Redgate aims to consistently produce superior Hereford genetics
by using the best genetic resources possible and
applying innovative management principles.
Redgate’s breeding program aims to achieve major goals. These include having all animals -
- in the top 10% for grass-fed index;
- naturally healthy, fertile & structurally sound; and
- with good temperament.
Major goals are broken down into specific and achievable mini-goals in areas such as calving ease, birth weight, growth and carcase attributes. Improving retail yield is a very specific goal.
All goals are monitored regularly and adapted to fit changing circumstances.
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Redgate aims to fast-track genetic gains by identifying and using younger bulls - that is, 12 to 18 months of age.
There are some important safeguards to be observed –
- Bulls must be well grown – that is, a minimum of 450Kg.
- Bulls must be sexually mature with testicles a minimum of 32cm in circumference and Vet inspected for reproductive soundness.
- Bulls should be “solo joined” with no more than 30 females (to prevent injury by older, heavier bulls).
- Joining period should be no longer than 8 weeks.
- After joining, give the bull good feed and appropriate drench, vaccinations & vitamins (A, D, E & B12).
The clear benefit of such a program is that commercial breeders can access better bulls at less cost.
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Improving retail yield is a specific goal at Redgate. Every animal Redgate breeds goes on to breed more animals and many of these will be finished for processing as steers or unjoined heifers.
Every Redgate bull is in the top 20% for all four Indexes in Breedplan and 50% are above breed average for retail yield. We aim to improve this!
In the case of bulls below breed average for retail yield there are sound reasons for their retention – for example, calving ease & low birth weight, or top 10% EBVs for carcase, EMA and rib & rump fat.
All our females are in the top 20% for all four Indexes in Breedplan and 75% of them are above breed average for retail yield.
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Breedplan is our benchmark for genetics and genetic gains - but it does not guarantee success.
Redgate has had good results and disappointing ones – we just keep trying to achieve our aim. All weight, scan & other data is submitted to Breedplan no matter what, so the resulting EBV’s for Redgate cattle are as complete, reliable and useful as possible.
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Redgate cattle are raised on natural grasses and pasture hay: there is no grain feeding. Mineral blocks are always available to ensure our stock always maintain good health and condition.
Three or four times each year all our stock are routinely checked by independent professional advisers for animal health, structural soundness & overall suitability for our business.
We do not use any artificial fertilisers or herbicide on our pastures.
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Three Principles of Positive Cattle Breeding...
- Have a clearly defined goal.
- Be prepared to do whatever it takes to achieve that goal. Have a yardstick to measure progress.
- Be prepared to enjoy doing it!
[Adapted from Dr Ian Gawler BVSc: founder of the Gawler Foundation]
Redgate genetics – ‘opening new opportunities’.