On Property at “Murrawin”, Naracoorte, South Australia
11.am Thursday 15 February, 2024
VENDOR
N.S. & S.M. Moyle
Pathfinder ‘Murrawin’ Tivers Road Spence SA Naracoorte 5271
Nick: 0417 802 218
moyles@skymesh.com.au
www.moylepathfinder.com
AGENTS
Nick Heffernan: 0439 157 398
INSPECTION
Sale bulls will be available for inspection at South Australian Beef Field Days Monday, February 5 on property and from 9.30am (ACDT) on Sale Day.
Jamie Gray: 0407 905 052
Sale interfaced with
Dear Friends,
WELCOME
Welcome to our 29th Annual Bull Sale. Thank you to those people who continue to support and believe in our breeding program.
The Pathfinder breeding program comprises a herd of 1800 stud and commercial Angus females, with over 1600 females inseminated to the industry’s top sires and approximately 200 embryos implanted from our elite cows. We constantly scan Australia, USA, and New Zealand for sires that will make both our herd and our clients’ herds more profitable. If there are better proven genetics out there, we will find them, however with our strict criteria of good structure and docility, combined with high scrotal, a lot of popular sires don’t make it to first base!
We have a number of proven, high performance and new sires represented in 2024.
Calving-Ease Sires – Newly, Paratrooper and Quarterback have proven that you can have calving ease, with plenty of growth and carcase.
We don’t have to put up with low growth to sleep at night during calving!
For Moderate Birth and Maximum Curve Bending Growth – super sires, Nationwide, Beast Mode & New Ground and ultimate Carcase Bulls - Intensity L519, Quarterback and Fireball have been included.
Breedplan has revolutionised our ability to make genetic progress, along with AI and ET, however the challenge is to find an optimal level of production traits that suit both our environment and premium market specifications.
Our breeding philosophy is simple – we want the heaviest, thickest, docile calves possible from an unassisted birth and have carcase traits that provide feed-lotters with a high return. Most importantly, we want consumers to have a pleasurable eating experience –marbling is critical to achieve this.
We have a policy of continually using the top proven sires that already have progeny performing under commercial conditions. This greatly increases the reliability and consistency of our bulls. These genetics are then transmitted
to our clients’ herds, resulting in an even drop of calves, with a higher percentage hitting premium specifications. Having a well-bred herd of renown proven performance bloodlines adds huge value to your beef enterprise.
If you need assistance in relating EBV’s and sire selection for your production system, please don’t hesitate to call. Our cattle are run at above district stocking rates with hay being fed sparingly. The bulls are normally grass-fed, giving a good indication of their doing-ability. Being a locally based owner/operator, we pride ourselves on providing service and back-up immediately, should the need arise. Our program of having mainly grass-fed semen-tested bulls from proven genetics has eliminated most of the common problems.
We will be participating in the Victorian Beef Field Days on Saturday, 3rd February and the South Australian Beef Field Days on Monday, 5th February, we invite you to inspect the bulls on these days, or on Sale Day, from 9.30.
A light lunch and refreshments will be provided at the sale. We look forward to seeing you there.
Nick, Sara, Elle, Harry, Tom & Linley.
PATHFINDER ORIGIN
The Pathfinder stud was founded in 1986 with a base of elite cows from The Basin herd and the purchase of top female bloodlines from around Australia. Currently, the Pathfinder breeding program, owned by Nick and Sara Moyle, comprises a herd of over 3500 cattle spread over seven properties in South Australia and Victoria.
HISTORY
Nick and Sara were so taken by the American Angus Society Pathfinder program that it was an easy decision to call their stud Pathfinder.
The program identifies superior cows and sires based on their performance in the Angus Herd Improvement Records.
The focus is on performance traits that are economically important for efficient beef production. Pathfinder is an award for excellence.
It fits in well with the general philosophy behind Nick and Sara’s herd. The Pathfinder program was started in 1978. The 2016 Pathfinder report listed 9,480 individual cows, and 268 sires, that met the criteria. Records of over 2 million eligible cows, and just over 7.5 million weaning records, were examined in the preparation of this report.
To qualify cows must calve at 2, 3 and 4 years of age, and each calf must weigh at least 5% above the herd average at weaning. Clearly they must be consistent performers over at least three calving’s. Once a cow is designated as a Pathfinder cow she is a Pathfinder cow for life. She may however not qualify for listing every year once she has gained this status unless she meets certain production criteria. Bulls that sire five or more qualifying females also qualify.
