BEEFWEEK 2 0 2 6 PRINTED AND PUBLISHED BY EAST GIPPSLAND NEWSPAPERS UBLISHED BY EAST GIPPSLAND NEWSPAPERS BENAMBRA TO BAIRNSDALE Droving the weaners south Alan Taylor, Leon Ford, Laurie Hiscock. Boss drovers and master horsemen, stockmen and dogmen of yesteryear, legends of their time. Their names are etched in the history books for the feats they each managed to achieve, droving hundreds of freshly weaned cattle 150 kilometres from the Mountain Calf Sales to Bairnsdale, arriving with stock quiet and broken in. There’s a kind of reverence when the younger drovers speak about those boss drovers, and while many locals will have their own memories, this story focuses on the memories of two such drovers, Peter ‘Pilso’ Richards of Swifts Creek, and Tim Woodgate of Buchan, as well as the diary entries of Laurie Hiscock. Pilso and Timmy were part of the last generation of drovers who helped take the cattle from start to finish, all the way from the Benambra saleyards through to the Bairnsdale saleyards, where the new owners would collect their stock. Continued pages 2 -3 Laurie Hiscock, Ken Howlett and Denis Neal with Leon Ford as boss drover at the rear, 1979.
BEEF WEEK 2026 East Gippsland Newspapers 2 Thursday, January 29, 2026 Droving legends of East Gippsland: Life, From page 1 Both started as young blokes, Pilso as a kid on a pony in the early 70s, joining the mob under Leon Ford for a few days as it went past his home at Doctors Flat, and Tim later on, at age 16, with Laurie Hiscock as boss drover. In a car these days, Benambra to Bairnsdale takes about two hours. But with a mob of cattle, the 150-kilometre trip took about 11 days, picking up cattle along the way from the Omeo saleyards and the Ensay saleyards. It was a fair undertaking, particularly with the advent of faster cars and trucks in later years, and the lack of understanding of their drivers. The weather played a big part in the trips, with hot days and cattle laying down, big storms and hailstones savage enough to mark a man on a horse. The droving was done to educate the weaned cattle and to identify each new owner’s cattle, the system was simple. The Benambra cattle were marked with blue paint, each new owner claiming the rump, shoulder or loin, for their particular painted mark, the Omeo cattle were marked with red paint and the Ensay cattle with yellow. PILSO’S MEMORIES Pilso grew up at Doctors Flat, where the mob would pass right through, and was just 14 when he did the full trip from Benambra to Bairnsdale and has many great yarns to tell. “It was an epic journey for a young fella,” Pilso said. “I had a little brumby mare, and I used to go with them when I was 10 or 12 and do a couple of days. “I wasn’t flash enough to have a swag, I’d crawl in under the truck, I had a tarp and a couple of blankets, and I put my jacket on my upside-down saddle for a pillow.” He did a few droving trips with Leon Ford and then Laurie Hiscock. “I remember Mr Taylor, he was pretty well known in the district. “Especially for his counting ability, no one ever disputed him.” He said they kept their horse feed and camp gear in the truck, and their diet was boiled spuds, pumpkin and onion, plus meat, every night. “If tomatoes were in season someone would drop them off to us and I remember fondly, Topsy Newcomen bringing tins of homemade butter to us,”Pilso said. He tells the story of a ‘mongrel whip-shy dog’one trip. “We were at Double Bridges and a bloke brought a young horse for Laurie to ride. “We had the cattle in a wire paddock in the bush there. “One of my jobs was to ride up the ridgeline cracking my whip, to scare the roos away so they didn’t spook the cattle through the night. “That dog wouldn’t work, the whip shy thing, it’d just slink along behind us all day. “Anyway, we had the veggies in a pot on the campfire and some beautiful lamb chops someone had delivered, and we all went to watch Laurie ride, but the horse went like a bloody pony clubber, did nothing. “In the meantime, that mongrel dog turned up and ate every one of those chops so we had to have bloody potato, pumpkin and onion on its own again.” He said when the mob left Benambra, they’d let them run a bit of steam off and when they picked up another 400 or so at Omeo they would circle the mob so the fresh weaners let off steam. “Old Bert Lee would be in the lead for that section, he’d never turn his head, just look out the corner of his eye, see the calves moving up and send his dogs to turn the lead back. Tim and I sat in what we called the‘death seat’to turn those weaners back.” Pilso didn’t have any working dogs but got to know‘every nook and cranny’of the road, where they would have trouble with cattle leaving the road and how to pull them up. “There’s always an art to stopping a big mob,”he said. “You have to slow them down and let them settle, you can’t just stop, it’s a bit of a process. He remembers Reids camp not far down from Swifts Creek, with a big mob that wouldn’t fit in the yards and using a holding paddock where they had to light fires in a line. The calves would rush through the night until they reached the fires that and a bit of hollering held them up. It was an all-night job for the older blokes. “The calves would rush because the Ensay ones were fresh and they’d rush to the fires and stop,”he said. Another trip at the Ensay yards, they had their horses tethered with a nosebag feed and somehow, someone opened the gates and the Ensay weaners poured out of the yards. “Leon Ford jumped on his black horse with a halter to get them, he was a good operator Leon, a great horseman and a gentleman of the road.” The gate opening may have been due to the camp being so close to the Ensay Pub, a ‘bit of a trap being so close’according to Pilso, with‘King Browns’(bottles of beer) being consumed. With a laugh he remembers Plugger McMahon, who was “good when you were in trouble with the mob, but more than likely he was the reason you were in trouble!”