Van die/From the President 2Council 2016-2017 3100 Years ago . . . ±14 Generations 5History of the Ayrshire breed 6Some of the first Pioneers of all times 8A Centuary of Ayrshire progress 11Towers Ayrshires 13The late Dr MH Finlayson 15Jon Walker - Kirriemuir Ayrshires 16Philip Gray - An Ayrshire legend 20Raigmore Ayrshire Herd 22Ayrshires with the Malleson Family 24Bospre Kudde 28Hide-A-Way’s Ayrshires 30More about the Ayrshire 32Skoue & Skou wenners van toeka tot nou 34My trip to South Africa - 1960, R Barbour 35SA Ayrshire Society Gold Cup winners since 1923 36History of the Gold Cup 38Hou die vaandels hoog vir die Ayrshire ras 40The Earl of Warwick Gold Cup 41Mrs Baird veroorsaak opskudding 431971 Ayrshire National Championships 44Milk Recording 48Testing times 49Investment of South African Ayrshiresin Milk Recording 51Ruma Ayrshires 58Gisanto Boerdery 60Kewmar Ayrshires 63Woolworths involvement since 1987 66Rhodes Food Group (Pty) Ltd 68

Why Ayrshire milk is different 72Homsék Ayrshires 74You are as strong as your team - Grace Valley 76Terugblik op Nasionale & Elite veilings 80Genootskap aangeleenthede 84Ayrshire Cattle Breeder’s Society of SA -Office bearers since 1922 86Toer na Engeland 88Royal Skou 2006 92Nampo 92Brokkies/Snippets 93Beoordelaarskursusse 94Oorhandiging van Oorkondes 95Opening van Ayrshire Klubhuis 95Lifetime Production 100 000kg milk 96The spotlight on past and futureWorld Conferences 982012 Ayrshire Wold Conference 100First National Herd Competition 104Suid-Kaap Ayrshire Klub Boeredag 105Another great visit 107Northern Dairy Show 109Ayrshire National Championships 2015 110Arran Stud 114Visit to Kenya 116The South African Ayrshire in the years ahead 117Genomiese toetsing/Genomic testing 118Sandringham Show 2016 119100 Years celebrating the Ayrshire 120Centenary National Championships 2017 122

Polyoak IFCAyrshire Canada 19Raigmore Ayrshires 23Leading edge 29Grace Valley 39Gouritz Ayrshire Stoet 47WWS 50SwaVet 57

Semex 62Jawilco Ayrshires 67Rhodes Food Group (Pty) Ltd 71Homsék Ayrshires 73Fairfield Dairy Farming Co. 79Unistel 83Ayrshire UK 91Meesuid Ayrshires 97

Australian Ayrshires 99US Ayrshire 106Palmyra Farms 108Landbouweekblad 113Arran Stud 115Meadow 123Ruggedwear IBC

Editor/Redakteur: Olené van VuurenOpinions expressed in the Journal, are not necessarily the view of the Ayrshire Breeders' Society. The Society does not accept any of the claims

made in advertisements.

PO Box 3360, BLOEMFONTEIN, 9300TEL: 051 446 3129 • FAX: 051 446 3148 • E-MAiL: olene@ayrshire.co.za

KOöRDINERING VAN PUBLIKASIE:Firefly Publications (Pty) Ltd • Tel: 051 821 1783 • E-pos: palberts@telkomsa.net

Ontwerp deur: Caria Vermaak

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CONteNts

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A century of happiness, joy and laughter!

However, with all the pleasure there were

also days of blood and sweat - all in the

interest of our love and respect for our

beloved Ayrshires.

On behalf of the South African Ayrshire Association, I would like to welcome all members, ex-members, international guests and guests to the Centenary celebrations.

It has been a privilege to serve as the President of the South African Ayrshire Association for the past three years. It is definitely a privilege and honour to be the President in a special year such as 2017. I know I have to fill big footprints of many competent and strong predecessors. I wish to thank all the previous presidents, vice presidents, Council members and members for all their dedication over the past century. To those of you who are fortunate to enjoy the celebrations with us, I bid a hearty welcome.

Ayrshire South Africa has increasingly progressed over the past hundred years. There has been tremendous growth at a genetic level. The use of international genetics gave our breed a huge boost. Genomic testing promoted genetics even further, faster and more accurately. In a limited worldwide gene pool, South

‘n Honderd jaar van genot, vreugde en

lag. Maar saam al die lekker was daar dae

van bloed en sweet, als in die belang vir die

liefde en respek van ons geliefde Ayrshire.

Namens die Suid Afrikaanse Ayrshire Genootskap wil ek alle lede, oud lede, Internasionale gaste en gaste welkom heet by die Eeufees vieringe.

Dit was ‘n voorreg om die laaste 3 jaar as President van die Suid Afrikaanse Ayrshire Genootskap te kon dien. Dit is sowaar ‘n voorreg en eer om President te kan wees in ‘n spesiale jaar soos 2017. Ek weet dit is groot skoene om vol te staan met baie bekwame en sterk voorgangers. Ek wil graag al die vorige Presidente, Vise- Presidente, Raadslede en lede bedank vir al hul harde werk die afgelope eeu. Van die van julle wat die voorreg het om saam met ons die feesvieringe kan geniet wil ek spesiaal welkom heet.

Ayrshire Suid-Afrika het die afgelope honderd jaar van krag tot krag gegaan. Op genetiese vlak was daar ’n geweldige groei. Die gebruik van Internasionale genetika het ons ras ‘n geweldige hupstoot gegee. Genomiese toetsing het genetika nog verder en vinniger meer akkuraat bevorder. Met ‘n beperkte genepoel wêreldwyd, het Suid-Afrika dit steeds

PresidentvAN die/FrOm the

e d m u N d e l sPresident

3 <<<

reggekry om inteling laag te hou met n hoë vlak van suiwerheid. Met die bevordering van alle genetiese eienskappe, kan die Ayrshire in Suid-Afrika met die bestes in die Wêreld vergelyk word.

Die Ayrshire is die mees unieke suiwel ras in die Wêreld en het reeds al bewys dat dit die ras is met die smaaklikste melk. Met baie navorsing en hulp van Woolworths is Ayrshire produkte in Suid-Afrika alreeds vir meer as dertig jaar as ‘n nis produk bemark. Dit is feite soos dìe wat dit ‘n voorreg maak om deel te wees van die Ayrshire.

Ek hoop almal geniet die spesiale Eeufees uitgawe van Ayrshire Suid-Afrika, dit is sowaar ’n baie spesiale en interessante uitgawe. Graag wil ek elkeen wat betrokke was met die saamstel daarvan hartlik bedank en gelukwens. Dan wil ek ook Olene, JD en Walter spesiaal uitsonder vir hul insae en harde werk.

Laastens wil ek my Vise-President, Raadslede en Personeel bedank vir jul harde werk en geduld die afgelope drie jaar. Ek wil Olene spesiaal uitsonder vir haar jare se harde werk, geduld en opoffering. Olene baie dankie vir 35 jaar se eerlike en opregte diens wat jy aan die Suid Afrikaanse Ayrshire Genootskap gelewer het.

Aan my Mede Ayrshire vriende, geniet die vieringe en sterkte vir die volgende honderd jaar.

Back f.l.t.r: BS Volschenk, F Homsék, J Wessels, JD Marais (Technical Advisor)Front f.l.t.r: KD Lang, AA Muller (Vice-President), EH Els (President), O van Vuuren (Admin Manager), WM Finlayson

Africa has yet succeeded to keep inbreeding low with a high level of purity. With the promotion of all genetic features, the Ayrshire in South Africa can be compared with the best in the world.

The Ayrshire is a unique dairy breed of the world and has already proved that it is the breed with the tastiest milk. With much research by and assistance from Woolworths, Ayrshire products have already been a niche market for more than thirty years in South Africa. Facts like these make it a privilege to be part of the Ayrshires.

I trust everyone will enjoy the special Centenary edition of Ayrshire South Africa – truly a very special and interesting edition! I would like to thank and congratulate all those who were involved in its production. I wish to single out Olené, JD and Walter for their insight and endeavours.

In conclusion, I wish to thank the Vice President, Council members and staff for their serious inputs and patience over the past three years. I wish to single out Olené in particular for her years of hard work, patience and sacrifice. Olené, thanks for the 35 years of honest and sincere service you have rendered to the South African Ayrshire Association.

To my fellow Ayrshire friends, enjoy our celebrations and blessings for the next hundred years!

Cou

nCi

l 20

16-2

017

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Council 1976Council 1990

Front fltr: O Blignaut (Secretary), PF Bosman (Jnr), JM Walker (President), PF Delport (Vice-President), E Dicks

Back fltr: IA Malleson, PW de Vos, AGS van Zyl, Q Gray,Dr GC Engelbrecht, S Marais

H Sevenster - absentSeated: PJ du Plessis (Manager), Naas de Bruyn (Vice-President),

Pierre Bosman (President), John Walker, Dr G LourenceStanding: Fred Duckitt, Walter Finlayson, Mrs C Cloete,

Buks de Vos, Piet DelportBack: George Packer, Ivan Malleson, Hamish Smith,

Martin Seyferdt (Technical Officer)

Council 1995/96

Council 2001

Front fltr: PF Bosman, JC Papenfus (Vice-President), PF Delport (President), O Blignaut (Secretary), IA Malleson

Back fltr: E Dicks, RP Campher, KD Lang, H Sevenster, Q Gray, DR de Kock, JJB Coetzee

Front fltr: KD Lang, PF Delport (Vice-President), WM Finlayson (President), O Blignaut (Secretary)

Back fltr: IA Malleson, EH Els, PW Bosman, A Homsék, DR de Kock, AA Muller

Council 2009

Front fltr: WM Finlayson, RR Blom (Vice-President), AA Muller (President) O van Vuuren (Secretary), DR de Kock

Back fltr: FR Malleson, A Homsék, KD Lang, EH Els (Breed director), JAJ Reynders, BS Volschenk

Council 2013/14

Front fltr: AA Muller, EH Els (Vice-President), RR Blom (President) O van Vuuren (Admin Manager), WM Finlayson

Back fltr: KD Lang, JD Marais (Technical Advisor), BS Volschenkinsert: F Homsék

farmers aim for higher production to cover their costs. But factors such as fertility, in-breeding, somatic cell counts, calving ease, milking temperament and speed, and productive life, are all factors that mean complex decisions need to be made when considering which bulls to use.

We have limited numbers in our breed, and as with other breeds the genetic pool is getting smaller, due to the use of A.I. embryo and in vitro transplants.

The big question is, should we take a lead from Ayrshire breeders in other countries such as Finland, Canada, U.K. and New Zealand by introducing limited genetics from other breeds. Or should we keep the South African Ayrshire pure?

Our partnership with Woolworths has been of massive benefit to the breed. We all know, and so do many of the public, that the Ayrshire produces the best quality milk and dairy products, but we as breeders also need to constantly promote this awareness and expand on the reality to the consumer market.

There is enough knowledge, enthusiasm and the genetics at our disposal for the breed to increase over the years ahead and for us to market “ Brand AYRSHIRE” effectively.

A century of Ayrshire breeding has brought about many changes in our breed.

As breeders we need to look back at the evolution and positive growth of the Ayrshire and how we can improve still further to stay competitive, in an ever changing and demanding dairy industry.

The industry and production of milk is having to adapt to drought conditions and a far warmer stressful climate in the years ahead. Both of which make life harder for the cows and stockmen!

Around July 1918 production average was 4489 kg. milk, 172 kg BF.

The latest average for registered Ayrshires in December 2015 was 7655 kg.milk; 307 kg. BF. and 255 kg. protein per lactation!

The average age of heifers calving for the first time has reduced dramatically, meaning that the dairy farmer has less young stock to feed before their cattle come into production.

Modern electronic systems give better access to precise record keeping and up-to-date availability of genetics, with regards to breeding i.e. Genomic and breeding values

Where to in the future? What problems do we need to identify to improve our competitiveness? Most dairy

100 Years ago. . . ±14 Generations

>>> Walter Finlayson

<<<5

Ayrshires were first imported into South Africa from Scotland by James Rawbone of Somerset West in 1890 to the farm, Broadlands. This consisted of two bulls and eight cows. James Rawbone was trained as a forester in Nance in France. Besides Ayrshire cattle he also bred thoroughbred Hackney and Cleveland Bay horses. He was chairman of the SA Studbook and Western Province Agricultural Society, as

well as chairman of the SA Turf Club for 26 years.

Four of the oldest herds in the breed have left a legacy, notably the Towers herd of the Duckitt Family, which used a bull of the original Broadlands importation called Scotch

Thistle. This animal died from a snake bite.

Also purchased from Broadlands was a cow called Valley Field Nell Gwynne (Scottish herd book no 1 born 1910).

The second herd that comes to mind is the Braehead herd of the late Philip Gray, who was a wonderful linguist of African languages and mentored many young breeders with regards to judging cattle. Philip’s son, Quentin, became the Livestock Improvement Officer of KwaZulu Natal, was a

great supporter of the breed for many years.

history of the

AyrshireBreed

6>>>

7 <<<

These Ayrshire cows were photographed in the London harbour in 1951 when they were shipped for a trip to South Africa where they were shown at the Rand Easter Show of that year and then by auction sold to South African Ayrshire breeders.

Hierdie Ayrshire koeie is in 1951 in die Londense hawe afgeneem toe hulle verskeep is vir ‘n reis na Suid-Afrika waartydens hulle by die Randse Paasskou vertooon is van daardie jaar en daarna per veiling aan die Suid Afrikaanse Ayrshire telers

verkoop is.

