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Rockley Brahmans is known for breeding elite Red Brahman bulls and females that provide genetic gains for stud and commercial producers seeking more profitable, high performance cattle. Our herd is characterised by exceptional efficiency, quiet temperament and high rates of fertility. Stud bulls are registered with the Australian Brahman Breeders’ Association (ABBA); unregistered paddock-reared herd bulls are also available for purchase.
We adhere to a stringent parental selection process, targeting premium bulls and females to multiply elite genetics through IVF. This process is supplemented by rigorous data including Estimated Breeding Values (EBVs) to assist purchasers to assess growth, fertility and carcass quality.
Further, we have developed an innovative grading system for weaners to continually assess and record development against precise criteria, helping to identify elite animals at an early age. We concurrently assess strong visual traits (phenotype) backed by objective data (genotype).
Core Values
As breeders of premium beef cattle, we believe it’s our responsibility to offer total transparency for our clients. We understand that whilst visual assessments are important, so too is history. Rockley Brahmans provides thorough record-keeping and documentation prior to purchase, including vaccination data and Breed plan insights.
Such is our commitment to ensuring our cattle match our clients’ requirements, we conduct onsite property visits (upon request) to assess clients’ existing herds and determine compatibility. Sound advice is provided and ongoing support is offered so that clients feel comfortable to call on us when faced with challenges.
About You
Rockley Brahmans’ clients comprise nation-wide stud cattle breeders and commercial beef cattle producers looking to expand their herd with elite quality bulls and females, whose characteristics include sound fertility, temperament and efficiency.
About Us
Established in the mid-fifties by late beef producer Arnie Kirk, Rockley Brahmans stretches across three properties in Central Queensland. Cedars covers 571 hectares located just south of Banana; while Rockley in Bajool and Ungarra west of Moura, each comprise more than 2,500 hectares. We also run a commercial European Union (EU) accredited herd.
It has been well documented that Bovine Johne’s Disease was detected at Rockley, Bajool in 2012. Since then, we have worked closely with Biosecurity to resolve the matter, and from adversity grew fortitude.
Indeed, we resolved to draw on our extensive experience and industry knowhow to rebuild, redevelop and chart a course to lead the way in innovative breeding and handling practices.
We have earned a sound reputation as preferred breeders because of our ethical handling practices, consistent breeding regimes and follow-up services for buyers with ongoing consulting. Further, we supply scanned data (including eye muscle area, rib and rump fat) and bull breeding soundness evaluations conducted by veterinarians (outlining semen morphology and physical attributes).
Today Chris Kirk and his son Ashley manage Rockley Brahmans. Ashley has travelled extensively to gain invaluable insights from premium beef cattle producers across the country and internationally.
His ingenuity and professionalism led Ashley to be selected as one of only nine young Australians to participate in the 2015 Graeme Acton Beef Connections Mentor Program. He was also awarded an Australian Beef Industry Foundation (ABIF) 2013 Scholarship to take part in the Marcus Oldham Rural Leadership Program.
7 Elite Breeding Attributes
- Fertility
Stringent management and selection criteria including controlled mating, pregnancy testing and culling, ensure ‘best of breed’ results.
- Quiet temperament
Behaviour modification is unnecessary as our cattle have been genetically selected for their calm and easy nature. This helps ensure smooth integration of new bulls and females into existing studs.
- Sound udders
Rockley Brahmans’ females have been selected and culled over decades to ensure calves have a strong start and deliver excellent weight gains to weaning.
- Do-ability
Our cattle comfortably handle harsh landscapes and adapt well in drought conditions. Cattle’s efficiency is assured as they are bred to be naturally muscled. In tough conditions, females have the ability to rebreed.
- Structurally sound cattle
Longevity is a consistent trait, based on decades of comprehensive culling and selection. Breeding females endure in herds, providing regular reproduction. Likewise, sound cattle last longer in the herd.
- Length and width
The combination of length and width in our cattle adds weight to each animal’s carcass which, in turn, delivers you increased profitability. We measure these results from ultrasound scanning and/or abattoir carcass data.
- Clean underlines
In males we look for a moderately tight sheath that hangs close to the body. A pendulous sheath is more prone to injury or infection.
In females the naval flap should also hang close to the abdominal wall. The navel flap in females is believed to be correlated with sheath size in bulls.
Where and how to purchase
SALES: Stud bulls are available for inspection and purchase at annual sales including the
FOR TENDER: Elite herd bulls are available by tender.
BY APPOINTMENT: We welcome private inspections and stud visits by appointment.
Contact details
Sally & Chris Kirk at Rockley Bajool QLD 4699 P: 0407 591 234
Ashley Kirk at Ungarra Moura QLD 4718 P: 0408 780 810