PASTURE WEIGHT GAINS TO 2.2 kg / day

We are all very aware that superior growth genetics are essential to producing as many kilograms of beef per hectare as possible. It is one of the major drivers of all beef production systems. Over recent years, the ability of Australia's cattle herd to live up to their true growth potential has been drastically reduced due to a constant lack of quality feed in the paddock.

However, when these two factors combine, cattle can obtain exceptional weight gains. During April and May 2014 a group of Shorthorn and Shorthorn Charolais cross heifers grazing a newly established sub-tropical pasture achieved an average weight gain of 1.72 kg per day - with a Shorthorn heifer (sired by Dunbeacon Explorer Y131) topping out at 2.2 kg per day. We were amazed that these heifers had reached target weights so fast, giving us marketing options before pasture quality reduces  during winter. These heifers have now been consigned to the new Shorthorn Beef EU Select program at Woombi Feedlot, Tinga.

For those producers that are able to grow these summer active perennial grasses in their areas they can provide large amounts of quality feed very quickly. ( Our forage tissue test was Crude Protein 17% with 9.8 megajules of energy ).

Commercial Heifers on Sub-Tropical Pastures

First trip to Woombi Feedlot - Heifers are exhibiting excellent growth and finish after 42 days on feedlot ration.