8>>>

Honorary Life President - 1925

The first importation of Ayrshires into South Africa occurred 1890 when a man by the name of James Rawbone from Somerset West, bought two bulls and six cows from Scotland. Since those first imports, the Ayrshire has established itself as one of the top dairy breeds in SA. The Ayrshire cow, with her reputation as highly economic producer of large quantities of milk with a high butter fat and protein content, today it is in great demand throughout South Africa.

17/9/1883 - 04/07/1953

“Mr Allen Lawrence Watson deserves a place amongst the pioneers of the breed, being perhaps one of the best stockmen South Africa has had. In 1906 he imported a consignment which was introduced into the Orange Free State. The Ayrshire breeders in this country owe a great debt of gratitude to Mr Watson, who, for years, took an untiring interest in the breed, and did much to help the younger breeders, and judged at many of the Society’s leading shows”. (Ayrshire cattle herd book Society of Great Britian & Ireland – written by Mr C Malleson, President of the Ayrshire Society of SA )

Born of good Scots farming stock at Genoch, Stranraer, Scotland, on September 17th 1883, was educated at Stranraer High School and Blair Lodge College, Glasgow, where he represented his school at Bisley in 1900. He was also a very keen rugby player and cricketer, playing in the school’s first teams.

He came to South Africa in 1902 as a young man to farm, to breed fine

SOME OF tHE FIRSt

o f a l l t i m e s

allen lawrence Watson

Jas Rawbone

PioneerS

9 <<<

records show Champions too numerous to detail here.

In March 1927 he returned to Britain, where he partnership with Mr E.W. Jones, he farmed in Suffolk for five years and during his stay there, his Ayrshire scored successes at the London Dairy, R.A.S.E. and Kent County Shows. Circumstances compelled his and Mr Jones’s return to his country.

He reached the culminating point of his career in April 1953 when trading as the firm Kirkness and Watson, he showed “Burnbrae Diana 7th” at the Rand Easter Show. The long years of pain striking effort, of integrity and courage, were rewarded with the Warwick Gold Gup for the best dairy animal of any breed on the Show. The previous years the same animal had been runner-up to a Jersey cow for the same trophy, shown by Mr Paul de Villiers.

Shortly after the show, on the 4th July 1953, Alan Lawrence’s sudden death came as a great shock to all who knew him. So passed the essence of a truly good man and a fine South African. He was one of the finest judges of livestock South Africa has seen and in preparing cattle for “Show”, he had no equal. He had no enemy and was loved by all who knew him.

One monument to Alan Lawrence Watson, lies in the perfect blood of the cattle he has left behind him, a priceless heritage to a farming country. The record will shine on down the years. But its light will be no brighter the lights glowing from the fires he lit on so many cold hearts.

No man or woman, of whatever race, colour, creed or political opinion, went to Lawrence Watson for help and came empty.

Wherever he lived, his advice and help was eagerly sought and he became an honorary, “Vet” to the surrounding community. Robert, Burns had had men like him in mind who he wrote that “An honest man is the noblest work of God”

A year after his death, his widow, Eva Dalrymple Young also of Stranraer, Scotland, passed away. They were survived by their only child, Edna, who married Charli Cooper in 1946, a Civil Engineer of Cape Town.

Lawrence to all his friends and other, was to me a childhood hero, and he did not really get away from that in all my years I knew him. The Hackney horses Och? What a wonderful, Suffolk sheep AND always the Ayrshires and more Ayrshires the grandest in the whole country. One of the cows I first remember was Townhead Maud 2nd, please note, Townhead, Champion cow, Johannesburg, Pietermaritzburg, Durban and Bloemfontein. Winner milking competition ALL breeds in Durban 1917, and her official milk record at the age of 13 years 15 081lb milk 3,78 % and 584 butter-fat. Some going for those years. A great cow! Just to mention a few others, there was Overton Jessie 2nd, Burnbrae Dainty Piece, Burnbrae Stella, Burnbrae Wee Jessie, Auchenbrain White Rose and a cow Hetherhall Lady Laus. The bull I best remember was Kirkland Admiral a champion if ever there was one and

animals and to be a superlatively good neighbour.

In his early days, and before the event of motor-cars, he was interested in Hackney horses and was a frequent winner in the show rings in South Africa, to which country he imported many fine horses from Britain. The best remembered one being Arcadia, who was the Champion Hackney mare from 1913-1917. Two others were Bridesmaid and Honeymoon.

His favourite cattle were undoubtedly Ayrshires and he was among the first to import the breed to this country, and these were always his chief pride and joy. Although he bred and showed Frieslands, Shorthorns, Galloways and sheep with a good measure of success at various stages of his long farming career, it is as an Ayrshire breeder that he will be best remembered.

In his early days, he was joined by Mr Matthews, but the partnership was terminated in 1912, when he became linked with another well- known South African Scotch cattleman, Alex Drysdale. The stage was then set for the beginning of a series of spectacular successes wherever the Ayrshire breed was shown in this country, and the

allen lawrence Watson

OBItUARy - by P O Gray

Nethercraig Lucky Blend who was imported in 1923-24, and I think that his progeny was about the best of any bull in this country, but comparisons, ah? Finland also imported from Nethercraig at the same time and they were able to follow up the breeding programme. Unfortunately for Ayrshires in S.A. Lawrence Watson went overseas for a number of years which I think most unfortunate for Ayrshires in S.A. He eventually came back to S.A. but did not get back into Ayrshires for many years and when he did he rounded off his career with Burnbrae Diana 5 and the Gold Cup at the Witwatersrand Easter Show. Great!

Lawrence always had a helping hand ready to help everyone and he really had a way with animals. Most of all he never ever sold knowingly a dud animal – they all went to the butcher, and he knew his animals.

10>>> 10>>>

President: 1926 – 1934

Honorary Life President: 1944

Born in 1896 in a village called Dreghorn and his father ran a Carters business.

The first breeder to win the Gold Cup presented by the Union Castle Steamship Company in 1920.

President of the Ayrshire Society SA 1949 – 1950

Vice President – 1926 27,29,30 and 1931

Honorary Life President – Annual General Meeting 1948

Mr Simpson was the holder of the Cup Awarded to the Ayrshire herd heading the Hard Average Test, for the service he has done in the past, constantly importing the best blood lines form Scotland, so much so, that it might easily be claimed that he owns some of the best Ayrshires in the world.

Only two major shows have been held since the termination of hostilities, at both shows, Mr Montagu Simpson has won all the honours. His cow, Benmore Kathrine 3rd gave:

19108 lbs milk, 739,602 lbs. B.F., 3,87 % in 300 days

20820 lbs milk, 809 541 lbs. B.F., 3,88 % in 345 days

Not to mention the other records he has attained in the past.

In view of the excellent work done by this gentlemen, he was elected as Honorary Life President at the Annual General Meeting held in 1948, a reward he richly deserved.

alex Drysdale

montagu simpson

O F Ay R S H I R EP R O G R E S S

CentuaryA

11 <<<

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Founders of the Ayrshire Society /Stigterslede van die Ayrshire Genootskap

1919 - It was made compulsory that registered members must register prefixes / suffixes by SA Studbook registered herd.

1921 – Council members

Natal : Messrs J Price Moore, JA Curle,

OFS : Messrs C Gordon Thompson, FA Stockil

Tranvaal: Mrssrs JZ Sim and John Wilson

Cape: W Allen

1925 – 114 Members in South Africa

S A STUDBOOK iNVOLVEMENT AND THE FOUNDiNG OF THE SOCiETY iN 1917

Geskiedenis van die Ayrshire Genootskap

Die Ayrshire Genootskap is reeds op 26 April 1916 gevorm met die hoofsaaklike doel om beheer oor die registrasie van stoetvee uit te oefen en te sorg dat die ras suiwer gehou word. Op 17 Maart 1917 onderteken die Registrateur die Sertifikaat wat die Ayrshire as volwaardige ras erken.

Na daar ‘n behoefte ontstaan het dat telers genootskappe ook ʼn rol het om te vervul en die SA Stamboekvereniging aan te vul, het die idee om genootskappe te stig begin vorm aanneem. Reeds in 1913 is die eerste vier genootskappe gestig. In 1917 word die Ayrshire Beestelers Genootskap formeel gestig en die Eerste Algemene Jaarvergadering van lede word op 29 Maart 1917 gehou.

Die Genootskap het op 5 April 1921 by die Registrateur aansoek gedoen vir die inlywing van die Ayrshire Genootskap. Op 12 Mei 1921 word dit in die Staatskoerant geadverteer dat die genootskap ingelyf is kragtens die registrasie van die Stamboekwet, Wet no. 22 van 1920.

Founding of the Ayrshire Society

The Ayrshire Society was founded on 26 April 1916 with the main objective to control registration and to make sure that the breed would be kept pure. On 17 March 1917 the Registrar signed the certificate recognising the Ayrshire as a full breed.

After that a need arose that breeders’ associations also have a role to play and to supplement the SA Studbook Association, the idea to establish associations began to take shape. The first four breed societies were established in 1913. In 1917 the Ayrshire Cattle Breeders’ Society was formally established with the First Annual General Meeting of members held on 29 March 1917.

On 5 April 1921 the Society applied to the Registrar for the incorporation of the Ayrshire Society. On 12 May 1921 it was advertised in the Government Gazette that the association had been incorporated in terms of the Studbook Act, Act No 22 of 1920.

March 1917 the Registrar signed the certificate recognising the Ayrshire as a full breed.

After that a need arose that breeders’ associations also have a role to play and to supplement the SA Studbook Association, the idea to establish associations began to take shape. The first four breed societies were established in 1913. In 1917 the Ayrshire Cattle Breeders’ Society was formally established with the First Annual General Meeting of members

On 5 April 1921 the Society applied to the Registrar for the incorporation of the Ayrshire Society. On 12 May 1921 it was advertised in the Government Gazette that the association had been incorporated in terms of the

March 1917 the Registrar signed the certificate

The first Ayrshire to be imported into South- Africa consisted of a consignment of two bulls and some females, imported by James Rawbone- no doubt of Scottish descent of the farm Broadlands, Somerset West in 1892. The one bull called Thistle, came to the Towers, where my grandfather, Charles John, was farming after a stint to the diamonds fields in the 1870’s.

We must assume that the foundation stock would have been Afrikaner/Friesland crosses, since the Van Reenen family, who were of the first importers of Friesland stock, had numerous farms in the Darling area, or the Groene Kloof.

Scotch Thistle was reputed to have died of snakebite, and for several years after that bulls were brought from Broadlands, except for a Guernsey bull, which my grandfather imported in 1905 to improve the butterfat of his herd, since by that time our co-op creamery was already in operation. This bull was not a tremendous success, but 40 years later there was still one female line that showed the distinctive Guernsey udder.

Except for this bull, only registered Ayrshire bulls have been used in the herd since 1892, and only one female, an imported Scottish cow, Valley Field Nell Gwynne, Scottish Herd Book no.1, born 1910 and bought at the Rocklands dispersal sale 1919, has been introduced into the herd. The herd was built up entirely from the original indigenous stock, selected on production merit by my father, Fred J Duckitt who was already having butterfat testing done on a regular basis by the creamery tester in 1914.

In 1919 full time recorder was appointed by member of the co-op, who travelled from farm to farm in a cart pulled by two white horses. We have complete

TowersAYrshires >>> Fred van der Riet Duckitt

documented monthly records from 1919. After the Guernsey episode, some more Broadlands bulls

were used, as well as importations made by my father up to the 1914 – 1918

war. At that time, it cost about £60 to land a bull in Cape

Town.

It had been said, and Philip Gray could probably bear me out, that these importations of this

decade were largely of the vessel type:

small, not very great producers, and came with

the reputation that they would produce where a boerbok would

have difficulty in surviving. This did not do the breed any good and was largely

responsible for the poor start that Ayrshires had in his country. My father always said that it was only after he got Alex Drysdale‘s bulls in the early 1920’s that his herd improved in size and production.

Possibly, the very first Burnbrae bred bull came to the Towers, as his name was Burnbrae Pioneer. For the next twenty years only the best Burnbrae bulls were used, the Towers herd supplied the Drysdale Dairy with truckloads of cows every year, and I believe I am correct in claiming that many of the herds in the north and Natal area were started from Towers cows and their daughters via Alex Drysdale.

In 1927 an old cow by the name of Kraanvoël was the first cow in the herd to produce plus 10 000lbs in lactation. She also happened to be a daughter of Burnbrae Pioneer and Mr Drysdale always cherished this cow. She was eventually sold to him at 14 years of age!

About 1922/30 Mr Drysdale sent a purewhite bull by the name of Burnbrae Braw Laddy, since by now the Americans had decided that it was more fashionable

13 <<<

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In 1969 Aylewards Royal Fabric was imported and used with the considerable success at both Towers and Bospre herds. He was used mainly by A.I. and at one time there were 130 daughters in the herd.

Jack’s Choice semen was used in the early 1970’s with great success. Unfortunately, he produced few females in the herd, but a son of his, Phyl ’s Choice was used with much success in the Towers herd as well with Jan Swart and the Bosmans. His dam was a daughter of Bonny Marais and the only cow to have produced over 100 000 lbs after my retirement in 1977. Balig Supreme was used in the middle 1970’s and there are still a number of his daughters in the herd as well as Good Investment daughter and granddaughters.

The whole range of A.I. bulls have been used during the last ten years, with the result that the herd has lost so much of its uniformity, size and character and much of its former average production.

In March 1986, my son, Mark, bought out practically the whole Towers Herd, and with much dedication to this task, is busy starting to rebuild the herd to its rightful place in the national herd.