The Australian Angus Society does not have a similar program to the American Pathfinder program. Nick said this did not stop them applying the same criteria in describing the quality of their herd. “Currently we collect a lot of information on each animal so it is not difficult to identify our elite performers.”
The American Pathfinder selection criteria are the best, most simple and effective formula for a profitable beef herd. It is the core of Nick & Sara’s breeding program.
TODAY Cattle Cycle
We are currently coming off a low point in the cattle cycle and expect returns to improve through to 2027, peaking higher than the 2022 records. Herd improvement is a long game and the bull investment this year will have benefits in your cow herd for the next decade.
Longevity
It has been a big couple of years for our registered female sales, with studs from across Australia purchasing cows for embryo transfer and upgrading their existing herd. With our recognised focus selection on feet, structure, docility and growth, we have a large number of older cows that have a lot of improvement to offer the Angus industry. This exceptional longevity adds value to our clients’ herds.
Sustainability
Living in a cold winter environment where wind farms excel, the welfare of our cattle has been a priority. This year we aim to plant around 2000 native trees in a 20m strip along paddock fence lines. This 20 year and currently 30km ongoing project has been extremely rewarding. The trees are not only great for the livestock, but also for the biodiversity in wildlife and insects. These permanent tree plantings have given us a basis for carbon accumulation to offset carbon emission requirements. This emissions target is also helped by our focus on growth and Net Feed Intake in the breeding program. Essentially more weight in less time, with minimal input.
Family Farming
In 2023 we had two exciting additions to the family:
Ayla Rose – Tom & Linley’s first child, born in February.
Sophia Belle, Elle’s second child and little sister to Jack. Jack has recently turned 2 and has moved into middle management. Family farming is a great privilege.
Pictured above left: Elle with Sophia at the Hamilton Weaner Sales. Right: Tom and Linley with Ayla.
SALE NOTES
GUARANTEE
Pathfinder guarantees the structural integrity and fertility of all bulls. The entry of every bull constitutes a guarantee by the Vendor that the bull will be replaced (without interest, expenses, cost and damages) if a bull proves totally infertile, incapable of service or structurally unsound. If any bull entered does not possess a reasonable fertility although not totally infertile, any dispute shall be settled by an arbitrator appointed by the agent. Any complaint must be lodged with the agent within 12 calendar months of the date of sale. The cost of taking delivery of and returning the bull to the Vendor is to be borne by the Purchaser. A Veterinary Certificate shall be produced by the Purchaser when required. The agent will assist in settlement of any dispute, but will assume no responsibility for any breach of warranty.
INSURANCE
AIl lots offered will be insured by the Vendor for a period of 14 days from the time of sale. Insurance covers death only, additional cover can be arranged at the sale.
SEMEN RIGHTS
Pathfinder retains 50 percent semen rights in all bulls sold.
AGENT REBATE
A 3% rebate is offered to outside agents introducing buyers 24 hours prior to the sale in writing and settling within seven (7) days.
MANAGEMENT
Since the establishment of the stud it has been the policy of the management to raise stud cattle under conditions similar to those applying to commercial beef productions.
HEALTH, FERTILITY & STRUCTURAL SOUNDNESS
The inclusion of every animal in this sale catalogue is contingent upon the following criteria:
We consider the animal free from faults likely to interfere with its ability to live a normal productive life.
All bulls have been Semen tested and scrotal measured.
All bulls have been vaccinated in January 2024 for Pestivirus and 7in1.
All bulls have been given their 1st vaccination for Vibrio – the 2nd shot should be done prior to mating.
All bulls have been drenched with Mectin in January 2024.
All bulls are pedigree free or tested free of AM & NH genes. This allows all sale bulls to be used with confidence, regardless of pedigree.
NBRS BREEDPLAN
This superior performance recording option was adopted by the stud in 1994. Under Breedplan, calculation of an animal’s breeding merit includes not only its own performance but also the performance information on all record relatives. It is now possible to make accurate comparisons between animals in different management groups and different years.
PARENT VERIFICATION SUFFIXES
The animals listed within this catalogue including its pedigree, are displaying a Parent Verification Suffix which indicates the DNA parent verification status that has been conducted on the animal. The Parent Verification Suffixes that will appear at the end of each animal’s name.
