Denizes Production Sale tops at 8000gns, 7000gns, and 6000gns
Finishing with more than a flourish, the full and final Dispersal Sale of the Broombrae Simmental herd of Gordon Clark, Broombrae Farm, Auchtermuchty, Cupar, Fife met with a tremendous trade in front of a packed ringside of buyers at United Auctions, Stirling on Monday 21st October.
Leading the way was two cow and calf units, each at 8000gns. With almost all of the lots, cows and calves, and heifers, exceeding the 5000gns mark the Broombrae sale was arguably the strongest on a busy all-breeds day! The sale grossed an outstanding £110,250 for the 35 head in all and throughout the three days of the Stirling Sale, the pens had been busy with new and established breeders, from Orkney to Norwich, looking through the quality lots on offer.
Established in 1987, the herd was built around proven breeding lines and with a breeding aim to have healthy, easy managed cows with milk, good udders, and of good temperament. This shone through in the cattle presented which had a real consistency, freshness, were full of length, and doing a great job of their calves at foot. The cows, with their calves at foot, had all run with Newbiemains Nightrider from the end of May to September, and then with Coltfield Maciver.
Broombrae Delight R6 – daughter of Broombrae Delight L11, 8,000gns for the outfit.
The first of the outfits at 8000gns was the second calver Broombrae Delight L11 who was sold with her heifer calf at foot Broombrae Delight R6, sired by Coltfield Maciver 21. August 2020 born, Delight L11 is by the herd’s noted stock bull Lisglass Goldstar 15, and is out of the Corskie Copper daughter Broombrae Delight F4. With a Maternal (Milk) figure of +11, Broombrae Delight L11 with her heifer calf was purchased by Mr & Mrs L Moffat, Innerwick Farm, Dunbar, East Lothian for their Innerwick pedigree herd.
Broombrae Delight M20 and Delight R7 8,000gns
Also at 8000gns was another from the Delight line in the shape of Broombrae Delight M20, and sold with her April 2024 born Camus Harold sired heifer calf at foot, Broombrae Delight R7. Broombrae Delight M20 is also by Lisglass Goldstar, and is out of the Peasiehill Engelbert daughter Broombrae Delight H2. Buying this unit was Jim & Patricia Goldie for their Newbiemains herd at Newbie Mains Farm, Annan, Dumfriesshire. Of his top price purchase Jim Goldie said: “We saw the Broombrae animals the day before and picked out one or two including Broombrae Delight M20 and her calf. A lot of the cows forward had really nice calves at foot. Delight M20 is a good, well balanced correct cow, is back in calf to Newbiemains Nightrider so all being well will produce a quality calf in the spring. She has a good calf on her at present and which we might have a look to show next year.”
The sire of the top two prices, Lisglass Goldstar, featured heavily in the sale and has been an influential sire in the herd with numerous bulls into five figures having sold into pedigree and commercial herds. Lisglass Goldstar was also voted Simmental Champion of Europe in 2021!
Broombrae Delight K1 with calf Delight R3, 6,000gns for the outfit
At 7000gns, and continuing the demand for the Delight line, A&R Brownlie, Melrose, Roxs purchased the March 2019 born Broombrae Delight K1, sold with her Camus Harold sired March 2024 born heifer calf Broombrae Delight R3 at foot, for their Sylvestris pedigree herd. This cow, again a third calver, and with a Maternal (Milk) figure of +11, is sired by Corskie Elgin, a Greencap Ace son. Later in the day, Broombrae Delight N23 (P), a daughter of Delight K1, made 5800gns.
Two lots sold at 6000gns. The first of these was the August 2021 born first calved heifer Broombrae Rosina M13, who was sold with her heifer calf at foot, Broombrae Rosina R5 sired by Coltfield Maciver. Broombrae Rosina M13, who had a Maternal (Milk) figure of +12, is another by Lisglass Goldstar, and is out of Broombrae Rosina E40 who was the top price at the herd’s sale in February this year. Purchasing this outfit was Binn Agricultural Ltd, Glenfarg, Perthshire.
Broombrae Delight N22 6,000gns
Also at the 6000gns mark was the top price heifer in the sale, Broombrae Delight N22. Yet another by Lisglass Goldstar, this heifer sold as PD’d in calf, is out of Broombrae Delight I15 and carried a Maternal (Milk) figure of +10. Champion at Fife Show this summer, Broombrae Delight N22 heads to Orkney having been purchased by JD Flett, Stank Farm, Stromness.
Broombrae Delight H13 5,800gns
The catalogue ‘cover girl’ and described as ‘probably the best breeding cow for sale’ was Broombrae Delight H13 who made 5800gns when selling with her sixth calf at foot, the April 2024 born Camus Harold sired heifer calf Broombrae Delight R9. The March 2016 born Delight H13 is sired by Peasiehill Engelbert 13, and is out of the Team Wisconsin daughter Broombrae Delight F13. Broombrae Delight H13 is the dam of Broombrae Major who sold to Cogent, Broombrae Nijinsky who sold to a top commercial herd, and also Broombrae Delight P10 who sold for 5000gns later in the catalogue. Purchasing this outfit was Gavin Brown for his Springfield pedigree herd at Penicuik, Midlothian.
Broombrae Delight N23 5,800gns
Also at the 5800gns mark was the aforementioned heterozygous polled in-calf heifer Broombrae Delight N23 (P). November 2022 born, this heifer is by Innerwick Logan (P), and is out of the 7000gns Broombrae Delight K1 (sold earlier in the sale). Buying this lot was Michael Halligan for his Netherstewarton herd at Eddleston, Peebles.
OTHER LEADING BROOMBRAE PRICES
5,200gns Lot 642 Broombrae Snowdrop M17 & bull calf Radar 24 sold to Macfarlane Farms Ltd, Quixwood Farm, Duns, Berwickshire
5,200gns Lot 648 Broombrae Lorey K10 & heifer calf Lorey R1 sold to G D Key & Son, Mundham, Norwich
5,000gns Lot 643 Broombrae Rosina I21 & bull calf Rocky 24 sold to T Clark & Sons, Abbey Farm, Madderty, Crieff
5,000gns Lot 659 Broombrae Harriet P2 sold to AJR Farms Ltd, Milton of Collieston, Ellon, Aberdeenshire
5,000gns Lot 660 Broombrae Delight P10 sold to O J & J M Barker, Easter Yardhouses, Carnwath, Lanark
5,000gns Lot 661 Broombrae Harriet P13 sold to D & S Calder, Braes of Grandtully, Aberfeldy, Perthshire
8000GNS DENIZES MATILDA 6TH TOPS HERD PRODUCTION SALE
Bringing a busy Simmental Sale day to a close on Monday 21st October at Stirling, was the Production Sale from the 80-cow Denizes herd of MA Barlow & Sons, Four Oaks, Ulnes, Nr Leyland Lancashire that saw highlight prices of 8000gns, 7000gns, and 6000gns.
Denizes Matilda 6th & 20th 8,000gns for the outfit
Topping the sale, and with the 8000gns joint leading female price of the day, was the May 2020 born Denizes Matilda 6th (ET) who was purchased with her first calf at foot, the April 2024 born Denizes Matilda 20th, sired by Hiltonstown Lorenzo 20. Denizes Matilda 6th is sired by Denizes Impressive who was sold to the Popes herd for 10,000gns and is out of the noted Raceview Beauty Matilda. Purchasing this outfit, with Matilda 6th being back in calf, was Sam Steggles for his growing 40-cow Wacton pedigree herd at Honingham, Norfolk. Commenting, Sam Steggles said: “Coming to Stirling we had seen the pictures of this outfit and really liked the Raceview breeding in the pedigree. In the flesh we thought the heifer calf was terrific, perhaps the best in the market, and she has all the potential to go on and be an outstanding female. We’re thrilled to introduce Matilda 6th into the herd with the breeding behind her, and with the potential she brings.”