Getting back to the Ayrshire folklore – the breed was struggling to make headway and I believe that I can rightfully claim to have made quite a contribution towards the upswing we have enjoyed since the middle 1950’s.

It so happened that I attended the 1956 National Champion Show in Bloemfontein and the night of the usual dinner in the New Maitland Hotel (it was quite new then) I sat opposite a young and very talkative Vrystater, the late Buks De Vos.

During June of that year I was motoring to the Transvaal when I had a serious breakdown with my car at Ventersburg and had to stay over for the night. I duly contacted the de Vosses and went out to their farm to spend the night there. He showed me his small herd of Ayrshires that he had started and it ended with my saying to him, “Maar meneer De Vos, jy moet dat ek vir jou ‘n paar ordentlike koeie stuur!” And that is exactly what happened and Buks’s enthusiasm for the breed developed to the extent of his starting the Ayrshire club at Kroonstad, got the Agricultural School there interested and afterwards, for several years most successful sales and Ayrshire field days were there, followed by many a good party at the Hotel Toristo. I firmly believe that period was the start to a tremendous upswing in the interest in the breed, at a time when such promotion was badly needed. Many new members have come and gone, but there always remains that solid core of dedicated breeders and dairymen to keep the flag of the breed flying high.

to have white Ayrshires. Laddy grew up into a huge and very showy bull and was eventually returned to the Burnbrae Herd, as his mother, Burnbrae Modesty, remained unbeaten in the showring for 10 years.

A notable cow bred by Laddy was Towers Lizzie, born in 1931 and who became the first Towers cow to produce over 100 000 lbs of milk. Lizzie never ended up in the Drysdale stable as she only had her first heifer calf in 1942 and eventually had four more in a row and ended up with15 calves and died at the age of 19 years.

Later another very superior breeding bull by the name of Burnbrae Mussolini came into the herd, followed by the first Benmore bull – Benmore Quex. These bloodlines produced big cows, very good udders and production, and very strong muzzle and good legs. This, then, was the cow that was introduced into the appendix in 1947, which was also the year that I took over the management of the herd. As a matter of interest, there was not very much love between Alex Drysdale and Monty Simpson and if Monty showed at the Rand Easter Show, Drysdale never showed there, but would go the Natal Royal and vice versa, so that they seldom actually competed in the showring, and they actually did the breed considerable harm, and tried to keep the breed a sort of exclusive, closed shop clique.

The last Burnbrae bull to be used was Don Juan, being the son of Burnbrae IXL who was the son of Bargower Silver Bell 19th imported by Mr Drysdale just before the war (1939) probably his last importation. Jon Juan unfortunately contracted actinomycosis in 1947 and had to be destroyed young (pre-Penicillin).

A notable daughter of this bull was Old Lizzie ‘s 13th calf, born on the 13th August 1947 and called Lucky – her descendants through her male and female offspring are spread far and wide in the different herds in the country.

The first Kirriemuir bull to be introduced was Bonny Monarch in 1962. Being the son of Bonny Mandy, he bred large, high producing cows with very good udders and good legs. A homebred son, Towers Bonny Marais (dam – Sarie) was used in the herd with considerable success, sold young to Koos Oosthuizen of Boshoff, made the rounds in the Free State and brought back to the Towers at 11 years. However, in this old age his offspring were mostly male, but there are still a few of his daughters and granddaughters in the herd today.

Another notable bull used in the herd during the early 1950 was Benmore Yoki- out of Yellow Kate. This was also a very big white bull, that also bred fine, large cows, high producing with good butterfat and perhaps the most important daughters he bred was Flower Girl 2 who went on to produce 182 000 lbs of milk during her lifetime.

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became too ill, with Parkinson’s disease.

Of interest was his association with Fitzsimons Snake Parks. He produced snake bite anti-venom for many years and he was a specialist in developing anti-venoms and serums and was instrumental in developing the first serum against the Cape Button Spider and Gaboonviper bite, which was distributed throughout Africa.

He was well travelled and was a man of many interests.

Loved “Good Food and Quality wine.”

By Walter Finlayson.

“Oupa” as a teenager with his sisters and nanny in Scotland

Maurice was born and grew up in Inverness in Scotland. He was a good athlete as a young man being Northern Scottish school boy Champion at the age of 18. He went on to study medicine at Edinburgh University and after completing his studies as a Pathologist did a sabbatical at the Sorbonne in Paris. He also worked at the Rockefeller Institute in America.

In 1933 he was offered a post by the Union Health Department in South Africa.

Once settled in South Africa he met Eleanor Mary Floyd, who’s family originally came from near Bristol in the U.K. and had been involved in farming and horses.

During the 2nd World War he was stationed in Alexandria in Egypt and in 1944 he returned to South Africa to take up a post at the Baragwanath which was then a Military hospital.

Whilst in Johannesburg he became close friends with Mr Koenig, the General Manager for Montagu Simpson of the Benmore Ayrshire Herd. This fired his enthusiasm and rekindled his love for the Ayrshire Breed!

In 1945 he started the first Pathology Practice in Cape Town and left the Government Medical Service.

Two years later he purchased the farm Hartenberg in the district of Koelenhof outside Stellenbosch and bought his first Ayrshire cows. The herd numbers developed with importations in 1952. In the early years he employed a Mr Isak Louw as the Manager who was a very good stockman and who had managed the cattle at Elsenberg College.

I joined my Father in 1962 as G.M. of Hartenberg Estate. In 1968 my Father and Mother moved from Constantia to live on the farm. He retired from his Pathology Practice in Cape Town but continued working under Prof. Burger at the new Tygerberg Hospital until he

Dr M H Finlaysonthe late

President of the south African Ayrshire Cattle Breeders’ society 1958-1961 1964-1969

Dr M H Finlayson

“Oupa” as a teenager with his sisters and nanny in Scotland

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(Journal 1985)

Two hundred hectares are under irrigation growing wheat for sale, maize and lucerne for own consumption. The water comes from the Orange River and it’s diversion by tunnel and canals into the Fish River catchment, commencing in 1974, brought welcome transformation to farming in the district. Previously all feed was bought in by the now entirely self- sufficient farms.

The altitude of over 1000 metres, extremes of temperature from below freezing of 41 °- 42 ° C and, on average, 300 – 400 mm of summer rain per annum, falling mainly in March- April, combine to make the area virtually free from plagues and parasites and particularly healthy for livestock farming. However, the distance of the Cradock district from the markets is great, to the accent is on profit from top quality stock and the economical conversion of fodders and crops to high class products- be it meat, fibre or stud progeny.

The present owner is Mr Jon Walker. His father Mr WA Walker Snr. started farming as a hobby in 1945, and came to buy the entire small Ayrshire herd name TARBERG of Mr J van Ryneveld.

Oasis a fertile spot in the midst of desert country where water and vegetation are to be found. A delightful spot, or a charming and sheltered retreat from a drab or noisy environment. A description taken form the Websters Dictionary which perfectly fits the home of W.A. Walker and son and the Kirriemuir Ayrshire Herd.

A verdant farm set alongside the busy Karroo highway running from Cradock to Middelburg. A farm where the boss is of English decent, his wife half Dutch, the home and farm staff black, the working language Afrikaans and the cattle genes Scottish with a dash from Canada.

A distillation uniquely South African.

The well-known Kirriemuir Ayrshire Herd forms part of the enterprises of Burnside farms, comprising: Het Fontuin, Knurtsford, Lawrenceford and Elim, covering 4 000 hectares – largely dry Karroo veld where Merino sheep and Angora goats are run. Fat lamb production and a small Hereford cross beef herd complete the livestock undertakings. Interestingly, Mr Walker has put an Ayrshire bull to the beef cows to breed for increased milk and hardiness.

K I R R I E M U I R Ay R S H I R E SJon Walker

Jon Walker receives the Roderick Trophy from Ms Roderick. “Group of 8 Ayrshires awarded the Supreme Championship over all Breeds”. Marius Prinsloo (Head of the Cattle division at Bloem Show) also appears on the photo.

PROFILE:

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bottom line of a pedigree is of great importance to success. “A good brood cow does so much for a herd”

He also feels that breeders should not be carried away by only the plus production figures of proven bulls. Type and type analysis must not be forgotten, but must complement and balance production analysis to achieve long lasting results. The long wearing, high production cow families at Kirriemuir unmistakably prove these points. On 1 November 1984 Kirriemuir Plumlight dam of the well-known Kirriemuir Patsy and descended from the imported Barnes Cherry 8th calved her 17th calf aged 19½ years having produced 97 790 kg. milk and now within reach of the 100 000 kg milestone i.e. 100 tons!

The milk index on the recording sheet is singled out by Mr Walker as the guide to improvement in performance in the herd. This index cancels out levels of feeding and husbandry and reflects the improvement in production and directs the breeding decisions “Production is what earns the money and what breeding is all about- always in step with type”

The Kirriemuir Herd is the only Ayrshire herd in the list of top dairy herds identified by the A.D.S.R.I. as having achieved outstanding performance and production. It also heads the production stakes amongst Ayrshire herds. It’s 1984 figures were 24 cows @ 5 927 milk, 3,74% B.F, 3,49% Protein @ 5 700 kg F.C.M in 298 days & I.C.P. 421 days.

The cows in milk are fed in dry camps all year round on lucerne hay only, plus a 15 % concentrate, milled and mixed on farm from home grown corn and cob, early cut lucerne and a bought high protein concentrate and fed at the rate of 1 kg/ 3litres milk produced.

Dry cows are fed, on maize Stover with a little lucerne to keep them in good fettle but the steaming up of yore with large amount of concentrate is no longer practised and it is so often lead to downer cow syndrome and milk fever.

Apart from the occasional occurrence of these metabolic disorders Kirriemuir has virtually no disease problems because of its geographic and climatic situation. Routine monthly visits are made by the herd veterinarian with the emphasis in total herd management, advise and problem prevention.

The practice of not steaming up cows has led to peak production being reached approximately two weeks later in the lactation than before. Lactations peaks are not astronomical, but productions tend to be well sustained to the end leading to the herd’s record holding successes.

Mr Walker’s sales policy is one of selling quality animals sound in conformation and production. He says inferior ones only bring disrepute and bad publicity. A good bull stamping his quality on a buyer’s herd or a good foundation cow sold and leading to herd improvement mean much to the Walkers.

He chose the prefix Kirriemuir by chance, consulting an atlas and in 1953 also visited Kirriemuir in Tayside, Scotland. Of even more importance, the first heifer calf born he gave to his ten- year old son Jon.

Her name was Marianna, born 13 /11/1945. Her other name could have been “Serendipity“ as she not only turned out to be the best and only animal retained of the original animals, but went on to found the present Kirriemuir Ayrshire Herd – more specifically one of it’s cow families.

Young Marianna, Kirriemuir and Jon grew together. Marianna’s progeny prospered enabling Jon to buy a half share in his father’s stud, hence WA Walker and Son.

Marianna was the Supreme Champion Ayrshire in 1954, Grand Champion Ayrshire in 1957, the winner of innumerable other prizes. She went on to a lifetime production of 153 000 lbs milk, 5786 lbs fat and 12 calves. To name the show and production successes of her progeny would take too long and one can only mention that Kirriemuir Marianna 40 was Mr Walker’s latest show winner at the Natal Royal Show in 1984. Marianna’s dynasty has to date (November 1984) reached Marianna’s 76.

Jon complete his schooling and proceeded overseas where he spent three-and-a half years acquiring an M.A. degree in Agriculture at Cambridge and between times working at the Carnell Ayrshire herd of G & R Templeton at Kilmarnock in Ayrshire. In 1957 he returned to South Africa. In 1959 he married Lieske Martin from Mortimer who has already at home with dairy cattle as her father owned the pedigree Penrhew Jersey Herd. From Mortimer also came Susanne, the daughter of Mr Martin’s headman and today still Cook at Kirriemuir and holder-of-the-fort whenever necessary or the Walkers are away.

Lieske and Jon obviously formed a tremendous team and have inspired teamwork and devotion from their staff. Of their present complement Swartbooi was already on the farm when they started, whilst Hendrik was the first employee hired by Jon. These two are the “Show Men” whose showmanship have contributed to the Kirriemuir success story. Another old-timer is Jack.

Over the years, other animals were added to the herd from South African studs BENMORE (Montagu Simpson) and BYEWAYS (D.B. Pratt) and the Scottish herds BARNES, BALIG, CARNELL and STRATHALLAN. All additions were handpicked after inspection and over twenty females were imported.

Two sires to leave a lasting impression were Kirriemuir’s first imported bull Carnell Harvest Home and the Strathallan Silver Crest who also sired Junior Champion and Reserve Champion respectively at the 1957 Royal show (viz. the Doreen and Cherry families).

Judicious “home” sampling and proving of sires has been followed ever since. However, long family lines leading back to original females and to Marianna underline Mr Walker’s breeding philosophy that the

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– 200 kg M.A.P at planting then top dressed with 750kg Ammonium sulphate/Ha. Irrigation -100mm per flood irrigation, eight times during season. Yields – top yields 9.8 ton/Ha, average yield 7.1 Tons/ha, Stover – 150 bales/Ha., i.e. plus minus 3 tons.

Wheat. The variety Durum is planted (for pasta) at 1100 kg/ Ha. With 300 kg supers and 500 kg Ammonium Sulphate. Yields is 4 tons/Ha. The straw is used for feeding.

