Bonsmara farmers day a success
“It is all about the passion for the cattle if you want to be a successful breeder.”
BETHAL – To qualify for the Bonsmara brand and be of breeding stock, a bull has to adhere to certain criteria.
The public got some insight into the judging process on Saturday on Mr Cassim Hassim’s farm.
The bulls were judged by senior judges Messrs Arthur de Villiers, Nico Pieterse and Pieter Lourens.
The first overall impression of the bull is important to see whether a farmer can work with the bull or not.
Mr Pieterse said: “It is important to have a passion for your cattle the way that Cassim clearly has, to be able to be a successful breeder.”
Phase D tests were done on the bulls.
These tests last a minimum of 84 days and a maximum of 270 days after the termination of the predetermined adaption period.
Mr De Villiers said: “It is important to take your time and work slow as the bull will first take time to adjust to its new environment.”
A point out of nine is given to the bulls to determine if they are right for breeding.
If the bull gets a mark of anything above six out of nine, it will pass and become part of the Bonsmara brand.
Mr De Villiers said: “The judges want to ensure that farmers prosper and we do not judge unfairly, however it is just as important for us to look after the Bonsmara brand by only passing the bulls that are up to standard.”
The Bonsmara Breeders Society endeavours to be the leader in the beef cattle industry and to serve producers in South Africa and the rest of the world.
They will make it possible by acting with credibility and integrity at all times, as well as:
• Promoting scientific, biological and economic efficiency.
• Promoting practical and efficient production methods.
• Supplying superior market-related breeding material to the industry
• Supplying affordable, quality beef to all consumers.r.
Mr Hassim is a passionate farmer and wanted to make more farmers aware of the testing process to be able to breed with the bulls and be part of the Bonsmara brand.