The suffix displayed at the end of each animal’s name indicates the DNA parentage verification that has been conducted by Angus Australia.
PV both parents have been verified by DNA.
SV the sire has been verified by DNA.
DV the dam has been verified by DNA.
# DNA verification has not been conducted.
E DNA verification has identified that the sire and/ or dam may possibly be incorrect, but this cannot be confirmed conclusively.
DISCLAIMER
Animal details included in this catalogue, including but not limited to pedigree, DNA information, Estimated Breeding Values (EBVs) and Index values, are based on information provided by the breeder or owner of the animal. Whilst all reasonable care has been taken to ensure that the information provided in this catalogue was correct at the time of publication, Angus Australia will assume no responsibility for the accuracy or completeness of the information, nor for the outcome (including consequential loss) of any action taken based on this information.
Mother to Beast Mode & 38 Special; Granddam to Goalkeeper and Sterling Pacific, Isabel Y69 is arguably the most influential cow in the Angus Breed.
She is highly fertile, with 375 genomically tested progeny and at 13 years old, she still ranks in the Top 1% for structure and Top 3% for docility.
With below-average birth weight and ranking in the Top 10% for growth, she has stamped herself into the Angus history books, as being the most commercially relevant Angus dam in the last decade.
Pathfinder has focussed on building the maternal power of Y69 into our herd, by having the most progeny in Australia by her sons and grandsons.
Our 2024 bull sale line-up features a large run of Beast Mode sons. If you want moderate birth with explosive growth, combined with the maternal power of Isabel Y69, this will be the last big line-up of his sons to be sold.
Having the maternal power of Isabel Y69 in the pedigree moves your program to a premium generating level.
of Herds: 121, Prog Analysed: 4440, Genomic Prog: 2466 GL,BWT,200WT(x2),400WT(x2),600WT,Scan(EMA,Rib,Rump,IMF),Genomics
Observed: Number of Herds: 2, Prog Analysed: 73, Genomic Prog: 23 GL,BWT,200WT,400WT,600WT,SC,Scan(EMA,Rib,Rump,IMF),Genomics
MANAGING YOUR NEW SIRE
Dr David Rendell To the best of their ability Pathfinder have produced a fit, healthy sire and to get the most of your bull I would make the following suggestions:
When the bull/s arrives at your home, let them settle in by leaving them in the yards overnight and observe how they are reacting to their new home. Give them fresh water and good quality hay. If you have purchased only one bull, find a mate or two for him straight away. The mate should either be a single, similar sized and aged bull, or a few steers none of which are heavier than the bull.
If you have bought multiple bulls from a number of different management groups, it is often better to put all those new bulls of a similar weight and age together at once. Introducing new bulls into a mob one at a time can lead to the new bull being
worms than cows and need around double the drenches particularly in the first year of purchase where they may benefit from up to 3 or 4 drenches.
Pathfinder drenched the sale bulls with Bomectin on the 11/1/24, and their next drench is not due until around 5- 6 weeks post the autumn break. In the first year after purchase, they should be drenched every 2- 3 months during winter and spring. In the second and subsequent years after purchase (cows all 3 years plus) a single midsummer drench and one or two winter drenches is all that is needed on most properties. Pathfinder has vaccinated your bull with 7 in 1, Pestivirus and Vibrio. To maintain this protection they will need vaccinating with 7 in 1 & Pestivirus annually, with Vibrio just prior to joining. In the
cows and treat at the very first sign of lameness or penis injury (e.g. sheath swelling, discharge or penis hanging out). You need to inspect the full length of the sheath as burst blood vessels can occur just in front of the scrotum. With any delay in removal and treatment, the chance of recovery plummets.
Swap bulls mid-joining especially if singularly mated. Record dates of swap and mob details etc. If observing a bull mounting, but not serving, you’ll need to remove him from the cows for about four hours. Observe closely when the bull has been returned to cows. If the bull is sound and the cow is still on heat he will serve straight away.
Inspect bulls three times weekly during joining. For further advice please do not hesitate to call Nick as he knows your bull well.
UNDERSTANDING THE TRANSTASMAN ANGUS CATTLE EVALUATION (TACE)
WHAT IS THE TRANSTASMAN ANGUS CATTLE EVALUATION?