Mr Walker is well- known as past president of the Ayrshire Society and as a member of the SA Studbook Association. Also as a showman, show winner, senior judge and judging teacher and as a seller of Quality Ayrshire Cattle. Some Kirriemuir achievements are:

SA Champions

1958 Kirriemuir Bonny Mandy 1962 Knowe Windome Lad1965 Balig Doreen 9 1968 Kirriemuir Cherry Pie1974 Kirriemuir Patsy1977 Kirriemuir Dominique

Gold cups

1962 Knowe Windsome Lad1964 Barnes Cherry 81968 Kirriemuir Cherry Pie1970 Kirriemuir Doreen1975 Kirriemuit Hyacinth (owner HO Hamilton)

His interest, other than his farming activities, is golf presently being played on a new and flourishing grass course, thanks to Orange River water! Lieske’s interests apart from the farm, are Jon her beautiful garden and Jon!

They have a daughter Nicolette, who is a qualified nursery school teacher working in Port Elizabeth, and a son William freshly home in November 1984 from two years in the army followed by two years at Cedara Agricultural College and ready to play his part in the continuing story of Burnside Farms and Kirriemuir Ayrshires.

Any visit spent with the Walkers can only be too short. Just before regaining the tar and the Karroo two silent hammerkops stand, fishing at a pool at the foot of a windmill.

Those commodities so vital to South Africa they have at Kirriemuir – water and teamwork and of course beautiful Ayrshire Cattle.

Mr Walker also feels that Ayrshire breeders in South Africa have become too individualistic and isolationist and could gain much from sampling each other’s “bloods.”

Promotion and judging courses, days, gatherings are considered essential and he feels the accent must be particularly on breed promotion to non-involved farmers and students and not just stud promotion. In this way youngsters at schools and colleges could be introduced to Ayrshire cattle – perhaps for more “Jons” to meet more “Mariannas?”

A word picture to describe the home of Kirriemuir cows.

Giant green trees grace Lieske’s lovely garden set in the lee of a rise. These lead one down to lush paddocks where the beautifully marked cows are displayed to perfection by the green of the kikuyu. These 20 to 30 cows are the milking herd. The Doreeens, the Cherries, Mariannas, Pennys, etc. are introduced individually as are their sires, the latter both home bred and top proven imports. At the end of the tour the cows gratefully hurry back to their accustomed dry camps and hay routine.

Back up the hill by another route, between dry camps, one holding yearling heifers among them three strong Bargower Top Delight daughters pointed out by Mr Walker as carrying the high hopes of Kirriemuir.

Next solid stone built, airy buildings and pens housing feeds and bulls of various ages and on occasion calving mothers.

Alongside is a neat five-point milking parlour through which the cows are milked three times a day and adjoining it the shed where they receive their concentrate feeds. This barn is cosy, the heart of Kirriemuir, where each cow has her own private stall, her birthdate, calving and production histories neatly lettered in white on a blue board fixed to the wall above her manger.

Handy to this area are stalls for housing calves individually for the first 100 days of their lives, dry camps, neat hay shedding, a reservoir and leading one’s gaze back down the valley, green crop and small stock grazing lands.

The irrigated crop lands are on the farms Lawrence Ford and Elim. Of interest in the maize and wheat production are:

Cultivars – TX 24 and PNR 542 planted this year on 12/10/84 at a plant population of 55 000 /ha. Fertilization

siRe eValUatioN iN sa An officially sponsored National Scheme in which young bulls were entered for test and their semen systematically distributed to ensure a valid test with results available at a comparatively early age was approved and initiated.

1976

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The Freak cow story in SA is about nil but in the USA 2 daughters of Betty’s Commander did the freak one 37 000 lb milk and the 36 000 lb milk in 305 days on twice a day at 4,3 % in New Zealand a cow called Glitter gave over 34 000 lb milk @ 3,4 2 x milking. The UK has its 30 000lb cows as does Finland.

On lifetime production we have Fancy Madge leading the field with 282 000 lb milk in the U.S.A, Britain and Finland have their 270 000lb Finland has a Breed average for 23 000 cows over 5 700 kg at over 4 %.

What sort of animal should be bred? The one that suits your conditions the one that will supply the market that you have in mind. In the RSA we have some 23 ecological regions and to claim that your fancy breed, or the one they like will do well anywhere, forget it. You have the Bos Taurus for your temperate climate to cold areas and your Bos Indicus for the areas from temperate to hot areas, the tropics.

Then you have your lush conditions where your dairy cows will do very well, then there are the arid areas where you should never ever take a dairy cow.

In the R.S.A. dairy cows will do best on artificial pastures, and will produce milk most economically. In New Zealand they dairy farm off pastures and they produce milk at a third of the cost in the USA, who do a lot of concentrate feeding for maximum production and what does that lead to a surplus of dairy products in the Americas, Europe and down under, there is no point in producing something that has no market.

The full feed rations in this country costs about 30c for each litre of milk produced, and if the New Zealand story is correct it means that the cost of a litre milk of milk off the pasture will be about 10 cents. The farmer gets some 35 cents a liter on the fresh milk market in SA. So the margin for a cow A is 5 cents a litre for 25 litres a day and the margin for cow B will be 20 cents a litre for 15 litres a day and do you own calculations. Just remember it’s profit that you are after so you can go for maximum production, and this is affected by the law of diminishing returns, minimum returns are just a waste of time.

Then you have a size situation, our Agricultural journals are beginning to report that the bigger the cow the longer calving interval she requires. My neighbour

Away back in 1908 Dad was looking for a shorthorn bull, A.L. Watson heard of this and went to see Dad and the next thing Dad bought an Ayrshire bull, for £2 cash in GOLD and so the Braehead herd of Ayrshire cattle was started. In 1918 Dad bought 3 registered heifers from Frank Brown WHO had been winning the championships at the W.A.S from around 1912 to his death in 1917.

As an aside, in 1912, the champion bull was called “Jock” for short and would toss you at the drop of a hat. Dad and Tom Carter went to town and the pub, after having enough drinks, they cleaned out the pub and then decided to clean up the street, Tom at one end of the block and Dad on the other. As it happened, a police, man came to Dads side, in a friendly way the policeman SAID “come with me, we have a nice place for you to sleep it off in our barracks,” no not me, says the old man, I want some fun, Mr Policeman grabs dad’s right hand and tries to twist it behind his back but the 16 inch forearm just draws the policeman to the front in range of the left fist, ouch? Just a gentle punch and the policeman is out, glass jaw and all. Taxi, taxi, the show grounds quick, gets there and all is locked up, off with the jacket, swings it up onto the corrugated iron Dad jumps up and hauls himself over takes his jacket and walks down to the cattle lines when he hears great noise at the show ground gates. Yes, the police are there, what now, so he gets a striped sack and gets into a manger in front of a bull “Jock” and covers himself with the sack, police and others search every where but did not find Scotty Gray. Next morning when the boys started feeding the cattle they found Scotty in front of the bull, they rush to the owners’ tent and called him saying that Boss Gray was dead in front of the vicious bull and so the old man lived to tell the tale.

In 1936 Dad bought 40 Fries cows from Frasers Ltd Aanvang, Wepener they were good cows, but on a poor farm they were certainly worse than the Ayrshires, the Fries gave 3½ lactations and the Ayrshires 6 and the Fries gave less milk, we sold them all in 1944. In 1946 we got 15 Jerseys which produced over 6000lb milk and 320 lb butterfat our Ayrshires were produ-cing 8000 lb milk and 320 lb butterfat, we were selling fresh milk on the Johannesburg Market, so out went the Jerseys. 200 Gals a cow was too big difference when you are being paid by the gallon a year.

AN AyRSHIRE LEGENDPhilip Gray

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Philip Gray butcher they must put on weight, and they slaughter well. Were I to start farming again, it would be Ayrshires for me for I have farmed 3 dairy breeds here and Ayrshires had the edge on the other breeds under our conditions. Penros Canadian holds the British all breeds record two times a day milking of 8,6 kg in 1983.

All breeds have good points, and as such should be encouraged, and their breeders are no doubt doing their best to improve them, where it is thought necessary to improve them, and I sincerely hope that the modern Ayrshire cattle breeder has the improvement of the Ayrshire in mind too.

Were I to start farming again it would be AYRSHIRE cattle. For Ayrshires are excellent converters of pastures and herbage into rich milk, the profit way of dairy farming, never mind maximum production with full feeds and concentrates.

For easy calving you do not have to get extra labour to help the cow calve. For fertility for years the aim of the Ayrshire breeder has been to breed a cow that will have 10 calves in a lifetime. Longevity means less depreciation and do not have to replace a cow so soon.

The MMB of the UK give Ayrshires a longer life.

A Dr. Horn states that the Ayrshire cow has the most suitable milk for human consumption and cheese makers say that it is superior for making cheese and lastly 50 % bull calf crop grows to 400 kg at 14 - 16 months and because of the quality of the meat sell readily.

who farms big cattle tells me that big calves at birth are a problem, the cows genital organs take much longer to settle down, and for the mother to come into oestrus again. Here in the Highveld a farmer can grow hay and silage that can have a T.D.N of 65 and protein if 13% if you cut at the right time, say before it pipes.

Another point to consider is the quality of the milk the cow gives. Our Ayrshires have the nearest to the human digestibility, fat globule size fat percentage and lactose, I know that if I drink breed X milk I have heartburn for some 2 – 3 hours afterwards, and is it uncomfortable. Ayrshire milk is also supposed to be the best for cheese making.

The Ayrshire society of S.A. used to have a Dairy merit system for evaluating cows, milk produce per 100 kg, live weight IB an F.C.M. basis, this did not suit our big boys so it was pushed out, set aside: I still think that is a very good way to value a cow. Cow A weighs 700 kg, gives 7 000 kg, 4 % milk in 300 days so for 100 kg live weight it would be 7000 x 100 – 700 1000 kg per live weight.

Cow B weighs 500 kg gives 5 000 kg, 4 % milk in 300 days, and for 100 kg live weight is 5000 x 100 500 1000 kg milk per 100 kg and remember the smaller cow is supposed to be the more efficient. I am not so keen on your lean type of cow, I like the cow that can put on weight and milk it of and that her bull calf will put on weight for the butcher, but beware of the cow that has hard lumpy fat on her hips and tail head.

Half the calves in a herd are usually male, and for the

Philip Gray passed away in January 2002 at the age of 93 years. He will be remembered for his enthusiasm and involvement with the Ayrshire breed over many years.

Philip’s father, Scottie Gray, started the Braehead herd in 1928, which Philip later took over after the 2nd World War in 1945. Philip served on Council for many years and was Vice-President for a number of years. He first served on Council in 1951 when the Ayrshire Society’s office was run in Johannesburg, by Me. Kay Jeffreys and later Me. Skinner before moving to Pedstock Services in Bloemfontein.

On retirement from Council, Philip was made an Honorary Life President of the Society. As a senior judge, he judged at mayor shows on many occasions and was always greatly respected. At farmers’ days, he often gave talks and demonstrations on the good points of the breed. He had a depth knowledge of the history of the breed as well as pedigrees of well-known cows in the breed, many of which he could recite out of memory, and kept up with the latest as the years went on.

On his retirement, he continued to show interest in the breed. He attended field days and shows till very recent years, always with great enthusiasm. Philip was always great company and had a wonderful sense of humour.

He will be deeply missed, and our sincere sympathy to Quentin Gray and family.

OBITUARY Philip Gray12-07-1909 – 02-01-2002

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Notable members of the Japonica family; Raigmore Japonica 3rd by Humeston Barons Eclipse was SA and Interbreed Champion at Bloemfontein in 1983 and Raigmore Japonica 65th by Margot Lorenzo SA Young Cow Champion and Reserve Interbreed Champion Maritzburg 2006 with her first calf. She also went on to be Champion Ayrshire three times at Riversdale Shows.

At the World Conference embryos were sold to Canada from this cow to the Terrace Bank, Kildare and Selwood Ayrshire herds.

In 1960/61 I studied at the West of Scotland Agricultural College and worked on farms in Scotland and England. On arrival in Scotland I was sent to help at the Highland Show with the Roundbush herd who had the young cow Champion and Reserve Grand Champion. Prizes were presented by HRH Queen Elizabeth the 2nd and all the herdsman were treated to a feast of strawberries and cream.

Another memorable Ayrshire event attended my stay, were two Bargower Bull Sales (and admiring the lineup of some wonderful cows in the barn!)

Families such as the Heather Honey’s, Silverbelles, Lady Maude’s, Apple Blossoms left a lasting impression.

When I left the U.K. I had the privilege of looking after a number of cows being imported into S.A aboard the MV Clan MacInnes, many of which went on to make their mark in the main South African shows.

The trip was quite eventful, with terrible weather in the Channel on leaving London’s Victoria Basin docks; in fact, we had to wait in Rotterdam for two days before a rough trip through the Bay of Biscay. The cattle had to be washed as their coats were so salted up! The drama continued with the ships boilers having to be replaced off St Helena. The voyage took a month to reach Cape Town and we were all very happy to see land, especially as we had raided the kitchen to feed the animals the last few days aboard!

We had on board Springfield Jemina 4th from James Irvings herd, who said I could have my first choice from his herd. That cow was SA National Champion Cow in 1962 and Reserve for the Gold Cup at the Rand Show. Her daughter Raigmore Jemina was Grand Champion Ayrshire in 1967, with her first calf.

Later generations from this family were S.A. Champion

Was named after a hospital in Inverness Scotland, where my Father the late Dr M.H.Finlayson worked in his formative years.

After purchasing the farm Hartenberg in 1947 in Koelenhof near Stellenbosch, Cape Province, Dad set about developing it as a wine and stock farm. His choice of the Ayrshire breed was because Scotland was where he was born and grew up, and his friendship with Mr Koenig the manager of the Benmore herd during the war years, as he was stationed at Baragwanith hospital for part of his war time internship.