Denizes Melody 22nd and 62nd 7,000gns
Selling at 7000gns was the nine-year-old Denizes Melody 22nd who was sold with her April 2024 heifer calf at foot, Denizes Melody 62nd, a Hiltonstown Lorenzo daughter. Melody 22nd is by Bosahan Dynamo 12, and is out of the Ashland Tornado sired Denizes Melody 10th. Melody 22nd has had progeny at 7000gns, and her grandson Denizes New Orleans sold for 22,000gns at Stirling in May this year. With Denizes Melody 22nd PD’d in-calf, this outfit was purchased by James Hodge for his establishing Goldstar herd at Dundonald, Ayrshire. Speaking afterwards James Hodge said: “We’re establishing a pedigree herd and Denizes Melody 22nd along with her heifer calf brings a depth of breeding and with the potential of a foundation female. Melody 22nd is fresh looking for her age, with great maternal characteristics.”
Denizes Trixie-Belle 24th 6,000gns
At 6000gns was the top priced maiden heifer in the shape of the June 2023 born Denizes Trixi-Belle 24th. This heifer’s maternal brothers include the 20,000gns Denizes Monty, and the 10,000gns Denizes Impressive. Sired by saltire Impressive 17 and out of Denizes Trixi-Belle 6th, this heifer was also purchased by Sam Steggles who said: “Again this is a flashy heifer with plenty of style that we really liked. There’s a depth of breeding as well that will also be new to the herd. Trixi-Belle 24th ticked a lot of boxes for us and we hope she will go on and be part of the Wacton herd show team next year.”
28,000gns Kilbride Farm bull a joint NI Simmental record
Top price also the record for a homozygous polled bull
19 bulls sell at 7000gns and over
49 bulls sold through the ring to £7434
The homozygous polled bull Kilbride Farm Prince 23 (PP) from WH Robson & Sons, Doagh, Ballyclare, sold for 28,000gns to lead the Simmental trade, and take the all-breeds top price, at United Auctions, Stirling on Monday 21st October. The 28,000gns, which is the top all-breeds price at Stirling this year, is also a joint record for a Northern Irish Simmental bull.
Sale top price, and Reserve Intermediate Champion, Kilbride Farm Prince 28,000gns in the pre-sale show the previous day, this April 2023 born bull had stood as Reserve Intermediate Champion under the judge, Neil McIlwaine of the noted Corrick herd, Newtonstewart, Co Tyrone, after having been placed first in his class.
Newly elected BSCS President Chris Martindale, left, with judge Neil McIlwaine
Combining visual, pedigree, and performance, Kilbride Farm Prince 23 (PP) is entirely homebred being by Kilbride Farm Jetstream 18 (P), and out of Kilbride Farm Fanni 68J (P), a Kilbride Farm Gruffalo daughter. With terrific performance figures, Prince 23 (PP) had a top 1% Maternal (Milk) figure of +13, the joint highest in the catalogue, and top 5% figures for growth and Terminal, and top 10% for Self-Replacing. Come sale time this bull quickly went through the sale gears before being knocked down to the 80-cow Denizes herd of MA Barlow & Sons, Four Oaks, Nr Leyland, Lancashire. Commenting afterwards John Barlow said: “This is just a tremendous bull in himself and the best homozygous polled bull we’ve seen. He just ticked so many boxes having a ‘wow factor’ in himself, but having the figures and pedigree to match, and of course being polled, a trait which there is increasing demand for. We’d seen his picture on Facebook and we liked him even more when we saw him in the flesh. From here we’ll look to use him on Denizes Hamish daughters, and in time Corskie Nugget daughters, but we’re excited to have him and to see his progeny in due course.”
For the noted 100 cow Kilbride Farm herd, who over the years have had numerous high prices, and seven Overall Supremes at both Perth and Stirling, it was a top price for the herd to date eclipsing the 22,000gns for Kilbride Farm Foreman in 2016, and of course a joint record for a Simmental bull from Northern Ireland. Speaking on behalf of the Kilbride Farm team, Norman Robson who was on the same weekend the outgoing President of the British Simmental Cattle Society after a two year term, said: “Having introduced the polled gene slowly, and at the same time maintaining the qualities that the herd is known for, it has been a goal for some 30 years to breed a homozygous polled bull of this quality. We’re delighted with the sale today and hope Kilbride Farm Prince 23 (PP) goes on to breed well in his new home.” The sire of Prince 23 (PP), Kilbride Farm Jetstream 18 (P), has previously bred bulls to 13,000gns x 2, and in 2023 was the Male Champion in the Society’s popular Virtual Show.
The sale itself saw 49 bulls sold through the ring, and 53 in all, to average £7434. Six bulls made over five figures, and nineteen in total were sold at 7,000gns or more. The top price aside, the sale was dominated by commercial producers competing for the first quality bulls of their choice. Speaking after the sale, the incoming BSCS President Chris Martindale who runs the noted Forsdale herd at Coedfa, Oswestry, Shropshire said: “There continues to be a real confidence in the Simmental breed at present, and it’s great to see the strength in the sale today again being driven by commercial producers. With a focus on efficiency, added value, and performance, the Simmental maternal traits of milk, easy calving, fertility, temperament, and producing growthy, easy fleshing calves year on year, are a foundation benchmark that producers are very much looking for in their suckler herds. We would of course have liked to have seen more bulls sold today but the numbers are perhaps reflective of where these backend sales are at present and with the pressures we’re seeing on cow numbers in the industry generally.”
Overall Supreme Champion, and Senior Champion, Popes Premier 15,000gns
There was a huge ringside roar when Popes Premier was tapped out, and led by Jimmy Wood!
Selling at 15,000gns was the pre-sale Overall Supreme Champion in the shape of Popes Premier 23 from Jimmy & Vikki Wood, Dutton, Preston. Having won Class Two, followed by the Senior Championship, this January 2023 born bull literally raised the roof with a huge ringside roar of approval from the packed ringside crowd greeting the ‘judges tap’ in what was a hugely popular win and a special moment for Jimmy and Vikki at ringside, and the Wood family.
A bit of a theme at the sale, Popes Premier is again entirely homebred being by Popes Lethal Weapon and out of the multi title show winning, Popes Princess Immie, whose grand dam is the herd’s famous show cow, Popes Princess Cleo. In his own right last year, Popes Premier 23 won the Simmental Pedigree Calf Championship and National Pedigree Calf Show Interbreed, at the English Winter Fair. This year he won the Male Championship and Reserve Overall to his stablemate Popes Princess Noor, at the 2024 Great Yorkshire Show, and was Reserve Male Champion at the 2024 Simmental English National Show held within the Royal Lancashire. Commenting on his Overall Champion, the judge Neil McIlwaine said: “This bull in my mind is a high end breeder’s bull. He just stood out with his power, length and super locomotion. In prime condition he had great lines throughout, was full of breed character and showed himself so well on good legs. He’s one of the best Simmental bulls I’ve seen at Stirling.”
Going commercially, Popes Premier 23 was purchased by the noted Islay Estates, Bridgend, Isle of Islay. Islay Estates runs an extensive in-hand farming operation over a large area of the Estate. The farming practices and livestock on the ground vary as the land and topography ultimately dictate what is possible. Livestock are reared naturally on the hill and on the in-bye land, where they graze all year round.
Of winning the Supreme Championship and the Stirling Sale, Vikki Wood said: “It’s been an emotional weekend and we’re over the moon to have won the pre-sale show. Premier has been such an honest calf from day one, just a lovely bull to work with and a perfect gent. Sunday was very much the icing on the cake with him! We very much wish Islay Estates all the best with him”.
Junior Champion Islavale Private 12,500gns
Bringing another top team of bulls to Stirling was the prolific Islavale herd of WS Stronach & Son, Berryleys Farm, Grange, Keith, who sold seven in all to gross £64,050, and average a mighty £9150. Included within that was the winner of the last class of the day and the Junior Champion, Islavale Private 23 who made 12,500gns when selling to Ayrshire and the commercial producer JH Logan & Co, Dalfask Farm, Girvan. Continuing the theme, this May 2023 born bull is entirely homebred being by Islavale Lucifer 20 EX93 and is out of Islavale Keely EX 91. Speaking afterwards Michael Logan said:
“I hadn’t gone to the sale necessarily with the intention of buying and was actually running a wee bit late. But looking at the bulls beforehand this bull just really caught my eye. He had tremendous length and is a really strong, powerful bull for his age. We’ve purchased from Islavale previously and the bulls have done really well so we’re happy again to pay the price for a bull of this quality.” Islavale Private will be used in the Dalfask commercial herd which comprises of purebred Simmentals, Simmental x Salers, and Lim x Friesians.