The TransTasman Angus Cattle Evaluation is the genetic evaluation program adopted by Angus Australia for Angus and Angus influenced beef cattle. The TransTasman Angus Cattle Evaluation uses 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).
The TransTasman Angus Cattle Evaluation is an international genetic evaluation and includes pedigree, performance and genomic information from the Angus Australia and Angus New Zealand databases, along with selected information from the American and Canadian Angus Associations.
The TransTasman Angus Cattle Evaluation utilises a range of genetic evaluation software, including the internationally recognised BLUPF90 family of programs, and BREEDPLAN® beef genetic evaluation analytical software, as developed by the Animal Genetics and Breeding Unit (AGBU), a joint institute of NSW Agriculture and the University of New England, and Meat and Livestock Australia Limited (MLA).
WHAT IS AN EBV?
An animal’s breeding value can be defined as its genetic merit for each trait. While it is not possible to determine an animal’s true breeding value, it is possible to estimate it. These estimates of an animal’s true breeding value are called EBVs (Estimated Breeding Values).
EBVs are expressed as the difference between an individual animal’s genetics and a historical genetic level (i.e. group of animals) within the TACE genetic evaluation, and are reported in the units in which the measurements are taken.
USING EBVS TO COMPARE THE GENETICS OF TWO ANIMALS
TACE EBVs can be used to estimate the expected difference in the genetics of two animals, with the expected difference equating to half the difference in the EBVs of the animals, all other things being equal (e.g. they are joined to the same animal/s).
For example, a bull with a 200 Day Growth EBV of +60 would be expected to produce progeny that are, on average, 10 kg heavier at 200 days of age than a bull with a 200 Day Growth EBV of +40 kg (i.e. 20 kg difference between the sire’s EBVs, then halved as the sire only contributes half the genetics).
Or similarly, a bull with an IMF EBV of +3.0 would be expected to produce progeny with on average, 1% more intramuscular fat in a 400 kg carcase than a bull with a IMF EBV of +1.0 (i.e. 2% difference between the sire’s EBVs, then halved as the sire only contributes half the genetics).
USING EBVS TO BENCHMARK AN ANIMAL’S GENETICS WITH THE BREED
EBVs can also be used to benchmark an animal’s genetics relative to the genetics of other Angus or Angus infused animals recorded with Angus Australia.
To benchmark an animal’s
genetics relative to other Angus animals, an animal’s EBV can be compared to the EBV reference tables, which provide:
• the breed average EBV
• the percentile bands table
The current breed average EBV is listed on the bottom of each page in this publication, while the current EBV reference tables are included at the end of these introductory notes.
For easy reference, the percentile band in which an animal’s EBV ranks is also published in association with the EBV.
CONSIDERING ACCURACY
An accuracy value is published with each EBV, and is usually displayed as a percentage value immediately below the EBV.
The accuracy value provides an indication of the reliability of the EBV in estimating the animal’s genetics (or true breeding value), and is an indication of the amount of information that has been used in the calculation of the EBV.
EBVs with accuracy values below 50% should be considered as preliminary or of low accuracy, 50-74% as of medium accuracy, 75-90% of medium to high accuracy, and 90% or greater as high accuracy.
DESCRIPTION OF TACE EBVS
EBVs are calculated for a range of traits within TACE, covering calving ease, growth, fertility, maternal performance, carcase merit, feed efficiency and structural soundness. A description of each EBV included in this publication is provided on the following page.
UNDERSTANDING ESTIMATED BREEDING VALUES (EBVS)
CEDir %
CEDtrs %
Birth
Genetic differences in the ability of a sire’s calves to be born unassisted from 2 year old heifers.
Genetic differences in the ability of a sire’s daughters to calve unassisted at 2 years of age.
Higher EBVs indicate fewer calving difficulties in 2 year old heifers.
Higher EBVs indicate fewer calving difficulties in 2 year old heifers.
FERTILITY
DtC days
Genetic differences between animals in the time from the start of the joining period (i.e. when the female is introduced to a bull) until subsequent calving.
Lower EBVs indicate shorter time to calving.
STRUCTURE
score
Genetic differences in foot angle (strength of pastern, depth of heel).
score
SS cm
GL days
Genetic differences between animals in the length of time from the date of conception to the birth of the calf.
Lower EBVs indicate shorter gestation length.