In 1948 an Ayrshire herd was purchased from Cathcart. One family line from this herd purchase remains. The “Doreen“family.

The 2015 Mega Week Reserve Senior Champion Raigmore Doreen 29th shown by Edmund Els, scored 90 points!

In 1952 the Scottish Ayrshire Society sent a parcel of Ayrshire heifers to be shown and sold at the Rand Easter Show. Whilst these animals were in quarantine at Cape Town docks the herdsman John Jamieson from the Roundbush herd in Scotland, stayed with my family in Constantia. When he left he promised to put together a consignment of 8 x Ayrshire which formed the basis of the Raigmore herd.

Two notable families still exist in the herd. The “Lana” family from the original cow Charlesfield Lana, which were bred by Scotsman James Semple.

We are now up to Lana 291st. and the Jacarander or Japonica family bred from Harting Jacarander, a daughter of Low Milton Union Jack from James Penman in England.

The Lana family produced a number of notable cows over the years, namely Raigmore Lana 3rd Reserve SA Champion Maritzburg 1965.

Raigmore Lana 51st the first Ayrshire to win the coveted Super Cow class on production and inspection at the Rand Show, competing against Jersey and Holstein exhibits – five animals in total.

Raigmore Lana 51st also held six SA milk and butter-fat records in her lifetime. Raigmore Lana 45th, by Pant Memoir held SA Mature Production record of 11,174 kg milk and 366 kg protein in 1982, for a short time!

RaigmoreAy R S H I R E H E R D

the Japonica family; Raigmore Japonica 3rd by Humeston Barons Eclipse was SA

>>> Walter Finlayson

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The herd has had a few upheavals over the years and followed me from Hartenberg in 1975 to Blaauwklippen and then to Glen Carlou from 1989 to 2004, when I retired.

Then on to Robert Blom in Bredarsdorp. From there to Maans Kotze and finally to Rhodes Food Group in 2014, where they are very well looked after. I have 65 animals at present and am trying to re- establish the herd up to 100 under Barti Volschenk excellent care in their wonderful new facility. I am so grateful to all of the above people who have kept my dream alive.

New blood lines are being established from embryo’s imported from Canada. Emilia from Blackadder. She originates from the famous cow Blackadder Emily 2nd; Silk Line from Sunnymead Jade Silk, and Raigmore LuLu Belle, a daughter of Jonholm Franciene out of Mapleburn Remington and a full sister of Mapleburn Femme Fatale- all Canadian rated 92 points.

These families have left a legacy of top genetics throughout South Africa and promise a great future with the use of bulls such as Tristar Platinum; Seven Oaks Burdette Alaska and Forever Schoon Preditor being used in the herd at present.

Rand Show 1992, Raigmore Jemina 45th, plus Raigmore 127th, SA Champion at the World Conference, Bloemfontein 2012.

The Capex herd won the Gold Cup in 1963 with East Raws Fluffy which also did that trip.

Balig Doreen 9th Rand Show 1965 shown by WA Walker and son, from Craddock. Besides these cows a bull, Balig Good News was imported by us and left some great progeny Jemina 3rd a daughter of Springfield Jemina 4th and Raigmore Queen of Harts 4th, sold to Piet Delport.

My Dad also imported a few cows from England, including, Forth Milestone Fairylight and two bulls Locherwoods Prince Regent who was Champion Ayrshire bull at the Rand Show in 1960. He was leading the Ayrshires in the Grand Parade in front of the Pavilion when David Pratt attempted to assassinate Dr. Hendrik Verwoerd!

The Fairylight line produced Raigmore Fairylight the 20th by Kellcrest Harmony, young cow Champion Mega week 2008 and Senior Champion Mega week 2010; she went on to win the Senior Interbreed Award at this show.

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as Vice President. Charles was President of the SA Stud Book Association from 1951 to 1953. Ivan and Frederick, Harry’s son, in their turn, also served on the Ayrshire Council.

Malleson Brothers and the Milkyway Ayrshire herd.

Harry and Ivan both have engineering degrees, Harry with a Mech. Eng. degree and Ivan with a Chem. Eng. degree. They joined Charles in 1968 and 1971 respectively, farming as C Malleson and Sons, Ida’s Valley Ayrshires. A tandem milking parlour was built and a tanker trailer was built to transport milk in bulk to Pretoria. In 1972 Charles was unable to continue with active farming, and Harry and Ivan took over from him forming the partnership Malleson Brothers, registering their herd as Milkyway Ayrshires, and had the good foundation of the Ida’s Valley herd to build on.

The TB Challenge

The Malleson Brothers Partnership had an early challenge. An initial TB test was done on the herd and a significant number of animals reacted positive, which immediately put the whole herd under quarantine. Because of the high genetic value of the herd, permission was granted to separate the herd in two for a period of five years. The TB negative herd was managed as normal and the TB positive herd was isolated and treated daily. This required a high level of management control, but gave five years of progeny which were TB free out of the positive cows before the last of the positive cows had to be slaughtered out and the herd certified TB free.

Herd Management and Genetic improvement

When Harry and Ivan took over there were about 120 cows in milk. Some of the first steps taken to get a handle on managing the herd were dehorning all the mature animals, debudding the calves, instituting numbered neck straps for positive identification, instituting regular post-calving examinations, and using sound record keeping systems. The herd joined official milk recording again in 1974, having not done official milk recording for a number of years. A policy was immediately adopted of using AI from the best plus proven sires available on the whole herd. Some semen was local, but most from UK, Canada and USA,

Charles Malleson and the ida’s Valley Ayrshire herd

The Malleson Family have been involved with Ayrshires since 1920, when Charles Malleson, aged 18, was left a legacy by his grandmother and bought two Ayrshire heifers, Broadlands Pansy and Broadlands Letty, from James Rawbone in Somerset West. This was the start of the pedigree Ida’s Valley Ayrshire herd on the family fruit farm Ida’s Valley, Stellenbosch. Later Charles started a daily milk round by horse and cart in Stellenbosch.

The move to Hazeldean

In 1944 Charles had the opportunity of moving north where he bought the farm Hazeldean east of Pretoria from his uncle Arthur Struben. This was not an ideal crop farming area due to the low average rainfall but the farm had irrigation potential from the Pienaars river, and Charles saw the advantage of being close to

the consumer market. Charles and his wife Rhoda with their two sons Harry, not yet two years old, and Ivan, a few months old, moved to Hazeldean in September 1944. The herd was dehorned and transported by rail, making a full train load, which took four days, with stops along the way to rest, feed and water the animals and milk the cows.

Soon after arriving at Hazeldean, Charles built a Cape Dutch style gabled house with similar gables to the Ida’s Valley homestead, a one hundred cow milking stable and a storage barn. During the earlier years of the herd Charles imported, from Scotland, a number of bulls which included Knockterra Flash Prince, Dalmoak Topsman, Dalmoak Tam o’Shanter and Hobsland Light Brigade. The last bull he imported was Bankend Classic in 1958. This steadily improved the quality and performance of the herd. Charles was an active Ayrshire breeder with a passion for the breed, a keen showman and a senior judge. He was on the Council of the Ayrshire Cattle Breeders’ Society of South Africa from 1944 until 1972, during which he had two three-year terms of office as President and six terms of office

Ayrshires with the

Malleson Family>>> by Ivan Malleson

Charlie Malleson

25 <<<

the steady and sure support of Anna and Suzanne, not least Anna helping directly with business admin through the years, and Suzanne accompanying Ivan on five World Ayrshire Conferences. Harry’s daughter Elizabeth, with a BSc Agric degree in Soil Science and Horticulture, did valuable work on the farm for a few years. Harry’s son Frederick, with a BSc Construction Management degree, joined Harry and Ivan in the farming business full time in 2001.

Management Changes with Herd Expansion

To keep abreast with managing the increasing herd size, the milking facility was upgraded from the tandem parlour to a 30 point rotary in 1988 followed by a double 16 rapid exit in 1997. A 640 cow free stall housing unit was built in 1999 to house the high producers under roof. Feeding systems changed over the years from grazing irrigated pastures when the herd was smaller to total mixed ration (TMR) feeding

often alternating Scottish and Canadian, such as Bankend Legacy and Selwood Greta’s Boy 2. This was a sound basis for production and type improvement and resulted in dramatic improvement of milk production through the years. More recently Ayrshire semen was also imported from Finland and New Zealand. Member countries of the World Ayrshire Federation such as Canada introduced selected SRB (Swedish Red Breed) genetics into their registered Ayrshire population, and in line with this Malleson Brothers made selected use of SRB in the herd. Type Classification of all young stock was instituted, which was useful in corrective mating. In 1995 the herd started to do some embryo transfer, using imported embryos and embryos from selected cows in the herd.

Milk Marketing Opportunities

In 1978 the factory on the farm was started, with a licence to package and sell high fat certified (unpasteurised) Ayrshire milk and Ayrshire cream, selling by way of a milk shop in Silverton and a mobile unit parked in Waltloo outside Mamelodi, and also supplying health shops in Pretoria. The milk was packed in sachets, being the first in Pretoria to sell milk in sachets. For ten years distribution continued in this manner, growing at a steady rate, with consumers showing a strong loyalty to the Milkyway brand. The cows in milk had reached around 200. In 1987 the high fat restriction on the milk licence, which had been in place since 1978, was lifted and the factory started pasteurising, which enabled unrestricted selling to resellers. In the same year,1987, thirty years ago, the family were approached by Woolworths who were looking for a premium brand. Taste trials showed a taste preference for Ayrshire milk. This led to the start of the branded Ayrshire milk marketing by Woolworths in 1988. Initially all the milk for this market was produced by the Milkyway herd alone and packaged under the Woolworths label by Milkyway Dairy in the factory on the farm. There are now many Ayrshire breeders supplying the Woolworths Ayrshire brand and a number of factories on the farm in different parts of the country.

The Third Generation of Mallesons on Hazeldean

Harry and his wife Anna with their three children and in turn Ivan and his wife Suzanne and their three children had the privilege of the children growing up on the farm. All six of the children and many of their friends participated in Youth Shows. Harry and Ivan would not have achieved what they did without Cow free stall housing

The Malleson family has been farming with Ayrshire cows since 1920, believing in superior quality of Ayrshire milk. Harry and Ivan have continued in the family tradition with their Ayrshire herd and launched the Ayrshire range exclusively to Woolworths in 1988. Their herd has grown to be one of the largest Ayrshire herds in the world. Their cows are housed and milked in the most modern facilities. All this pampering ensures that they produce the best quality milk for Woolworths.

Photo and write-up as on Woolworths milk bottles.

26>>>

of cows and followers when the herd had grown, the cows grouped according to production and stage of lactation. By 2003 the herd had grown to over 800 cows in milk year round, milked three times a day, and the most cows in milk on a particular day was 944 in 2005.

Milestones in the Herd

Improvement of management and management systems and consistent use of proven sires played a major role in the improvement of herd performance.

There have been a number of milestones in the herd.

In 1974 Ida’s Valley Violet (158) was the first cow in the herd to produce over 5 000 kg milk in 300 days.

In 1990 Milkyway Princess 2 (1317) was the first cow in the herd to produce over 10 000 kg milk in 300 days.

In 1995 Malleson Brothers won the Warwick Gold Cup for the Supreme Champion dairy animal at the Centenary Rand Show with Milkyway Loretta 4 (2241). One of the highlights of Ivan’s career was leading the cow, shaking FW de Klerk by the hand and talking to him in the arena.

In 1996 two Ayrshire heifers, Terrace Bank Willy Sandra and De Ste Victoire Willy Helda were imported from Canada, transported by airfreight.

In 2000 four Trident embryos out of Milkyway Folly 19 were sold at the Embryo Sale at the World Ayrshire Conference in UK, finding their way to Canada.

In September 2005 a well attended Sire Progeny day was held at Hazeldean, one of a number of such farmers days over the years.

In 2005 Milkyway Gertie 91 (6123) was the first cow in the herd to produce over 11 000 kg in 305 days in her first lactation.

In May 2006 Malleson Brothers held a record breaking First Production Sale of 192 Registered Ayrshires, followed by a successful Second Production Sale of 191 in October 2007 at Hazeldean.

The Folly Family and Milkyway Top Flight 5 ET

Milkyway Top Flight 5 ET, a son of Ardrossan EV Kate’s Trident, was an internationally ranked proven sire from the Milkyway Folly family.

Bernice Mostert, Senior Researcher of the Agricultural Research Council, Irene reported as follows: “In comparison with all Ayrshire sires that qualify for Interbull Evaluations (international evaluations) for the estimation of MACE (Multiple Across Country Evaluation) breeding values, Top Flight ranked in the top 6% for Milk Yield, top 2% for Butterfat Yield and top 11% for Protein Yield, out of 10 895 internationally tested sires.”

Milkyway Folly 15, Granddam of Top Flight 5

Age KgM %B %P Days 2/1 8 190 3.53 3.14 3003/1 11 007 3.29 2.96 3004/1 11 083 3.33 3.09 3005/2 12 225 3.30 3.07 300

Milkyway Folly 19, Dam of Top Flight 5

Age KgM %B %P Days3/1 10 740 3.56 3.11 3004/4 11 060 3.77 3.21 300

Recent Awards and Achievements

Recent awards include

Milk Producer Organisation (MPO) North Farmer of the Year 2004,

Farmer of the year 2007 Gauteng Region awarded by the Agricultural Writers of SA,

Stud Book Award of Excellence Dairy Cattle Section 2007 for all breeds.