In addition to the 12,500gns price further Islavale bulls made 11,000gns, 9500gns, 9000gns x 2, 6000gns, and 4000gns. Both the Junior Championship and Intermediate Championship was secured, along with the Reserve Overall, and with the herd also picking up the Group of Three award. The Junior Champion prize marked the fifth in a row the herd has won this title at February and October Stirling Sales. Another fantastic ‘day at the office’! The herd’s three top prices were all sired by the homebred Islavale Lucifer 20 EX93, his first sons at Stirling, and described as the best son of Corskie Highlander the herd has bred. This bull was also the sire of Islavale Peaches the Weaned Calf Champion at the 2023 Next Gen Sale who made 9000gns. Commenting generally on the day, Stewart Stronach said: “We’re very pleased with the day and to see a retained stock bull get on so well with his first progeny at Stirling. In terms of the bulls our aim remains to produce bulls from strong maternal lines that are not too extreme, with good growth figures and milk, that have length, good tops, and are square over their plates.”
Innerwick Phoenix 12,000gns
Selling at 12,000gns was Innerwick Phoenix 23 from Mr & Mrs L Moffat, Innerwick Farm, Dunbar, East Lothian. At the pre-sale show this April 2023 bull had stood second in his class to the Intermediate & Overall Reserve Champion. Sired by Greencap Jaeger 18, who was purchased by the Moffat’s from Stirling in October 2019, and who was Junior Male, Overall Junior, and Reserve Male Champion at the Royal Highland Show 2019, Innerwick Phoenix 23 is out of Innerwick Gazelle, a Lambclose Bacchus daughter. With good Terminal and Self replacing Indexes, this bull went north when purchased by W&J Brown, Hilton of Culsh, New Deer, Turriff.
Intermediate Champion and Reserve Overall Supreme Islavale Popeye 11,000gns
The Intermediate Champion and Reserve Overall Supreme was another from the Islavale team and in the shape of Islavale Popeye 23. This April 2023 born bull is another by Islavale Lucifer 20 EX93 and is out of the second calver Islavale Keepsake (ET) VG 87. Making 11,000gns this bull was purchased by repeat buyer A& J Craig, Craigton, Castle Douglas who run 380 Simmental cross cows. Commenting, Stephen Williamson the herd manager said: “We’re delighted to get this bull and who has very good milk figures. We’ve purchased previously from Islavale and the bulls have gone on to leave a very strong base of cows in the herd.” Of his Overall reserve Champion the judge Neil McIlwaine said: “This was another terrific bull. Again he had plenty of power with great lines to him, width through the top, and depth through into his hindquarters. He moved extremely well and is a quality bull that could do both jobs.”
Kilbride Farm President 10,000gns
Following on from their top price sale, the Robson family were back in the money when selling the heterozygous polled bull Kilbride Farm President 23 (P) for 10,000gns to J Lawrie, Newton of Arbirlot, Arbroath, Angus. This April 2023 born bull is sired by the herd’s new stock bull Hiltonstown Lachlan, who is ‘breeding very well’ in the herd and is out of a Sneumgaard Imperator (PP) daughter, K F Eunice 245I (P), who has already bred Kilbride Farm Lancer (P), the Reserve Junior Champion at Stirling in February 2022. Another bull with top performance figures, Kilbride Farm President (P) is in the top 1% for Self-Replacing Index; top 5% for growth, and Terminal Index, and top 10% for milk.
Islavale Perseus 9500gns
Back to the Islavale pen and the March 2023 born Islavale Perseus made 9500gns when selling to the pedigree and commercial Garrison herd of DJ Cleland, Glebe Farm, Hereford. With both parents classified EX93, this bull again by Islavale Lucifer 20 EX93, and out of Islavale Dream EX93, carried a joint top Maternal (Milk) figure of +13, and with Self replacing and Terminal Indexes in the top 5%, and top 1% respectively. Commenting afterwards Mr Cleland said: “We run 340 Simmental and Charolais crosses but with the aim to increase the Simmental influence. We were looking for a bull with good breeding behind him, performance figures, and who was darker in colour. This bull had all of that and a tremendous length and power to him. He’ll be used in due course within both our commercial and pedigree herds.”
Quarryhill Pablo 9000gns
Four bulls in all made 9000gns and the first of the was the winner of class three, Quarryhill Pablo 23 from Geoff & Kate Anderson, Wester Greens Farm, Lossiemouth. In September 2022, Geoff & Kate purchased Annick Desiree’s Joy EX 90, and her heifer calf at foot, for a combined 12,500gns. In calf to Kilbride Farm Karl 19 (P), Quarryhill Pablo 23 is the resulting calf. A good muscled bull with positive calving figures, this bull was bought by noted commercial producers J R Graham & Ptnrs, Greenshields, Biggar, Lanarkshire.
Delfur Pegasus 9000gns
Second prize in the same class, and again at 9000gns was the heterozygous polled bull Delfur Pegasus 23 (P) from Delfur Farms, Rothes, Aberlour. This March 2023 born calf is by Woodhall Instinct 17, and out of Delfur Joy, an Islavale Cassius daughter. Another bull to go south, and to be used on both pedigree and commercial cows, Delfur Pegasus 23 was purchased by JW Gosmore & Partners, who run the Newton House herd of 120 head in all at Newton House Farm, Chester. Of Delfur Pegasus John Gosmore said: “I was looking for a bull with conformation and to use in our suckler herd of Simmental Limousin crosses, and also with the quality for the pedigree herd. This bull has the shape, has good feet and legs, walked extremely well, and looks to have a very good temperament which is important to us.”
Islavale Preston 9000gns
Islavale Pepe 9000gns
Two bulls from Islavale made 9000gns. The first at this mark was the March 2023 born Islavale Preston. This bull is Coose Lincoln, who has bred sons to 13,000gns, and is out of Islavale Glee. With a top 15% Calving Ease figure of +3.2, this bull was purchased by J Anderson & Son, Headshaw, Lauder, Berwickshire, for their predominantly Simmental herd of 135 suckler cows. Speaking afterwards James Anderson said: “We picked this bull out at the pre-sale show and are really pleased to have got him. He’s very correct, had a good top line, width and shape, and walked very well. With a good head and breed character, he just had a presence to him and he’s got good figures as well. The Simmental breed as a whole have very good maternal traits, are milky and make good mothers. This bull will go into the suckler herd for those qualities and to breed replacements for the future”. The final bull at the 9000gns mark was the third prize winner Islavale Pepe 23. March 2023 born, this bull is by Curaheen Giant, who has had sons up to 16,000gns, and is out of Islavale Ashley 7 GP84. This bull was bought by Robert Bell & Partners, Craigo, Milnathort, Kinross.
Reserve Supreme Champion Corskie Pot 8500gns
Standing second in his class to the Overall Supreme Champion and Senior Champion, and who himself was Reserve Senior Champion on the day, was Corskie Pot 23, from Mr WJ & J Green, Corskie, Garmouth, Fochabers. This January 2023 born bull is by Rathnashan Kellogg’s EX 94, and is out of Corskie Kettle EX 90. Purchasing Corskie Pot 23 was commercial producer W A Wilson, Hutlerburn, Ettrick, Selkirk. Rathnashan Kellogg’s EX94 has had progeny sell to date up to 9500gns at Stirling, and has sired the Overall Junior Champion at the Royal Highland, and the Reserve Male at this year’s Highland and Simmental Scottish National Shows. In addition to the 85000gns price, Corskie sold eight bulls on the day and with other prices including 7000gns, 6500gns x2, and 5500gns.
Scotland Hill Peter 8500gns
Up from Doncaster, Tom Hill, Mill Farm, Wadworth made 8500gns when selling the shapely Scotland Hill Peter 23 to Caithness and W M Barnetson & Sons, Lynegar Farm, Wick. April 2023 born, Scotland Hill Peter 23 is Clonagh Mighty Ab Fab, a Manor Park Hansome son, and is out of Scotland Hill Ivonne, a Glenturk Extra Special daughter.
