cattle, further exacerbating this supply problem.

In April 2023, NZ Limousin will hold their 50year celebration of the breed in this country. We have an exciting weekend planned in Methven, Canterbury (an hour west of Christchurch international airport) between 20 - 23 April.

We have planned a mix of farm visits and activities, visits to local historical sites, some friendly inter-island rivalry, something for the adrenalin junkies, and of course plenty of socialising. I would warmly welcome any Australian breeders or members to join us for what promises to be a great weekend.

For more information and to register your attendance please contact Gary Kennett (garymkennett@gmail.com or tel: +64 29 377 4545)

Merry Christmas

Clark Scott President

Image Supplied: Loch Head Nebraska

SUMMIT LIVESTOCK

SPRING SELECTION SALE

Rain across the country has continued to lift confidence across the beef industry with strong prices and demand for Limousin genetics. Summit Livestock held it’s fourth spring selection sale online via AuctionsPlus in October 2022, offering 49 lots for a 94% clearance with lots selling to New South Wales, Queensland, South Australia, Western Australia and Victoria

In a unique new concept, Summit offered five of their top donors as “flush or the factory” options with the successful bidder able to take the flush, or five times their winning bid and take home the cow

This option to multiply the winning bid to secure full ownership was taken up on Lot 3 – Summit Krystal L35, ultimately selling for $55,000 and setting a new record for an Australian Limousin female The previous record was set in 1988 at $35,000 for Tanhill Grenadie, purchased by Billabong Limousin Stud, Wagga Wagga. (Source: The Land)

Congratulations to the partnership of Brentvale Limousins, SA and Keajura Park Limousins, NSW on their record-breaking purchase of Summit Krystal L35.

The yearling heifers topped at $12,000 for Lot 6 –Summit Missive S90, one of the first Anchor B Gold Rush progeny to be sold in Australia, to QLD studs BJF Limousins, The Downfall Limousins and Storm King Limousins.

Proven herd sire Summit Revelation N100, who sired the Interbreed Champion of Champions winner at the Royal Canberra Show sold to $17,000 to Starrs Limousins, NSW.

Summit Livestock spring selection sale sets and demand was also strong for the semen packages with SYES Easy Going 77E packages making up to $110/straw (for packages of 10). The first calves by SYES Easy Going have just hit the ground this spring and have created a lot of interest.

4/5 flush or the factory lots sold to a top of $55,000 to average $18,750.

9/9 heifers sold to a top of $12,000 to average $5,722.

7/9 mature cows sold to a top of $8,500 to average $6,214.

1/1 bull sold to $17,000.

25/25 semen packages sold to average $90/straw to top at $110/straw.

Stud principals, Hayden and Jasmine Green would like to sincerely thank everyone who supported this year’s sale. We strive to continue to breed cattle that are relevant for industry and we are very proud to see these animals and genetics contribute positively to your breeding programs across the country.

With the herd rebuild in full swing, we are entering into a golden era for our Limousin breed – our breed has much to offer the industry and we look forward to seeing the increased uptake in Limousin genetics continue across the country.

Lot 3 – Summit Krystal L35, sold for $55,000

STRONG YEARLING BULL SALE

The Raven Limousin stud at Field, South Australia completed the final stage of its dispersal with a strong yearling bull sale on AuctionsPlus in October.

With most bulls sold at 18 to 24 months old in February and March in SA, stud owners Jason and Penny Schulz were pleased with the $6468 average on the 31 bulls sold.

The seven passed in bulls were sold soon after the official online auction, marking the final process in the stud's dispersal. "Given we were selling yearling bulls in spring time, two concepts that aren't typical in SA, I think it was a good outcome," Mr Schulz said

"There was a little bit of resistance from some buyers, just in the fact they weren't in the bullbuying mindset at this time of year." Strong stud interest underpinned the sale, with nine bulls sold to seed stock buyers.

Two bulls made $9000, including Raven Side Shift S153, which was described as an eye-catching bull with length of body, smoothness of shoulders and width of top.

The heterozygous black June 2021-drop bull, who ranked in the top percent on estimated breeding values for 200-day growth, was sired by Summit Blueprint M20 and out of Raven Ultima N653. It was snapped up by the Kupsch family, Tara Limousin stud, Allanooka, WA.

The homozygous black and homozygous polled Raven Share Market S119 also made $9000 and was highly rated for its early growth, calving ease, positive fat and marbling genetics.

Sired by Mandayen Kung Fu N221 and from the high-marbling Raven Prue family, the bull was described as a perfect choice for those choosing to crossbreed in challenging environments due to climate or stocking rate It was also bought by a stud buyer - Calderwood Limousins, Sussex Inlet, NSW.

Mr Schulz said the legacy of the stud would live on in their commercial herd, with some cows kept "We've kept all of our Limflex (Limousin/Angus) cows, which were registered, because we feel like they are the ultimate commercial cow," he said.

The first of its kind in SA, Mr Schulz said the yearling bull sale concept could have benefits for both buyer and breeder if adopted.

"The benefits to the buyer are they can acclimatise their bulls before using them," he said "For producers that are joining heifers, they've then got bulls that are lighter to serve heifers.

"From a breeder point of view, to sell bulls as yearlings you don't have to hold on to them as long and you're not running big herds of mature bulls that might want to fight."

Quinton McCallum, Stock Journal

The Raven team would like to thank our long term repeat clients and seed stock breeders who chose to invest in Raven genetics!

Raven Limousins Stud Principal, Jason Schulz

SUCCESSFUL SALE AT MOUNT PLEASANT

By Sherrie Whitty

We were very thankful that the sun graced us, and the rain stayed away on sale day as predicted. We had a wonderful day catching up with friends and clients.

All 18 of the bulls sold. With a top price of $13,500 and an average price of $7,889.

The top priced bull was Lot 11 Mt Pleasant Showtime, and first calf for heifer Mt Pleasant Vibrant in Red P180, sired by Raven Penthouse Et P693. He was purchase by returning clients, Warren and Jenny Johnson. We cannot wait to see what he produces for them.

A thank you to our volume buyer, who was successful in purchasing six bulls to add to the sire lineup. You have put together a terrific draft of six bulls, I look forward to hearing what they produce for you.

I was worried for a while that TnH Livestock were going to top the sale again with their Lot 5 TnH Livestock Remington. He sold for $10,000 to returning client Robbie Booth, who is a big Longreach Kakadu fan.

JR Limousins only had 1 sale lot this year. JR The Rock R2 sold for $10,000 to a new client Lotess Grazing.

BREEDPLAN

UNDERSTANDING ESTIMATED BREEDING VALUES

An Estimated Breeding Value (EBV) is an estimate of the genetic merit of that animal for each trait measured

EBVs are provided for the following traits:

Calving Ease Direct: estimates the differences in the ability of a sire’s calves to be born unassisted from a 2-year-old heifer.

Gestation Length: ranks sires for the time between conception and the birth of a calf Shorter gestation is indicated by negative EBVs and longer by positive EBVs

Birth Weight: indicates the genetic potential for birth weight

Positive EBVs indicate higher birth weights and negative EBVs indicate lower birth weights of progeny

200, 400 & 600 Day Weight: give us an estimation of the animal's genetic potential for growth

Mature Cow Weight: estimates differences between animals in live weights of cows at 5 years of age

Milk: a key component of fast growth to weaning is the dam's maternal performance. A bull with a high milk EBV should produce daughters which milk well

Scrotal Size: indicates whether the bull will produce sons with above average or below average scrotal sizes

Carcase Weight: ranks animals for carcase weight

Eye Muscle Area: ranks animals for eye muscle area measured at the 12th rib on a 300kg carcase

Rib Fat: ranks animals for rib fat depth at the 12th rib on a 300kg carcase

Rump Fat: ranks animals for fat depth at the p8 site on the rump on a 300kg carcase.

Intra Muscular Fat: ranks animals for the percentage of intramuscular fat at the 12th rib of a 300kg carcase

Docility: is expressed as the increase or decrease in the percentage of progeny that will be scored as docile (score 1 or

2) Positive EBVs indicate a higher proportion of progeny that will be scored as docile and negative EBVs indicate a lower percentage of progeny being scored as docile

Comparing EBVs: The EBVs for Limousins cannot be compared with EBVs for animal of other breeds. They should be compared with the current average EBV for the Limousin breed shown below

Accuracies: Accuracies are presented with each EBV and give an indication of the amount of information that has been used in the calculation of that EBV The higher the accuracy the lower the likelihood of change in the animal's EBV as more information is analysed for that animal and its relatives

INAUGRAL GRADUATES OF GOLDSTEIN PARK SALE RECEIVES STRONG DEMAND FROM LIMOUSIN BREEDERS

By Tamara Corby

Goldstein Park Livestock offered their first full sale draft in the inaugural graduates of Goldstein Park sale in October. The Corby family from Cobargo, New South Wales have been breeding Limousins for 20 years, pushing their breeding program in a positive direction and building a refined cow herd.

