Quality, not quantity, was the driving force behind the immaculate 143-lot draft selected for the Riverina Stockfeeds National Braford Sale to be offered at the CQLX Saleyards in Rockhampton on Monday, September 14, from 9am.
Sale committee president Russell Kenny said ease of calving, weight gain, body structure, EMA's and fertility were the primary traits the 21 vendors, from Queensland and New south Wales, focussed on when assembling their drafts for the 54th annual sale, which will see 133 registered bulls, seven herd bulls and three registered females enter the sale ring.
"Quality, not quantity, has been key to the ongoing success of the sale, and we feel that the quality of our offering is improving every year," Mr Kenny said.
This focus on quality shone through at the 2019 sale, where 105 bulls sold for a sturdy $7912 average and a 100 per cent clearance.
"The sale is know for providing a great draft at fair prices. Progeny produced by bulls sold previously through the sale have shown great marketability in selling as weaners to the feedlots or as fatteners," he said.
Mr Kenny said Australian Braford Society members are also currently involved in a feedlot trial at Ralph Beddows, Wongabung Feedlot, Windera, with aim of highlighting that Brafords can perform just as well as other breeds on-feed for use in the live export market.
"Six commercial Braford breeders have put 80 to 90 steers into the trial. They were entered into a 100-day program at 420-450kg and should come out at Jap Ox weights, by November 10. The Braford Society AGM will be held at the feedlot at that time so members can see their final weight before they go to market. We also have half the steers in the trial on HGP's, so we can get a better idea of their benefits."
Mr Kenny said while climatic conditions have improved across most of the areas the vendors call home, soaking rain it still required.
"While the seasonal conditions are looking up, the border closures due to the impact of Covid-19, is hindering New South Wales-based vendors and prospective bidders, as the situation is changing week to week.
"To ensure all interested parties who're unable to attend the sale in person can view the sale proceedings and make bids, we'll be utilising AuctionsPlus online selling platform for the sale."
The sale draft is now viewable on AuctionsPlus, and will penned for inspection at Aus-Stadium, CQLX, from 2pm on Sunday, September 13. A pre-sale meet and greet will be held at the Gracemere Hotel from 5.30pm on the Sunday.
- For enquiries contact the Australian Braford Society office, or sale agents Nutrien, Elders, SBB/GDL and AuctionsPlus