. He says the camp spots have changed over the years and so has the river. “The river is just a gutter now, it used to be wider, flatter, slower. “You could water a thousand weaners at Tambo Crossing, now it’s all scrub, even Double Bridges, we used to feed them there now it’s all covered in bush, you couldn’t poke a flea in there now.” Sometimes the calves would get footsore, with the worst cases roped and put in a horse float to be taken to Bairnsdale. “I remember Ian McMahon with a rope one time in front of some young ladies, somehow he managed to get the rope around himself!” Closer to Bairnsdale the school buses would go through the mob, and in an effort to‘impress the sheilas on the bus’, Pilso was out the front feeling like a real cowboy, until his “bloody old horse took me under a low limb and nearly knocked me off”. Some of the years the Newcomen brothers would put the Ensay calves on the road before they joined the main mob. Pilso also remembers Johnny Cook, Evan Newcomen, Hoss Pendergast, KJ and Johnny Ross on the road. “Hoss came with us one year as many did over the years,”he said. “Some for a few days some just for the one trip. “There are still some older fellas around who did the droving trips in the early days,”he said. Tim Woodgate and Ken Howlett, 1979, at the Livingstone River. (From Tim Woodgate’s collection) Boss drover Laurie Hiscock. (Photo: Anne Hiscock) * Tim Woodgate * Peter “Pilso” Richards Anne and Laurie Hiscock 30 years ago. Alan Taylor. (Supplied by Anne Hiscock) Fiona & John Glover: 0416 216 951 | 4770 South Gippsland Highway, Lang Lang. Victoria | www.wattlewoodangus.com.au ANNUAL BULL SALE: THURSDAY 5TH MARCH 2026 AT 4PM WATTLEWOOD ANGUS 9Herd Book Registered 9Semen Tested 9Parent Verified 9Genotyped 9P.I. Negative 9Naturally quiet 9Immune Ready (vacc. 7in1, Pestigard, Vibrovax & Rhinogard) 9Free of Known Genetic Defects (by pedigree or testing) g Lang Victoria | wwww a d ) Beef Week Open Day and Bull Sale Preview: Saturday 31st January 2026 wattlewoodangus.com.au Beef Industry Workshop: Tuesday 10th February 2026 Fiona & John G T Sale Update: NEW VENUE
BEEF WEEK 2026 East Gippsland Newspapers 3 Thursday, January 29, 2026 THE JOURNEY The first day was from the Benambra saleyards around to Estates’yards, with blokes and hessian super bags or flapping oilskins helping to turn them round the corner. On to Omeo the second day where they would wait for the Omeo weaners to be painted up, and again blokes would stand with hessian bags to help turn the cattle towards Swifts Creek. Next camp was Huggins yards at the bottom of The Gap, then onto Reid’s Woolshed near Swifts Creek, where Tim remembers Joe Fitz turning up with baskets full of veggies on a tractor. The mob would then take the old road from Doctors Flat to Ensay and follow the Tambo River along to arrive at the Ensay saleyards, rather close to the Ensay pub for the drovers. The next camp, Pilso said, was four miles down the road at Reedy Flat, which was always a nervy camp with the fresh Ensay weaners in the mob. Often the cattle would bolt during the night. Some drovers blamed a certain bike-riding local for stirring the cattle up at night. On through the bush to Sommerville’s paddock at Tambo Crossing, or Bill Flynn’s yards, then to a wire yard in the clear country at Double Bridges. The following night’s camp was at Evans’ paddock at Ramrod Creek near Bruthen, then onto Leo Hamilton’s paddock at the Sand Hill. The final camp was called‘Yellow Waterholes’or Macnamara’s Waterhole out the back of Lucknow and on the very last day the mob would cross the river over the bridge into Bairnsdale. The drovers would turn them to the left past the old Imperial Hotel and the Butter Factory, taking the back road to the Bairnsdale Saleyards where their new owners would take over. LAURIE HISCOCK’S DIARY According to Laurie Hiscock’s work diary, his first trip as boss drover in 1979, 408 cattle left Benambra in the mob, the owners charged $2.40 a head; 364 head joined the mob from Omeo, at $2.30/head and 144 from Ensay joined the mob at a charge of $2.10/head. Also at Ensay, 128 head were taken out for the Treasures, with the total to Bairnsdale 788 head. The drovers on the trip‘all or part of time’were: Leon Ford, Dennis Neal, Ken Howlett, Tim Woodgate, John Jennings, Bert Lee, Peter Richards and Rick Morgan. Laurie, born in 1943, was 36 on his first boss drover trip. Sadly he passed away in September, 2016. Laurie and his wife Anne were married in 1966 and bought their farm at Ensay in 1974. His dairy shows in 1980 the charge per beast from Benambra rising to $3.30/head and the total to Bairnsdale at 689 head. Nine head were taken out for T Farmer at Ensay, and the‘men’on the trip were John Jennings, Peter Richards, Tim Woodgate and Dallas Jennings, and part time were Dennis Neal, Bert Lee and P Commins. Simon Turner and B Mitchell were added to the list of drovers in 1981 when the mob size reached a mighty 1299 head. In 1982 the mob dropped back to 461 head, with ‘nil’cattle joining the mob from Ensay, and Laurie’s sons Michael and Jim Hiscock, plus John McMahon listed as drovers. The diary entries continue each year until 1984, with the 1983 entry stating: ‘Too dry, drought conditions the worst on record. Tambo River dry down to below Swifts Creek, in holes only to Ensay. Farmers had pumps on most water holes.’ The final 1984 trip lists the price at $4.10/head from Benambra, with a total 477 driven to Bairnsdale and the drovers including John Jennings, Tim Woodgate, John McMahon, Greg Counihan, Dick Leatham, and part time, D Neal, S Neal and B Lee. Laurie’s wife Anne said Laurie loved the droving trips. “He had always been friends with Leon Ford and it was something he always wanted to do,” Anne said. Laurie went two or three times with Mr Ford before he took on the boss drover role, even spending a month on the road with him, droving cattle all the way to Glenmaggie. “It was an achievement for him,”she said. “They never lost a beast. They dropped one at Tambo Crossing once but it turned up a couple of months later and Laurie sorted it. “They could always account for every beast.” She also mentioned the camp at Reedy Creek, or Harmans, where the cattle would rush. Laurie found himself with another young bloke running in front of the rushing cattle dragging a stick on the bitumen to make noise to stop them running. The young fella told Laurie he couldn’t keep on running. “You’ve got to run or you’ll die,”Laurie told him. Anne said when Alan Taylor was boss drover, there was no truck to cart the gear, instead he used packhorses. “If it was a wet night they stayed in their oilkins all night, rather than get their blankets wet,”she said. TIM’S MEMORIES Tim’s job was always to take the first cut of about 80 to 100 head, and John Jennings would be in the lead, with John ‘Froggy’ McMahon taking the second cut. “You’d end up with nearly the same calves in front and behind you every day,”Tim said. Tim’s first droving trip was with Laurie Hiscock in 1979, when Leon Ford travelled with them for a few days, handing over the boss drover title to Laurie. He also remembers Alan Taylor, who would use a tea-towell to draft stock, he wouldn’t hit them with a cane. “He was a bit of a hero to me,”Tim said. “A legend. He would go droving from Omeo to Bairnsdale using