The sale consisted of 26 lots, with 80% of lots selling to Limousin studs located in Queensland, New South Wales, Victoria and South Australia.

7/7 senior bulls sold to a top of $15,500 for Lot 1 Goldstein Park Roackstar R5 to Maximus Limousins & Jaemac Limousin and LimFlex, SA, and averaged $8,429.

5/5 yearling bulls sold to a top of $10,000 for Lot 10 Goldstein Park Showman S6 to Mount Pleasant Limousins, NSW, and averaged $6,900.

6/10 yearling heifers sold to a top of $7,000 for Lot 19 Goldstein Park Single Rose S65 to The Downfall Limousins, QLD, and averaged $4,583.

4/4 embryo packages sold to a top of $1,200/embryo for Lot 24 Southwest Nobel Prize K9 x Goldstein Park Fine N Zandy to Pelican Rise Limousin, VIC, and averaged $733/embryo.

With so many sale lots heading into stud herds across the country, including seven of twelve bulls heading for stud duties, plus sales to repeat and new commercial clients, is a clear indication that there is strong demand for Limousin genetics to supply the beef industry.

Goldstein Park continue to strive to sell cattle that will breed on for their new owners and the Corby family look forward to building relationships with their customers as they too, strive to improve the quality of your own herd.

The Corby family want to extend a very big THANK YOU to all the successful purchases and the underbidders of the 2022 Inaugural Graduates of Goldstein Park Sale. Congratulations also goes to Maximus Limousins and Jaemac Limousin and LimFlex, SA for purchasing the top priced animal and who will have to share the American sourced Limousin Rye Whiskey, gifted by the Corby family.

Goldstein Park will be back for another Graduation Party in 2023!

NORTHERN LIMOUSIN BREEDERS SALE

By Kirstin Bisley

Another fantastic result for the 2022 Northern Limousin Breeders Sale!

32 bulls topped at $20,000 for Lot 7, Angledale Rant n Rave and averaged $10,900.

Three heifers sold to a top of $9000 for The Biz Livestock Lot 36 Biz Riddle Magic and averaged $6,800.

A massive thanks to the selling agents Nutrien Ag Solutions - Scone, and everyone for their support Congratulations to all successful buyers, we wish you all the best with your new purchases.

code to watch videos

Top Priced Bull Lot 7. Angledale Rant n Rave, by Devine Family Partnership $20,000. Purchased by Pat Bourke, Geelong.

Top Priced Heifer Lot 36. Biz Riddle Magic, by The Biz Livestock - $9000. Purchased by Darren and Shelly Hartwig, Gold Crest Limousins.

CONTACT

GENETIC HUB

Sarah Waldron Manager

sarah@genetichub.com.au

Hannah Scobie Registrar Team Leader

Monday to Friday registrar@genetichub.com.au

Eliza Borchardt Registrar

Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday

Caitlin Albert Registrar

Monday to Friday Stacey Gardiner Registrar

Tuesday to Friday

Zoe Schipp Communications Officer

Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday zoe@genetichub.com.au

Lyn Callan Accounts and Finance Officer

Wagga Wagga NSW 2678

PO Box U66 Charles Sturt University

Wagga Wagga NSW 2678

Phone: 02 6933 1214

Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday accounts@genetichub.com.au

Jessica Lawlor Administration Officer

Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday office@genetichub.com.au

Building 3, Room 312, Nathan Cobb Drive

AUSTRALIAN LIMOUSIN BREEDERS SINGLE GENES

Dominance

For most single gene traits there are dominant and recessive forms of the gene. The combination of dominant and recessive genes in the pair of genes carried by each animal determines what the animal looks like.

For example, take the polled gene in Limousins. The polled gene is dominant and the horned gene is recessive. If an animal carries two horn genes (pp) it will be horned. If it carries two polled genes (PP) it will be polled. If it carries a horn gene and a polled gene (Pp) it will be polled because the polled gene is dominant.

Homozygous and Heterozygous

Animals that carry a pair of genes which are the same are called homozygous (homo means same). For example, for polledness, the animals carrying two polled genes (PP) or two horned genes (pp) are both homozygous.

However, if the genes are different (Pp) the animal is heterozygous (hetero means different).

While we can be confident that all horned animals are homozygous for the horned gene (pp) we cannot tell if a polled animal is homozygous (PP) or heterozygous (Pp) except by a progeny test.

A DNA test is available to test for homozygous polled animals. The test uses a marker gene so can only provide a 95 per cent probability that the animal is homozygous polled. An alternative way to test if an animal is homozygous polled is to join the animal to horned animals. If ten polled progeny occur then the chance of the test animal being heterozygous and not homozygous is 1 in 1,024. In other words, it will be 99.9% certain that the animal is homozygous polled.

AUSTRALIAN LIMOUSIN BREEDERS SINGLE GENES

Predicting the Outcome

Sometimes the outcome of a mating can be predicted with complete accuracy. For example a homozygote horned bull (pp) over a homozygote horned cow (pp) will produce 100% homozygote horned progeny (pp).

In other cases we can only predict the probability of the outcome.

For example, a heterozygote polled bull (Pp) crossed with homozygote horned cows (pp) will produce 50% polled progeny (Pp) and 50% horned progeny (pp).

Colour

The same principles as described above apply for the red and black colour with black being dominant and red being recessive.

Red is a recessive gene, so animals that are red are most likely to have homozygous (double) red genes.

Several genes are involved in the process of creating the complex coat colours and patterns found in cattle. The three alleles of this gene are dominant black (ED), wild type (E+) and recessive red (e).

Dominant black (ED) is dominant to the other two alleles and animals with this allele are jet black (solid or spotted). The wild type (E+) produces cattle with reddish brown to brownish black coloration with a tan muzzle ring. Two copies of the recessive red (e) allele will result in red colour.

AUSTRALIAN LIMOUSIN BREEDERS

SINGLE GENES

ED/ED: Homozygous dominant black

ED/e: Dominant black/recessive red

ED/ E+: Dominant black/wild type

E+/e: Wild type/recessive red

E+/ E+: Homozygous wild type

e/e: Homozygous recessive red

Protoporphyria

Protoporphyria is due to the presence of a defective gene that is normally responsible for the formation of the enzyme ferrochelatase which is involved in the combination of iron and protoporphyrins to form haem, a component of haemoglobin.

If two defective genes are present (homozygous defective) then the animal is likely to exhibit the symptoms of protoporphyria (photosensitisation).

If one defective gene is present (heterozygous) the animal will be a carrier but is very unlikely to suffer from photosensitisation.

If both genes are normal (homozygous normal) the animal will be normal.

The various mating combinations portrayed for the polled gene are identical for black colour.

A DNA test is available in Australia to test for those animals which appear normal but carry a defective gene. These are known as protoporphyria carriers.

PR

– Free Proto Normal (PN)

PR – Carrier The animal is a carrier of the abnormal gene for protoporphyria (PC)

Protoporphyria Status will be indicated as:

Proto normal

Proto free by pedigree

Proto carrier

Proto suspect (parent of diseased animal)

Proto status unknown

(No longer a suffix, can be found on the animal information page)

Myostatin F94L

A normally functioning myostatin gene inhibits muscle growth. The mutation known as F94L which has a high frequency in the Limousin breed is one of three missence mutations which does not cause a loss of function of the myostatin gene. It appears not to cause an increase in the size of the muscle fibres but does cause an increase in the number of muscle fibres. It is not associated with high levels of calving difficulty or lowered fertility and longevity.

The loss of function myostatin mutations are associated with high levels of calving difficulty and lowered fertility and longevity.

Most Limousin bulls carry two copies of the Limousin muscling gene so each of the progeny will get one copy of the Limousin muscling gene. Animals with one copy of the gene are likely to exhibit about half the differences shown above. A Limousin cross calf is expected to have about 9.5% more silverside, 9.5% more eye muscle area 4% more retail beef yield, with a 3% increase in tenderness of the loin muscle and 5.5% more tender silverside.

AUSTRALIAN LIMOUSIN BREEDERS

SINGLE GENES

C313Y, E226X, NT821 & Q204X are all mutations that make up the myostatin gene.

F94L – Free (CC) No copies

F94L – Carrier (AC) 1 copy

F94L – Affected (AA) 2 copies

What happens when carriers are mated to other animals?

A carrier will, on average, pass the undesirable gene form to a random half (50 %) of their progeny. When a carrier bull and carrier cow are mated:

- There is a 25% chance that the progeny produced will have two normal genes and so will never pass on the undesirable gene.