In the July 2007 Official Breeding Value (BLUP) figures for Milk for Ayrshires in South Africa, there were 78 from the Milkyway herd in the top 100, with the first 17 from the Milkyway herd, and similar results for butterfat and protein.

In 2008 Ivan gave a presentation Ayrshires in Intensive Milk Production in South Africa at the World Ayrshire Conference in Finland.

27 <<<

MPO North Farmer of the Year 2004Harry Malleson, Flip de Beer, Frederick Malleson, Ivan Malleson

to a farm near Middelburg, Mpumalanga, and was dispersed in 2009 by way of dividing the herd into “smaller herds” comprising all age groups, and leasing each of these smaller herds to breeders supplying Ayrshire milk to the factory on Hazeldean. The leased animals were in time bought by the respective breeders. In this way to a large extent the genetics were preserved and the animals went to good homes.

Continuing the Legacy.

Hazeldean is on the urban edge and development is taking place on the farm. A portion including the intensive area with the farm buildings has been kept aside, where various new ventures are already underway, such as the Cowhouse Market, which is a weekly Food and Crafts market every Saturday and Sunday, in part of the Freestall Cow Housing. Ivan’s daughter Evelyn is very involved in Hazeldean Valley Trails, trail running and mountain bike trails, and her husband Marius is building up Hazeldean Brewing Co, supplying local craft beer.

Although there are no Ayrshires left in the herd, the family have some frozen embryos in store in the event of any family members wishing to continue with the preserved genetics.

Eastern Cape Project

In 2004 a number of calves and heifers from the herd were sent down to Cookhouse in the Eastern Cape with the intention of rearing them to production with a lease agreement in order to transport milk to Hazeldean. However the project was terminated before milk volumes were sufficient for transportation.

The Herd Move to Middelburg

In 2008 the entire herd was moved from Hazeldean

AyrshireP O E M

She’s big in the face

She’s fine in her horn

She’ll quickly get fat without cake or conn

She’s clean in jaws and full in her chine

She’s heavy in flank and wide in her line

She’s broad in her ribs and long in her rump

A straight and flat rump with never a hump

She’s wide in her hips and calm in her eyes

She’s fine in her shoulder and thin in her thighs

She’s light in her neck and small in her tail

She’s wide in her breasts and good at the pail

She’s fine in her bone and she’s silky of skin

She’s a grazier’s without and butcher’s within

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die Randse Skou. In 1980 is Adyllin I’vys Commandant aangewys as Suid Afrikaanse Kampioenbul en was ook die opvolger vir die Goue Beker vir die interraskompetisie. Van die verse in die Bospre kudde het al tot 7800 kg in hul eerste laktasie gelewer. Die groot aantal koeie in die kudde, wat reeds meer as 45 000 kg (100 000lb) melk geproduseer het, is ‘n bewys van die langlewendheid en gehardheid van die Ayrshire koei.

Dit is dan ook geen wonder dat Pierre baie entoesiasties oor hierdie ras kan praat nie. Ons ken almal die uitstaande eienskappe van die Ayrshire, soos haar goeie uier en dus langslewendheid maklike kalwing, aanpasbaarheid, goeie omsetters van ruvoer en ekonomiese produseerders van kwaliteit melk. Al hierdie eienskappe maak ‘n streng kulporgram moontlik en dus vinnige kudde verbetering. Die Ayrshire word dus nie verniet “the Queen of the Dairy Breeds” genoem nie en dit geld oor die wêreld. Koningin Elizabeth van Engeland het ‘n groot Ayrshire

kudde, in Swede waar die Ayrshire as die Swedish Red & White bekend staan, is dit die engiste suiwelras en in Nieu Seeland en Australië en self Rusland is groot getalle van hierdie aanpasbare ras.

Pierre sê dat alhoewel daar vandag kwaai ekonomiese druk op die melkboer is, as gevolg van steeds stygende inset kostes, kan die suiwelboer nog ‘n winsgewende bedryf handhaaf deur die produksie van kwaliteit melk deur sleg hoë porduserende diere te hou. Deur kennis, geesdrif en doelgerigte teling kan ons hierdie doelwit bereik.

Een van die hoogtepunte tydens Pierre se termyn as president van die Ayrshire Genootskap, was sy besoek aan die Ayrshire Wêreldkongres gedurende Oktober 1988 in Amerika. Die besoek aan die kuddes met ‘n produksie van 9 000 kg, die besprekings tydens die kongres asook die besoek aan die World Dairy Expo in Madison, Winconsin, waar 400 Ayrshire ten toon gestel is, was ‘n ondervinding van ‘n leeftyd. Pierre en Gerty Bosman het 2 dogters en ‘n seun. “Klein Pierre tans in standard 8, wil hom eers bekwaam as veearts voordat hy saam met Pa en Oupa gaan boer.

Met erkenning aan die Melkprodusent 1990.

Bospre kuddePierre BosmanMELKPRODUSENt SA

”Wat ‘n wonderlike voorreg is dit om op ‘n koue wintersoggend om vyfuur op te staan en na die melkstal te gaan nie.! Hoe verstommend is hierdie fabriek, die melkkoei, wat elke dag haar deel doen, ongeag die tyd, dag of klimaat. Niks verskaf meer genot op ‘n man se arbeid nie as wanneer ‘n vers in die stal kom en met haar eerste laktasie verbeter op haar moeder se produksie nie, of as die stalgemiddeld elke jaar verbeter, of as die topproduseerder elke jaar groter hoogtes bereik. As hierdie feite vir u sin maak is u beslis ‘n melkboer, maar as bogenoemde nie vir u ‘n straf of ‘n opoffering is nie, is u beslis ‘n Ayrshire boer. “

So praat Pierre Bosman (jnr) van die plaas Middelwater, Glen naby Bloemfontein waar hy saam met sy vader boer en gehelp het om die bekende Bospre Ayrshire kudde op te bou.

Pierre het sy BSc Landbougraad in 1966 aan die Universiteit van die Oranje – Vrystaat behaal. Alhoewel hy met ‘n cum laude in skaap-en wolkunde geslaag het, het Pierre ‘n suiwelboer geword in murg en been. Mnr Bosman (snr) het in die vroeë vyftigerjare begin met ‘n klein melkery en deur die gebruik van geregistreerde Ayrshire bulle, is die basis gevorm vir die huidige Bospre Ayrshire kudde. ‘n Paar beproefde koeie is van die bekende Towers Stoetery van Darling, die oudste kudde in die land, aangekoop wat die voorlopers was van die meeste koeifamilies in die Bospre kudde. Pierre het in 1967 begin boer en met die invoer van beproefde saad uit Skotland en later ook uit Amerika en Kanada, het die produksie van die Bospre Ayrshires vinnig verbeter, wat dan ook tot gevoldg gehad het dat Pierre sedert die begin van die Meester Suiwelboer toekennnings, hierdie toekenning nog elke jaar verwerf het. Huidiglik tel die kudde 300 met gemiddeld 110-120 koeie in melk, met ‘n daaglikse gemiddelde produksie van 19kg/koei/dag. Die kudde spog met ‘n produksie van 5 890 kg per laktasie en 3,80 % bottervet en 3,54 % proteïen.

Die Bospre Ayrshires het al heelwat hoogtepunte behaal. So byvoorbeeld het Bospre Winbet, die moeder van ‘n jong bulletjie by Taurus, al tot 12 000 kg melk per laktassie geproduseer, en in 1984 is sy aangewys as die Reserwe Senior Kampioen tydens

Pierre & Gerty Bosman

Pierre & Rienie Bosman

30>>>

In 1990/91 the cow Kirriemuir Mariana 51st owned by Hide-A-Way’s won the Super Cow class (interbreed and inspection plus production) at the Rand Show.

SurShire Silent Spring 4th

Sire: Knowe Dominant Line3 times winner of the Warwick Gold Cup at the Rand Easter Show. 1979/1980/1982 and South African Champion in 1980.

hiDe- A- WAY’S BeAutriCe 2nD

Sire: Hide-A-Way’s Party BeatWinner of the Warwick Gold Cup 1984/1985 -Reserve in 1983 /1986

THiS ACHiEVEMENT HAS NOT YET BEEN MATCHED

Piet says his first success was winning the Champion-ship at the Rand Easter Show in 1973 which stimulated his enthusiasm for the Ayrshire breed. He says he was fortunate to attend the first World Conference in Canada in 1969 and although a youngster his gratitude is extended to Bill Reed for his help. In 1979 he won the converted Warwick Gold Cup with Surshire Silent Spring 4th – a Knowe Dominant Line daughter.

The following year at the National Championships judged by Bill Weir, she was crowned the winner and went on to win the Cold Cup for a second time! The 1980 National Championship was an excellent show with Hide-A-Way’s winning the Young Cow Championship, and Reserve Grand Champion with Hide-A-Way’s Daffodil 8th and the John Roy Interbreed with a group of five cows.

Over the years the John Roy Trophy was Piet’s twelve times in 15 years! In 1982 Silent Spring 4th, was again Supreme Dairy animal on show.

In 1984/85 the cow Hide-A-Way’s Beautrice 2nd was also winner of the Warwick Gold Cup. These two cows had the highest production in the Hide-A-Way’s herd.

For twelve consecutive years, cows from this herd won the Ayrshire Championship at the Rand Show and received seven Gold Cups with being runner-up for three years!

Hide-A-Way’sAyrshiresHide-A-Way’sFOUNDED IN 1968

SurShire Silent Spring 4th

Sire: Knowe Dominant Line

Ayrshires

the herd was started in 1968 with the

purchase of cows from the Capex herd and

later good cows from Raigmore and Fred

Duckitt of the towers herd. Importation from

Scotland would follow with great success.

>>> by Piet Delport

31 <<<

Besides the outstanding show successes, the Hide-A-Way’s Ayrshires won the award for the highest producing 2x milking herd for many years.

At the dispersal sale on 7 July 1993 all record prices were broken.

Seker een van my grootste besluite in stoetteling was om die naam van die stoet te verander van Surshire na Hide-A-Way’s. Die rede daarvoor? Daar was net te veel stoeterye wat die “shire” van Ayrshire begin gebruik het en was ek bang dat dit verwarring kan meebring.

In 1969 het ek by Knolland Farms in Amerika gaan werk. Ek was eers ook verslaaf aan Amerikaanse Saalperde. Dit het my ook die geleentheid gegee om die eerste Ayrshire Wêreldkongres in Kanada by te woon. Dit was die dae van Selwood Betty’s Commander. Direk na die kongres vertrek ek na Skotland. Daar het ek by Balig gebly en gewerk. Hier het ek die meeste van teling geleer en hoe om ʼn goeie “Stockman” te wees; ek sal John Mcilwraith ewig dankbaar wees. Hoewel ander telers in Skotland my gewaarsku het: “He is not a man for boys to play with”. Ek het dan ook my eerste invoere vanaf Balig en die Knowe-stoet gedoen. Later sou invoere volg met Low Milton Kitty 47th en Humeston Baron’s Eclipse as twee van die bestes.

Low Milkton Kitty 47th het so ʼn impak op die stoet gehad dat ek haar kop laat opstop het en kan ek elke dag in my kantoor nog na haar kyk.

Geluk was aan my kant toe ek in 1971 met Elsa getroud is. Ons het behoorlik Ayrshire-koors gehad. So het dit gebly tot ons die stoet verkoop het. Dit was ʼn familiesaak en die hoogtepunt elke jaar was om met die koeie na die Randse Paasskou te vertrek. Almal moes help en die “ekspert” Elsa was verantwoordelik vir die laaste werk voor elke koei die skou ring binnegaan en dit kon sy wragtig doen!

Goue Beker oorhandiging 1979. Piet en Elsa met Silent Spring 4th.

Piet Delport ontvang van Pres. P.W. Botha die Goue Beker in 1985. Die eerste jaar op die nuwe gronde van die Randse Paasskou

In 1989 maak ons reg vir die Nasionale Kampioen-skappe op die Randse Paasskou. Ayrshire, Sussex en die Merino Landskaap. Ons wen twee van die drie Nasionale Kampioenskappe.

In 1995 wen ons ook die Goue Beker in die kleinvee-afdeling. Ek het ook die voorreg gehad om menige skoue te beoordeel en baie beoordelaarskursusse as eksaminator te help aanbied. Vandag tree ek ook by baie skoue as Interras-beoordelaar op. Ons vriendskappe wat ons oor die jare heen gesmee het sal ons nooit vergeet nie. Sonder hulle sou ons lewe nie dieselfde gewees het nie. Ons eer die Ayrshire daarvoor.

Op 21 April 2010 te Bloemfontein is ‘n Ere-rol namens die Ayrshire Genootskap aan my oorhandig. Dit was vir my ‘n groot eer tesame met my verkiesing tot Lewenslange Ere-Vise-President van die Genootskap.

Ek was bevoorreg om vir ‘n tydperk van 36 jaar op die Ayrshire Raad te dien waarvan ek 11 jaar as President en 6 jaar as Vise-President gedien het.

Today Hide-A-Way’s is still in existence and it is one of the best Angus studs in South Africa. A bull was sold at a South African record price and at the National Championships in 2015 Hide-A-Way’s Angus won the award for Breeder of Champions (Red Angus) for having earned the highest points in the Red Angus section.

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MORE ABOUt

The Ayrshire>>> RE Brown, Ayrshire Journal 1958

33 <<<

The Ayrshire are a comparatively new breed and if they maintain their present rate of progress it will be interesting to see where they stand in 10 years’ time.