just the one cracker on his whip. “I managed to do that twice.” He said everyone had three or four dogs each on the trips. “You had to swap them over, they didn’t last long because they’d get footsore,”he said. He remembers other drovers over the years being Greg Counihan, Dallas Jennings, Rita McMahon, Hayden Hamilton, Mick French and Billy Jim Mitchell. “Pilso was really good, he’d done the trip so many times. “It’s important to write down the history,” Tim said. “When we’re all gone no one will remember.” A few standout memories include at Haunted Stream the cattle would sometimes bump one off the edge and someone would have to go down and follow it along the river until it could come out and join the mob again. He said sometimes it was so hot the cattle would walk in the shade of the log trucks as they went slowly through the mob, and one time a petrol tank truck ran into the lead of the mob and rolled a few calves underneath, killing them. At Dirty Hollow near O’Donnell’s yards near Bruthen it was hot and a massive thunderstorm came through, leaving poor Ken Howlett with welt marks from the hail. Both Timmy and Pilso were grateful to be a part of the Drovers Reunion, held at the Counihan’s Wy Yung property in 2005. The reunion drew together generations of drovers, stockmen and bushmen. It was an extremely successful event and timely, as many of those in the photo have since passed on, much like the tradition of droving stock down country from Benambra. The next time you pass a cattle truck coming down the Great Alpine Road in March from the Mountain Calf Sales, spare a thought for the drovers who made the trek, the cattle that mobbed together, the dogs and the horses, who all played a role in the history of cattle sales and droving in the district. The Bairnsdale Advertiser thanks the interviewees for kindly allowing use of the photos from their collections, and to Anne Hiscock for sharing Laurie’s work diary. Some of the images are said to have been taken by the well-known Stock and Land photographer, Frank Johnson. laughter and livestock on the long road John Jennings’ blue truck at Bill Flynn’s yards at Tambo Crossing, from left, Froggy McMahon, Dick Leatham, a young Jim Hiscock, Peter Richards, Timmy Woodgate, Laurie Hiscock, Mick French and Michael Hiscock. (Supplied by Tim Woodgate) Pages of Laurie Hiscock’s work diary of each year he was boss driver from Benambra to Bairnsdale. (PS) Lunchtime at Evans’ paddock, Ramrod Creek about 1980, Tim Woodgate, John ‘Froggy’ McMahon, Michael Hiscock and Mick French. (Supplied by Tim Woodgate)
East Gippsland Newspapers 4 BEEF WEEK 2026 Thursday, January 29, 2026 In the ever-evolving world of beef production and agricultural innovation, there's no substitute for first-hand experience. For more than 30 years, Quadrant Australia has been at the forefront of agricultural travel, passionately connecting producers and industry professionals with global farming and cattle industries. As Australia's leading agricultural tour operator, Quadrant Australia offers unique opportunities to explore, learn and experience beef production systems and rural cultures across the globe. What sets them apart is their deep commitment to authentic agricultural experiences. With decades of experience in designing tours that seamlessly blend agriculture with cultural and travel adventure, Quadrant's AgTours offer experiences that go far beyond the ordinary. Whether you're a producer seeking to expand your knowledge, a beef industry stakeholder, or simply passionate about agriculture, Quadrant Australia offers a range of beef-focused tours, designed for people from the land and industry leaders. One standout is the Ranches, Cowboys and American Beef 2026 tour, a 17-day journey into the heart of the beef industry in the USA. Beginning in Texas, home to over 15 per cent of America's cattle herd, this journey delves deep into the operations behind some of the largest and most successful ranches in the world. Travellers inspect vertically integrated beef enterprises, visit grain mills and feedlots, and spend time at the renowned Texas A&M University Beef Centre, a global leader in cattle research and innovation. But it's not all industry visits, this tour also offers unforgettable cultural experiences, from Explore the global beef industry with Quadrant Australia is at the forefront of agricultural travel for more than 30 years, connecting producers and industry professionals with global farming and cattle industries. Tours range from Asia, the United States of America and more.
BEEF WEEK 2026 East Gippsland Newspapers 5 Thursday, January 29, 2026 the historic King Ranch to the vibrant streets of San Antonio, the UNESCO-listed town of Santa Fe, and the spectacular vistas of the Grand Canyon. For those keen to explore beef production close to home, the Cattle and Farming in the Queensland Gulf 2026 tour presents an extraordinary opportunity to travel through northern Australia's rich cattle country. This 15-day adventure takes participants from Townsville to Cairns, visiting major cattle operations and leading irrigated cropping properties that showcase northern Queensland's strategic significance to Australia's beef future. Highlights include historic Charters Towers, the spectacular Undara Lava Tubes, Karumba on the Gulf of Carpentaria, and the fertile Atherton Tablelands. Travellers observe how producers manage stock on vast plains and gain insight into the potential of this region as part of Australia's role as a future food bowl for Asia. Every Quadrant tour is expertly led, combining agricultural visits with cultural and sightseeing experiences that enrich the journey and deepen understanding. Their global network ensures exclusive access to industry peers and behind-the-scenes perspectives in more than 70 countries, making the tours a powerful blend of education, connection and travel adventure. Beef Week is the perfect time to explore new horizons, expand your industry knowledge and form connections that could shape your future in the beef sector. With Quadrant Australia, you don't just see the world, you experience the global beef industry from the inside out. Visit quadrantaustralia.com to learn more and book your next Ag adventure. Australia’s leading AgTour operator Quadrant Australia offers opportunities to explore, learn and experience beef production systems and rural cultures across the globe. The Cattle and Farming in the Queensland Gulf 2026 tour is an extraordinary opportunity to travel through northern Australia’s cattle country, taking participants from Townsville to Cairns, home of the Great Barrier Reef.