- There is a 50% chance that the mating will produce a carrier.

- There is a 25% chance that the progeny will inherit two copies of the undesirable gene and hence be affected by the genetic condition.

When a carrier animal is mated to an animal tested free of the genetic condition:

- All progeny will appear normal and will be unaffected by the condition.

- There is a 50% chance that the mating will produce a carrier.

- There is a 50% chance that the progeny produced will have two normal genes and so will never pass on the undesirable gene.

Australian Limousin Breeders Single Genes

Note that an animal that is tested free by a DNA test of the genetic condition will not pass the genetic condition to its descendants, even if it has carriers in its own ancestry Therefore, DNA-tested free animals can be used in your breeding program with confidence that they are not transmitting the unfavourable gene to subsequent generations

Tenderness – MVP TND

An increase in “tenderness” is associated with favourable alleles seen within the selected marker panel. The combined genotype results have been scored between 1 to 10, where 10 has the most favourable number of alleles present.

Suffixes to Animal Names

Horn Status:

PP - Homozygous Polled

P - Polled

Ps - Polled with Scurs

H - Horned

Colour:

BB - Homozygous Black

B - Black

R - Red

A - Apricot

O - Other

Myostatin:

AA - 2 copies

AC - 1 copy

CC - No copies

U - Status Unknown

Most characteristics of cattle such as growth and fertility are controlled by many or multiple genes. Some characteristics such as polledness, colour and protoporphyria are controlled by a single pair of genes.

Actual results are based on DNA samples provided by breeders. Australian Limousin Breeders Society makes no statements, representations or warranties about the accuracy or completeness of any information relating to the status of a particular animal, and disclaims all responsibility for information and all liability (including without limitation, liability in negligence) for all expenses, losses, damages, and costs you may incur as a result of information being inaccurate or incomplete in any way for any reason.

Actual results are only displayed for animals that have been DNA tested for a particular gene or in circumstances where sufficient DNA testing has been conducted on animals within the pedigree to make some assertions as to genetic condition status. In cases where the genetic condition status of an animal is unknown, no genetic condition status will display for the animal.

MEMBER HIGHLIGHT THE SPENCE FAMILY

While the Spence family are no strangers around cattle shows and livestock sales, it wasn’t until 2017 that the Spence Family made their own debut at the Royal Adelaide Show with their own team of steers. The debut could not have gone any better with Mandayen Spences Fred winning Grand Champion in both hoof and hook sections exhibited by Thomas Spence.

This wonderful achievement was followed up in 2018 with Maydayen Spence's Fireball also winning Grand Champion on the hoof and taking out the Champion Heavy Domestic Carcase exhibited by Zanna Spence. The family also took out the Reserve Champion ribbon in the Heavy Domestic on hoof.

In 2019 the champions continued with Spence's winning three broad ribbons at the Royal Adelaide Show including Champion Light Domestic on hoof and Champion and Reserve Champion Heavy Domestic Steer on hoof.

As most shows took a hiatus in 2020 and 2021 due to Covid, the Royal Adelaide Show still held a carcase competition. In 2020, the Spence's were successful in winning Champion Heavy Domestic Carcase that went on to be Grand Champion Carcase and in 2021 they also won Champion Heavy Domestic Carcase. All these steers were bred by or in conjunction with Mandayen Limousins

2022 saw the shows return and cattle back in the ring at the Royal Adelaide Show. In a strong showing of steers, the Spence's enjoyed good success through both purebred and crossbred sections with the highlight being Grand Champion Purebred Steer both on the hoof and hook - Spence's Endeavour.

A proud moment for Jono was to see Spence's steers perform very well at schools with Naracoorte and Oakbank high schools enjoying great success on both hoof and hook.

Left: Zanna Spence pictured with Maydayen Spence's Fireball, 2018 Grand Champion and Champion Heavy Domestic Carcase.

THE SPENCE FAMILY

Spence's Show Steers was delighted to see the success of North Ulandi Stud at the 2022 Royal Melbourne Show winning Champion Domestic Steer and Reserve Champion Heavy Domestic Steer on the hoof. The Champion steer on the hoof went on to win Champion Lightweight Carcase and also won the Steer Bonanza Both these steers were purchased from Spence's Show Steers.

For Jono Spence the led steer competition at the Royal Adelaide Show is held very close to his heart, where it all began for him as a school student in 1988 with his first experience of showing steers. This has proven to be a gateway to the livestock industry for Jono who has seen a career of now 30 years in the industry.

Jono attributes much of Spence's Show Steers success to the influence of the Mandayen herd run by Damian and Mandy Gommers.

“I was very fortunate to meet Damian around 20 years ago as a young stock agent buying Limousin bulls, I could see then that he had a passion and keen eye for Limousin cattle but at that stage I had no idea the scale of the Limousin operation he would build”.

Jono also attributes his influence into Limousin cattle, coming from working with Tim Bayliss (Baylim) and The Evans Family (Weston Park Stud) during the 90’s. “That was great experience and wonderful times and both families remain friends of mine for life "

For Spence's Show Steers preparation for the next show begins as they pack up from the current show. We are never not thinking of the future and what’s next "I am sure the kids get sick of me saying that Show day is just one day, the other 200 days matter just as much", Jono said.

The Spence family attribute much of their preparation success to showing at the South Australian Junior Heifer Expo. We feel this gives our cattle a great experience to adjust and both exhibits and handlers a great learning curve to show life.

The effort is a team effort between Jono and his partner Kylie, Jono’s children Thomas and Zanna and Kylie’s son Tom

The kids absolutely love it and have made so many friends and gained valuable experiences, and I am so lucky to have a partner in Kylie who loves all animals.

Whist she has plenty of experience with horses, she has turned her hand to feeding show steers very quickly.

A lifelong dream came true for Jono in 2021 when he purchased a property ‘Elmoro’ situated at Keith, SA that has now become home to the breeding herd for Spences Show Steers.

Moving forward we would love to continue to breed show steers for other people to enjoy the experience, friendships and achievements we have had along the way.

2017 Grand Champion Steer on hoof and Hook Royal Adelaide show, shown by Thomas Spence.

PROMISING METHANE EMISSIONS RESULTS IN IRELAND PUT

LIMOUSIN IN BOX SEAT TO HELP THE BEEF INDUSTRY BECOME

PART OF THE CLIMATE SOLUTION

The noise around livestock environmental sustainability

The Australian red meat industry has set a target to be carbon neutral by 2030 (CN30) This means that by 2030, the industry aims to make no net release of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions into the atmosphere A key driver to help achieve this goal will be reductions in methane emissions

Around 15% of the world's entire total GHG emissions come from livestock production - cattle, sheep and other ruminants Methane, primarily from burps, is a GHG 28 times more powerful than carbon dioxide (Source: CSIRO) In Australia, direct livestock emissions account for about 70% of GHG emissions by the agricultural sector and 11% of total national GHG emissions

This makes Australia’s livestock the third largest source of GHG emissions after the energy and transport sectors Livestock are the dominant source of methane and nitrous oxide, accounting for 56% and 73%, respectively, of Australia’s emissions (Source: Deptartment of Ag and Food)

The good news is that the negative effects from methane are relatively short-lived, because methane is eventually oxidised back to water and carbon dioxide (CO2) in around 12 years as part of the biogenic carbon cycle The CO2 and water then get taken up by the grass that livestock consume to continue a closed cycle

So if we don't increase the number of ruminants on the planet, and the amount of methane they emit, then ruminants will have no net effect on global warming. Whereas, CO2 from burning fossil fuels stays in the atmosphere for potentially 1000s of years (Source: Australian Good Meat).

Therefore, reducing methane emissions from livestock has the potential to improve environmental sustainability thus helping the beef industry become part of the climate solution.

This is because if we reduce methane emissions from cattle, then we are actively pulling carbon out of the atmosphere which induces global cooling (Source: UC Davis). So if livestock industries can decrease methane emissions from the atmosphere then exciting things can happen.

Another factor to consider, is that rumen methanogenesis also results in the loss of around 10% of gross energy intake in cattle (Source: Journal of Animal Science), so in addition to helping improve sustainability, reducing methane emissions will also improve the overall efficiency and profitability of beef cattle production

Given all of these facts flying around, it is no surprise that there is so much noise in this space! Now that we are across the facts, and no matter where you sit in this debate, let’s focus on the positive role that livestock can play in becoming part of the climate solution, and how to make this happen

Methane mitigation strategies: Additives versus genetics

Numerous mitigation strategies for the reduction of methane have or are in the process of being developed around the world These strategies are currently either jostling for investment, participating in industry research trials for commercial validation, or are beginning to be used by early adopters (e g AACO)

These innovative strategies include: the use of feed additives (e g asparagopsis seaweed); nutritional management practices (e g increased feed quality); genetic selection for reduced emissions and improved livestock feed efficiency The race is on to see which of these mitigation strategies will be crowned the winner to support livestock industries, reduce methane emissions, and become part of the climate solution.

