Show Notes
In Episode 6 of Breeders’ Blueprint, we sit down with Josh Heck to hear the story behind a lifelong passion for cattle, breeding and the stud stock industry. Growing up around Gympie, Josh was introduced to stud cattle through his family’s involvement with Droughtmasters and the Droughtmaster handling school. From showing cattle and young judges competitions to developing his own breeding interests, those early experiences laid the foundations for a career that would eventually take him to Rockhampton and into the stud stock agency industry. Josh shares the journey of building a small operation with his sister, including their Droughtmaster herd, a developing Brahman stud and the challenges of breeding with relatively small numbers. He explains why he has taken a long-term approach to his Brahman program, including the influence of NCC cattle, Brett Nobbs, IVF work and the importance of building the female herd before chasing the next great sire. The conversation also explores Josh’s philosophy around breeding cattle, including the importance of fertility, functionality, structure and putting quality females at the centre of a breeding program. He talks openly about the temptation to get cattle onto the market too early and why he believes patience and consistency are essential to building a reputation that lasts. Josh also takes us through his journey in the agency world — from working with Michael Lawton and studying agribusiness at Gatton, to his time with Savage Barker and Backhouse and eventually becoming part of the growing GDL network. Along the way, he reflects on the people who have influenced his approach to cattle, selling and the industry. From a Grade 7 dream of becoming a stock agent in Rockhampton to selling some of the country’s leading cattle, Josh’s story is one of passion, persistence, learning from those around you and continuing to chase better cattle. A fascinating conversation about breeding, selling cattle, the people who shape an industry and the long game of building a successful breeding program. This is the blueprint behind Josh Heck.
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In Episode 7 of Breeders’ Blueprint, we sit down with Shane and Sandra Bishop from Garglan Brahmans to explore a family legacy spanning generations, the cattle that have shaped their breeding program, and the philosophy behind one of Australia’s established Brahman studs. Founded by Shane’s father in 1955, with the stud formally established in 1962, Garglan has a long history in the Brahman breed. Shane and Sandra reflect on growing up around cattle, the influence of their fathers and respected cattlemen such as Geoff McCamley, and the experiences that helped shape their approach to breeding. The conversation dives into Garglan’s breeding program, including the cow families and influential sires that have left their mark on the herd. Shane and Sandra explain why improving the female base remains central to their operation, how they use IVF to multiply proven genetics, and why donor cows must continue to perform in the paddock. We also discuss their recent bull selections, including JRL Blockout, the traits they’re looking to strengthen, and the importance of structural soundness, fertility, consistency and practical cattle suited to the tough conditions of northern Australia. Shane and Sandra share the crosses that have worked for them and their thoughts on the progress of polled Brahmans. From memorable sale highlights and influential bloodlines to the satisfaction of seeing their genetics succeed in other herds, this is an honest insight into the decisions, patience and passion behind a long-running breeding program. A great conversation about family, cattle, genetics and the ongoing pursuit of better Brahmans. Discover the blueprint behind Garglan Brahmans.
In Episode 5 of Breeders' Blueprint, Kelvin Cochrane sits down with Elders stud stock agent Anthony Ball to explore the cattle industry from a different perspective – the other side of the sale ring. Growing up on a dairy farm in the Atherton Tablelands, Anthony developed a passion for cattle, genetics and breeding from an early age. From his early days in the dairy industry to becoming one of Australia's leading stud stock agents, Anthony shares the journey, people and experiences that have shaped his career. We discuss the transition from dairy to beef, the mentors who influenced his approach to cattle, and what it takes to build a successful stud stock business. Anthony also reflects on some of the biggest moments of his auctioneering career, including selling bulls for $100,000 and $280,000, and the importance of putting the right cattle in front of the right buyers. With insights into cattle marketing, breeding philosophies, commercial production and the future of the Australian beef industry, this episode offers a unique look at the people and decisions behind successful stud cattle sales. We also get to know the man behind the microphone, from his early rugby league ambitions to balancing life on the road with family in North Queensland. Whether you're a stud breeder, commercial producer, cattle enthusiast or simply interested in the people who make the Australian beef industry tick, this is an episode you won't want to miss. 🎧 Tune in to Episode 5 of Breeders' Blueprint with Kelvin Cochrane and special guest Anthony Ball.
