Beef Country - Grampians Angus: Breeding for the future

In this episode, host Jo Scott speaks with Jono Reed, stud master and owner of Grampians Angus, to discuss the history and breeding philosophy behind their Angus operations. Grampians Angus is known for its focus on functional, fertile cattle bred to perform under tough environmental conditions and shifting market demands.

Jono shares how Grampians Angus combines traditional stockmanship with modern genetic tools to guide their selection decisions. He highlights the importance of matching animals to the environment, and how observation and natural selection still play a critical role alongside data. 

Guest:

• Jono Reed, Owner, Grampians Angus

Host:

• Jo Scott, Genetic Specialist, Targeted Breeding

The Grampians herd has been shaped through decades of practical breeding experience, with careful attention to temperament, structure, and adaptability. Jono reflects on how the next generation of bull buyers are increasingly informed, valuing both performance data and phenotype when selecting sires. He also discusses the influence of international breeding systems, and the growing need to produce cattle that are efficient, low-input, and aligned with future industry regulations.

With a long-term view of breeding progress, Jono’s focus remains on producing balanced, functional bulls that suit both commercial and stud breeders. He outlines the key challenges facing the beef industry—including succession, regulation, and maintaining breeder relationships—and why the future lies in cattle that deliver both profitability and resilience.

Jono also emphasises the importance of selecting for optimum traits rather than simply chasing extremes in growth or performance. He explains how prioritising fertility, structural soundness, and maternal efficiency leads to more sustainable outcomes for commercial herds. By maintaining a disciplined approach to culling and sire selection, Grampians Angus aims to deliver genetics that support long-term herd improvement and meet the practical needs of progressive beef producers.

 

Grampians Angus Bull Sale:

• Friday 13th June 2025
• 420 Cascade Rd, North Canterbury

For more information about their Bull Sale, visit their website here: https://www.grampiansangus.co.nz/

 

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