First developed by crossing thin-skinned, heat-tolerant Indian breeds with traditional English cattle, today’s Australian Brahman was developed by northern cattlemen who realised that traditional breeds were unable to withstand the ravages of northern Australia’s cattle ticks, heat and drought.
Today, the breed’s influence covers Australia, with stud and commercial live cattle exports to many overseas countries a clear indication of the breed’s adaptation over a wide spectrum of climatic conditions.
The growth and development of the Australian Brahman has been described as the greatest livestock revolution in history.
It has transformed the northern beef industry into an efficient and highly profitable enterprise which contributes millions of dollars annually towards domestic and export income.
In the more temperate weather conditions found in Victoria, Brahman offer improved drought resistance, a boost in production by up to 40 per cent through hybrid vigour and an ability to increase overall herd fertility, milk production and reproductive longevity.
More than that, they provide an outcrop in genetics that has the potential to increase stud value.
The Rockhampton Brahman Week Sale is the largest bull sale in the Southern Hemisphere.
At last October’s event, a total of 779 Brahman stud and herd bulls were sold for an average of $16,843, with two bulls reaching $200,000 each.
For more information on how to maximise your herd, email the Australian Brahman Breeders Association at abba@brahman.com.au or visit the Brahman site at the Seymour Alternative Farming Expo.
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