Reserve Junior Champion Pitmudie Princeton
Winning class nine and taking the Reserve Junior Championship was the stylish Pitmudie Princeton 23 from Heather Duff, Pitmudie Farm, Menmuir, Brechin. April 2023 born, Pitmudie Princeton is by Hiltonstown Irish 17, and is out of Pitmudie Babe from the herd’s noted Manor Park Babe line. With a show track record behind him, through the summer this bull won the Reserve Beefbreeder Interbreed title at the Royal Highland and was Reserve Overall Junior Champion at the Simmental Scottish National Show. Hiltonstown Irish 17, was purchased at Stirling in October 2018 for 8500gns. Come sale time this bull was bid to 8500gns, not quite meeting the reserve, and with the Duffs thinking so much of him that he has been retained for use in the Pitmudie herd.
OTHER LEADING PRICES:
7,500gns Lot 245 Coltfield Philadelphia sold to J E & B L Goddard, West Logan, Castle Douglas
7,500gns Lot 198 Coltfield Peter sold to H H & A Swanson, Tister Farm, Halkirk, Caithness
Pitmudie Pitcairn 7200gns
7,200gns Lot 223 Pitmudie Pitcairn sold to A D Sutherland & Sons, Kellas Farm, Elgin, Morayshire
Ranfurly Principal 7000gns
7,000gns Lot 264 Ranfurly Principal sold to T G Hamilton, Killumpha Farm, Port Logan, Wigtonshire
Corskie Puma 7000gns
7,000gns Lot 176 Corskie Puma sold to H Macdonald, Mains of Dalvey, Advie, Morayshire
Inverdunning Parker 7000gns
7,000gns Lot 204 Inverdunning Parker sold to A & H Grant, Pathcondie Farm, Cupar, Fife
Overall Champion Popes Premier with the Wood family, judge Neil McIlwaine, Jonathan Gunn, and Galbraiths representative.
• £6720 (+£892) sets a new Simmental record average for Stirling May Sale
• 22,000gns a new Simmental record for the May Stirling Sale
• 96% clearance rate with 24 out of 25 bulls selling
Denizes New Orleans, from MA Barlow & Sons, Four Oaks, Ulnes, Leyland, sold for 22,000gns, to a commercial buyer, to lead a strong demand for Simmental bulls at the Stirling May Sale held at United Auctions Stirling Agricultural Centre today, Monday 6th May.
Denizes New Orleans 22,000gns
The 22,000gns led the all-breeds trade at this multibreed sale, and set a new Simmental record top price at this May fixture when eclipsing the 16,000gns mark set just last year. Records tumbled on the day with the £6720 average for the bulls sold being a new record Simmental mark for this May fixture, smashing last year’s record figure by £892. 22 out of 25 bulls forward sold in the ring with two further bulls sold post sale to give an overall clearance of 96%.
October 2022 born, Denizes New Orleans, a heifer’s calf and a first prize winner in the pre-sale show, is by the prolific Denizes Hamish and out of the Blackford Galaxy daughter Denizes Melody 39th. Purchasing the top price bull, who carried strong performance figures and a depth of breeding, was commercial producer Alan Wright who runs 70 Simmental females, 15/16ths bred towards pure, in a closed herd at St Mungos Farm, West Lundie, Argaty, Doune. Speaking after the sale Mr Wright said: “This is just a tremendous Simmental bull with the muscle and length that we look for. He’s got a great depth of breeding on both sides of his pedigree and we like Denizes Hamish in himself and the progeny he’s consistently breeding and being brought forward to sale.” Of the 22,000gns price Mr Wright went on to say: “When you see a bull of this quality then you have to try and buy him! If you look at the price of the first ten heifers a bull like this will breed that’s how we look to value him. In 2017 we paid 18,000gns for Manor Park Hayden, and he’s a similar bull to the eye that’s bred really well for us and really retained his muscle. Denizes New Orleans is home, settled in really well, and we’re delighted to have him.”
From their 70 females the Wrights sell bulling heifers privately with bullocks going fat to both ABP and Dunbia. The 22,000gns figure is also believed to be the top price to date for a Simmental bull sold to a commercial producer.
It’s been a remarkable start to the sale year for the prolific Denizes herd who in February sold the Denizes Hamish son, Denizes Nugget, for 37,000gns with five Hamish sons in all grossing £88,200 to average a mighty £17,640. In October this year the Denizes herd will be holding a production sale at Stirling of some 50 head.
Braidwood Nero 8,500gns
Taking the second top price of 8500gns was Braidwood Nero 22 (P) from Ms L J Moffat of Innerwick Farm, Innerwick, Dunbar. In the pre-sale show judged by Jonny Hazelton of the noted Ranfurly herd, Colhannon House, Dungannon, this August 2022 born bull has stood Reserve Overall Champion. Sired by Wolfstar Jimmy Choo and out of the German Promi daughter Braidwood Freckles, this bull went to Douganhill Farms, Palnackie, Castle Douglas. Douganhill Farms run a beef and sheep enterprise, consisting of 200 Spring calving cows plus heifers and 70 autumn calving cows. The cows are a mixture of Limousin X and Simmental X South Devon, with Simmental bulls used breed herd replacements. Commenting on their purchase, David MacTaggart said: “I liked Nero’s, length, power, milk figures, ease of calving and an added bonus is that he is Polled. The plan from here is that Nero will be being going out to cows in June for next year’s spring calving and also again in October for next year’s autumn calving.”
Braegarrie Northern Light 8,000gns
At 8000gns was Braegarrie Northern Light 22 from DL & S Currie, Pinclanty, Pinmore, Girvan. November 2022 born, this bull is sired by Overhill House Link, and is out of Braegarrie Jenna, a Keeldrum Geronimo daughter. Northern Light, who carried good Calving Ease Direct figures, sold to Gartincaber Farms, Auchmar, Drymen.
Islavale Niko 7,000gns
Islavale Norse 6,000gns
Bringing another strong line up of five Simmental bulls to Stirling was the Islavale herd of Mr WS Stronach, Berryleys Farm, Keith, Banff. Their leading sale price was the 7000gns paid for the October 2022 born Islavale Niko 22. This calf is sired by Coose Lincoln (ET) EX 90, and is out of Islavale Freda EX 91. With the highest Maternal (Milk) figure in the catalogue of +15, in the breed’s top 1%, Islavale Niko 22 was bought by Mountquhanie Farms, By Cupar, Fife. Other Islavale bulls on the day made 6000gns x2; 5000gns; and 4800gns to gross £30,240 and average £6048. At the 6000gns mark was the pre-sale show Overall Champion Islavale Norse 22, a Shacon Hannibal son who sold to Orkney when being purchased by Vestrafiold Farm Ltd, Vestrafiold House, Sandwick, Orkney.
Jonny Hazelton, judge
Also at the 7000gns mark was the homozygous polled bull Kilbride Farm Nemo 22 (PP) (TM), from WH Robson & Sons, Doagh, Ballyclare. By the imported bull Flop Agrochyt, whose first son at sale sold for 11,000gns in February, Kilbride Farm Nemo 22 (PP) (TM) is out of Kilbride Farm Fanni 71K (PP). With a top 1% Calving Ease Direct figure of +9.2, this bull went to the Borders when selling to T Tennant, Gilmanscleugh, Ettrick, Selkirk.
Kilbride Farm Nemo 7,000gns
Three bulls made 6500gns. The first of these was the stylish Broombrae Norseman N18 22 (P), from Messrs Gordon L Clark, Auchtermuchty, Cupar, Fife, who stood second in his class to the Overall Reserve Champion. September 2022 born, this heterozygous polled bull is by the imported Egebjerggards Pesto, and is out of Broombrae Delight J5, a Corskie Elgin J5 daughter. Purchasing this bull was the Firm of Spence, Balgassie Farm, Aberlemno, Forfar. This latest sale followed hard on the heels of February where the Broombrae herd sold a bull for 11,000gns and to an Australian purchaser. The second and final part of the Broombrae Herd Dispersal will be held at Stirling in October.