BEEF WEEK 2026 East Gippsland Newspapers 6 Thursday, January 29, 2026 Beyond the bloodlines Victorian Beef Week is more than a showcase of premier genetics, according to Maffra Vet veterinarian Katherine Snell, who says the event highlights the results of long-term planning, herd health, and proactive management. “Standing in the paddocks, watching cattle ruminate, settle with the crowds and tolerate a steady stream of opinions, I’m reminded that Beef Week is about far more than what’s printed in a catalogue,”Ms Snell said. She said the cattle on display are the outcome of countless breeding decisions, careful nutrition planning, timely vaccinations, parasite control, and consistent handling. “Feet and leg conformation, body condition, easy temperament and longevity don’t happen by luck. From a vet’s perspective, Beef Week cattle tell a story of programs that work,”she said. Ms Snell highlighted the importance of proactive herd health management, which she said is at the heart of ProLivestock, the partnership she is involved in. “Healthy cattle are built over time, not at the last minute. The best herds don’t avoid problems entirely, but they do tend to have very few surprises,”she said. She added that monitoring fertility, anticipating disease pressure, and addressing small issues promptly helps produce calmer, more productive cattle and fewer emergencies on-farm. Beef Week, she said, is also a reminder that herd health has impacts beyond the farm gate. “Healthy cattle underpin food safety, market access and consumer confidence. Good welfare, sensible antibiotic use, and sound biosecurity aren’t trends — they’re sustainable farming practices,”Ms Snell said. She said the week reinforces why she became a livestock veterinarian.“It wasn’t just to treat sick animals or pull stuck calves, although that does keep things interesting, but to partner with clients to achieve common goals. Over time, you see the impact on both the business and the cattle in the paddocks,”she said. Victorian Beef Week showcases the best of the industry, but Ms Snell said its true value lies in the systems and partnerships behind the animals. “Behind every standout animal is a partnership supporting it, and behind every strong partnership is a commitment to prevention rather than reaction. That’s something worth celebrating this Victorian Beef Week.” Maffra Vet veteranarian, Katherine Snell. The highest priced bull on sale day at Newcomen Herefords will have extra special meaning as the gavel falls, with half the sale price going to a bushfire relief fund. Newcomen’s stud manager, Raelee Jager, grew up around Euroa and knows many people who have lost everything in the recent fires, especially around Longwood and Ruffy. She said Barry’s offer of half the top-priced bull was very generous. Barry, 87, is participating for the 20th year with the Beef Week Open Day. “I feel that everyone else is helping in some way with the recovery after the fires, but I don’t have any hay to give, so this is one way I can help,” Mr Newcomen said. The Newcomen sale is the 23rd for the family, held annually at the family property, ‘Kanangra’. Ms Jager said Newcomens will offer 43 bulls this year, down from last year’s 60 head, selecting the ‘best of the best’ for the bull sale. Stud sires include Yavenvale Ripper, Quamby Plains and Mawarra bulls, with 18 horned bulls in the mix. Barry is hopeful the sale will be better than the previous year, with a turn in weather and markets. “I feel that market wise we’ve been through the worst of it,” he said. “We had an inch of rain a week ago and it doesn’t look too bad, last year we had higher than our average rainfall, but we had a lousy year. “The winter was cold, September and October had wind every day and by the end of October it was bare and dry. “We got rain in November and managed to make a bit of hay, but the hay yields in the district have been pathetic. “We’ve managed to keep the bulls looking pretty good.” The 23rd Newcomen sale will take place on the morning of Wednesday, March 11, at ‘Kanangra’, Ensay. Bull sale to help bushfire relief Newcomen stud manager, Raelee Jager, with Smokin Joe in the paddock at ‘Kanangra’, Ensay. Improve reproductive rates using advanced technology and lab support, maintaining results right through to weaning Expert veterinary consultancy to identify herd health and reproductive issues while supporting abattoir and organic certification Tailored programs backed by our cattle vets, including biosecurity planning, treatment protocols and a complete online vet supply shop WORKING TOGETHER TO IMPROVE YOUR GAINS Gippsland Veterinary Hospital introduces Visit for more information prolivestock.com.au 03 5147 1177 maffra@apiam.com.au 10 Johnson St, Maffra VIC 3860 Call our clinic to talk to our vets today 23RD ANNUAL ON-PROPERTY BULL SALE '" ' ' ' %!! ' $ $ '''''''''''''''''''&"# '#"#'# %$ $$' % $! ''''''''''''''''''''''''''''&"& ' '& % ' %! % '''''''''''''''''''''''''''&"&&' & '# LOT 4 - NEWCOMEN VOCATION (HPR) (H) | Ident: BTNV111
BEEF WEEK 2026 East Gippsland Newspapers 7 Thursday, January 29, 2026 It’s all happening at Wattlewood The Wattlewood Angus team is bringing its dream to life with a purpose-built 80-acre bull sale complex. Modeled on their existing home setup, the site features six small paddocks designed to pen sale bulls for upcoming events, including Beef Week on Saturday, January 31, the MLA Bredwell Fedwell Workshop on February 10, and the annual on-farm bull sale on Thursday, March 5. The Glovers have constructed a shed with roller doors, allowing airflow on warm days or full closure when the weather turns inclement. Visitors will enjoy a welcoming, homely atmosphere, with food and drinks served in the beautiful repurposed silos on site. Beef Week will showcase 35 "cream of the crop" bulls, all fully vaccinated, health-checked, and semen-tested. "Being part of the industry-backed Immune Ready program gives us confidence that the bulls are ready to work effectively and efficiently. They are parent-verified, so clients can make an informed selection of their next top sire to improve their herd," Fiona Glover said. Following a credible third-place finish in last year's Beef Week Heifer Challenge, the Glovers are proud of their female breeding herd, which contributes 50 per cent of the bulls' genetics. "Getting the female herd right is key to producing bulls that just work and get the job done," Fiona said. Providing opportunities for producers to improve their operations is central to Wattlewood Angus. The upcoming MLA Bredwell Fedwell Workshop will teach attendees about