Premium Hereford genetics making all the difference for Canterbury calf raiser
Veteran calf raiser and stock agent Andrew Stringer from Haeata raises more than 2100 calves each year on his commercial block in Haeata, Canterbury.
Andy predominantly raises a mix of Friesian bulls and Hereford beefies, with split calving to manage the workload and pasture on his farm.
He mainly buys his Friesian calves from longtime World Wide Sires customers Eyrewell Dairies.
In more recent seasons, Andy has turned much of his attention towards dairy beef calves, mainly Herefords.
Last autumn, Andy reared 470 Bluestone Lincoln calves, with another 300 in the following spring.
"This autumn, there was a huge, noticeable difference. I weaned them at 100kgs off two bags of milk powder. We've never done that before."
He said the finisher who bought the calves is eager to come back for more in future seasons.
He [finisher] rang this morning to say they're the best bulls he's ever had – best autumn calves anyway.
"That doesn't surprise me. The calves are ripper calves."
Andy said he's preaching the importance of great genetics wherever he can.
"With returning clients I'm trying to push it onto them. There's calves, and there's calves, and these buyers know genetics.
"If I've got a choice for rearing Herefords next year with the guys selecting straws next year, I'd be asking for Bluestone Lincoln."
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