Broombrae Norseman 6,500gns
Also at the 65000gns mark was Delfur Nemesis 22 from Delfur Farms, Dundurcas Farm House, Aberlour. Sired by Innerwick Ivor 17 and out of Delfur Weigela D101, Nemesis 22 was described as ‘a young bull with great length and style.’ Buying this bull was AJ Stephen, Hatton Cottage, Dallas, Forres, Morayshire.
Delfur Nemesis 6,500gns
A strong sale right to the end, the final 6500gns call came for the last bull in the sale in the shape of Overhill House Patrick 23 from Richard McCulloch, Armadale, West Lothian. January 2023 born this bull is by Corskie Lambe 20, and is out of Overhill House Italia. In November last year as a young calf, Overhill House Patrick 23 had stood as Reserve Junior Male Champion at the Stars of the Future Calf Show. Purchasing this bull, who carried a top 5% breed figure of +11 for Maternal (Milk), was Glenure Estate Limited, Glasdrum, Fasnacloich, Appin, Argyll.
Overhill House Patrick 6,500gns
AVERAGES
22 Bulls £6720 (+£892)
OTHER LEADING BULL PRICES INCLUDED:
6,000gns Lot 426 Delfur Nightrider sold to T Walker, Newton of Mountblairy, Eden, Banff
6,000gns Lot 444 Islavale Norse sold to Vestrafiold Farm Ltd, Vestrafiold House, Sandwick, Orkney
6,000gns Lot 445 Islavale Neville 2 sold to R&D Farquar, Tewel Farm, Stonehaven, Kincardineshire
5,500gns Lot 425 Pitgaveny Northstar sold to G & A Milne, Standingstones, Durris, Banchory
5,500gns Lot 430 Islavale Nickel sold to GT & S Coghill, Muce, Birsay, Orkney
5,000gns Lot 416 Boswell Ninja sold to WB & AD Robertson, Balneathill Farm, Kinnesswood, Kinross
5,000gns Lot 418 Tillyeve Noah sold to MJ & C Hutchinson, Falahill Farm, Heriot
5,000gns Lot 450 Colfield Nitro sold to J Pate & Partners, Helmburn, Ettrick Bridge, Selkirk
5,000gns Lot 453 Overhill House Pilot sold to J Pate & Partners, Nettlingflat Farm, Heriot, Midlothian
Two lots made 5800gns to lead part one of the Broombrae Simmental herd dispersal for Messrs Gordon L Clark, Auchtermuchty, Cupar, Fife, held at United Auctions, Stirling on Monday 19th February and immediately following the breed’s successful bull sale.
The first part of the Broombrae Dispersal Sale comprised the Autumn calving cows with calves at foot, and with a selection of heifers, and met with a solid and consistent trade throughout. Five lots made in excess of 5000gns with fifteen in all at 4000gns and above. The sale grossed a very healthy £94,395. A herd with a focus on breeding cows with good udders and temperament, and using bulls with easy calving EBVs, the remaining cows and heifers will be sold in October 2024.
First to sell at 5800gns was the September 2019 born Broombrae Rosina K16, a daughter of the herd’s noted stock sire Lisglass Goldstar, and out of Broombrae Rosina E40, a Team Wisconsin daughter. PD’d in calf to Broombrae Major, Broombrae Rosina K16 was sold with her second calf at foot, the Camus Harold 16 sired heifer Broombrae Rosina P22 to Richard McCulloch for his Overhill House herd at Armadale, West Lothian.
Broombrae Rosina K16 5800gns
Broombrae Rosina E40, the mother of the joint top price, then went on herself to make 5800gns when being one of five purchases by MacFarlane Farms Ltd, Quixwood Farm, Duns, Berwickshire. This ten-year-old-cow by Team Wisconsin and out of Broombrae Rosina W8 was sold with her twin bull calves at foot, Broombrae Pablo 23, and Broombrae Picasso, both sired by Ardunsaghan Magic One. The oldest cow in the herd, Broombrae Rosina E40 has calved in August or September every year since 2016. All daughters have been retained and both of her previous bull calves sold in Stirling for over £8000.
Broombrae Rosina E40, 5800gns
In an export sale to Australia, selling at 5400gns was the maiden heifer Broombrae Delight N9 (P). Heterozygous polled, this August 2022 born heifer is by Wolfstar Kolisi (P), and is out of the Lisglass Goldstar 15 sired Broombrae Delight J1. After some rigorous pre-sale research, Broombrae Delight N9 (P) was purchased online by Knox Farms Pty Ltd, Crookwell, New South Wales. In the preceding bull sale, Knox Farms had also purchased Broombrae Noble for 11,000gns.
Broombrae Delight N9, 5400gns
The second calver, Broombrae Cathy K22 made 5200gns when selling to the Craighill herd of Craighill Farms, Duntrune, By Dundee. October 2019 born, and another by Lisglass Goldstar, this heifer, who previously had had twin bull calves, was sold PD’d in-calf to Broombrae Major and with her September 2023 born heifer calf at foot, Broombrae Cathy P23, a Camus Harold daughter.
Broombrae Cathy K22, 5200gns
At 5000gns was the March 2021 born Broombrae Cathy M7 who was sold PD’d in calf to Wolfstar Kolisi and with her heifer calf at foot Broombrae Cathy P28. Cathy M7 is by Roma Jaguar 18, a Curaheen Wakeman daughter, and is out of the Broombrae Dakota 12 daughter Broombrae Cathy I 17. Her October 2023 heifer calf, Cathy P28, is another by Camus Harold. Purchasing this outfit for their Priestfield herd was A&A Smith, Ballomill Farmhouse, Ladybank, Fife.
• 95 bulls set new February record average of £7498 (+£238) • 21 bulls sell for 10,000gns and over, with 53 in all at 6000gns and more • 5 Denizes bulls average £17,640 • Broombrae bull sells to Australian buyer • 11 bulls sell to Orkney • Clearance rate of 77% • Bull Sale grosses £712,310
Denzies Nugget 37,000gns
The June 2022 born Denizes Nugget from M A Barlow & Sons, Ulnes, Nr Leyland, Lancashire, sold for 37,000gns to lead what was another record trade for the Simmental breed at the Stirling Bull Sale held at United Auctions, on Monday 19th February 2024.
No fewer than 21 bulls sold at five-figure prices with 95 in all cashing in at £7498, up £238 on last year’s record mark.
In what was a remarkable day’s trading for them, the eye-catching quality team of five Denizes bulls, all by the homebred stock sire Denizes Hamish, grossed £88,200 to average an incredible £17,640. Denizes Nugget is out of Ashland Topaz Janet, whose maternal sister is the highly-noted Ashland Topaz Lopez. At the pre-sale show, judged by Stuart Barclay of the noted Harestone prefix, Insch, Aberdeenshire, Nugget was one of three Denizes bulls to claim red tickets before moving on to win the day’s Reserve Intermediate Championship.
Come the much-anticipated sale time, and in front of a packed ring, Denizes Nugget reached the 37,000gns mark before being knocked down to Jimmy & Vikki Wood for their high-profile Popes herd at Dutton, Preston, Lancashire. Speaking afterwards Vikki Wood said: “This bull had a bit of everything. When he walked into the ring he just had that presence, character and bounce that caught your eye. He’s a long, clean, well grown bull with plenty of style, who walked well and is not overdone. There’s still plenty for him to grow into and we think he’s a bull with a lot of future in him. With the bull in himself, the depth of proven breeding behind him, and some tremendous performance figures across the board, we’re excited to see how he gels with our females”. The 37,000gns is the top price the Woods have paid to date for a bull at auction in the UK and Vikki went on to say: “The bull has the full package and you have to pay for quality to hopefully take that next step with the herd in breeding top quality females and bulls as well. Nugget will be put to some heifers within the next few weeks and thereafter will be given the chance of some cow.” The Popes herd presently comprises of 60 breeding females.
