In this issue

Abstract

Modelled female sale options demonstrate improved profitability in northern beef herds Maximising profits from a beef breeder herd is complex. Management and marketing options for large and extensively managed beef cattle stations in northern Australia are very different from those in the south in terms of season, nutrition, geography, management and genetic factors, including the increased numbers of Bos indicus cattle. This study examined the impact of a variety of management factors on the profitability of breeding properties using modelling with Bcowplus software. 1 Breeder herd performances and production parameters including prices, costs and herd structure, were collected from properties in six beef-producing regions in northern Australia, all of which spay females to enhance their marketing options. The data were entered into a herd simulation software model and alternative management strategies were modelled to compare current market prices and most likely herd outcomes.