The use of additives in particular has received a huge amount of interest and investment (e.g. startups like Rumin8). However, a number of questions remain unanswered as to which approach is the best one.

For feed additives, there are concerns around how much they cost and who will bear the brunt of the costs for these additives; are there any side effects; what are consumer perceptions of their use; do they actually work at scale in both grass-based and intensive production systems; and, how long are they effective for?

On the flipside, the strategy of genetic selection for reduced emissions has been flagged as potentially being the most favourable strategy, due to the changes being more permanent, cost-effective and cumulative (Source: Journal of Animal Science).

LIMOUSIN IN BOX SEAT TO HELP THE BEEF INDUSTRY BECOME

PART OF THE CLIMATE SOLUTION

After all, genetics and breeding improvements are already a trusted and proven technology for beef producers to increase production efficiency and profitability So can genetics also deliver on improving the sustainability of livestock industries?

Limousin shine early in Ireland genetic trials on methane emissions

The Irish Cattle Breeding Federation (ICBF) has been working for the past four years to gain an accurate understanding of methane emissions from Irish cattle, by gathering emissions data on indoor finished cattle at its Tully bull progeny testing centre near Dublin The ICBF is a centralised, whole-of-industry-owned structure which provides national genetic indexes to guide genetic selection across Ireland’s national beef and dairy herds.

Estimated Breeding Values (EBVs) for grams per day of methane have been developed, and, in a world first, the ICBF expects to launch genomics for methane traits in Ireland’s national beef cattle genetic selection indices, to help guide the selection of cattle with lower methane emissions.

Recent trials at Tully which tested 1200 cattle, representing various breeds, involved the direct measurement of growth, dry matter intake, and methane and carbon dioxide emissions per day using Greenfeed machines. The results showed Irish cattle were producing an average of 246 grams of methane per day, with clear evidence of differences across genders, systems and breeds, including within breeds (Source: ICBF).

A chart depicting results from the trials (soon to be published) comparing Ireland's Terminal Index with the test EBV for Methane, is shown below This chart highlights that higher terminal indexed animals have lower grams per day of methane, with the Limousin breed (denoted by the green dots) in particular demonstrating high efficiency with fast growth rates and lower feed intake (Source: ICBF)

The terminal index used comprises carcass traits, some calving traits, feed intake and docility These results suggest that Limousins are extremely well placed to support the beef industry to achieve its emissions reduction target and become part of the climate solution

It should be noted that these are only preliminary trial results based on a finishing diet. Work is now underway to repeat these trials for the growing part of an animal’s life, and crucially to confirm if these results are repeatable in cattle finished on grass.

ICBF technical director and geneticist Dr Andrew Cromie said, that “The more efficient animals are making less methane.” So selecting for more efficient animals, in terms of carcass growth and cost of feed is taking us in the right direction. Dr Cromie commented that while these results look very favourable for the Limousin breed at this stage, compared to other breeds on the chart such as Angus and Hereford, it is not the full picture. “We will only get that when we also include earlier finishing age. So the goal in the future will be hitting a target carcass weight and grade, at an earlier finishing age and with a lower grams per day of methane” (Source: Beef Central)

PROMISING METHANE EMISSIONS RESULTS IN IRELAND PUT LIMOUSIN IN BOX SEAT TO HELP THE BEEF INDUSTRY BECOME PART OF THE CLIMATE SOLUTION

Feed efficiency and earlier finishing age

It is thought that large reductions in methane emissions can also be achieved through management and system changes focused on achieving earlier finishing ages of slaughter cattle

Other work done by the ICBF on developing carbon footprint data incorporating lifetime emissions and feed and fertiliser requirements, indicates that moving cattle in Ireland from being finished off on grass in their third summer to their second summer can reduce lifetime carbon emissions by two tonnes per head Even achieving just a one month reduction in the finishing age could result in savings of up to 200 kg per head (Source: ICBF)

The early finishing ability of Limousin due to the presence of the F94L gene, means that Limousin progeny can be killed at younger ages compared to other breeds meaning that the Limousin breed is also well placed in this area

Moreover, the high feed efficiency of Limousins, due to the unique advantage that the F94L gene provides in dressing percentage, from increased muscling, means that animals can be killed at lower liveweights than other cattle targeting the same carcass weights. Therefore, the combination of reduced methane output from earlier finishing age and feed intake means Limousins with the F94L mutation are more efficient and have a lower lifecycle carbon footprint.

Given Limousin's performance in early genetic trials on methane emissions, plus the breeds capability to finish earlier and more efficiently, it is clear that Limousin are in the box seat to help the beef industry become part of the climate solution. So as cattle breeders, let's not get caught up with the injustices of livestock being unfairly blamed for global warming, instead let's focus on the positive role that livestock, in particular Limousin cattle, can play in being part of the climate solution.

Georgia Pugh neXtgen Agri

ROYAL QUEENSLAND SHOW

A big congratulations to all Limousin Australia breeders, exhibitors, families and teams who showcased a terrific line up of Limousin cattle at this years EKKA! Limousin achieved great success during the show.

Steer Results

On the hook results:

Grand Champion Carcase: Ray Zahnow, Fernvale (tag 806) Limousin steer.

Champion Heavyweight Carcase: Ray Zahnow, Fernvale (tag 806) Limousin steer

Champion Middleweight Carcase: Bureen Cattle Company, Singleton, NSW, (tag 409) Limousin steer.

Lightweight Eating Quality Award: Tenterfield High School, Tenterfield, NSW, (tag 108) Limousin-cross steer.

Champion Junior Steer Carcase: Alexander Stokes, (tag 1806), Limousin-cross steer.

Reserve Junior Champion Steer Carcase: St Joseph's College, Aberdeen, NSW, (tag 1807), Limousin-cross steer.

Reserve Junior Champion Heifer Carcase: Minto Crag

Pastoral Company, (tag 1305), Limousin heifer

RNA Heavyweight Jackpot Competition: Lindesay

View Limousins and Tookawhile Show Steers, (tag 807), Limousin-cross steer.

Hoof results:

Champion Heavyweight Led Steer: Lindesay View

Limousins and Tookawhile Show Steers, (tag 807), Limousin-cross steer

Reserve Champion Heavyweight Led Steer: Ray Zahnow, (tag 806) Limousin steer.

Champion Middleweight Led Steer: Bureen Cattle

Company and R and W Lawrence, (tag 409) Limousin steer

Reserve Champion Middleweight Steer: Matthew and Peta O'Dwyer, (tag 506), Limousin-cross steer.

Champion Lightweight Led Steer: Emily and Luke Kahler, Glenmorgan Vale, (tag 307), Limousin-cross steer

Junior Champion Led Heifer: Minto Crag Pastoral, (tag 1305), Limousin heifer

Source:QueenslandCountryLife

Stud Results

47 Head of Limousin Cattle

Judge: Matt Welsh, Huntington Charbray, Taroom QLD

Junior Champion Female: MCL Miss Magnolia, Bede and Kate McAlpin, McAlpin Livestock, Toogoolawah QLD

Reserve Junior Champion Female: CB Red Maple Lady, Nigel & Casey Wieck, Select Cattle Co, Delungra NSW

Junior Champion Bull: O'Sullivans Special K S15, Mick and Sandy O'Sullivan, O'Sullivans Black Limousin, Lower Mount Walker QLD

Reserve Junior Champion Bull: KST Limousin Smooth Operator, Kate and Sarah Townsend, KST Limousin, Gilgai

NSW

Senior Champion Female: O'Sullivans Pearl R28, O'Sullivans Black Limousin

Grand champion led steer: Emily Kahler and Luke Cox, Glamorgan Vale, (tag 307), Limousin-cross steer. (photo by Studstocksales)

ROYAL QUEENSLAND SHOW

Reserve Senior Champion Female: Gold Crest Mshake Adele, Darren and Shelly Hartwig, Gold Crest Limousin, Crows Nest QLD

Senior Champion Bull: O'Sullivans Radium R27, O'Sullivans Black Limousin

Reserve Senior Champion Bull: Lochinvar Red Hot Chilli Pepper, McCarthy Family, Lochinvar Limousin, Mount Molar QLD

Grand Champion Bull: OSullivans Radium R27, O'Sullivans Black Limousin

Pair of Bulls: O'Sullivans Black Limousin

Breeders Group: O'Sullivans Black Limousin

Sire or Dam Progreny Group: Summit Masterplan L27, O'Sullivans Black Limousin

O'Sullivans Pearl R28, O'Sullivans Black Limousin Grand Champion Female

As the Australian Limousin Breeder's Society celebrate its 50th year in 2023, we encourage ALBS members to send in historic Limousin stories and photographs!

