Breeders Blueprint
Stagione 1
Episode 4 | Brett McCamley, Fern Hills Grazing Trust
Episode 3 | Brian Stewart, Nicholl Road Brahmans
Episode 2 | Ewan Rockemer, Gigoomgan Brahmans
di Kelvin Cochrane
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. Brian shares the story of Nicholl Road Brahmans, his approach to selecting cattle that perform in commercial environments, and the importance of continually improving herd genetics while maintaining the key traits that make the Brahman breed so successful in northern Australia. The conversation explores breeding philosophies, influential bloodlines, the role of phenotype and performance, and the future of the Brahman industry. Brian also reflects on the breeders and cattle that have helped shape his program, offering valuable insights for both seedstock and commercial producers. Whether you’re involved in the beef industry or simply have a passion for livestock genetics, this episode offers practical knowledge and an honest look at what goes into building a successful Brahman stud. In this episode: - The story behind Nicholl Road Brahmans - Brian’s breeding philosophy - Selecting genetics for commercial success - Influential bloodlines and herd development - The future of the Brahman breed - Advice for current and future seedstock producers Subscribe to Breeders Blueprint as we continue to uncover the blueprint behind Australia’s leading seedstock producers.
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.
In the inaugural episode of Breeders Blueprint, we sit down with Rodger Jefferis of Elrose Brahmans, one of Australia's respected Brahman seedstock operations. Rodger shares the story behind Elrose Brahmans, the philosophy that has shaped the breeding decisions that continue to influence the program today. From selecting genetics and balancing phenotype with performance to navigating the challenges of the seedstock industry, this conversation offers valuable insights into what it takes to build a successful breeding operation. We also explore Rodger's journey in the cattle industry, the lessons learned over decades of breeding, the importance of continually improving genetics, and his vision for the future of Australian Brahman cattle. Whether you're a Brahman breeder, commercial producer, or simply passionate about livestock genetics, this episode is packed with practical knowledge, honest reflections, and the blueprint behind one of Australia's most respected seedstock programs. In this episode: The history of Elrose Brahmans Rodger's breeding philosophy Selecting sires and females Building genetics for commercial success Upcoming Sale Subscribe to Breeders Blueprint for more conversations with Australia's leading seedstock producers as we uncover the blueprint behind their success.