As the year draws to a close, I want to take this opportunity to share some key updates from our recent Board meeting and reflect on the progress Herefords Australia has made in 2024. These developments and achievements set a strong foundation for continued growth and success in the coming year.
At its early December meeting, the Herefords Australia Board agreed to a modest increase to fees to align with CPI, and the introduction of scaled inventory fees to assist members increase the number of animals, and associated data, included in the BREEDPLAN evaluation. This will, in time, allow members to make better breeding decisions. Ordinary membership fees have been adjusted to better accommodate associated costs, while export and import fees were reduced to encourage greater uptake.
Minor amendments to the Regulations include updates to the import/export procedures, animal registrations, and transfer policies. Notably, dam verification will no longer be required for imported animals, semen, or embryos, and new policies have been introduced for animal reactivation and dispersal sales.
A revised Super Sire Program is also on the way, with further details to come in the new year.
On reflection, it has been a transformative second half of the year for Herefords Australia and our members. The release of the Sustainability Production Index and MSA Production Index into Herefords Australia BREEDPLAN was a key achievement, reinforcing Herefords’ economic and environmental sustainability credentials while addressing consumer expectations for eating quality. Another significant milestone was the transition to a direct-to-lab DNA processing model.
We have also made substantial progress in MSA carcase data collection, growing from 15,000 voluntarily contributed records to nearly 40,000. This invaluable data underscores the breed’s over-the-hook advantages and will continue to support our marketing efforts, backed by robust evidence. As industry progresses towards value-based marketing, Hereford genetics will shine even brighter, offering compelling crossbreeding advantages.
Looking ahead, our preparations for 2025 are already in full swing, with a clear focus on elevating the breed to new heights. Events such as the 60th National Show & Sale in Wodonga and the Harris Farm Markets National Youth Expo promise to be highlights of the year.
Thank you to the Herefords Australia team, our Board of Directors, and our dedicated members for your ongoing support.
Wishing you all a joyous, safe, and Merry Christmas. I look forward to working with you in the new year as we continue championing the Hereford breed.
Warm regards,
Alastair James
CEO, Herefords Australia