Submit stories to office@genetichub com au

We would love to hear your stories! in 2023

Article by, Nathan O'Sullivan & QLD Country Life Photos by Kent B Ward KB Consulting ©

THE ROYAL MELBOURNE SHOW

Beef Carcase - Led Steers

Reserve Champion Domestic Steer or Heifer

North Ulandi: (LL), Bred By: Spence's Show Steers, Sire: Mandayen Jackaroo

Dam: Mandayen Specials Cookie

Champion Export Steer or Heifer Koonoomoo Cattle Co (LL)

Grand Champion Steer or Heifer

Koonoomoo Cattle Co (LL)

Champion School and College Steer or Heifer

Rutherglen High School: (LL), Sire: Le Martres L96,

Dam: Le Martres K36

Reserve Champion Senior Parader

Caitlin Rodham

Second in a competitive class

JC Cattle Co - steer ‘Sticky’

Champion Senior Parader

Bridie Chester - representing St Marys of the Angles

Nathalia

Female Stud Champions

Junior Champion Heifer

Brentvale Aftershock S6 ‘Footie’ placed first in the heavyweight export class

This steer was kindly donated by Brentvale Limousins as part of a Scholarship awarded at the 2022 National Limousin Junior Show. The steer was awarded to the team of three from SA including Phoebe Eckermann (Aruma Limousin) and Tate Purdue and Bianca Wood (Sapphire Livestock) who prepared the steer for Melbourne Royal.

A massive congratulations to all exhibitors involved you all did an amazing job

By Limousin

Phoebe Eckerman, Aruma Limousin: Raven Heart S443, Tattoo RAVPS443, Sire: Mandayen Kung Fu N221 (HP*) (HB*) (PN) (AC), Dam: Raven Queen Heart Q43 (P) (B) (PU)

Reserve Junior Champion Heifer

R and D Lawrence, Raydon Park Limousins: Raydon Park Sophie, Tattoo: RDPPS4, Sire: RPY Paynes Cracker 17E, Dam: Birubi Migonette M166

Senior Champsion Cow

Summit Livestock: Summit Cauliflower R56, Tattoo: HLGPR56, Sire: RPY Paynes Cracker, Dam: Summit Cauliflower F16

Reserve Senior Champion Cow

Van Der Drift and Sons Pty Ltd: Warrawindi Lady Like Gem: L38 (HP*) (B) (PN) (AC), TATTOO: DJGPL38

Grand Champion Female

Phoebe Eckermann, Aruma Limousin: Raven Heart S443, Tattoo: RAVPS443, Sire: Mandayen Kung Fu N221 (HP*) (HB*) (PN) (AC), Dam: Raven Queens Heart Q43 (P) (B) (PU)

Youth Australia and Royal Melbourne Show Results

Grand Champion Steer on the Hoof Koonoomoo Cattle Co

Photo By, Stock and Land

ROYAL MELBOURNE SHOW

Stud Bull Champions

Junior Champion Bull

R and D Lawrence, Raydon Park Limousins: Raydon Park

Stonehenge, REG: ALBS: R & D Lawrence, 3 Sep 2021, Tattoo: RDPPS5, Sire: Cottage Lake Big Star, Dam: Birubi Red Satan K160

Reserve Junior Champion Bull

Hayden and Jasmine Green: Summit Big Star S46 (2P) (B) (PF), 23 Aug 2021, Tattoo: HLGPS46,

Senior Champion Bull

Summit Livestock: Summit Patriot R53, REG: ALBS:HLGPR53, 15 Aug 2020, Tattoo: HLGPR53, SIRE: Donna Valley Poll

Dictator, Dam: Summit Meadowgrass H39

Reserve Senior Champion Bull

Phoebe Eckermann, Aruma Limousin: Balmara Rare Gem

Stone, 21 Feb 2020, Tattoo: BALPR6

Grand Champion Bull

Summit Livestock: Summit Patriot R53, REG: ALBS:HLGPR53, 15 Aug 2020, Tattoo: HLGPR53, Sire: Donna Valley Poll

Dictator, Dam: Summit Meadowgrass H39

Supreme Exhibit

Summit Livestock: Summit Patriot R53, , 15 Aug 2020, Tattoo: HLGPR53

Best Three Head, Any Age, Both Sexes to be Represented and All Bred and Owned by the Exhibitor

1 Summit Livestock

2 R & D Lawarence, Raydon Park Limousins

3 Bushpark Limousins

4 Phoebe Eckermann, Aruma Limousin

5 Macorna Limousin Stud

Best Two Bulls, Under 20 Months, to be bred by the exhibitor

1 Summit Livestock

2 Bushpark Limousins

3 Macorna Limousin Stud

Best Two Females, Under 20 Months, to be bred by the exhibitor

1 R & D Lawrence, Raydon Park Limousins

2 Phoebe Eckermann, Aruma Limousin

3 Kathy Curran, Deepfields

GRAND CHAMPION FEMALE

Pheobe Eckermann, Aruma Limousin: Raven Heart

SUPREME EXHIBIT and GRAND CHAMPION BULL Summit Livestock: SUMMIT PATRIOT R53

GRAND CHAMPION CARCASE Progress Magic Man S11 exhibited by Finley High School All Photos By: Branded Ag Marketing

THE ROYAL ADELAIDE SHOW

Grand Champion Calf

Duane Wilson, Arabar Limousins, Goldstein Park

Pheonix T1

Junior Champion Limousin Cow or Heifer

Pheobe Eckermann, Raven Heart S443

Reserve Junior Champion Limousin Cow or Heifer

Lakota Livestock, Lakota Solitaire Diamond

The Weatherbys Scientific Australia Prize Senior

Champion Limousin Cow

Pheobe Eckermann, Mandayen Abigail M251

Reserve Senior Champion Limousin Cow

Phoebe Eckermann, Summit Lara R89

The Ausure City and Rural Trophy Grand Champion

Limousin Female

Phoebe Eckermann, Raven Heart S443

Junior Champion Limousin Bull

Arabar Charolais, Raven Stipulate S607 (2P) (B) (PF)

Reserve Junior Champion Limousin Bull

Phoebe Eckermann, Aruma Sycamore

Senior Champion Limousin Bull

Phoebe Eckermann, Balamara Rare Gem Stone (HP*) (HB*) (PN) (AA)

Reserve Senior Champion Limousin Bull

Sasha Lanyon, Horizon River R4

Grand Champion Limousin Bull

Phoebe Eckermann, Balamara Rare Gem Stone (HP*) (HB*) (PN) (AA)

The Warella Limousin Prize Supreme Champion

Limousin Exhibit

Phoebe Eckermann, Balamara Rare Gem Stone (HP*) (HB*) (PN) (AA)

Group Classes

Sire's Progeny Group

Phoebe Eckermann, Oakwood B-Boy (HP*) (HB*) (PN) (AA)

Breeders' Group

Phoebe Eckermann, Aruma Limousin

Steer Results

The Australia Limousin Breeders Society Prize

Champion Limousin Steer on Hoof

Spence’s Show Steers

Spence’s Endeavor

The Australian Limousin Breeders Society Prize

Champion Limousin Steer Carcase

Spence’s Show Steers

Spence’s Endeavor

Supreme Champion Limousin Exhibit

Phoebe Eckermann

Balamara Rare Gem Stone (HP*) (HB*) (PN) (AA)

THE ROYAL ADELAIDE SHOW

The Australian Limousin Breeders Society Prize

Three Winning Limousin Steers in the Led Steer Teams Championship

Glental Partnership

Glental Brentvale Sin To Win S24

Spence’s Show Steers

Spence’s Endeavor

Faith Lutheran College

Limek Larry

The Thomas Foods International Prize Purebred Led Steer Teams Championship

18. Glental Partnership, Glental Brentvale Sin To Win S24 - First

36 Spence’s Show Steers, Spence’s Endeavor - First

63 Faith Lutheran College, Limek Larry - First

Team of 3 - Exhibit 18 on the left, 36 in the middle and 63 on the right

Exhibit 36 - Spence’s Endeavor, being sashed for Grand Champion Steer, also awarded Champion Heavy Domestic

Exhibit 18 - Glental Brentvale Sin To Win S24 as Champion Light Domestic

THE ROYAL ADELAIDE SHOW

Special Awards - Hoof

The Thomas Foods International Champion Purebred Light Domestic Steer on Hoof

Glental Partnership

Glental Brentvale Sin To Win S24

The Thomas Foods International Prize Reserve Champion Purebred LIght Domestic Steer on Hoof

