I kicked off the start of the new year by getting some dust on the boots in Western Districts, Victoria engaging with members and industry partners at the annual feature weaner sales, where over 30,000 head of cattle went under the hammer. Despite the challenging dry conditions experienced across southern Australia over the past 6-12 months, the overall results were encouraging, with Hereford cattle receiving competitive prices across the entire yarding.
Unfortunately, we are often confronted with misleading journalism perpetuating the pricing differential myth. HAL Chairman, Marc Greening, recently addressed this issue in Stock and Land and Stock Journal, emphasising purchases were based on quality of the cattle and that on this metric there’s little price difference between Hereford and Angus. However, vendors and agents needed to think about how they marketed their Hereford cattle. You can read the article here: Buyers have their say on whether colour counts when purchasing cattle.
Looking ahead, I am looking forward to meeting more members at the Mountain Calf Sales from 3-5 March in the Victorian High Country, where we are also planning to host a networking event, further details to be shared soon. I hope to see you there.
Preparations are in full swing for the StockCo by Heartland Bank Herefords Australia 60th National Show & Sale (Wodonga) with a very special anniversary cocktail function being held on Wednesday, 14 May at The Goods Shed, Wodonga. This promises to be a memorable evening featuring great food, refreshments, live entertainment, and of course, the highly anticipated Herefords Australia Youth Auction. Tickets will soon be available for purchase via the Herefords Australia website and as it is a ticketed event, early bookings are encouraged.
Further details on the StockCo by Heartland Bank Herefords Australia 60th National Show & Sale (Wodonga) will be shared in the coming weeks, with a friendly reminder that entries close on 21 February, so please ensure you register promptly to prevent any delays with DNA requirements. Registration can be completed here: Show & Sale Registration.
Inventory lists have recently been distributed so please complete these online before the deadline of 31 May 2025. You will also then enter the draw for a $200 discount on your 2025 inventory invoice.
Membership billing will be processed early next week so please keep an eye out. If you haven’t received your invoice by the end of next week, kindly contact our office at 02 6772 1399.
I look forward to working with you all throughout 2025. As always, please do not hesitate to reach out if I can assist in any way.
Warm regards,
Alastair James CEO, Herefords Australia