Stokman Angus is busy calving and preparing for their annual yearling sale on September 20, where they will be offering more than 100 bulls and 40 heifers.
Jake Stokman says there are good reasons for farmers to buy yearlings instead of two-year-old bulls.
“Firstly, they are cheaper.”
Raising two-year-old Angus bulls this winter averaged more than $9500.
“At our sale we averaged $5700 on 100 bulls, but there were 40 per cent of the bulls that sold for between $2200 and $4000.
“You also get more use with yearling bulls, as you get an extra breeding season out of them,
and faster genetic gain as you can introduce newer genetics into your herd a year earlier.”
Jake says yearlings are usually fitter and more agile as they are still growing, and haven’t got all that extra weight.
“You just need to ensure they are well grown when you purchase them, and look after them after mating season. They mix in the herd better and are easier to handle than older bulls.”
Earlier breeding means the bulls are maintained at weights below their genetic potential and as a result, less stress on their skeletal structure.
“Our bulls are well grown and will average more than 500kg on sale day. They are HD50k tested for more EBV accuracy, carcass scanned, fertility tested and are known for their docility.
“We concentrate on calving ease, short gestation, low birth, above average growth and adequate carcass traits. It’s all about balance!”
SOURCE: Coast & Country News, Friday 15 September 2023
Stokman Angus 