Spence’s Show Steers

Spence’s Bubba Gump

The Thomas Foods International Prize Champion Purebred Heavy Domestic Steer on Hoof

Spence’s Show Steers

Spence’s Endeavor

The Thomas Foods International Trophy and The Livestock Markets Prize Champion

Purebred Steer on Hoof

Spence’s Show Steers

Spence’s Endeavor

The Teys Australia Naracoorte Prize Champion Heavy Domestic Purebred Carcase

Spence’s Show Steers

Spence’s Endeavor

The Teys Australia Naracoorte Prize Reserve Champion Export Purebred Carcase

Bordertown High School

Bordertown High School Sarge

The Teys Australia Naracoorte Trophy and The Spence Dix and Co and The PPH&S Prize Champion Purebred Carcase CHampion Purebred Carcase

Spence’s Show Steers

Spence’s Endeavor

The Peter Lintern Memorial Award Breeder of the Highest Scoring School Steer on Hoof and Hook

Spence’s Show Steers

Source: Royal Adelaide Show

Photos: Emily Buddle

THE ROYAL PERTH SHOW

Only one breeder exhibited Limousin stud cattle at the Perth Royal Show this year. Pat Terpstra and daughter Penny from Aldgate Limousins took three heifers and a bull to Perth from their property in Waroona.

Pat has been breeding Limousins for over 30 years and showing for 27 of them All of this has been done within WA, so the Aldgate name may not be familiar to some breeders in the east. Pat runs around 40 purebreds, plus a herd of commercial Angus and purs her Limousin bulls over them.

New genetics are brought into the herd through the purchase of bulls from Tara Limousins, north of Perth, owned by the Kupsch family.

Pat credits Penny with having a very good eye and Penny now does a lot of the work. This year grandson Ollie aged 12 also lent a hand at the show.

Results

Junior and Grand Champion Bull: Aldgate Samboy (SPTPS2)

Junior and Grand Champion Female: Aldgate Scruff (SPTPS18)

Supreme Champion Limousin: Aldgate Scruff

Aldgate Selena - 2nd

Aldgate Sophie - 3rd

2022 COLIN SAY & CO. BEEF EXTRAVAGANZA

A big congratulations to the Silverleaf Limousins Team on their results at the 2022 Colin Say & Co. Beef Extravaganza!

"We knew this calf was pretty special right from when he was born! A huge congratulations to Travis Luscombe on amazing results from the Colin Say & Co Beef Extravaganza with 'Silverleaf Les'.

Lightweight Champion on the Hoof Lightweight Champion Carcase Grand Carase Carcase

Jackpot Winner

Sired by Wulfs Excellsior and out of our powerhouse Mandayen Jill H2213". - Silverleaf Limousins

Photo: Aldgate Limousins Facebook Page

THE LIMO BLOCKBUSTER

A successful day for the Thompson Brothers at the 2022 Limousin Blockbuster, who placed first and second in the heavy weight heifers, 500kg+, and the overall Grand Champion and Reserve Champion of the day for the same two heifers.

��������������:

������������ - ��������������������������������

1st: C2 Wolff Enterprizes

2nd: M6 Wolff Enterprizes

������������ - ������������������������������

1st: T50, I & S Harland

2nd: N7, Wolff Enterprizes

������������ - ����������������������-����������

1st: M1, LE & ME Blanch

2nd: T37, I & S Harland

������������ - ��������������������-����������

1st: L2, Jon Stiller & Co.

2nd: G9, Jilabri

������������ - ������������������������������

1st: D1, Thompson Brothers

2nd: D6, Thompson Brothers

������������ - ����������������������������

1st: T36, I & S Harland

2nd: O1, Jennings & Weatherall

A massive thank you to Geoff Haack for organising the event, and to the judges Trevor and Sophie Tramacchi. Also, a thank you to Bartholomew & Co Auctioneers and Agents Midge and Chris, Aussie Land and Livestock, for everything done in preparation and on the day.

By Aussie Land and Livestock

By Geoff Haack

inners are certainly grinners. Noel nnings had a great day at the Limo Blockbuster Presentation Lunch yesterday taking out both the Champion on the Hook and the Supreme Champion in partnership with Caroline Weatherall. Couldn’t appen to a nicer bloke. Noel is one of the great gentlemen. Shown here flanked by Midge Thompson from Aussie Land and estock and Garth Weatherall from tholomew & Co." -

THE

SOUTHERN CROSS LIMOUSIN SALE

By Brett Turner

Southern Cross Limousins held their annual sale on the 17th and 18th of September on Elite Livestock Auctions and are pleased to report the sale went very well.

With many repeat clients and and new buyers, 11 of 15 bulls sold to a top of $16,000 for Lot 6 to P&B Bricknell King Creek Limousins and averaged $8,272.

Heifers were put up for sale with 5 of 5 selling to a top of $9,000 for Lot 24 to Andrew Stumer, Provenance Limousins Queensland and an average of $6,400.

5 of 8 semen packages sold to a top of $400 per straw and an average of $330.

The vendors would like to wish everyone all the best with their purchases and also a big thank you to everyone that registered to bid or showed an interest in our sale - without your support we wouldn't have a sale

Thanks once again to our agents J Hindmarsh and Son and Elite Livestock. See you all in 2023.

"First and Second place getters in Class 2 at the Limo Blockbuster. Steers under 440 kgs liveweight. Now here’s some very impressive fillets. Great volume, fantastic meat and fat colour, it just doesn’t come better!"

-Geoff Haack

DEMAND FOR BLACK POLL BULLS

AT BJF LIMOUSIN SALE

By Queensland Country Life and O’Sullivan Family

There has been a strong demand for black poll Limousin bulls at auction throughout Australia in recent times.

This trend certainly continued at the BJF Limousin Invitational Bull & Female sale, the 47 polled Limousin bulls on offer averaged $11,894.

However, the premium for homozygous polled bulls was evident with 22 homozygous polled bulls averaging $14,182.

Similarly, the black Limousin bulls were hotly contested with 28 black bulls averaging $13,357, and the 16 of those that were homozygous black averaging $15,488.

Thirteen homozygous polled, homozygous black bulls were offered and sold for an average of $16,000.

It was one of these homozygous polled, homozygous black bulls that attracted the top money O'Sullivans Radium R27 offered by Mick & Sandy O’Sullivan, Lower Mount Walker selling to fellow sale vendors Peter & Pauline Grant, The Downfall Limousins, Wilsons Downfall NSW and

Brad and Jodie Frohloff, BJF Limousin, Yarraman along with David and Samantha Silcock and Family, Storm King Limousin, Mutdapilly.

The recent EKKA grand champion bull, Radium R27 was a Summit Masterplan L27 son out of O'Sullivans Black Pearl L27 who sold to Jen-Daview Limousin as the top price female at the O'Sullivans Ladies-in-black female sale in 2021.

Radium R27 ranked in the top 1% of the breed for 200, 400 & 600-day growth, top 5% for eyemuscle-area, and docility, top 10% for retail-beefyield, and top 15% for intra-muscular-fat. He will work in all three herds, and semen will be offered ahead of the upcoming spring joining season.

His stable mate O'Sullivans Special K S15 the EKKA Junior Champion Bull and runner up in ACM’s sire shootout competition sold for $22,000 the second top price realised on the day.

Another Masterplan L27 son, Special K S15 was out of OSullivans Black Pearl K35 and will travel south to Merriwa NSW to join the sire battery at the Gill Family’s Alexander Downs.

Long-term supporters of the sale the Joynson family, Howard bid hard to secure their pick of the draft The Downfall Solid Nugget S14, offered by Peter and Pauline Grant for $21,000.

Operating on AuctionsPlus the Wilson family, Banana Station, Banana paid to a top of $20,000 twice for O'Sullivans Rack Em Up R30 offered by the O’Sullivan’s and O'Sullivans Rip Snorter R36 offered by Brad & Jodie Frohloff when putting together their draft of four black polled bulls at an average of $16,250.

Top price bull O'Sullivans Radium R27 with back; Garth Weatherall, Bartholomew & Co, Peter Grant, The Downfall Limousin, Brad and Jodie Frohloff, BJF Limousin, Sandy and Mick O’Sullivan, O'Sullivans Black Limousin, front; Midge Thompson, Aussie Land and Livestock, Rhys Bodey, Bartholomew & Co, Samantha, David and Tabetha Silcock, Storm King Limousin.

AT BJF LIMOUSIN SALE

While, Walara Cattle Co, Walara, Comet also put together a draft of four black poll bulls operating online for a $10,750 average, paying to a top of $16,000 for BJF Tamallolo offered by the Frohloff’s.

