50 | Vermont Angus annual yearling bull sale The Berquists’ journey to Angus breeding began in 2011. Karen Phelps Vermont Angus is preparing for its third annual yearling bull sale on 26 September, marking another milestone for the Canterbury-based stud that has rapidly established itself in New Zealand’s competitive Angus breeding industry. The operation, run by Kim and Russell Berquist alongside their son Brad, will offer 30 yearling bulls from sires including Connealy Craftsman, Woodhill Comstock and Sitz Logo. The sale represents the culmination of nearly a decade’s work building the stud from purchased foundation stock to a respected breeding operation. “For new breeders it’s tough to be accepted and get your name out there. But our sales have been successful and we have very affordable bulls,” says Russell. The Berquists’ journey to Angus breeding began in 2011 when they transitioned from dairy farming to sheep and beef after 35 years in the dairy industry. Their move to a 600-hectare property near Alford Forest was the fulfilment of a long-held dream. “When I left school I wanted to be a sheep and beef farmer,” explains Russell. “But dairy farming was more profitable and enabled us to get to where we are today.” The couple’s entry into Angus breeding came in 2014 when they purchased animals that would become the foundation of their stud. Drawing on their dairy farming experience with artificial insemination, they immediately began using AI to accelerate genetic improvements in their herd. Vermont Angus aims to breed cattle with good body capacity, efficient feed utilisation and the ability to maintain condition for fertility, even in tough conditions. In terms of genetic selection they emphasise moderate frame, good temperament and the ability to rear healthy calves, with a focus on ensuring their yearling heifers calve as two-yearolds. Vermont Angus now comprises 170 breeding cows alongside the Berquists’ commercial sheep and beef operation, which finishes around 800 cattle and 3,000-8,000 lambs annually depending on the season. The dual operation gives the couple unique insight into the commercial performance of their genetics. “As finishers ourselves we are conscious there can be a large gap in the growth rate with some animals we buy. There is sometimes such a genetic difference so we understand the importance of growth rates. There is nothing more frustrating than feeding a mob of animals all the same and getting different growth rates so improving growth rates and IMF is a real focus for us with our stud,” explains Russell. This commercial perspective drives Vermont Angus’s breeding philosophy, which emphasises practical traits that translate to profitability. All stud animals undergo DNA testing via the Zoetis HD50K test, with each generation being parent verified. MEAT & WOOL » Vermont Angus The operation also conducts BVD testing as a precautionary measure. The stud is part of AngusPRO, a collective of New Zealand Angus studs that have joined Angus Australia to access enhanced genetic evaluation tools and educational resources. This membership provides Vermont Angus with sophisticated breeding technologies including Angus SELECT, which helps identify genetics aligned with specific breeding objectives. “We analyse with DNA and use genetic data to Livestock Recording Services Training, Software Solutions & Data Management Support@breedsmart.co.nz Dale: 027 326 1997 Gemma: 021 281 1547 Sam: 021 241 9153 improve our herd,” says Kim. “All stud calves are weighed at birth, with data fed into the Angus Australia system to contribute to estimated breeding values.” The emphasis on data-driven breeding decisions appears to be paying dividends for Vermont Angus. The operation has built a loyal client base, with many buyers returning year after year. “We do have a lot of repeat clients which is super positive,” says Kim. “We welcome anyone to come and meet us and have a look at what we do and let the data speak for itself.”
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