genetic selection and maximising herd performance. The property will come alive again for the Wattlewood Angus Annual On-Farm Bull Sale on Friday, March 5, from 4pm. Visitors are invited to enjoy a cuppa during Beef Week and are encouraged to ask questions about the bulls or the breeding program. Those unable to attend can contact Fiona Glover to arrange a suitable time. Lot 3 Wattlewood Vroom. Across Eastern Gippsland, Herd Solutions vets Chelsea Hair and Alison Gunn have become trusted allies for commercial producers and seedstock breeders alike. Their hands-on approach to bull management isn't just about ticking boxes — it's about giving local businesses every genetic and health advantage possible ahead of breeding season. Through their bull health and fertility services, Chelsea and Alison conduct Veterinary Bull Breeding Soundness Evaluations (VBBSE), ensuring that every bull put to work is capable, sound and fertile. "Producers invest heavily in their bulls," Chelsea said. "A quick pre-breeding check can make the difference between a successful season and a costly one." Just as importantly, they place strong emphasis on vaccination programs, protecting herds against reproductive diseases such as vibriosis and pestivirus — issues that can quietly erode fertility and herd performance if unchecked. Beyond the yards, their expertise extends into bull selection and genotyping, helping producers choose sires that match their herd's production goals and environment. Using genomic tools and EBV interpretation, they assist farmers in identifying bulls that will deliver reliable calving ease, growth, and carcase traits suited to local markets. Their latest project is a MLA Producer Demonstration Site to show the cost effectiveness of using genomic testing of commercial heifers to guide heifer selection and monitor how producers are meeting their breeding goals. By combining practical herd management with scientific insight, Chelsea and Alison exemplify the modern veterinary role — bridging on-farm service with genetic progress. Their work ensures each joining season begins with confidence and ends with stronger, more profitable outcomes for local beef and dairy producers. Supporting breeders Beef up The Kia Tasman. Drive Away estimate from $56,858 *Kia Genuine Accessories shown at additional cost. Visit Peter Dullard Kia peterdullardkia.com.au (03) 5152 0100
BEEF WEEK 2026 East Gippsland Newspapers 8 Thursday, January 29, 2026 There’s money in weight at Nunniong What you see is what you get at Nunniong Herefords, bulls in their working clothes ready to work. All 35 sale bulls will be lined up on display for Beef Week on Friday, January 30, at Nunniong Hereford stud in Ensay, in readiness for sale day on March 11. The $56,000 horned sire, Lotus Reflect, has five sons in the catalogue, the bull Bluey bought in half shares with Angus Vever, Jindalee Herefords of Inverell. Supple Snoopy, Karoonda Zappy and Sugarloaf Quandong have also sired half a dozen or so sons each. "On sale day Lotus Reflect just stood out to me," Mr Commins said, of buying the sire in 2022. "He has perfect skin and structure, just everything was right about him. "He even had good figures and a good size about him, something I'm trying to keep in my Herefords. "There's money in weight, they make more money in the meatworks with more weight." Mr Commins said they had sold a lot of semen up north from Lotus Reflect. Mr Commins said the Dubbo grand champion Hereford of 2023, Valley View Sandman, also had sired "quite a few handy ones" in the lineup. He said his offering of bulls this year included more polled bulls than horned, with the polled cows having a better joining that year, and he began breeding registered bulls in his early 20s, making it close to his 40th anniversary. Nunniong has been involved with the Beef Week Open Day for 30 years - not a bad feat in the event's 35-year history. Elders’ Ryan Bajada, Nunniong Hereford stud principal, Phillip‘Bluey’Commins, and Ken Dawson of Bairnsdale at Mr Commins’ bull sale last year. Local knowledge and water solutions Victoria Tanks is a family run business providing specialised water tank cleaning, repairs and full restorations, backed by genuine hands–on experience and a deep understanding of rural water needs across Victoria. Owned and operated by husband–and–wife team Alex and Erin Unkovich, the business services a wide region - with a particular commitment to supporting local households, farms and small communities. Alex began his water tank career in New Zealand 15 years ago, where he first established his business and built a strong foundation in tank maintenance and repair. In 2012, Alex and Erin moved to Australia, later spending six years in Geelong before settling in Swan Reach, where they've been based for the past 18 months. Alex's background spans extensive work with both concrete and poly rainwater tanks, providing cleaning and repair services designed to protect water quality and extend the life of existing infrastructure. His experience also includes several years in the water filtration industry, where he specialised in the sale and installation of filtration systems - knowledge that now strengthens Victoria Tanks' holistic approach to water quality and tank maintenance. The business is particularly recognised for its expertise in concrete tank restoration, offering practical, cost– effective solutions for ageing or damaged tanks. As a recommended supplier and installer for one of Australia's leading tank–liner manufacturers, Victoria Tanks provides long–term repair options backed by proven, trusted industry products. As a true local family business, communication, reliability and personalised service sit at the heart of what they do. Whether assisting a small rural property, a family home or larger farming operation, Victoria Tanks takes pride in offering clear advice, quality workmanship and solutions that support the long-term security of local water supplies. Owner of Victoria Tanks, Alex Unkovich. Alex began his water tank career in New Zealand 15 years ago, establishing his business and building a strong foundation in tank maintenance and repair. NUNNIONG HEREFORD STUD ENSAY BULLS AVAILABLE FOR VIEWING FROM 10AM January 2026 Hereford BREEDPLAN Lot 6 NUNNIONG MONSTER T080 (P) 2026 BULL SALE 1.30PM MARCH 11 2026 On Property Opposite Ensay Saleyards 35 BULLS ENQUIRIES 0427 573 331 150 Calves for Annual Calf Sales BW 200 400 600 MCW Milk SS Cwt EMA Rib Rump RBY% IMF% +4.7 +37 +73 +115 +112 +16 +1.9 +82 +5.3 -2.2 -2.7 +3.6 -0.7 77% 76% 74% 77% 65% 60% 78% 60% 55% 57% 61% 49% 59% January 2026 Hereford BREEDPLAN BW 200 400 600 MCW Milk SS Cwt EMA Rib Rump RBY% IMF% +5.1 +39 +68 +100 +88 +14 +1.1 +71 +4.9 +0.4 +1.0 +1.4 +0.2 77% 76% 75% 77% 66% 60% 77% 62% 55% 58% 62% 50% 60% Lot 6 NUNNIONG MONSTER T080 (P) Lot 2 NUN IONG QUA DONG V051 (H) Lot 5 NUNNIONG REFLECT V055 (H) January 2026 Hereford BREEDPLAN BW 200 400 600 MCW Milk SS Cwt EMA Rib Rump RBY% IMF% +6.8 +42 +75 +119 +126 +12 +4.2 +69 +4.1 -0.6 -0.7 +1.7 +0.4 76% 74% 73% 75% 64% 61% 76% 59% 53% 55% 59% 46% 58% Lot 9 NUNNIONG SNOOPY V141 (PP) • Water Tank Repairs • Water Tank Roof Replacements • Water Filtration Sales and Installation 0488 735 474 | www.victoriatanks.com.au Water Tank • Water Tank Liner (EXPERTS) • Grain Silo Cleaning • Water Tank Cleaning CLEANING REPAIRS VICTORIA TANKS YOUR WATER TANK REPAIR & SERVICE SPECIALIST
