Many outstanding cow families
feature in the April run, some representing decades of breeding in Australia while others have been more recent imports, adding further diversity to the local Holstein population. Half the list comprises animals born in 2020 and 2021, reflecting the genetic progress of the breed.
Strength & diversity of breed reflected in April proofs
SA Calf Handlers Day turns 40 Young dairy handlers will be part of a milestone event this weekend as they compete in the 40th running of the South Australian Holstein Branch All-breeds calf and handlers day at Murray Bridge. SA Holstein branch president Gino Pacitti says: "The calf and handlers day has been a springboard for a lot of budding careers in the dairy industry".
Class of 2013 - Judge Justin Walsh with Courtney Afford, Brian Haebich & Casey Treloar
Other highlights:
April 2021 bull rundown Our take on the Australian Proven, Balanced, Genomic, HWI and Type bull lists, with many options for Holstein breeders to increase the genetic merit of their herds and improve the health traits.
The position will suit an individual with a passion for working with dairy livestock, the great outdoors and building relationships with dairy farmers, with the successful applicant ideally based in SE Australia. Find out more about the role and how to apply here.
Young dairy enthusiasts have been back in action this month with some exciting camps taking place across the country. Last week, WA and QLD held youth events for the first time since the global pandemic caused the mass cancellation of shows last year.
Trevor & Leah Parrish's, Illawambra Holsteins is Australia’s top BPI herd with an average of 252 and second HWI herd at 246. Alex Arena's Vala Holsteins tops the HWI list & is second for BPI, with the Kitchen family’s Carenda herd third for both BPI and HWI.
The Byrne Lea Holstein Dairy Dispersal held gross $846,200, with the celebrated Avonlea Jacobonia family featuring strongly - Byrne Lea Bradnick Jacobonia EX90 topped the sale at $14,250.
Vala Autumn Feature Sale tops $26,000 Vala Sidekick Cheers, an 11 month-old direct daughter of famed North American show cow Unique Dempsey Cheers EX95 and backed by 10 generations of EX and VG dams topped the recent Vala Holsteins Autumn Feature
Sale.