HubWatch – 17 October 2025

Calf sampling: The last group of AB replacement calves were DNA sampled this week for parentage verification and genomic evaluation. We’re looking forward to the results, as we’ll be selling some of our AB replacement calves and keeping those with the highest genetic merit. The calves have certainly enjoyed a bit of sunshine this week.

Pasture growth is now ahead of demand: This week we removed silage feeding (first for one herd, then later in the week for the second herd) and reduced in-shed feed for the Standard herd. A couple of paddocks were shut up for cultivation yesterday – let’s hope it doesn’t rain all week next week! Contractors are certainly going to be busy across the Southern region in the coming weeks.

Cultivation underway: Cultivation of new grass paddocks and crop planning are front of mind. Contractors were also on farm this week cleaning the weeping wall.

Mating heifers: Heifers started their synchrony programme today, and we’re looking forward to the results from mating. Mating the heifers allows us to mate 30% of the Standard herd to beef sires, lifting the number of calves we can feed into the dairy beef market while accelerating genetic gain. This year we’ll be using some Changus straws (a composite breed of Kakahu Angus and Kakahu Charolais, with lower calving ease and gestation) in the bottom 30% on BW in the Standard herd.

Grass quality management and conservation: Pasture quality is being closely managed, with paddocks identified for conservation to maintain feed quality and consistency across both herds.

Feeding plan: The Futures will continue to get 1 kg of in-shed feed until December to ensure they’re getting the minerals needed at this time of year (at a per cow level). For the rest of the season, they’ll only receive in-shed feed if there’s a pasture feed deficit. 

Mating and BCS management: Body condition is being closely tracked to support the mating period, ensuring priority management for lighter cows.