BEEF WEEK 2026 East Gippsland Newspapers 9 Thursday, January 29, 2026 Pasture Beef 15 Pellets are a grain-free, highly-palatable feed designed to prevent separation of ingredients and reduce wastage. Formulated without grain or grain co-products, they’re perfect for cattle on forage-based and grain-free programs. Our beef feeds are crafted to support every stage of growth. For more information visit www.ridley.com.au or contact your local Ridley representative. BEEF FEED BALANCED NUTRITION FOR BETTER BEEF All rights reserved, © 2026. Barastoc is a registered trademark of Ridley Agriproducts Pty Ltd. BROUGHT TO YOU BY HIGHLY PALATABLE BALANCED NUTRITION GRAIN FREE GRAIN-FREE FEED FOR SUPPLEMENTING BEEF CATTLE BARASTOC® PASTURE BEEF 15 FOR ORDER ENQUIRIES CALL US ON 1300 666 657
BEEF WEEK 2026 East Gippsland Newspapers 10 Thursday, January 29, 2026 Dairy discipline drives beef success For many Victorian beef producers, grass-fed systems are no longer a talking point — they are a production reality. The challenge isn't whether pasture-fed systems work, but how to finish cattle consistently, meet specifications, and protect margins when seasons, pasture quality, and market requirements do not always align. In South Gippsland, Brock and Gavin Furness run a finishing operation turning over close to 1000 head a year, supplying cattle into certified grass-fed programs. While his system is pasturefirst, it is firmly grounded in commercial reality. "You still have to finish cattle," Brock said. "And you still have to finish them on time." The Furness family relies on rotational and strip grazing to maximise pasture use and maintain soil health. Supplementary feeding is used deliberately, not to replace pasture, but to support it when grass quality or availability drops. That careful balance is increasingly common among producers targeting premium grass-fed markets. GRASS-FED IS THE SYSTEM. FINISHING IS THE SKILL Malcolm Green, who transitioned from dairy to beef nearly 20 years ago, says the discipline of dairy pasture management has stayed with him. "I still manage pasture like a dairy farmer," he said. "Feed efficiency, rotation, understanding what the pasture's doing. That's what makes the system work." Pure pasture finishing, he explains, proved too slow to be commercially viable. Introducing Barastoc Pasture Beef pellets allowed Malcolm to shorten days on feed while remaining compliant with grass-fed programs. "First day they'll have a lick, second day a bit more, third day they're straight onto it," he said. "Within 45 days I can start drafting. By 60 days, most are gone." The benefits extend beyond speed. Malcolm points to calmer cattle, easier handling, and improved grading results. "We're in the top 100 MSA producers in Victoria, and that's with females," he said. "The pellets give us another couple of points. That's real money." Nearby, Tim Anderson faces a similar reality. Finishing cattle on 250 acres under Greenham's grass-fed, antibiotic-free program, Tim found that pasture alone could not deliver the turnaround needed to maintain cash flow, particularly through winter. "Pasture-only was taking too long," he said. "Hay and silage didn't suit our conditions. Pellets let us supplement what's missing while staying compliant." Around a third of the ration is pellet, with the balance pasture — enough to finish cattle efficiently without compromising program integrity. NUTRITION THAT FITS THE RULES AND THE REALITY Barastoc Pasture Beef 15 is formulated specifically for pasture-based systems and accredited grass-fed programs. It is GMO-free, grain-free, and eligible for use in schemes including Greenham Never Ever and JBS Farm Assurance. Ridley regional sales manager Tristan Francis says the product exists because pasture systems are rarely predictable. "Grass-fed demand is growing, but seasons don't always cooperate," he said. "Producers need a supplement that works with pasture, not against their program." The pellet is designed to complement pasture by supplying balanced energy, minerals and vitamins when grass quality dips, particularly during finishing, winter, or dry periods. "Consistency is everything," Mr Francis said. "If feed varies, performance varies. Serious producers cannot afford that." Ridley's grain-free feeds are segregated during manufacturing and subject to rigorous quality controls, ensuring compliance batch to batch — a critical consideration for premium market programs. MORE THAN FEED Across all three operations, the relationship with Ridley is practical rather than promotional. "When I order feed, I ring Tristan," Brock said. "Within hours it's organised. We know when the truck's coming. That reliability is critical." Tim agrees. "If there's an issue, they're on the phone or out here looking at it." This consistency of formulation, supply, and support makes Barastoc more than a feed brand — it becomes part of the production system. "At the end of the day, we're selling a premium article of beef," Malcolm said. "You need confidence in what's going into the animal. The pellet costs what it costs, but the result stacks up." BUILT FOR THE LONG GAME For these producers, grass-fed beef is not a trend — it is driven by processor requirements, export demand, animal welfare expectations, and the long-term sustainability of their systems. "People want assurance around how their beef is produced," Brock said. "This system lets us stand behind that." For Ridley, Barastoc Pasture Beef 15 sits within a broader commitment to support beef producers with nutrition that fits real systems, real seasons, and real commercial pressure. "Our role is to help producers finish cattle efficiently, profitably, and within the programs they rely on," Tristan said. "If that works, the whole industry is stronger." For Beef Week producers focused on performance without compromise, that partnership matters. Producers interested in how Barastoc Pasture Beef 15 fits their system are encouraged to contact their local Ridley representative or visit ridley.com.au. Tristan Francis of Ridley works alongside South Gippsland producer Malcolm Green to ensure pasture-fed cattle are finished efficiently and consistently for premium grass-fed programs. (PS) Prompt & professional tree services ❱ ❱ ❱ ❱ Get a free quote 1300 BAT BRO Certified for quality, safety and environment Phone 1300 228 276
