June 2023 Newsletter

THE PERFECT REGENERATIVE COW

It is often said that History repeats itself, and that we should learn the lessons from the past. The situation in the Ukraine and the increased cost of feedstuffs has focused our attention on grazing and quality silage. In the British Friesian, not only do we have the cow bred for just these circumstances, but one that will deliver those critical KPIs (for example, fertility) so essential for profitability. Add in the value of the male calf and its potential for a second income and we have a winning formula.

HERD VISIT – 28th JUNE at 11am

Andrew Rees, Moor Farm, Walwyns Castle, Haverfordwest, SA62 3EE, South Wales. This will be a one-day visit, but it is hoped to arrange a dinner for those staying overnight. If you are thinking of staying overnight, please be advised that your options may be limited at this time of year, so please book as early as you can.

BRITISH FRIESIAN HERD OF THE YEAR (awarded by HUK)

The highly acclaimed British Friesian Herd of the Year Award has been won by the Northern Irish Inch herd. Now in its third year, the award recognises the UK’s top performing British Friesian herd based on a combination of classification and production. The Inch herd is based at Downpatrick in the scenic area of Co. Down, Northern Ireland and is owned and cared for by a partnership of the Cleland and Morrison families. James and Sarah Cleland manage the milking herd at the home farm while Jim and Jeannie Morrison care for the young bulls and heifers at their base five miles away.

BORDER & LAKELAND HOLSTEIN CLUB BULL SALE – 12th APRIL

Prices Realised for British Friesian Bulls at Harrison & Hetherington’s Border & Lakeland Holstein Club Bull Sale, Carlisle.

Whinnow Broadband £4,500

Whinnow Mission £4,500

Nerewater Missile £4,200

Winnoch Maradona £4,200

Winnoch Ninja £3,000

Nerewater Imprint £3,000

Lismulligan Pascal £3,000

Nerewater Alistair £2,500

Lismulligan Goldeneye £2,500

BRITISH FRIESIAN SALE - 26th JULY

Borderway, Carlisle, Harrison & Hetherington Adam Lawson – 07815 055476 or e-mail lismulligan@btconnect.com Catalogues - 01228 406230

ALL BREEDS ALL BRITAIN CALF SHOW - 6th-8th OCTOBER

NAEC Stoneleigh, Warwickshire – please note change of venue. Judge – Andrea Debenham (Delighted that we have a British Friesian Judge at last.)

TYPE EVALUATION - NEW TRAIT

As per the recommendation of the World Holstein Friesian Federation, NBDC will be implementing a new classification trait named ‘Front Feet Orientation’ in 2023. This is intended to be scored from a three-quarter rear view of the front legs for both Holsteins and British Friesians and is scheduled to begin later this year.

TREASURER

After many years of service to the Club, our Treasurer, Ewart Grant, has decided it is time to step down at the end of the year. The Club is most grateful to Ewart for his valuable contribution over many years.