Over the three days of the sale the Denizes pen of five bulls drew huge attention from both commercial producers and pedigree breeders. Come sale time the 37,000gns top price was accompanied by further prices of 14,000gns; 13,000gns; 12,000gns; and 8000gns to add up to the herd’s most successful sale to date. The top price also eclipsed the herd’s leading sale price of 30,000gns achieved for Denizes Lancelot in February 2022. Speaking afterwards John Barlow said: “The aim of the Denizes herd is to breed first quality bulls with an easy muscling, that have width over the plates, walk well, have good heads and breed character, and are backed up with breeding, figures and health status. We’re trying to tick as many boxes for commercial producers as possible and it was great to see two bulls at 14,000gns and 12,000gns go commercially today. To breed a bull like Denizes Nugget for 37,000gns, and for him to be bought by a top pedigree herd, is just a real bonus on top. We wish the Wood family well with Nugget and really look forward to seeing his progeny in due course.”
Wolfstar Nobleman 17,000gns
Alex and Ross King’s Wolfstar herd from Ormiston, Tranent, East Lothian also enjoyed a top day when selling three bulls to average a fantastic £14,700. Leading the way for them was Wolfstar Nobleman who sold for 17,000gns, the second top price of the day, to Tom Lyth, Heatherhouse, Tankerness, Orkney. May 2022 born, Wolfstar Nobleman, the first prize winner in class six, is an embryo calf sired by Curaheen Bandit and out of the top breeding female Wolfstar Forget-Me-Not whose previous progeny include the 17,000gns Wolfstar Jimmy Choo; Wolfstar Kolisi who sold to Cogent, and the retained stockbull Wolfstar Ivan.
Tom Lyth moved from Lancashire to Orkney some six years ago to ‘follow his dream’ of buying his own farm. At present he has a total of 100 Luing cows which he splits equally between Simmental bulls and purebred Luing bulls. On a recent visit to Wolfstar, he was shown the bulls heading to Stirling and immediately picked out Nobleman as being one to keep an eye on. Commenting he said: “I really liked his breeding but he’s a bonny bull, very well put together, and just the type that I like”. From here Tom hopes to take some semen from Wolfstar Nobleman and with him given some work thereafter. With a pedigree herd being established Tom’s aim is that Nobleman will be joined by some Simmental heifers in the very near future! Orkney buyers again featured prominently throughout the sale with eleven bulls in all heading back to the islands.
Wolfstar Nasa 14,000gns
The Reserve Junior Champion, from the same home, Wolfstar Nasa, made 14,000gns when selling to Pitgaveny Farm, Elgin. Nasa is sired by the privately purchased Islavale Guy and is out of Wolfstar Ivy, another Team Celtic-sired cow. Winner of the last class of the day, this November 2022 born bull will be used across both commercial and pedigree cows with Pitgaveny running 170 Simmental commercial cows, spring and autumn calvers, and ten pedigree females. Speaking of his purchase the herd manager Geoff Anderson said: “I saw this bull at the inspection and watched him again through the judging and just really liked him. He’s a bull with style, depth, and great width to him, has proven breeding on both sides, and carries top figures for milk at +13.”
Building on what has been a strong run of sales and commercial demand for Simmental bulls and females, the sale saw 95 bulls in all sell for £7498 (+£238) and a new breed record average for February Stirling Sales. This latest sale was the seventh in a row at Stirling where the Simmental breed has set a new record average mark and the ongoing commercial momentum in the breed was again warmly welcomed by the Society’s President Norman Robson who said: “There’s an ever-growing recognition of the Simmental breed’s ability to add value, efficiency and profitability to commercial herds and this is what’s continuing to drive the sustained and increasing demand at the point of sale. Prior to this sale we were able to highlight further independently verified figures over some ten years that showed the breed’s percentage advantages in daily carcase gain over both continental, and native sired progeny. Maybe most significantly, whatever the sire, the best performing progeny can be shown to be out of Simmental sired females and this is a further big driver for the breed. Add this in to the Simmental’s abilities at age at slaughter, with significantly reduced finishing costs, and less environmental impact, and it really does add up to money for producers. First quality bulls with width, good tops, were correct on their legs and with good figures, particularly for calving ease and milk, were much in demand and easily sold.”
Denizes Newton 14,000gns
At the same 14,000gns mark was another of the team of five from the Denizes pen and in the shape of the winner of class nine, Denizes Newton. This August 2022 born bull was a powerful Hamish son out of the herd’s noted Trixibelle line which has previously sold bulls up to 20,000gns. With top calving ease figures this bull was bought by commercial producers K Park & Sons, Dalpeddar Farm, Sanquhar, Dumfriesshire.
Backmuir Nate 13,000gns
Selling at 13,000gns was the day’s Senior Champion and Reserve Overall, Backmuir Nate, from Reece & Andrew Simmers, Backmuir Farm, Keith. April 2022 born, this bull is by the 18,000gns Wolfstar Jackaroo, the Overall Champion at Stirling in February 2020, and is out of Backmuir Kreole’s Koala. This upstanding bull, with a +10 figure for Maternal (Milk) was purchased by DC Houldey, Kirkleton House, Waterbeck, Lockerbie. Following the sale Clive Houldey said: “We saw this bull for the first time in the show ring and were really impressed. He has a real size and power about him and that was something we were looking for the herd. The father and son team of Clive and Harry run the Manor Park and Manor Fields pedigree herds respectively and alongside a commercial suckler herd. The intent from here is that Backmuir Nate will be put to work in the middle of June, and he will go on to a mix of pedigree and commercial cows.
Denzies Neff 13,000gns
At the same price of 13,000gns was another from the Denizes pen and this time the June 2022 born Denizes Neff 22 who had stood second in his class to the day’s top priced bull. Again by Denizes Hamish this bull is out of the Blackford Galaxy sired Denizes Melody 32nd, a maternal sister to Denizes Melody 52nd who sold for 10,000gns at the Next Gen III Sale. With strong figures across the board, Denizes Neff 22 was purchased by John Jeffrey for the Kersknowe herd at Kelso, Roxburghshire. Of Neff Mr Jeffrey said: “We thought a lot of this bull and he came out of just a tremendous pen of good bulls with connectivity in the breeding. Neff is a bull with shape but not extreme and had the figures to back his breeding. Denizes Neff 22 will be settled in at Kersknowe before being given some work in June within the herd which comprises of fifty breeding females.”
Kilbride Farm Nebulus 13,000gns
The third bull at the 13,000gns price was the winner of Class 10, Kilbride Farm Nebulus 22 from WH Robson & Sons, Doagh, Ballyclare. Entirely homebred this September 2022 born bull is by Kilbride Farm Jetstream 18 (P) and is out of Kilbride Farm Eunice 175F (TF) who is a maternal sister to the 20,000gns Kilbride Farm Comber. Continuing the trend of bulls selling that had good figures, Kilbride Farm Nebulus was bought by Delfur Farms, Dundurcas Farm House, Rothes for the Delfur herd of 120 breeding females. Commenting the herd manager Garry Patterson said: “This is a bull to put to heifers in the herd initially and he carries good figures for calving and milk, and generally across the traits. He’s a bull with great length to him, with style and breed character, and is the dark red colour I like. Nebulus comes from a good pedigree, is new blood to the Delfur herd and I think he’s a bull that will click well with the Islavale Magnum daughters in the herd. He’ll run across the heifers first before being given a chance of the cows”. Another good team of Kilbride Farm bulls saw five sell in all to gross a very solid £41,475.
Rockytop Nero 12,000gns
Another herd to enjoy a strong day’s trading was the Rockytop herd of Gary & Angela Christie, Glass, Huntly who sold to a top of 12,000gns and with five in all grossing £38,535. The herd’s top price of 12,000gns came in the shape of Rockytop Nero 22 who stood second in his class to the day’s Overall Supreme Champion. May 2022 born, this bull is by Glenturk Kingpin 19 and is out of the Kilbride Farm Arklow daughter Rockytop Corissa’s Honey. With a +10 figure for Maternal (Milk), this bull was purchased by Mr B Grant for the Dellfield herd at Druid Temple Farm, Inverness-shire. Speaking after the sale Stuart Grant said: “We hadn’t planned on buying a bull but will need one next year and when we saw Rockytop Nero we just really liked him. He’s a bull that’s very correct on his legs, he’s square, solid and not too extreme in anyway, and just has a bit of everything in him that we like We run 160 cows, of which around 50 are pure, so he will be used on them for a start and likely on the commercial cows at a forward time.”
