BEEF WEEK 2026 East Gippsland Newspapers 11 Thursday, January 29, 2026 This year's Valley Vista Hereford draft presents a well-balanced and carefully developed offering, with bulls selected for consistency, functionality and commercial relevance. A key strength of the lineup is its uniformity for low birth weights combined with good growth, making these bulls well suited to a wide range of production systems where calving ease and performance are priorities. All bulls have been thoroughly prepared and are vaccinated for Vibrio, Pestivirus and Ultravac 5-in-1, providing buyers with confidence around herd health and biosecurity. In addition, the entire draft is free of known genetic conditions and sire verified, reinforcing the transparency and reliability underpinning the breeding program. The catalogue includes a mix of autumn and spring-born bulls, offering flexibility for producers to select animals that best align with their joining and management programs. This seasonal diversity reflects a practical approach to breeding and ensures options for a variety of herd requirements. A major strength of the program continues to be the female base, which remains central to breeding decisions. The herd is built on maternal, well-structured and sound heifers, displaying strong muscle expression and carrying a soft, quality hide. These females represent the type consistently targeted within the program and form the foundation for producing reliable, easy-doing cattle. Several new sires have been introduced to further strengthen the program. Koanui Zeus U057 (IMP NZL) (PP) has been selected for his power, thickness and soundness, while Wild Bear Stranger S007 (AI) (H) contributes muscle, fat cover and strong carcase merit. Mountain Valley Underdog U122 (PP) has also been added, chosen for his ability to deliver the functional, well-structured progeny synonymous with Mountain Valley genetics. The continued use of Injemira Fortune M152 Q034 (AI) (PP) adds further confidence, with his proven record for low birth weight, solid growth and sound carcase traits underpinning the next generation of calves. Overall, the program continues to evolve while remaining firmly grounded in producing cattle that are practical, efficient and commercially relevant. The sale will be held on Friday, 6 March 2026, offering buyers the opportunity to secure genetics designed to perform in real-world conditions. International genetics boost local stud Valley Vista Hereford draft features well-balanced, commercially relevant bulls selected for consistency, calving ease and strong growth. (PS) Just over 12 months into operations, Bairnsdale Irrigation has found one thing is clear: no two farms, and no two irrigation enquiries, are ever the same. A consistent theme over the first year has been strong demand for solar pumping solutions to supply stock water across the district. Managing water for beef cattle, particularly Angus herds, has placed increased pressure on existing infrastructure, with many systems unable to deliver the necessary flow rates. "Many properties are transitioning from sheep grazing to beef production, which requires significantly more water," said Jason Crimeen, of Bairnsdale Irrigation. "We've been working closely with landholders to upgrade piping, optimise existing infrastructure, and in some cases redevelop systems entirely. The goal is to provide solutions that are reliable, robust, and easy to manage, even when farmers aren't on site." The business has also noticed a rise in the use of smart technology. Tools such as tank monitors and remote monitoring equipment are giving farmers better visibility and control over their water systems, whether they are across the paddock or across the state. While quality solar pumping solutions often carry a higher upfront cost, they deliver lower running expenses, handsoff operation once installed, and peace of mind—all while supporting growing herds with impressive flow rates. Another notable trend has been the uptake of hard hose irrigators. Bairnsdale Irrigation has been designing systems to suit almost any block shape or topography, particularly effective on uneven or undulating land. "These systems have opened up irrigation opportunities in areas where watering was previously difficult or not cost-effective," Mr Crimeen said. "They allow farmers to grow more pasture using existing infrastructure without large additional investment. For many dryland properties, this added depth and resilience has been a game-changer." At the heart of the business is a commitment to working closely with farmers to create personalised, fit-for-purpose designs. Reliable water access helps livestock maintain better condition, experience less stress, and gain weight—benefits that often extend to the farmer as well. "For me, this work is a passion," Mr Crimeen said. "It's the perfect balance between science and problem-solving, and getting hands-on to build something tangible. From analysing water sources, through pump sizing and irrigation design, to delivering a working system, supporting people through the entire process is incredibly rewarding." Twelve months in, Bairnsdale Irrigation has partnered with progressive local farmers across East Gippsland and beyond, helping them achieve better water management for livestock and pasture. The team looks forward to continuing to support the region's irrigation needs well into the future. Jason Crimeen of Bairnsdale Irrigation says demand for solar pumping, smart monitoring and flexible irrigation systems has grown strongly over the past year, as local farmers upgrade water infrastructure to support changing land use and larger beef herds across East Gippsland. The flow effect Dr Alison Gunn and Dr Chelsea Hair Phone 0437 732669 Email info@herdsolutions.com.au Servicing Genoa to Glengarry Livestock Veterinary Services and Farm Consultancy • Bull selection advice • Bull breeding soundness exams • Preg testing from 30 days after mating • Troubleshooting poor pregnancy results BOOK YOUR PREG TESTING IN NOW!
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