With 45 per cent of the bull offering selling for $10,000 or less there was plenty of value to be found within the catalogue.

In the females 12 of the 24 offered sold to a top of $9,000 for an average of $4792.

It was the 3-in-1 unit BJF Zambuka Wilma N307 offered by Brad and Jodie Frohloff that attracted the top money selling to Peter and Pauline Grant, The Downfall Limousins, Wilsons Downfall NSW.

The Silcock family, Storm King Limousin, Mutdapilly selected four females in total paying to a top of $5,000 on two occasions for The Downfall NYSE Chunk S15 and The Downfall BSW Ways S12 both offered by the Grant’s.

Rosemary and Chris Clifton, Clifton Cattle, Loomberah NSW and Mick and Sandy O’Sullivan, O'Sullivans Black Limousin, Lower Mount Walker both parted with $5,000 for their picks of the female offering The Downfall Sweet Chunk S2 and BJF Masterplan Pearl S55 respectively.

The sale was conducted by Aussie Land and Livestock and Bartholomew & Co with Midge Thompson, Garth Weatherall, and Corey Evans auctioneering.

LOOKING BACK IN THE ARCHIVES AS WE

PREPARE TO CELEBRATE 50 YEARS

"Present at the first Annual General Meeting

17 November 1972

Back Row Left to Right: Jock Makin (SA), Jim Conroy (VIC), John Lithgow (VIC), John Yencken (VIC), Gordon Stewart (VIC), Keith Hahn (SA).

Front Row: Louis de Neuville (FRANCE), Lionel Busquets (NSW), James Maxwell (NSW), Alan Anderson (VIC), Bob Forsyth (NSW)" - Source: The Herd Book: The History of the Limousin Breed in Australia

Photograph by Margaret Alcorn"

Source: The Herd Book - The History of the Limousin Breed in Australia

"Frisson (Hampton) is one of the most widely used sires in Australia with more than two thousand progeny.

LOOKING BACK IN THE ARCHIVES AS WE PREPARE

TO CELEBRATE 50 YEARS

"In the early days Limousin were prized as beasts of burden. Their strength is demonstrated in this photograph which shows English cattle breeder Yvonne Forster in a carriage being pulled by Limousin. At the time the photograph was taken, Yvonne Forster was president of the British Limousin Society. Note also the photograph of Michael White at the beginning of this chapter"ALBS Archives.

"The twelve 3/4 Limousin calves produced by embryo transfer at Corhan Limousin Stud in April 1975. With the calves are Japanese Veterinarian Mr Gunjiro Kobayashi and the owner of Corhan Mr Charles Jaeger".

BEEF BONANZA

By Karinne Gelderman, various schools, and Limousin Youth Australia Photos: UHBB and Schools

Gumboots and Grins were the standard attire for the Upper Hunter Beef Bonanza. A total of 520 kids, 254 prime cattle and 40 stud heifers turned up to compete with others unable to make it through flood waters to attend the event.

Limousin and Limousin x cattle, as usual, had a fantastic show winning both the champion and reserve champion titles in every led prime division.

Major results:

The Champion & Reserve champion lightweight steers were both owned and exhibited by the MacRae partnership. They were purchased from a Coonamble commercial breeder, Matt Mackenzie, and were out of Oakvale Limousin cows and sired by the Benjarra Question Time bull.

The Champion Light Middleweight, and overall Grand Champion, was exhibited by Keajura Park Limousins. He was bred by Brentvale Limousins in SA and was sired by Brentvale Nitro N13 out of Brentvale Fifi P4 He was sent over to the Maclure's and fed for 120 days and Jason Foote of Brentvale Limousins, was full of praise for how the Limousin Youth Members prepared and showed the steer

The Reserve Champion Light Middleweight steer was exhibited by JA and CM Adams

The Champion Heavy Middleweight was awarded to Calrossy Anglican School Breeding to follow

The Reserve Champion Heavy Middleweight was exhibited by W Davis and J Davis and was bred by Deepfields Limousins He was sired by Greenwood Fernando

The Champion Heavyweight was a purebred Limousin bred and exhibited by Flemington Limousins He was sired by Flemington Quicksilver Q6 and out of a Oakwood Cutmasta heifer

Reserve Champion Heavyweight awarded to Scots All Saints College with a Limousin X steer that was purchased through the Carcoar (CTLX) saleyards

Champion Light Middleweight and overall Grand Champion

Champion Heavy Middleweight

Champion Lightweight Steer

Prime Heifer:

Champion awarded to PRB Livestock (Limousin X) Reserve Champion awarded to Calrossy Anglican School (Limousin)

Congratulations to;

LYA Member Sarah Randle who took out the Grand Champion Parader with her recently purchased female King Creek Sieana 258.

Jack Robson of Flemington Limousin and Angus awarded 12/13 year old Champion Parader.

School and Stud Success at Scone Beef Bonanza

Clients of Col & Lorna McGilchrist of Back Creek Limousins have had a very successful year in the show ring with the stud adding breeding the supreme carcase at the Scone Beef Bonanza to their list of achievements this year The steer was sold as Lot 37 at the annual Glen Innes potential steer sale in March and the steer judge, Steve Martin, purchased him for Wellington High.

The steer sold for $14/kg ($3700) and was sired by a homebred bull, Back Creek Payabull (Harlees Mr Jock) out of a Mandayen cow. The steer went on to win the champion led steer at Wellington, Dubbo and Warren shows as well as being reserve champion at the national all breeds JNR heifer show. At Bonanza the steer was 2nd in the led section but easily won the supreme carcase with a massive 91.36 points, receiving $4,905 in prize money. Wellington High school agricultural teacher, Rob Dimmick feedlots 10 steers at a time with roughly 20 - 25 being shown by the school each year. He said that they focus on good quality carcase cattle and that Limousins have a big part to play in achieving that.

The school has purchased Limousin steers from the Blue Ribbon sale in Toowomba, The Glen Innes sale and most recently the Golden Opportunity Cattle sale at Coonamble.

Champion Heavyweight Steer

Champion Prime Heifer

UHBB Supreme Carcase being led in an earlier 2022 show.

BEEF BONANZA

Wellington High was just one of the many schools to purchasing Limousin steers for competition at Scone. Another school that invests heavily in Limousins is Scots

All Saints College at Bathurst. Libby Dawes, the director of agriculture for the school has been building the school herd for many years. The Scots results are below:

Paraders Results

Jack Robson – Champion 12 – 13 yo

Tom Devine – 2nd heat 14 yo

Sarah Randle – Champion 15 yo (and Grand Champion)

Bibiannah Peattie (part of Bulang Park) – 1st heat 17 - 18 yos

JNR Judging Results

Sam Robson – 1st primary

Sarah Randle – 6th 15yo

Bibiannah Peattie – 4th individual overall ICMJ, runner beef judging ICMJ

Chatham School (Bulang Park Limousins) also had success with steers purchased from Kundle Park Limousins. Kundle Park Saint, Class 11, heavy middleweight Led section 2nd, Carcase, 2nd

Kundle Park Shaggy, Class 10, heavy middleweight. Led section 2nd, Carcase, 1st

The reserve champion light middleweight led steer exhibited by JA and CM Adams was bred by Luke Borg (LAS Limousins). He was sired by Flemington Muscle Up out of a cow with Willow Park genetics. The steer also won the carcase section of class 6.

In the interbreed stud heifer competition results were:

Under 12 m: Berdihold Silhouette – 1st 12 – 16 m: Angledale Stella S29 – Highly commended 16 – 20 m: Berdihold Sparkle – 3rd

Kundle Park Saint

Jack Robson - Paraders

Sarah Randle in Paraders

LIMOUSINS ON FIRE AT COOLABUNIA

by Brent Evans

In total 36 bulls were sold for 100% clearance and averaging $13,000 topping at $28,000. 4 females were sold for a total clearance to top at $10,000 and averaged $6,375.

Organisers and vendors were left speechless after the event with the result that was achieved. The Grandstands were packed and standing room only as prospective buyers and supporters showed enormous support for the new sale.

The inaugural Coolabunia Limousin Bull sale was held on Saturday the 13th of August at the Coolabunia selling complex.

Mervale Limousins topped at $15,000 for Lot 1 to Comet Downs Cattle Trust.

Wahroonga Limousins topped at $13,000 for Lot 6 to Springdale Land and Cattle Co.

Provenance Limousins topped at $16,000 for Lot 8 to Banana Station.

Elwanvale Limousins topped at $15,000 for Lot 11 to Leather Cattle Co.