Denzies Nacho 12,000gns
Next up at 12,000gns was the first prize winner in Class Eight, Denizes Nacho 22 from the Barlows. July 2022 born, this thick ended bull with shape, width, and strong figures went to commercial buyers JL Drysdale, Forestmill Farm, Alloa, Clackmannan. This calf, whose brother sold for 12,000gns at the corresponding sale last year, is out of Annick Trixibelle 19th.
Corskie Nitrate 12,000gns
From another strong line up, two bulls from the Corskie herd of WJ&J Green, Corskie, Garmouth, Fochabers, topped at 12,000gns. The first of these was Corskie Nitrate who had stood second in his class. By the 10,000gns Kilbride Farm Haka, this September 2022 born bull is out of Corskie Kigem, an Auchorachan Farmer 14 daughter. With one of the highest Maternal (Milk) figures in the catalogue at +13, this bull also went commercially when selling to T Clark & Sons, Abbey Farm, Madderty, Crieff. At the same mark of 12,000gns was the September 2022 born Corskie Newry (22) who was purchased by Jim & Patricia Goldie for their Newbiemains herd at Newbie Mains Farm, Annan. Also by Kilbride Farm Haka, Corskie Newry 22 is out of Tawley Hanna who has previously had sons sell to 7000gns. Commenting, Jim Goldie said: “We were looking for a stylish, young, well grown bull, that was correct with plenty of breed character, and felt Corskie Newry really matched up to that. He’s got plenty of breeding behind him and being out of an Irish bred cow it’s also a bit of a different blood line”. Plans from here are that the bull will be run with up to 25 heifers in the Springtime. Eight Corskie bulls grossed £67,515 with other prices including 8000gns; 7800gns; 7000gns x 2; 6000gns; and 4500gns.
Corskie Newry 12,000gnsSaltire Nemesis 11,500gns
Saltire Nemesis 22 from J&G Houliston, Drem, North Berwick made 11,500gns when selling commercially to AG Whiteford, South Keithney, Burnhervie, Aberdeenshire. May 2022 born this bull, by the prolific AI sire Saltire Impressive, is out of the Popes Barclay daughter Saltire Felicity. Later in the sale the Houlistons also sold Saltire Nobleman, a Saltire Logan 20 son, for 7500gns to Douganhill Farms, Castle Douglas.
Kersknowe Noah 11,000gns
The long established Kersknowe Simmental herd of Mr J Jeffrey, Kelso, Roxburghshire made 11,000gns of their senior bull Kersknowe Noah 22. April 2022 born Kersknowe Noah stood third in his class won by the Overall Reserve Champion. Sired by the Woodhall Ferrari son Aultmore Jasper 18, and out of Kersknowe Head Girl, this was another five figure bull to go to a commercial producer when knocked down to Aucheneck Estates, Lillearn, By Glasgow.
Kilbride Farm Nugget 11,000gns
Another from the Robson family, this time Kilbride Farm Nugget 22 (P) (TF), made 11,000gns when going for commercial use to S McClymont & Son, Yarrow, Selkirk. This August 2022 born bull offered a new bloodline being the first son at sale by the herd’s imported homozygous polled stock bull, Flop Agrochyt, and out of Kilbride Farm Dora 88 IP (P), a Sneumgaard Imperator (PP) daughter. WH Robson & Sons sold five bulls in all at the sale with their top prices of 13,000gns and 11,000gns being joined by others at 7500gns; 4800gns; and 3200gns.
Broombrae Noble 11,000gns
Bringing an international flavour to the sale the August 2022 born Broombrae Noble N12 22 (P) from Gordon Clark, Auchtermuchty, Cupar, made 11,000gns when selling to Australian Simmental breeder Knox Farms Pty Ltd, New South Wales. Another bull with strong performance figures, Broombrae Noble N12 22 (P) is by Wolfstar Kolisi 19 (P) and is out of Broombrae Rosina K8.
Wolfstar Nonu 11,000gns
Continuing their top day the Wolfstar herd sold the April 2022 born Wolfstar Nonu 22 for 11,000gns. This April 2022 born bull is one of the first sons to be offered at sale by Glenturk Lord of the Rings described as ‘the easiest calving bull we’ve had at Wolfstar’. Nonu is out of Wolfstar Kiwi who is a full sister to the 18,000gns Wolfstar Jackaroo. With a +11 figure for Maternal (Milk) Wolfstar Nonu 22 was bought by commercial producer G&A Milne, Standingstones, Durris, Kincardineshire. Wolfstar’s three bulls sold on the day made 17,000gns; 14,000gns; and 11,000gns.
Newbiemains Neymar 11,000gns
The final bull at 11,000gns was Newbiemains Neymar 22 from Jim & Patricia Goldie, Nebie Mains Farm Annan. Sired by Annick Klondyke 19 EX94 and out of Newbiemains Klass Act VG88, a Moorglen Hillbilly EX91 daughter, this bull was sold to the Borders and IHG Warden, Hawick, Roxburghshire.
Ballinalare Farm Navigator 10,000gns
Taking the total to twenty one bulls at five figures, four bulls made 10,000gns. The first of these was Ballinalare Farm Navigator from Mr J & Mr A Wilson, Ballinalare Farm, Dorans Hill Newry. Sired by the popular AI sire Ballinalare Farm Galaxy 15, and out of the Omorga Murray daughter Ballinalare Farm Delta, this July 2022 born bull stood second in his class. With a Maternal (Milk) figure of + 10, Ballinalare Farm Navigator 22 was sold to another noted commercial producer in the shape of Philiphaugh Estates, Old Mill farm, Selkirk.
Overhill House Nikey 10,000gns
The day’s Intermediate and Overall Supreme Champion was the winner of Class Five, Overhill House Nikey 22 from Richard McCulloch, Armadale, West Lothian. In what has been a truly remarkable run, Overhill House have won the Supreme Championship at the last four Simmental Society Sales at which they have attended. Their Champion here was another son of the 26,000gns Pistyll Kingsman, who bred the herd’s 46,000gns Overhill House Neo sold in October at Stirling last year and is out of Overhill House Ice Cone. Purchasing the Champion bull was Jim & Elizabeth Dyet for his Merkland herd at East Merkland Farm, Strathaven, Lanarkshire. Commenting Jim said: “Overhill House Nikey is just a tremendous Simmental bull and we’re delighted to have got him for our Merkland pedigree herd. We immediately picked him out at the show on Sunday in his class but when he was placed Champion we thought we might not be able to get him. He’s a bull with serious length and one of the best top lines that I’ve seen in a long time. A bull with a natural power to him, he’s got shape, terrific conformation, and is very breedy. We think, and very much hope, that he’ll click with the type of females we have here at East Merkland. He’ll get settled in and given the chance of one or two before being put to the very best 25-30 of our cows from June onwards”. The Merkland herd comprises of ninety breeding females in all.
Islavale Novak 10,000gns
Taking the Junior Championship and selling for 10,000gns was the winner of Class 12, Islavale Novak from the prolific herd of WS Stronach, Berryleys Farm, Keith, Banffshire. This stylish October 2022 born bull came to Stirling with a bit of a show record behind him having been Senior Male Champion at the 2023 Stars of the Future Calf Show. With breeding behind him, Novak is by Coose Lincoln EX90 whose sons sold at Stirling have averaged 11,000gns, and is out of the Curaheen Giant daughter Islavale Jazz. Buying this bull was Thomas Gray, Balquharrage, Lennoxtown. Bringing a team of predominantly junior bulls this year, the Islavale herd sold seven in all to gross £50,925 and average £7275.
