Ballyclough Aubrac Herd: A Modern Approach to Beef Farming
The Ballyclough Aubrac Herd, established by Jim and Ann Woulfe in Ballyclough, Co Cork, embodies a modern approach to beef farming, combining traditional values with cutting-edge technology and a focus on sustainability.
Jim, a retired dairy and agri-food industry veteran, always dreamt of establishing a small beef herd. This dream became a reality in 2019 when he and Ann founded their herd, meticulously selecting the Aubrac breed to meet their specific criteria.
Choosing the Ideal Breed
Jim sought a breed renowned for docility, fertility, shapeliness, milk production, calving ease, and longevity. He also prioritized the ability to efficiently convert grass into beef, ensuring a strong market for their animals. Extensive research, including consultations with experts at Teagasc, Munster Bovine, and ICBF, led them to the Aubrac breed.
Building a Quality Herd
The Woulfes carefully selected foundation stock from renowned herds like Calverstown, Mountcain, Turloughmore, and Ballinclea. In just a few years, they’ve built a thriving herd of 22 cows, 22 calves, 10 in-calf heifers, and 2 maiden heifers. They utilize 100% AI and a synchronisation/fixed-time AI breeding protocol to maximize genetic gains.
Their breeding program focuses on traits valuable to their diverse customer base – dairy and suckler farmers, as well as pedigree breeders.
Polled Genetics: A Progressive Approach
In 2021, the Woulfes embraced polled genetics, introducing a new dimension to their herd. They’ve seen promising results with polled animals, incorporating them into their breeding program.
Their first polled Aubrac bull, Ballyclough Theo Pp (AU1515), is now available through Irish AI, marking a significant milestone for the breed.
Technology and Science for Optimal Performance
The Ballyclough Herd prioritizes animal health with a comprehensive vaccination program and utilizes the latest technology to optimize performance. The Farm Ops App plays a crucial role in managing and monitoring their herd.
They meticulously record birth weights, gestation lengths, and weaning weights, leveraging data-driven insights to refine their breeding decisions.
Sustainability at the Forefront
Sustainability is a core value for the Ballyclough Herd. They practice rotational grazing, implement low-emission slurry spreading, and prioritize environmentally friendly fertilizers.
Their focus on efficient feed conversion and shorter animal lifecycles further strengthens their commitment to sustainable practices.
Join the Aubrac Journey
The Ballyclough Aubrac Herd’s dedication to quality, innovation, and sustainability sets them apart as a leader in the Irish beef industry. Their recent open day showcased their commitment to sharing knowledge and inspiring others to embrace the Aubrac breed.
To learn more about the Ballyclough Aubrac Herd and the benefits of Aubrac cattle, visit their website or contact Jim and Ann Woulfe directly.