BEEF WEEK 2026 East Gippsland Newspapers 11 Thursday, January 29, 2026 This year's Valley Vista Hereford draft presents a well-balanced and carefully developed offering, with bulls selected for consistency, functionality and commercial relevance. A key strength of the lineup is its uniformity for low birth weights combined with good growth, making these bulls well suited to a wide range of production systems where calving ease and performance are priorities. All bulls have been thoroughly prepared and are vaccinated for Vibrio, Pestivirus and Ultravac 5-in-1, providing buyers with confidence around herd health and biosecurity. In addition, the entire draft is free of known genetic conditions and sire verified, reinforcing the transparency and reliability underpinning the breeding program. The catalogue includes a mix of autumn and spring-born bulls, offering flexibility for producers to select animals that best align with their joining and management programs. This seasonal diversity reflects a practical approach to breeding and ensures options for a variety of herd requirements. A major strength of the program continues to be the female base, which remains central to breeding decisions. The herd is built on maternal, well-structured and sound heifers, displaying strong muscle expression and carrying a soft, quality hide. These females represent the type consistently targeted within the program and form the foundation for producing reliable, easy-doing cattle. Several new sires have been introduced to further strengthen the program. Koanui Zeus U057 (IMP NZL) (PP) has been selected for his power, thickness and soundness, while Wild Bear Stranger S007 (AI) (H) contributes muscle, fat cover and strong carcase merit. Mountain Valley Underdog U122 (PP) has also been added, chosen for his ability to deliver the functional, well-structured progeny synonymous with Mountain Valley genetics. The continued use of Injemira Fortune M152 Q034 (AI) (PP) adds further confidence, with his proven record for low birth weight, solid growth and sound carcase traits underpinning the next generation of calves. Overall, the program continues to evolve while remaining firmly grounded in producing cattle that are practical, efficient and commercially relevant. The sale will be held on Friday, 6 March 2026, offering buyers the opportunity to secure genetics designed to perform in real-world conditions. International genetics boost local stud Valley Vista Hereford draft features well-balanced, commercially relevant bulls selected for consistency, calving ease and strong growth. (PS) Just over 12 months into operations, Bairnsdale Irrigation has found one thing is clear: no two farms, and no two irrigation enquiries, are ever the same. A consistent theme over the first year has been strong demand for solar pumping solutions to supply stock water across the district. Managing water for beef cattle, particularly Angus herds, has placed increased pressure on existing infrastructure, with many systems unable to deliver the necessary flow rates. "Many properties are transitioning from sheep grazing to beef production, which requires significantly more water," said Jason Crimeen, of Bairnsdale Irrigation. "We've been working closely with landholders to upgrade piping, optimise existing infrastructure, and in some cases redevelop systems entirely. The goal is to provide solutions that are reliable, robust, and easy to manage, even when farmers aren't on site." The business has also noticed a rise in the use of smart technology. Tools such as tank monitors and remote monitoring equipment are giving farmers better visibility and control over their water systems, whether they are across the paddock or across the state. While quality solar pumping solutions often carry a higher upfront cost, they deliver lower running expenses, handsoff operation once installed, and peace of mind—all while supporting growing herds with impressive flow rates. Another notable trend has been the uptake of hard hose irrigators. Bairnsdale Irrigation has been designing systems to suit almost any block shape or topography, particularly effective on uneven or undulating land. "These systems have opened up irrigation opportunities in areas where watering was previously difficult or not cost-effective," Mr Crimeen said. "They allow farmers to grow more pasture using existing infrastructure without large additional investment. For many dryland properties, this added depth and resilience has been a game-changer." At the heart of the business is a commitment to working closely with farmers to create personalised, fit-for-purpose designs. Reliable water access helps livestock maintain better condition, experience less stress, and gain weight—benefits that often extend to the farmer as well. "For me, this work is a passion," Mr Crimeen said. "It's the perfect balance between science and problem-solving, and getting hands-on to build something tangible. From analysing water sources, through pump sizing and irrigation design, to delivering a working system, supporting people through the entire process is incredibly rewarding." Twelve months in, Bairnsdale Irrigation has partnered with progressive local farmers across East Gippsland and beyond, helping them achieve better water management for livestock and pasture. The team looks forward to continuing to support the region's irrigation needs well into the future. Jason Crimeen of Bairnsdale Irrigation says demand for solar pumping, smart monitoring and flexible irrigation systems has grown strongly over the past year, as local farmers upgrade water infrastructure to support changing land use and larger beef herds across East Gippsland. The flow effect Dr Alison Gunn and Dr Chelsea Hair Phone 0437 732669 Email info@herdsolutions.com.au Servicing Genoa to Glengarry Livestock Veterinary Services and Farm Consultancy • Bull selection advice • Bull breeding soundness exams • Preg testing from 30 days after mating • Troubleshooting poor pregnancy results BOOK YOUR PREG TESTING IN NOW!
