| 17 nzdairy DAIRY PEOPLE » Jason and Kaylene Bennett Continuing a family legacy spanning generations Alexia Anderson Jason and Kaylene Bennett are continuing a family legacy spanning generations on their Tuatapere farm, in Southland. Operating a full-season once-a-day dairy (OAD) system, the Bennetts milk about 490 predominantly Jersey cows, a breed Jason’s grandfather milked in the 1940s, under the stud name Elmsbrook Jerseys. Jason’s father, Neville, continued the tradition after establishing the Beach Valley stud, a name the Bennetts have proudly continued. “The love for the Jersey breed is generational,” Kaylene says. “The Jersey is a versatile breed, production per kg of liveweight can be very efficient. The fact we have a market for our Jersey heifers and Jersey bull calves is a real bonus leading to minimal bobby calves.” Their 190 hectare dairy farm, which has two support blocks - 79 hectares purchased 13 years ago and another 77 hectare property they added to their business profile earlier this year. While their herd is not formally registered through Jersey NZ, the Bennetts treat their cows with pedigree precision, with each one DNA tested and mated to nominated sires. Their breeding philosophy centres on structural soundness, fertility, and strength, with traits like udder capacity and support being key to ensuring success in their OAD system. “We AI to jersey bulls for five weeks before switching to beef semen,” Jason says. They consistently achieve an 85 percent six week in-calf rate and a 92 to 97 percent submission rate in the first three weeks. Among the sires that have shaped their herd, CRV bull Ruanui Terific Diesel has left a big impact, particularly for udder quality. The Bennetts use a mix of CRV and ST Genetics sires to help introduce desirable traits and maintain genetic diversity. Production remains important, but not at the expense of longevity or fertility. “We feel that there is no point in breeding for production if a cow cannot get in calf and last in the herd,” Jason says. Alongside their dairy herd, the Bennetts have built a thriving business rearing and selling Jersey bulls, a venture that has gained momentum in recent years. Their annual bull sale, now in its third year, has attracted strong demand, with bulls sold both on-farm and via the BIDR platform. They started with 50 bulls in their first and second year, followed by 73 in the past year and plan to rear 100 in the coming season. Technology and data also plays a role in their progress, with the Bennetts herd testing four times a year, alongside DNA, BVD, Johnes, and A2 testing. Jason’s work with a TOP classifier for Jersey NZ adds another layer of expertise and continuous assessment within their breeding programme. Their breeding philosophy centres on structural soundness, fertility, and strength. However, it’s not just cattle the Bennetts are passionate about. They also foster youth involvement within agriculture. Through Gateway programmes, their annual Adopt a Calf initiative, and biannual farm visits for local schools, the Bennetts help young people experience hands-on learning in farming and animal care. Jason and Kaylene have also raised their five children on the farm, who each possess their own strengths, interests and successes. Two of them are already showing a keen interest in dairying, suggesting the Beach Valley Jerseys legacy will continue for at least another generation. 77 CLYDE STREET, INVERCARGILL, PH (03) 214 4254 www.southlandhonda.co.nz SOUTHLAND HONDA For the best Parts, Sales & Service in the south Complete Silage, Baling, Cultivation, Effluent, Spraying & Excavator Contracting Service Phone: 03 225 8488 Rabco Ag Ltd E-mail: admin@rabco.nz Web: www.rabbitt.co.nz
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