Springfield Neptune 10,000gns
The final bull at the 10,000gns mark was Springfield Neptune from Gavin Brown, Springfield Farm, Penicuik. April 2022 born this bull is by the herd’s noted sire Islavale Jabba, who was the online European Simmental Champion 2023, and is out of Springfield ivory a half sister to Springfield Minstrel who was sold for 6800gns to the Popes herd. At the Simmental Youngstock Show at Borderway Agri Expo in2023, Springfield Neptune had stood as Senior Champion and Reserve Overall Champion. Purchasing him here, and another to Orkney, was J&R Stanger, South Seatter, Sandwick. Springfield Neptune had stood second in his class to his teammate Springfield Niagra who, two lots later, sold for 8500gns to H MacDonald, Mains of Dalvey, Morayshire. Niagra, also by Islavale Jabba and this time out of Springfield Italia, was second in his class to Springfield Neptune at the aforementioned 2023 Simmental Youngstock Show.
Habton Nev 9,000gns
Selling for the first time at Stirling was Alex Bulmer from Coultas Farm, Malton, North Yorkshire who made 9,000gns for the second bull in the ring Habton Nev 22. This February 2022 born bull is by the herd’s 15,000gns stock bull Backmuir Kraken and is out of Corskie Kelly, a Drumagarner Hughes daughter. Another heading to the islands he was bought by GT&S Coghill, Muce, Birsay, Orkney.
*In a small sale of four Simmental females the top price was 2300gns paid for Fallhills Nikki (P) from Bruce Lambie, Howgate, Penicuik. April 2022 born this heifer is by Wolfstar Just Do It 18 (P), and is out of Fallhills Kate (TF), an Islavale Gallant 2 15 daughter. Fallhills Nikki (P) was another purchase by Australian Simmental breeder Knox Farms Pty Ltd, Crookwell, New South Wales.
OTHER LEADING BULL PRICES INCLUDED: 8,500gns Lot 21 Springfield Niagara sold to H Macdonald, Mains of Dalvey, Advie, Morayshire 8,000gns Lot 77 Rockytop Napoleon sold to R Garden, Culfosie, Aberdeenshire 8,000gns Lot 78 Denizes Nero sold to WSL Muir, Upper Onston, Stenness, Orkeny 8,000gns Lot 126 Islavale Norton sold to JR & JA Barron, Findowrie, Brechin, Angus 8,000gns Lot 132 Corskie Nerve sold to C & M Bruce, Tillyeve, Udny, Ellon 8,000gns Lot 161 Braegarrie Nightrider sold to A & W Barrowman, Mid Knockglass Farm, Stranraer
AVERAGE: 95 Bulls £7948 (+£238)
Overall Championship – Stirling Bull Sales February 2024
Simmental has been the foundation of the cattle system at Auchorachan, Glenlivet, Ballindalloch, since the 1970’s, with Simmental bulls first used on the commercial herd to breed replacement breeding stock before a pedigree herd was established in 2002.
Michael Durno, alongside wife, Morag, and father, Les, is now the third generation of the family to farm at Auchorachan.
With a keen interest in pedigree cattle, after considerable success over the years with commercial show calves – including championships at the Royal Highland Show, the Royal Northern Spring Show and Aberdeen Christmas Classic – the purchase of four heifers from the Ravensworth dispersal were the foundation for the Auchorachan pedigree herd.
Breeding policy revolves around five cow families including Hilly and Weigela. The herd now consists of 90 pedigree cows which are run commercially alongside 70 mainly Simmental cross cows which are put to Charolais and Simmental bulls to produce quality store calves.
“I like a medium sized cow that can be fleshed off the grass, without the need for extra feeding.”says Michael. “My pedigree cows may seem smaller in comparison to some other pedigree herds but you don’t achieve the same growth rates on a hill farm at 1000ft, as an arable low-ground farm’.
Around 110 cows calve from August to October with the remainder in the spring from January onwards to around mid-May, allowing for a spread of ages for pedigree shows and sales.
Autumn born calves are sold as yearlings through Thainstone Mart in September, while the spring born crossbred calves not retained for breeding are sold privately in November to former pedigree breeder, Danny Leslie, Redhill, Elgin.
Farm Policy
Farm policy over the years has always focused on producing top quality stock, whether it be the store calves, pedigree stock or prime lambs sold from the 550 Perth-type blackfaces, 400 of which are tupped with the Blackie and the rest put to a Texel.
Herd health has always been important, with the Auchorachan herd being one of the first to join the farmer led Hi-Health scheme now known as Hi Health-Herdcare. The herd has been accredited free of BVD since 2004 and Johnes Risk Level 1 status, since 2014. The herds’ Hi Health status has led to surplus commercial heifers being sold for recipients.
Michael will have seven bulls forward at Stirling on February 19, four of them by the home-bred bull, Auchorachan Hercules, a son of the renowned Auchorachan ACDC. Hercules was the most used sire in the Simmental herd book in 2022 with 71 calves registered by him, with offspring averaging £10,500 in 2021 and selling to a top of 18,000gns in October, 2021, with Auchorachan Landmark selling to Brian Grant for his Dellfield herd.
L to R, oldest to youngest, heading for Stirling: Napoleon P, Noble P, Nevada, Nashville, Nightrider, Northstar, and NeutronAuchorachan Hercules
“Hercules has bred extremely well for us,” says Michael, “He was an embryo, a result of semen sold to David Hazelton of the Ranfury herd with the condition that I got an embryo back out of his show cow”.
A further two bulls are by Greencap Kane 19 – he was the last bull through the ring at the Stirling October, 2020, sale held under Covid restrictions, which meant there was no pre-sale show – when purchased for 9,000gns.
“He was bought for his length and breeding after seeing a half-brother sold the previous year at Stirling,” Michael explains.
Polled Genetics
Also forward will be one of the first sons of the Danish-imported homozygous polled stock bull, Jaegergard Quebec, bought through Facebook after Michael had seen the bull’s dam on a previous trip to Denmark.
He is an exciting prospect with interest in polled genetics increasing among commercial buyers. Hence Michael’s investment in breeding polled bulls. Another of the herd’s stock bulls, Irish-bred, Auroch Hudson, is also polled.
“Both these bulls offer different bloodlines and being polled was a bonus,” Michael says. “In the past, polled bulls have tended to lack carcase quality and conformation but this has improved. There is a real advantage to breeding polled offspring, easing the workload and with heifer calves, once they are tagged, no further handling is required until weaning.
Auchorachan Honnie as a heifer, the mother of Auchorachan Nevada, and grandmother of Auchorachan Noble (P)
Following the success of the May, 2023, sale at Carlisle, where strong demand saw a 100% clearance and first prize heterozygous bull, Auchorachan Monarch ET 21, selling for 8,000gns, Michael intends to sell again at this year’s May sale. The sale also included a sale of Simmental cross Hi Health heifers with Auchorachan-bred heifers topping the sale at £3800.
Conformation, size and a nice head, preferably white in colour, are key attributes required for stock bulls which are used on both the pedigree and commercial herds.
EBV’s are considered secondary with Michael placing more emphasis on the society’s Female Classification Scheme
“Personally I think the classification scheme is a more useful tool in building up a picture of an animal’s breeding potential,” he says. “Buyers can be confident that bulls they are buying are out of cows which are structurally correct, with strong maternal lines’.
Auchorachan Dippy, mother of Auchorachan Nightrider
Show Success
The herd has achieved considerable success in the show ring at the Stirling bull sales over the years, including the reserve senior and reserve overall championships and three junior championships, including Auchorachan Wizard, junior and overall champion in February 2010, selling to Northern Ireland for the herds’ top price to date of 20,000gns.
This year, Michael, who sits on the Simmental Breed Council as chairman of shows and sales north, will judge the Simmental cattle at the Royal Highland Show.
“I am looking forward to judging at this year’s show, having previously judged the junior interbreed and beef breeder sections,” he says. “Over recent years, I’ve seen the quantity and quality of the Simmentals forward at the show improve. I will be looking for breed character and something that walks well”.
Unrivalled
Despite Scottish suckler cow numbers continuing to decline, looking ahead Michael feels the Simmental breed will hold its own. No other breed, he says, offers the versatility of a smaller type cow that can be outwintered to a big, beefy framed cow suited to lowlands.
“Bull sales have been good, achieving high clearance rates,” he points out. “Male offspring are performing just as well as other breeds, with the Simmental female in my opinion being unrivalled. The future is promising as the breed continues to go from strength to strength”.
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