BW kg
Genetic differences between animals in calf weight at birth.
GROWTH
Lower EBVs indicate lighter birth weight.
200 Day kg
400 Day kg
Day kg
Genetic differences between animals in live weight at 200 days of age due to genetics for growth.
Genetic differences between animals in live weight at 400 days of age.
Genetic differences between animals in live weight at 600 days of age.
kg
Genetic differences between animals in live weight of cows at 5 years of age.
Higher EBVs indicate heavier live weight.
Higher EBVs indicate heavier live weight.
Higher EBVs indicate heavier live weight.
Higher EBVs indicate heavier mature weight.
CWT kg
cm2
mm
Genetic differences between animals in scrotal circumference at 400 days of age.
CARCASE
Genetic differences between animals in hot standard carcase weight at 750 days of age.
Genetic differences between animals in eye muscle area at the 12/13th rib site in a 400 kg carcase.
Genetic differences between animals in fat depth at the 12/13th rib site in a 400 kg carcase.
Genetic differences between animals in fat depth at the P8 rump site in a 400 kg carcase.
Genetic differences between animals in boned out saleable meat from a 400 kg carcase.
Genetic differences in claw set structure (shape and evenness of claws).
Lower EBVs indicate more desirable foot angle.
Lower EBVs indicate more desirable claw structure.
SELECTION INDEXES
Higher EBVs indicate heavier carcase weight.
Higher EBVs indicate larger eye muscle area.
Higher EBVs indicate more fat.
Higher EBVs indicate more fat.
Higher EBVs indicate higher yield. IMF %
Genetic differences between animals in intramuscular fat (marbling) at the 12/13th rib site in a 400 kg carcase.
OTHER
Higher EBVs indicate more intramuscular fat.
$A $
Genetic differences between animals in net profitability per cow joined in a typical commercial self replacing herd using Angus bulls. This selection index is not specific to a particular production system or market endpoint, but identifies animals that will improve overall profitability in the majority of commercial grass and grain finishing beef production systems.
Higher selection index values indicate greater profitability.
$D $
Genetic differences between animals in net profitability per cow joined in a commercial self replacing herd targeting the $D supermarket trade. Higher selection index values indicate greater profitability.
$GN $
kg
Genetic differences between animals in live weight at 200 days of age due to the maternal contribution of its dam.
Higher EBVs indicate heavier live weight.
kg/ day
Genetic differences between animals in feed intake at a standard weight and rate of weight gain when animals are in a feedlot finishing phase.
Lower EBVs indicate more feed efficiency.
Genetic differences between animals in net profitability per cow joined in a commercial self replacing herd targeting pasture grown steers with a 250 day feedlot finishing period for the grain fed high quality, highly marbled markets.
Higher selection index values indicate greater profitability.
$GS $
%
Genetic differences between animals in temperament.
GROWTH
Higher EBVs indicate better temperament.
Genetic differences between animals in net profitability per cow joined in a commercial self replacing herd targeting pasture finished steers.
Higher selection index values indicate greater profitability.
GRASSFED BULLS INCREASE LONGEVITY
Bull longevity is often an overlooked trait that affects the siring cost per calf born.
Pathfinder Goldmark was incredible from this standpoint, doing 17 joining seasons (Autumn & Spring each year) and dying at the age of 11 years old.
The average working life of an Angus bull in Australia is 2.3 years.
This is influenced by a lot of factors, but most importantly the environment in which he goes to work in. His weight heading out for joining and the number of females he has to cover, are the biggest influence on stay-ability.
With so much genetic growth being inbuilt to these bulls, it is advisable to restrict the feed to mature bulls in Spring, to help preserve their structural integrity.
We find a lot of damage happens also ‘out of season’ – in the bull paddock. As a consequence, we now try to split our bulls up into small groups, preferably 2-3 per paddock.
Sheath or penis infection or injury in the first year is another common problem. We check our young bulls twice a week, and at any sign of swelling, remove immediately and treat with an antibiotic and anti-inflammatory. If the problem is picked up early, most bulls will recover in 3-6 months.
With longevity in mind, we have been very focussed on structure, with our two main sire-lines (Beast Mode & Intensity L519) being in the Top 2% of the breed.
We also believe good docility plays a role in reducing fighting and subsequent injuries.
