BREEDING PHILOSOPHY
Webb Black Simmentals aims to produce premium quality cattle
Fertility - First and foremost, WBS considers the fertility of the animal the most important trait. Our cattle are selected for their traits that enable higher than normal fertility, ie scrotal circumference. As a result we practice controlled, short joining periods; (8 weeks for cows and 6 weeks for heifers). Any females that are unable to conceive are culled.
Calving ease – is considered an essential trait for profitable beef production. We weigh all calves at birth and cull any difficult births.
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Lynton Harrison, Stud Manager and Philip Webb, Principal, October 2009 |
Structural correctness - Our bulls are independently structurally assessed. We believe good structure is essential for longevity, efficient beef production and reproduction. The strength of our female herd is based on the structural assessment of feet and udders to ensure a long and productive life.
Temperament – We considered this an extremely important trait for ease of handling and cattle movement and safety (OH&S). Also a quite temperament has been demonstrated to significantly improve meat quality.
Doing ability – the ability for the cattle to perform in all conditions. We believe there is a strong correlation between the softness, fat cover and the fine hair type of our genetics, which enables a faster weight gain and finishing ablilty.
Prior to sale, all Webb Simmental bulls receive
a full vaccination program for 7 in 1 and Vibriosis.
Drenching with Cydectin.
a semen test and physical evaluation of their reproductive tract, by Ian Moreland
A structural assessment and carcass scan completed by Greens Livestock Service; Jim Green
MN1, johnes, map program
Embryos are sourced from both America and Canada.
Genetics from Lancaster Simmental in South Australia and Bonnydale Simmental Farms in Western Australia, and local genetics from Brewer Beef and Co op.
Webb Black Simmentals take significant care in selecting AI sires. This ensures we use the best genetics from the USA, Canada and Australia.
Using top genetics in our AI program enables us to feel really happy
Embryos similarly are sourced from USA, Canada and Australia. Flushing of our elite females occurs at least twice a year at Webb Black Simmentals. 100 embryo calves will be born in spring 2010, with mainly our own donors used.