People are now becoming aware of their inherent characteristics viz. economy of production, constitution, longevity and all round beauty. They have got what is takes to make all round champions. They may not have the outstanding individuals at present to hold world records, but given a chance and another 10 years at the present rate of improvement and who knows? The future of the Ayrshire is going to be very interesting to watch.

There may be farmers however who are under the impression that because of their economy of production and their constitution, that they can produce from nothing. Nothing could be further from the truth. You cannot get something for nothing anywhere, but you can get more for your money’s worth from one thing than from another and that is the important point.

Further constitution can be an inherent characteristic but it can be ruined within the first few weeks of an animal’s life. One may safe £5 in the rearing of a calf and later spend £50 in trying to restore what has been ruined without success. You cannot beat nature’s way and that is milk for getting the organisms of the calf to function properly and so ensure a good digestive system with a subsequent economy of production. Sometimes one can be penny wise and pound foolish. After all, the animal has many years of productive life ahead of her and like all of us she needs a good start in life.

The Ayrshire may be the answer to my farming problems. She may in time provide for my material needs and a great measure of stability which we are continually working and striving for. She may bring pleasure and satisfaction and possibly a sense of achievement. But she cannot provide the answer to the big question in life, which we all perhaps unknowingly, are seeking; that joy and peace which passeth all understanding:

That can only be found in Matthew 6, verse 33.

“Seék ye first the Kingdom of God and His Righteous-ness and then all these other things will be added onto you”.

So many people are wearing themselves out on trumpery ambitions, striving and straining to buy the toys of civilisation and missing life itself.

Shall we call this a second look at the Ayrshire. So often one is so enthusiastic about something only to find out afterwards it was not all one expected it to be. However, after experiencing one of the most difficult years on record I can only say I am more than satisfied.

Continuous winter rains, a most unusual occurrence, with a total of 25 inches from the beginning of July to the end of October has been enough to dampen the enthusiasm of anyone. The effect on the Ayrshires however was, that they looked cleaner and whiter than before, providing the one bright spot on the farm under leaden skies. After looking at the Ayrshires one felt that it was after all worthwhile carrying on.

Their production also was very satisfactory under the circumstances. Naturally they are not being given the opportunity to show what they can do, but all good things come in time.

One should try and see things in their true perspective, so let us examine the position further afield, in Britain for instance. Here we find other kinds of storm clouds gathering and threatening. One financial crisis seems to follow another and everyone is anxious about their invested capital but what do we find among our Ayrshire farmers in the British Isles? A great measure of stability, with big sums of money in circulation among Ayrshire breeders and the number of herds increasing at a fantastic rate. Those whose money is invested in Ayrshire are not having the sleepless nights that others may be having. But can we get down to the facts and figures. Figures published recently concerning three regions in England only, show that from 1942 to 1945 dairy herds increased from 847 to 6844, which proves that it was the dairy animal which provided the much needed human food proteins etc., at a most difficult time with everything in short supply. Can there be any uncertainty in the future of the dairy animal?

In these, three regions all the dairy breeds increased the numbers of their herds, but two breeds increased their numbers proportionately speaking i.e. this percentage of the whole total. The one an old established breed, in 1942 comprised 20 % of the total and in 1955 comprised 34% an increase of 14 % of the total. The Ayrshire in 1942 comprised 7 % of the total and in 1955 16 % an increase of 9 % of the total. These figures are for three regions of England only viz. West Midland, Mid-Western and Far Western and does not include Scotland, the stronghold of the Ayrshires. It would be interesting to have the figures of the whole world of the British Isles.

34>>> 34>>>

Skoue & Skou wennerSvan toeka tot nou

35 <<<

a stylish little cow shown by Dr. MH Finlayson, called Raigmore Lana 2nd by Round Bush Roundboy. This cow could have done with a lot more milk on her and probably could have led the classes.

I would like to say that I finished judging a very tired man at a quarter to six, having judged about forty classes of Ayrshire cattle. I had also changed my impression about Ayrshires in South Africa. Having seen about 150 animals in the ring and very few tail enders in any class, I would like to congratulate all the breeders and exhibitors on the excellent turn-out of Ayrshire cattle, and also on the very able way in which they were put into the ring. I know from experience the amount of work entailed in showing eight or ten animals at one show, and some of them had travelled almost 600 miles and shown twenty or more animals, which deserves great praise.

I would also like to thank my steward and assistant, Ronnie Deal and the other two members, Mr and Mrs Van Vuuren. Without their combined co-operation I am certain the judging could not have been completed in one day.

Ayrshire wins the Supreme Championship

I have since heard that the Ayrshire Supreme Champion cow, Flatterton Judy 4th was awarded Supreme champion of the show by an independent panel of judges, which in itself is a great tribute both to the animal and to her exhibitor. I can assure everyone that she was a worthy winner against all comers.

My wife Jessie and I left Nairobi airport at 10.am East African time on Sunday May 8th 1960, on the Comet IV. This wonderful “plane” climbed to 35 000 feet and flew at 500 miles per hour and we had just finished lunch when we landed at Johannesburg, having flown the 2000 miles from Nairobi in a little over four hours.

We spent the night at the Carlton Hotel and flew on the next day in a Viscount to Bloemfontein, where we were met by Mr Hattingh. He took us to the top of Naval Hill in the centre of the city, from which we could see many points of interest. We found the climate here colder than Kenya and darkness came on around 5.30 p.m.

After we arrived at the Hotel, Alex Robinson (a Scot) who is Manager of Capex Kynoch Farms, brought in several of the exhibitors to meet and welcome us and we had a most enjoyable evening discussing Ayrshires and South- Africa in general.

We looked around the Show on the Wednesday. Prior to leaving my farm, I had bought a young naturally polled Hereford bull. Dr Finlayson mentioned this to the secretary and as the Hereford judge, was unable to get to the Show, I agreed to judge the small show of Herefords the next morning at 7.30 before the Ayrshire classes, which started at 8.30, and I had the biggest day’s judging I have ever performed.

Ronnie Deal, my guide and steward, got the first class of ten cows in milk into the ring bang on time. The eventual winner was a very nice white cow belonging to Capex Kynoch called Round Bush Lady Denty 3rd, showing just a little of wear sign. She was closely followed by

South AfricaMy tRIP tO

>>> Richard Barbour, Kitale, Kenya

(who judged at the National Championship Show held at Bloemfontein 9th – 21st May 1960)

Mr. Van Schalkwyk receives the magnificent Trophy from Mrs Roderick after his cow Flattterton Judy 4th had been awarded the Supreme Championship over all breeds at Bloemfontein.

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Gold CupPresented by UNiON CASTLE STEAMSHiP COMPANY

1923 Alex Drysdale1924 Drysdale & Watson1925 Montagu Simpson1926 Drysdale & Watson1927 Alex Drysdale1928 Alex Drysdale1929 Montagu Simpson1930 Alex Drysdale 1931 Alex Drysdale 1932 Alex Drysdale1934 Montagu Simpson1935 Montagu Simpson1936 Montagu Simpson1937 Montagu Simpson1938 David Fowler1939 Montagu Simpson After the World War II the trophy was returned to the Ayrshire Society in 1977; (see history below)1974 Bloem Show JM Walker Kirriemuir Patsy1977 Bloem Show JM Walker Kirriemuir Dominique - Judge: Hamish Smith 1980 Rand Show PF Delport Hide- A- Ways Silent Spring 4th - Judge: Bill Weir1983 Bloem Show Raigmore Japonica 3rd WM Finlayson - Judge: Andrew Dunlop1992 Rand Show Raigmore Jemina 45 – WM Finlayson - Judge: Robert Ness 1998 Rand show Elbeth Hanli 1 – PJA Meiring - Judge: Francois Beaudry 2000 Bloem Show KD Lang - Laphraige Heligo’s Too - Judge : Alan Barr2003 Bloem Show KD Lang - Grace Vallley Charmer - Judge: Cullum McKinvin2006 Royal Show KD Lang - Grace Valley Sweetness - Judge: Lynn Lee2009 Bloem Show KD Lang - Grace Valley Pepperpot - Judge: Norman Boswall2012 Bloem Show WM Finlayson - Raigmore Jemina 127th - Judge: David Mayo2015 Bloem Show KD Lang - Grace Valley Reality’s Hellbent - Judge: Selwyn Donald 2017 Bloem Show KD Lang - Grace Valley Reality’s Hellbent - Judge: Selwyn Donald

SA AYRSHIRE SOCIETY

- winners since 1923 -

1983 RAiGMORE JAPONiCA 3 1980 SURSHiRE SiLENT SPRiNG 4TH

1974 KiRRiEMUiR PATSY

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1992 RAiGMORE JEMiNA 45 1998 ELBETH HANLi 1

2000 GRACE VALLEY HELiGO’S TOO 2003 GRACE VALLEY CHARMER

2006 GRACE VALLEY SWEETNESS 2009 GRACE VALLEY PEPPERPOT

2012 RAiGMORE JEMiNA 127 2015 & 2017 GRACE VALLEY REALiTY’S HELLBENT

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The cup was presented to the Ayrshire Society by the Union Castle Steamship Company in 1920 for the National Championships that the Society presented every three years. At that stage most Ayrshire breeders were immigrants from Scotland and the majority of them were industrialists like Alex Drysdale and Montague Simpson. They apparently used ships to transport the goods they manufactured. One of them had to wrestle the trophy from the company! It is noticeable that every winner of the cup had a Scottish surname. At the outbreak of the Second World War in 1939, the trophy was in the possession of Alex Drysdale who was the last winner of the trophy when the war brought everything to a standstill. No show was held again until 1947.In the meantime, Mr Alex Drysdale had died and his daughter possessed the cup. She apparently believed that it was a floating trophy and returned the cup to the Ayrshire Society in 1977. She was graciously thanked in a letter on behalf of the Society. It is interesting that the first non-English name that appears on the cup is Piet Delport. It is a rarity that it was dominated by the Ayrshire breed for almost 100 years by Scottish descendants. Our thanks to Piet Delport, for this precious information on the Gold Cup. This cup is regarded as a treasure and handled as such. Because of its value, the cup is no longer handed to the exhibitor of the Championship winner to put on display in his study or stalls. A tray with the emblem of the Gold Cup is presented to the winner to take home.

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The cup was presented to the Ayrshire Society by the Union Castle Steamship Company in 1920 for the National Championships that the Society presented every three years. At that stage most Ayrshire breeders were immigrants from Scotland and the majority of them were industrialists like Alex Drysdale and Montague Simpson. They apparently used ships to transport the goods they manufactured. One of them had to wrestle the trophy from the company! It is noticeable that every winner of the cup had a Scottish surname. At the outbreak of the Second World War in 1939, the trophy was in the possession of Alex Drysdale who was the last winner of the trophy when the war brought everything to a standstill. No show was held again until 1947.In the meantime, Mr Alex Drysdale had died and his daughter possessed the cup. She apparently believed that it was a floating trophy and returned the cup to the Ayrshire Society in 1977. She was graciously thanked in a letter on behalf of the Society. It is interesting that the first non-English name that appears on the cup is Piet Delport. It is a rarity that it was dominated by the Ayrshire breed for almost 100 years by Scottish descendants. Our thanks to Piet Delport, for this precious information on the Gold Cup. This cup is regarded as a treasure and handled as such. Because of its value, the cup is no longer handed to the exhibitor of the Championship winner to put on display in his study or stalls. A tray with the emblem of the Gold Cup is presented to the winner to take home.

HistoryOF tHE GOLD CUP

A historical photo from the Ayrshire archives of the Cup that conveys a total of 24 years of show achievements. Mr Walter Finlayson (centre) of the Raigmore Trust, Somerset West, holding the Ayrshire Breeders’ Society’s Gold Cup for the 2012 Grand Champion Cow, achieved this honour for the fourth time. He now joins the trio who have reached this achievement along with Messrs Kevin Lang (left) of Howick and on the right Piet Delport of Migdol, a previous chairperson of the Ayrshire Council. The Society presents its National Championship Show every three years. - Photo: Johan Norval

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History

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HOU DIE VAANDELS HOOG VIR DIE

Ayrshire ras

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Rand Show’sGolden Girlsthe eaRl of WaRWiCK GolD CUPfor supreme dairy animal on the Rand Easter Show

1958: Roundbush Miss Denty 3 - in 1958 Miss Denty 3rd was the champion Ayrshire at the Rand Easter show, and went on to win the Earl of Warwick gold cup for the best dairy animal on the show in the face of very strong opposition.

Round Bush Miss Denty 3, bred by John Jameson and sons, has had the most spectacular career of all. She was female champion at the Rand show in 1956, where she produced a bull calf, Capex Silver Ace, which two years later was to become the male champion at Goodwood.

in 1968 het nog ‘n Ayrshire die ras se vaandel hoog gehou deur die “earl of Warwick gold Cup” in die melk ras afdeling op die randse paasskou te wen. hier oorhandig die eerste Minister, mnr. BJ Voster, die gesogte trofee aan die eienaar van die pryswenner koei, Kirriemuir Cherry pie, aan Mnr Jon Walker.