Bull growth and preparation prior to sale can also be a factor. We are moving away from the industry standard of grain supplementing bulls prior to sale & this year, to date, our bulls have been 100% grassfed. The sale bulls will carry less weight and therefore be more agile and less prone to structural injury in their first year.
We can’t guarantee this approach every year, as it depends on seasons, but we believe this approach will add to the longevity of the bulls and subsequent value to the purchaser.
THE OBLIGATION OF THE PURCHASER
The Pathfinder Guarantee is not a replacement for sound management practices. The guarantee is provided to cover the performance of the bull where breeding cows are managed to recognised industry standards. The purchaser of the bull is expected to observe joining, monitor for later cycling and record any repeat cycling in the females. If any problems arise it is expected that the purchaser notifies Pathfinder within 3 months, after the end of the joining period.
At Pathfinder we recognise there is an infertility risk involved in breeding herds.
We breed our bulls so as to limit the financial and production risks involved.
If for any reason there are any unexpected outcomes with Pathfinder bulls we stand by our product and do not expect you the producer to have to bear the entire financial burden.
If you have a problem we want to be the first to know about it.
We have confidence in our bulls and offer a commitment to our clients that our product and service is of the highest quality achievable.
Your success is ultimately our success.
CLIENT PROFILE - TURNBULL
Born and bred near Tambo, Central Queensland, brothers, James and Alex Turnbull, their partners, Amy and Victoria and their young families, currently own and manage the expansive 29000 acre property ‘Lloyd Hills’, located near Augathella - 700 clicks west of Brisbane and 270 clicks west of Roma.
James, a stock agent with Nutrien Ag Solutions in Tambo and Alex, a local contract fencer, continue a 3rd generation family grazing tradition; their parents, Andrew and Heather, continue to independently operate their own sheep grazing operation near Tambo.
Currently the brothers are calving down 350 predominately Angus cows, infused with a dash of Brangus blood and are joining 130 Angus replacement heifers to run in their continuous grazing system. Along with the beef enterprise the Turnbull boys also run a ten thousand head
crossbred Boer goat side hustle.
The boys are very particular when it comes down to sires. “Our herd is mainly 75-80% Angus content with a touch of Brangus influence for the tough times” James affirms. “That little infusion of Brangus helps when it gets real dry out here”.
For James and Alex, bull selection isn’t just about figures; its also about temperament. He said if they can’t get in the yard with the bulls at a field day or sale, they’re immediately crossed off the catalogue.
“ Good temperament is vital. We need
to
have
quiet cattle we can easily handle and muster with bikes and choppers. And quiet cattle always perform better”.
The Lloyd Hills journey into Pathfinder genetics began when James first met the stud’s Elle Moyle back in 2009 at Wagga Wagga NSW, where they both studied at Charles Sturt University. Now, after nine years and numerous Pathfinder bulls, the Turnbulls continue to value the partnership.
Their herd grazes on very diverse country, from light to medium red soils with sandalwood and box, to heavier country with brigalow and mulga. The pasture base includes silk sorghum, buffel and native grasses and cattle are supplemented fed seasonally with a urea based dry lick - normally from June-July to December.
Over 3500 acres have been blade ploughed and sown to buffel and silk sorghum, with an additional 5000 acres thinned, burnt and sown to buffel. The balance of the country is a blend of mulga, box, blackbutt,
CLIENT PROFILE - TURNBULL
AUGATHELLA, QLD
brigalow, sandalwood, and wilga country with vital water points pumped up from a subartesian bore, approximately 450 feet under the ground.
In an ideal year, the growing season begins with opening rains in November through to March/April with an annual rainfall of around 450mm (18 inches). However 2023 has been a year with “bugger all” rain, only recording 180-210mm (around 7-9 inches) to date. With predominantly summer rainfall, they hope to get more storms rolling in from November/ December right through to April/ May.
In this challenging farming environment, extremes in temperature and erratic rainfall require resilient animals. The Turnbulls have found that Angus females born in the north
fare better, confirming their decision to bring the Pathfinder bulls up from the south to the females.
Despite these sometimes harsh conditions, James has found the Pathfinder bulls to have adapted quickly to the huge variation in temperature - from minus 5 in winter, up to 45 degrees Celsius in peak summer.
“ When they’re out in the paddock working, the bulls may not always look their best” he said “but they sure get the job done and the calves on the ground”.