BEEF WEEK 2026 East Gippsland Newspapers 12 Thursday, January 29, 2026 Gippsland Stockyards is helping local producers design strong, practical livestock yards and rural infrastructure tailored to the way they work. (PS) Built tough for Gippsland conditions When it comes to livestock handling and rural infrastructure, having the right yards makes all the difference. Gippsland Stockyards supplies a comprehensive range of products from Tamworth-based Red River Stockyards — a name trusted by producers nationwide for strength, safety and smart, practical design. From cattle and sheep yards to horse round yards and arenas, Gippsland Stockyards works with customers from the ground up, helping to design layouts that suit the land, the stock and the way each operation functions. Owners Brooke and Luke pride themselves on taking the time to understand every property, delivering tailored yard designs that meet individual livestock handling needs. Beyond stockyards, the business also supplies dog pens, hay feeders, crushes, loading ramps, horse float day yards and more — all built to withstand real working conditions. The result is a genuine one-stop solution for producers seeking reliable equipment that works as hard as they do. To make planning even easier, Gippsland Stockyards has recently launched a new website showcasing its full product range and services. Visit gippslandstockyards.com.au to explore options, find inspiration and take the first step towards a safer, more efficient yard system. Strong. Practical. Built to last — just the way Gippsland likes it. Top genetics on display in Sarsfield Mundook Hereford stud will showcase its bulls at its Sarsfield base on January 30 as part of the Beef Week open day series. Half a dozen bulls will be up for sale on the day, all of them by some big-name super sires of the Hereford breed. Those sires include Churchill Sherman, Wirruna Steakout and Wirruna Titus, plus the homebred, top-selling Mundook Turbo. Mr McAinch said the six bulls for sale will be rising 12 months old and all polled or PP. "The Churchill Sherman sons will be some of the oldest in the country of the up and coming sire," he said. "I look forward to catching up with clients on the day and also hopefully finding some more commercial clients. "There'll be some commercially priced bulls among the offering." At the last Gippsland Performance Group sale in September, Mr McAinch said he was pleased to sell bulls to the Pearce family's Yavenvale Hereford stud, near Adelong, in New South Wales, who took the top-priced bull, as well as Gippsland based commercial clients like the Paulets and Treasures. "Yavenvale chose the top-priced bull based on his balanced figures that included high intra-muscular fat, high eye muscle area, good growth and below-average birthweight," he said. Gippsland Performance Herefords will put up its annual offering of bulls and females from four studs in October, with the date yet to be officially set. Mundook Hereford stud will open the gates at 'Wandana', 440 Nicholson-Sarsfield Road, Sarsfield, on Friday, January 30. Gary McAinch is looking forward to seeing stud clients and commercial clients alike at his Beef Week open day. Gary is pictured with Elders agent Morgan Davies. SEE US FOR OUR EXCLUSIVE PRIMARY PRODUCER DEALS ON ALL TRITONS 273 YORK STREET, SALE | 5144 1311 | WWW.SALEMITSUBISHI.COM.AU SALE MITSUBISHI EN28762 YOURLOCAL RED RIVER AGENT FOR 10 YEARS We sell Red Rivers full range of products, can help design cattle and sheep yards, horse round yards and arenas, dog pens, hay feeders, crushes, loading ramps and horse float day yards. OFFERING CUSTOMERS THE OPPORTUNITY TO VIEW A FULL DISPLAY YARD. CONTACT US| 0400665492 | gippslandstockyards.com.au| info@gippslandstockyards.com.au
BEEF WEEK 2026 East Gippsland Newspapers 13 Thursday, January 29, 2026 Know your numbers, control your costs One of the strongest messages producers took away from the Red Meat Roadmap event in Gippsland in December was simple: aim for average. Producers, industry leaders and supply-chain partners gathered at a cattle property in Longford for the one-day Red Meat Roadmap, an event designed to link global market signals, national trends and on-farm decision-making with longterm profitability. Rather than focusing on short-term market noise, speakers consistently encouraged producers to step back and consider how today's breeding decisions, market positioning and enterprise structure will shape resilience and returns into the future. Hosted by Mawarra Genetics in partnership with Gippsland Ag Group, the program brought together expert perspectives from across the red meat supply chain, including global market analysis, processor insights, local market dynamics and practical production considerations. Processor insights were led by Steve Chapman, Southern Livestock Manager for JBS Australia, who outlined how grass-fed and premium beef programs have evolved over the past decade, driven by carcass data, MSA compliance and eating quality. Drawing on decades of experience across southern Australia, Mr Chapman emphasised that producers who understand processor requirements — particularly around nutrition, handling and consistency — are better positioned to access repeat demand and premium markets. That message was reinforced through a practical carcass demonstration by Aimee Bolton, who explained how MSA grading works and how producers can use feedback data to inform breeding and management decisions well beyond the paddock. A strong theme throughout the day was the importance of balance over extremes, particularly in breeding decisions. Internationally respected genetics consultant PJ Budler challenged long-held assumptions around terminal genetics, highlighting the longterm commercial value of functional, fertile and well-adapted cow herds. "Optimising is key, avoiding extremes is imperative," Mr Budler said, noting that a balanced cow herd provides flexibility to respond to market shifts through bull selection alone, without increasing production risk. From a financial and risk-management perspective, Angus Gidley-Baird, senior animal proteins analyst at Rabobank, connected global beef demand trends with on-farm profitability. Drawing on his experience working with farming families across Gippsland and Victoria, Mr Gidley-Baird stressed that while producers cannot control markets, they can control costs, productivity and business discipline. "It's knowing your numbers — stocking rates, rainfall, and the age at which you can turn off an animal profitably and consistently," he said. At the market-facing end of the supply chain, Elders livestock agent Morgan Davies provided a grounded, commercial view of what buyers are rewarding in today's market. Mr Davies said repeat buyers are built on reliability, temperament and preparation, with producers who deliver consistent cattle far more likely to sit at the top end of the market over time. "If someone buys your stock and has a good experience, they're going to be back to buy them again," he said. Throughout the panel discussion, the value of informed, data-driven decision-making was repeatedly reinforced — from understanding MSA requirements and managing nutrition in the final 60 to 90 days, to weighing cattle, tracking growth rates and maintaining clear market endpoints. Producer feedback following the event echoed these themes. Attendees described the day as inspiring, practical and confidence-building, with one noting the key takeaway was "to aim for average", explaining that once the concepts were unpacked, their goals felt "easier and less stressful". Others said the event reinforced they were already heading in the right direction, while valuing the opportunity to step away from day-to-day operations, network with like-minded producers and return home enthusiastic and motivated to put new ideas into practice. The day was facilitated by agricultural consultant Lincoln McKinlay, from Linc'd, who helped draw connections between global insight, industry experience and on-farm application, supporting the broader aim of helping producers challenge their thinking and plan forward with clarity. A defining feature of the Red Meat Roadmap was the opportunity to move beyond theory and apply the day's insights in a practical, commercial setting. After lunch, producers headed into the paddock for a hands-on workshop supported by the Mawarra Genetics team, with cattle provided for inspection and discussion around phenotype, structure, balance and functionality. Attendees were encouraged to assess the cattle through a commercial lens, considering how phenotype translates to on-farm performance, market suitability and processor outcomes, rather than viewing traits in isolation. By grounding the discussion in live cattle and observable traits, the workshop enabled producers to test assumptions, ask deeper questions and better understand how incremental breeding and selection decisions influence long-term profitability. The Red Meat Roadmap reflects a growing appetite within the red meat industry for conversations that move beyond short-term price signals and tactics, and instead focus on building resilient, profitable businesses grounded in strong fundamentals. The panel: Lincoln McKinlay, Linc’D, Steve Chapman, southern livestock manager, JBS Australia, Angus Gidley-Baird, senior animal proteins analyst at Rabobank, and Morgan Davies, livestock manager, Elders Bairnsdale. (Photos: studstocksles.com) Foot trimming Lameness treatment Bulls
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