Jen-Daview Limousins topped at $28,000 for Lot 15 to Charles and Carmel McKinlay

Summit Limousins topped at $19,000 for Lot 26 to MK Cattle

Fernvale Limousins topped at $11,000 for Lot 32 to Comet Downs Cattle Trust

Kalara Limousins topped at $16,000 for lot 33 to Provenance Limousin Stud

MCL Limousins topped at $10,000 for Lot 36 to G & G Sherlock

Silverleaf Limousins topped the Female draft at $10,000 for Lot 41 to Charlevue Cattle Co

Enormous central and northern Queensland support saw bulls spread form Aramac, Emerald, Duaringa, Comet, Banana, Monto and all local areas, as well as bulls to Glen Ines and heifers to WA Thank you to all vendors and sponsors and supporters for the time and effort put into running a successful inaugural sale

Fernvale Limousins - Lot 32

Provenance Limousins - Lot 8

Jen-Daview Limousins Lot 15

1. Which 2022 sale had a new record top price?

JUST A LITTLE TRIVIA FUN

2.What percentage were 2022 bull sale prices averaging above 2021?

4. Which bull topped at $20,000 for the 2022 Northern Limousin Breeders' Sale?

5. What year did Hartfield Limousin buy their first Stud Sire?

7. What state had the highest gross sales of Limousin cattle in 2022?

8. Who is the Limousin Youth Ambassador for 2022/2023?

11.What year did the Spence Family debut at the Royal Adelaide Show?

12. What are the four indexes used by Limousin breeders?

15. How many people make up the Genetic Hub team?

9. Who had the Grand Champion Female at Royal Queensland Show?

13. Who was the Grand Champion Female at EKKA?

3. What record price did Summit Krystal L35 sell for?

6. What weekend is the New Zealand 50th year anniversary celebrations?

10. Which Limousin cow was awarded the Miss World title?

14. Who are the Limousins' breed advancement team?

16. How many bulls topped at $20,000 at the Northern Limousin Breeders Sale?

17. What percentage of lots sold to QLD, VIC, NSW and SA at the Inaugural Graduates of Goldstein Park Sale?

TURNING YOUR GENETIC PLAN INTO ACTION

1. Know your breeding objectives

When was the last time you considered not which bull you buy, but where you buy it from and why? Where is your herd at today compared to where you want it to be in 5-10 years time? Most importantly, what and where will your market be in 5-10 years time? As you begin to reflect on the year and consider these questions, it's time to think about the bulls or cows that you will be buying this season or next. Take the time now to sit down and discuss these matters with your team. Build a plan that will make every bull purchase count to take your cattle and your business to where you want it to be.

A few weeks ago we shared with you our Genetic Plan tool to help you fully define your genetic game plan for your breeding program. The goal with this tool is to make you question your breeding decisions a little and leave you feeling confident about your future.

Once you have a goal, you can go through and establish what traits you want to improve on and also ones you need to be cautious of. Genetics can be a balancing game There is no point in improving your live weight or carcase quality traits if you don’t also consider structural soundness. These traits are no good to you if the bull can’t get around the paddock to cover your cows.

2. Select a seed stock producer

Now that you’ve fine-tuned your genetic plan, the next step is to find a seed stock producer with bulls that fit your requirements. Be curious and keep an open mind to see what options are out there You can check out and locate all of the Australian Limousin stud breeders on this website

Find a breeder that has bulls carrying genetics consistent with your genetic plan. Make sure they offer EBVs, selection indexes and genetic testing results for the particular traits and genetic conditions of importance to your breeding program. Investigate breeders' environmental influences on their bulls and make sure they conduct all the appropriate Breeding Soundness Evaluation checks, vaccinations and health treatments necessary. You want to make sure your bull will stand up well on arrival home and last long enough to have an impact

It is also important to take the time to make sure their breeding and business objectives align with your own. For example, if you want to improve calving ease and docility in the next 5 years, make sure you find a breeder who has already been working towards achieving this

You may have returned back to the original breeder you started with, but now you have a better understanding of where your genetics are heading so you can make the very best decision on the day.

3. Selecting the right bull

After establishing your breeding objectives and finding a bull breeder that matches these, it's time to look closely at what bulls they have on offer.

Before the sale

It's time to kick your analytical brain into gear. Closely review the sale catalog or ask the breeder for an excel spreadsheet of the sale team- whatever method is easier for you to sort through the bulls Go through the sale team and highlight any bulls that are within the thresholds of each trait you selected in your genetic plan. You will find that a few bulls tick multiple boxes. These are in your YES category. Next, go through and cross out any that are way outside of your thresholds These are in your NO category and, no matter how good looking the bull is, you are not allowed to buy it. There will be a few that tick one or two boxes, which if assessed alongside its other data, can also go in your YES category.

By now you should have a handful of bulls that really stand out on paper- fingers crossed they sparkle on the day too. Doing these steps will really simplify the bull buying process and help you to stay focused to achieve your breeding objectives

What to look for on the day

Now is your time to pick the best option for you while weighing everything up With all of the numbers work done, now is the time to visually assess the bulls on offer.

Really take the time to stand back and look at every part of the bulls you’re interested in Remember to not bother with those in the NO category Some bulls may immediately not meet your visual criteria.

When selecting Limousin bulls, it is important to avoid the distraction of any non-genetic influences on the appearance or performance of the bulls that are available While visually assessing the bulls, consider non-genetic influences such as age, supplementary feeding status, whether the bull was reared by a mature cow or a heifer etc.

Other selection criteria that you may also consider during your assessment on the day might include: temperament on sale day; coat and hide characteristics; genetic diversity of the bulls pedigree compared to the females to which they will be joined; muscularity; maturity; or various assessments of animal type.

It is important to balance selection of any traits of specific importance based on their influence on the profitability of a beef enterprise, so try and avoid the distractions of any aesthetic features that don’t have an impact on your bottom line.

If a bull meets the bill on paper, is structurally perfect and easy on the eye, you may have found a winner!

The next step is to make sure your bidding elbow is well greased because after all of this work- you don’t want to miss out on that game-changing bull you’ve found.

By following all of these steps, you will ensure that your selection decisions are focused on identifying bulls that are carrying the genetic package most aligned with your breeding objectives.

Georgia Pugh, neXtgen Agri

1stDecember 2022:

23rd December 2022:

4th January 2023:

20th January 2023:

28th January 2023:

3rd February 2023:

9th February 2023:

9th February 2023:

15th February 2023:

24th -26th February 2023:

9th March 2023:

9th March 2023:

17th March 2023:

24th March 2023:

6th - 17th April 2023:

26th April 2023:

27th April 2023:

27th April 2023:

28th April 2023:

13th June 2023:

4th August 2023:

12th - 20th August 2023:

18thAugust 2023:

2nd - 10th September 2023:

13th September 2023:

21stSeptember - 1st October:

22nd September 2023:

23rd - 30th September 2023:

25th - 28th October 2023:

18th November 2023:

SALES AND EVENTS

Entries for the National Show and Sale Open

Genetic Hub Office closed for Christmas- New Year Period

Genetic Hub Office Opens,9am

Entries for the National Show and Sale close

Warrigal Limousins production sale

Maryvale Beef Week open day

Pelican Rise Invitational Limousin bull and female sale

Maryvale "Power in the Pedigree" bull sale

Mandayen 2023 Annual bull sale

Canberra Royal Show

Chateau Limousins 9th Annual Production sale - 40 years celebration

Midland Cattle Breeders ‘ Association, Multi Breed Gingin Bull Sale - WA

Flemington Autumn bull sale

Balamara Limousin and Angus inaugural bull sale

Sydney Royal Easter Show

Limousin National Show and Sale Inspections

Limousin National Show and Sale - Show

Limousin National Show and Sale - Dinner

Limousin National Show and Sale - Sale

Snake Gully Limousins annual sale

Northern Limousin Breeders sale

EKKA

BJF Limousin invitational bull & female sale

Royal Adelaide Show

Mount Pleasant Limousins annual bull sale

Royal Melbourne Show

Graduates of Goldstein Park sale

Perth Royal Show

Royal Hobart Show

Flemington Autumn herd dispersal sale

Queensland

Feb 25 - Cooyar Show

March 10 - 11 - Pittsworth Show

June 6 - 8 - Farmfest

August 7 - 12 - EKKA

September 22 - 24 - Qld

Junior Limousin Camp

New Zealand

April 20 - 23 - Weekend of Fun!

Located at Methven

More details page 16

Western Australia

October - Brunswick Show

Perth Royal Show

Pioneer Event - details TBA

New South Wales

April 6 - 17 -

Sydney Royal

Easter Show

Dinner - TBA

Victoria

March - Farm World

September - Royal Melbourne Show

Gala Dinner run in line with Royal Melbourne Show - details TBA

With more events to be added, keep an eye on Limousin Social Media and Newsletters for up-to-date information on the 50th anniversary celebrations happening throughout 2023.