David Spencer, Federal President

Another challenging but somewhat rewarding year for the breed.  The beef cattle industry in Australia remains strong although prices remain soft and unlikely to lift until the New Year;  however, we are fortunate enough to breed cattle that calve easily, milk well and produce a quality carcass product which will place us in an enviable position when demand increases.

We as a breed, slowly but surely are gaining ground on several fronts as more and more producers seek out breeds and genetics which offer soundness and profitability in more than one trait area.  The Shorthorn family continues to demonstrate its capability in the feedlot and at the market place thereby being a desirable carcass suitable for the premium Japanese market.  White Beef Shorthorn bulls continue to be in demand from Hereford and Angus commercial breeders looking to cross-breed, particularly in the southern regions of Victoria where they sold well to a top of $7500 during the annual mountain calf sales.  Sales to commercial Angus breeders in Northern NSW have also been strong. 

Membership numbers have remained steady over the past year with a slight increase in overall registration numbers which is credited to the increase in Australian Shorthorn registrations.

On the show-ring front both Beef and Australian Shorthorns have excelled.  Particularly noteworthy this year was the success of the Malton stud at the Bendigo Beef Expo, and at the recent Royal Melbourne Show.  Malton Engineer (Australian Shorthorn) was placed as the Reserve Interbreed Junior Bull, Malton Panwin Amanda (Beef Shorthorn) was placed as the Reserve Interbreed Junior Heifer, and Spencer Family Soldier Boy was placed 3rd, Interbreed Senior Bull.

I draw your attention to the financial incentive being offered by Federal Council.  Next year we hope to have at the Bendigo Beef Expo representation of both Beef and Australian Shorthorn steers.  Further to this a request has been made for ordinary classes to be provided for both Beef and Australian Shorthorns at the NSW Beef Spectacular to be held during March 2010 in Dubbo.

During January 2010, Federal Council will hold its meeting in the Mt Gambier region of South Australia.  Combined with this meeting will be a member tour and further enquiry can be directed to the Federal Secretary.

I take this opportunity to extend my best wishes to all for the coming festive season. 

Kind Regards

David Spencer