In Episode 4 of Breeders Blueprint, we sit down with Brett McCamley of Fern Hills Red Brahmins to uncover the history, philosophy and genetics behind one of Australia's long-established red Brahman programs. Fern Hills is a fifth-generation family property, settled in 1882, with the stud registering Brahman cattle since 1982. Today, the operation runs around 7,200 acres and approximately 400 breeders, including around 220 registered red Brahman females. Brett takes us through the evolution of Fern Hills, from the early days of running both red and grey herds to the decision to focus on red Brahmans. He discusses the people who influenced his approach to breeding, including breeders and mentors who taught him the importance of selecting cattle with consistency, structural correctness and commercial value. We dive deep into the genetics behind Fern Hills, including influential sires such as Fern Hills Travis, Fern Hills Kingston, Mewan Venture, Palmvale Scout and B&A Lexington, as well as the cow families that have helped shape the herd over generations. Brett also explains why Travis became such an important sire for Fern Hills and why he is still considering going back to those genetics. Brett also shares his thoughts on EBVs, BreedPlan, phenotype, fertility, structural soundness and carcass traits, including why he believes breeders need to look beyond numbers and assess cattle in the paddock and in the flesh. His breeding philosophy ultimately comes back to producing cattle that can perform in the commercial industry. We also talk about the upcoming Heart of the Herd sale, how Fern Hills selects its sale females, why the operation leaves those heifers open for buyers to make their own mating decisions, and the importance of offering genetics from the heart of the herd. Brett reflects on almost four decades of selling at Rocky Brahman Week, some of Fern Hills' most successful sale bulls, the importance of repeat buyers and seeing Fern Hills genetics go on to perform in other breeding programs. And, in one of the key messages of the episode, Brett offers his advice to anyone coming into the Brahman industry: Do your homework, get in the car, visit breeders, study their cattle and, above all, remain consistent. In this episode: The 1882 history of Fern Hills Establishing the Fern Hills Brahman stud in 1982 The evolution of the red Brahman program Fern Hills Travis and the genetics that shaped the herd The story behind Fern Hills Kingston Mewan Venture and the next generation of Fern Hills genetics Phenotype vs EBVs and BreedPlan Fertility, structure and commercial performance The importance of consistency in a breeding program Heart of the Herd and selecting sale females 38+ years of Rocky Brahman Week Successful Fern Hills sires and sale bulls International demand for Fern Hills genetics Brett's advice for the next generation of breeders This is a great insight into the thinking behind a long-established Australian Brahman breeding program—and another look at the people, decisions and genetics that make up the Breeders Blueprint.
In Episode 3 of Breeders Blueprint, we sit down with Brian Stewart from Nicholl Road Brahmans to discuss the passion, planning and genetics behind his Brahman breeding program.
In this episode of Breeders Blueprint, we sit down with Ewan Rockemer from Gigoomgan Brahmans to explore the philosophy, passion and long-term vision behind one of Queensland's respected Brahman breeding programs. Ewan shares the story of Gigoomgan Brahmans, discussing the importance of selecting cattle that combine structural soundness, performance and commercial value. We delve into the decisions that shape a successful seedstock operation, the role of genetics in driving herd improvement, and the challenges and opportunities facing the Australian beef industry. From breeding objectives and sire selection to building a stud with longevity and purpose, Ewan offers practical insights gained through years of experience in the Brahman breed. Whether you're a seedstock producer, commercial cattle producer or simply passionate about livestock genetics, this episode provides valuable lessons from someone committed to producing cattle that perform in the paddock and add value throughout the supply chain. In this episode: The story behind Gigoomgan Brahmans Ewan's breeding philosophy Selecting genetics for commercial success (Australia and NCC USA) Balancing phenotype, performance and fertility The future of Brahman breeding in Australia Advice for emerging seedstock producers Subscribe to Breeders Blueprint for more conversations with Australia's leading seedstock producers as we uncover the blueprint behind their success.