The breeding regime at Lloyd Hills begins with putting the bulls out in December/January for twelve weeks for an October/November spring calving.
The Turnbulls aim for a moderate to large framed, productive cow of around 600kg – and one that consistently raises a good weaner. Using Pathfinder bulls has been outstanding for the fertility in the herd with a PTIC strike rate of around 96%
on the cows and around 90% for heifers. “We’re pretty tough when it comes to culling” James said. “Anything not in calf or which hasn’t raised a weaner, is straight out the gate – no second chances.
Calves hit the ground in October/ November and are weaned in June/July depending on the season. Weaning involves a week to ten day process, with calves yard weaned, then tailed out using motorbikes and dogs.
Immediately after weaning, the steers and any cull heifers are typically sold via Auctions Plus, at weights from around 250-300kg.
“Any heifers that don’t make the grade will go on the Auctions Plus ticket with the weaner steers, but the majority will stay on until preg testing” James attested. “We’ll cull a handful of heifers but the majority of them will get the chance to perform and pretty much if they come into the yards not in calf or they don’t raise a calf, they’re on the next truck out of here”.
At the end of the day, it’s pretty much all about temperament, fertility and early growth – we need the fertility and we want cattle that can “do” James said.
“ We’ve had a pretty good run with Pathfinder genetics - they’re doing the job that we need them to do”.
VALE BEN & CHARLIE MUMFORD
Tragedy has struck the Redhill community after a plane crash at Merriton killed a well-known father and son.
The pilot, Ben Mumford, aged 50, accompanied by his 24-year-old son Charlie, was flying his Cessna when it struck powerlines.
Ben and Charlie are survived by Ben’s wife Bronwyn and two sons Lachlan and David.
The Mumford’s have been farming at Redhill since 1924, and are dedicated members of the community with involvement in the local Country Fire Service, football, tennis, basketball and cricket clubs.
Ben was previously on the Crystal Brook show committee as well as former livestock chair of lobby body the SA Farmers Federation
The Crystal Brook Show committee issued a statement saying the loss of Ben and Charlie Mumford had devastated many in the community.
It said Ben’s wise council and strong leadership had been an invaluable asset.
“ Ben has been a mentor to young men and women transitioning to life on the land, always willing to help out when they need arose’, it said.
‘The Mumford’s are the most genuine, humble people you will ever meet. Life won’t be the same without Ben and Charlie’
Brinkworth Spalding Redhill football and netball club issued a statement saying it’s members were ‘devastated’ by the tragic accident that had taken the lives of player Charlie Mumford and his father, Ben Mumford, an exceptional club person.
‘The BSR football and netball club, extends our deepest sympathies, along with thoughts and prayers to the Mumford family’, it read.
‘You would not find a more kind and generous family. They are so loved and respected in our club and community’
Former president of the SA
Farmers Federation, John Lash said Ben was on a couple of committees for the farmers federation.
‘I used to refer to Ben as the enforcer, because Ben was a big powerful guy and had an imposing presence,’ he said
‘Everybody who met Ben thought he was quite dependable in his comments and thought about issues clearly before he made any comment,’
He said Ben was very focused on agricultural outcomes and trying to make decisions that benefited the whole of the industry.
‘The ideal spokesperson for the industry at many levels, so I found Ben to be quite an influential guy’ he said.
Mick Hammill, Redhill, said he had worked carting for the Mumford family since 2009.
‘ Charlie was an up-and-coming young farmer’ he said.
‘ He was an old soul with young shoulders’
BUYERS INSTRUCTION SHEET
This slip must be completed by the Buyer, and handed to the Auctioneers prior to leaving the Sale. We strongly recommend insuring bulls for a minimum of 12 months. Name
Signature of Buyer
DELIVERY INSTRUCTIONS
(Please ensure adequate time is allowed to organise for appropriate yarding and safe transport of your valuable purchase. See Sale Notes explanation)
To ensure prompt and safe delivery of your valuable purchase, please complete the above. Verbal instruction will not be accepted.
CONTACT US
NICK MOYLE 0417 802 218
SARA MOYLE 0419 557 688
ELLE MOYLE 0409 190 506 PENSHURST 2126 Macarthur-Penshurst Road
moyles@skymesh.com.au
www.moylepathfinder.com
PROVEN GENETIC POWER
We aim to have the most profitable customers in the business