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Mr Piet Delport was the only Dairyman who has won this Gold Cup 7 times for the Supreme Dairy animal on the Rand Easter show of which he was 3 times runner up in 12 years. Gold cup winners:

1979 PF Delport Surshire Silent Spring 4th 1980 PF Delport Surshire Silent Spring 4th 1982 PF Delport Surshire Silent Spring 4th 1984 PF Delport Hide-A-Ways Beautrice 2 1985 PF Delport Hide-A-Ways Beautrice 21986 PF Delport Hide-A-Ways Mira1989 JM Walker Kirriemiur Mariana 80th1993 Piet Delport Hide- A- Ways Silent Spring 74 1995 Malleson Bros Milkyway Loretta 45 - Rand Show Centenary

1979, 1980 & 1982 SURSHiRE SiLENT SPRiNG 4TH 1984 & 1985 HiDE-A-WAYS BEAUTRiCE 2ND

1986 HiDE-A-WAYS MiRA

1993 HiDE- A- WAYS SiLENT SPRiNG 74

1989 KiRRiMUiR MARiANA 80

1995 MiLKYWAY LORETTE 45

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steeds deur die pragtige uiers van die “Vessel-bred” beïndruk. Die gevolg was dat diè tipe al die pryse vir koeie op die skoue verower het.

Ou Mrs Baird en haar afstammelinge het ook byna die spyker in die doodkis van die ras hier in Suid-Afrika geslaan.

Die eerste Ayrshires – twee bulle en agt koeie – is in 1893 deur James Rawbone uit Skotland na Suid-Afrika ingevoer. Die koeie was van die pragtigste koeie “Vessel-bred” -tipe. Omdat hulle uiters swak melk produseerders was, wou Suid-Afrikaanse melkboere niks van hulle weet nie. Mnr Rawbone het destyds op die plaas Broadlands by Sir Lowry’s Pass, Somerset Wes, geboer.

TWEE TiPES GEKRUiS

Gelukkig vir die voortbestaan van die ras het verskeie boere uit die distrikte Uitenhage, Somerset-Wes, Queenstown, Durban, Oudtshoorn, Bloemfontein en Ficksburg ook in die begin van die huidige eeu Ayrshire beeste ingevoer. Deur kruisteling tussen die twee tipes is die volmaakte uier soos ons dit vandag nog in Ayrshire koeie teëkom, terwyl die hoë produksie potensiaal ook ingeteel is.

Hiervandaan het die ras met rasse skrede vooruitge-gaan, sodat die eerste Ayrshire beeste, reeds in 1905 by die ou Suid-Afrikaanse Stamboek geregistreer kon word. In 1917 het Ayrshire telers in SA hulself in die Ayrshire Beestelers Genootskap georganiseer en in 1921 is die genootskap by die Stamboekvereniging geaffilieer en wetlik ingelyf.

GOUE BEKER

In Suid-Afrika het die Ayrshires al diep spore in die suiwel bedryf getrap en het die ras ‘n lang lys van suiwel prestasies. ‘n Goeie voorbeeld hiervan is die feit dat Ayrshire koeie die afgelope tien jaar sewe keer op die Randse skou as opperste suiwel ras kampioen aangewys is en daarmee die gesogte Goue Beker gewen het. In die vorige dekade was net so baie wenners van die Goue Beker onder Ayrshire koeie op dié skou. Twee van die wenners was bv. Capex Princess Patt in 1966 en Kirriemuir Cherry Pie. Eersgenoemde is ‘n kleindogter van Roundbush Miss Denty 3, wat die Goue Beker in 1958 gewen het.

Die Ayrshire Beesras is sedert die middel van die 18de eeu in Ayre, Skotland, ontwikkel vanwaar dit as voortreflike suiwelbees wêreldwyd versprei het.

Die Ayrshire as ‘n ras het al ‘n lang pad geloop, hoewel dit vergeleke by sommige ander rasse nog betreklik jonk is. Ofskoon daar baie teorieë oor die ontstaan van die ras is, word dit aanvaar dat die Ayrshire, soos ons hom vandag ken, oorspronklik uit die Kelties Korthoring, die inheemse Skotse beesras, ontwikkel is. Geskiedkundige navorsers is dit verder eens dat die volmaakte uiter van die Ayrshire ook uit die Korthoringbeeste stam, maar dat die hoë produksie vermoë met ingevoerde beeste ingeteel is. Die beeste is in die jare 1750 in die noorde van Engeland gekoop en na Skotland gebring. Hulle stam op hul beurt weer uit Hollandse melk bulle wat in die begin van die jare 1700 na Yorkshire, Engeland, gebring is. Hoewel die beesboere van Ayre reeds sedert 1808 veetentoonstellings in hul graafskap begin hou het, het die Ayrshire beeste eers in 1814 hul huidige ras naam gekry.

WOELiNGE

Woelinge in die ras se geskiedenis het ook nie agterweë gebly nie. Tot teen die middel van die vorige eeu was die ras bekend vir sy swierige, sterk geboude beeste wat besonder goeie melk produseerders was, maar toe verskyn daar ‘n dame op die toneel wat sake lelik omgekrap het. Sy was bekend as “Drew’s Wee Black Cow” of sommer net “Mrs. Baird”. Sy was in alle opsigte ‘n kleiner koei as haar rasgenote, maar haar uier was besonder vas aangeheg en baie reguit. Met diè uier het sy alle louere op die skoue weggedra waar sy vertoon is. Mrs. Baird het die belangstelling gaande gemaak en ‘n groep telers in Skotland het ‘n tipe van Ayrshire uit haar afstammelinge geteel wat as “Vessel -bred” bekend gestaan het. Diè koeie het pragtige uiers gehad maar, helaas, amper geen melk nie. ‘n Ander groep telers het weer meer klem op melkproduksie gelê en daarvoor geselekteer en geteel. Hulle het hul Ayrshires die “Yeld stock” genoem.

KWAAi MEDEDiGiNG

Op skoue in Skotland is kwaai tussen diè twee groepe telers meegeding. Die “Yeld”- telers het al die pryse vir bulle en jong verse gewen, maar die beoordelaars was

VEROORSAAK OPSKUDDING MRS Baird >>> Jan Cilliers, Landbouweekblad, 23 April 1976

44>>> 44>>>

NationalNationalChampionshipsJUDGED By MICHAEL SHAXON

1971 ayRshiRe

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Soetvelde Farms and beautifully turned out by the manager, George Packer. The junior female cham-pion was Kirriemuir Marianna 30th by Balig Special Selection, shown by the SA President, Mr John Walker. The Champion bull was the S.A. Med. Sutanna Silver Moon, exhibited and bred, by TG Erasmus & Son. There was very keen competition between the breeders and the standard of showmanship was very high. I am glad so say Barbara 10th went on to win the interbreed award the next day and was Champion Ayrshire as a calved cow at the Rand Show 10 days later.

We left Bloemfontein after the show and visited the farm of the President-Elect, Philip Gray, at Henley- on- Klip in the Transvaal. Philip has a very old established herd and had imported two bulls with great success from the Harting herd owned by the late James Perriman. I was interested to learn the grand-dam of both bull was the 100 000lbs Elsted Genes. He was also lucky having a few calves by Pant Knighthood and I would also like to mention that his wife, Kay, had one of the best private gardens we saw in S.A. Philip was then our guide for three days in the Kruger Game Park and as this coincided with my birthday, it was one I shall never want to forget.

Charles and Rhoda Malleson were our next hosts and collected us from Henley-On-Klip to take us to their farm near Pretoria. They and their two sons, Harry and Ivan, gave us wonderfully interesting two days. Charles is an Honorary Vice-President of the Society and was the judge at the Rand Show. Whilst we were there with them, they were changing from hand milking over 100 cows to a new tandem parlour and increasing to 300 cows.

We than spent four nights in Johannesburg to visit the Rand show. This show is held for two weeks very near the centre of the town and is primarily an industrial exhibition with very strong livestock classes. The inter-breed class judged by Hamish Smith from Rhodesia, went to a Friesland cow with Capex Barbara 10th in reserve.

We met Alec Robinson at the Show, who is an Honorary Vice-President and has done so much to make Ayrshire popular in S.A. Unfortunately, his herd was dispersed during the time of the show and the average price received for all ages was £150. We also visited Soetvelde Farms run by George Packer with the help of his wife, Janet. Some very good Ayrshires well managed, at present numbering 100 cows milked by hand. Plans are in hand to increase numbers and install a milking parlour.

Jon and Lise Walker then drove us some 700 miles to their farm in Cradock. On the way, we visited the arms of three very new young breeders, Chris Els, Pierre

I was very fortunate in being asked to judge the Ayrshire Championships Show and be the guest of breeders in South Africa last March.

As my wife and I had always wanted to visit, Kenya, we arranged to stay six nights on the way to South Africa. We arrived at 10.a.m at Nairobi not knowing whether the Kenya Ayrshire Society knew what time to expect us due to the postal strike, but we were very relieved to see John Dorrell at the airport to meet us. I think the Dorell’s, because they only live a short distance away from the airport, always greet overseas Ayrshire breeders. John and Francis made us very welcome and they managed to show us, in a very short time, quite a lot of the country around Nairobi, including the game park, farms, a coffee plantation and an A.I. Station which is very efficiently run by dr. Malburg on behalf of the Swedish Government as part of their aid to Africa. They have 20 Ayrshire bulls standing at the centre 12 of them bred in the UK and in 1970 they inseminated 148 339 Ayrshires and this accounted for 35 % of all inseminations. After two nights near Nairobi, we were taken to Nakuru for the AGM of the Kenya Society and I was able to meet a number of breeders and address the meeting. We stayed the night with Richard Barbour, the President of the society, and his wife, Jean-Ann, near Kirale and met his mother, Jessie, who wanted to know all the Ayrshire news form the UK. Richard has a modern dairy unit, milking in a herringbone parlour and grows a very large acreage of hybrid maize for seed.

After staying 3 nights, with an ex-Nuffield scholar, Sep Mayer, we left for South Africa.

Due to the postal strike, we have no idea whether the South African breeders were expecting us. Once again, we need not have worried as some breeders met us at Bloemfontein Airport. The wonderful welcome they gave us set the pattern for the whole of our visit in South Africa- every detail had been arranged and nothing was ever too much trouble.

Each breed Society holds a Championship Show every three years at one of the major shows in the Republic and this year the Ayrshire Show was in Bloemfontein. I started judging at 9 a.m. on a bright sunny day and the temperature had reached 90°F before I finished. There were 198 Ayrshire forward in 22 classes from 17 exhibitors. Some animals have travelled some 1000 miles by rail to be at the show, but in spite of this, they were in perfect condition. The quality of the exhibits was extremely high and I think the tops would be winning at any of the major shows in the U.K. The Ayrshire Supreme Champion was Capex Barbara 10th, an in-calf cow born in 1965 by the imported bull Strathallan Golden Anchor. She was shown by

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As you will see, the Ayrshire breeders of S.A. and Kenya gave us a truly wonderful time. They have some excellent Ayrshires, although I must say I was surprised by their horns still on, but I think milking qualities could be improved by the importation of semen from imported bulls. Their showmanship was of very high order and the top African stockmen could give a number of good points to some of our men. They certainly have their problems to overcome, but is a marvellous Country with the most friendly people.

Bosman and Naas De Bruyn and also the Hendrik Verwoerd dam which will bring much needed water for irrigation to the Karoo. The Walkers have one of the top studs in S.A. and their hand milked herd of 36 averages over 1 300 gallons. Imported bulls and heifers from Balig, Barnes and Strathallan have left some good stock. They also have studs of Merino and Angora Goats.

Our next stop was Port Elizabeth and staying one night with Trevor and Terry Lake and their two sons, George and John. This was a glorious farm near the sea with a large hand milked herd of pedigree and grade Ayrshires.

After flying to Cape Town, we stayed with Dr Finlayson and his son, Walter. Another old established herd with an average of 1300 gallons and the imported bulls from Balig, Round Bush and Aylewards have done well. The Finlaysons make a lot of high quality wine and we found the vineyards very interesting.

Our last stop was with Ned and Dorothy Duckitt, also in Cape Province They have the oldest Ayrshire herd in S.A. being established in 1890. The Towers herd are milked in an abreast parlour by coloured labour – 15 men look after 80 cows and followers. It was one of the most beautiful farms we visited with views across to Table Mountain.

Capex Barbara 10th, The Supreme Breed Champion.Exhibitor: Soetvelde farms

BANKEND ECONOMIST a son of ROUGHDYKE PRECIOUS LINK was sold for a world record price of 15,000 Gns in 1982 to South Africa

Op 17 Augustus 1982 begin onderhandelinge met SA Stamboek om rekenaardienste vir Rasgenootskappe aan te bied1982

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MilkMilkMilkRecordingthe first milk recording dates back from 18 July 1918

Recording

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I was given 22 dairy herds to test – mostly Jerseys and Frieslands (not many Ayrshires to be seen) and travelled from farm to farm in a battered Opel van loaded with equipment and large jars of acid and alcohol.

Within two months I had 22 new farmer friends and was a happy member of the Nanaga community.

On one memorable occasion one of the young farmers presented me with a milk sample and said a neighbour had asked whether he could have it tested for butterfat content. He was wondering whether to keep the cow or sell her.

I ran it through the ponderous Gerber and Babcock centrifuge, read the result and announced to the farmer I didn’t think his neighbour’s cow was worth keeping. The milk didn’t come anywhere near the standard demanded by the United Dairies company in PE. I suggested he switch to Ayrshires to improve the quality.

The farmer burst into gales of laughter and confessed the sample had come from his wife, who had recently given birth to a lovely daughter. At the age of 20 I was enormously embarrassed.

In spite of the low butterfat reading of her mother’s milk, the girl grew into a fine and very beautiful woman and married the next door neighbour’s son, who happened to farm with Ayrshires. I felt vindicated.

I was invited to the wedding.

When I left university after having failed to obtain a degree I decided to go into dairy farming. What better way to learn about it that to become a milk recorder?

I replied to an ad in the Farmer’s Weekly and was sent off to Queenstown to attend a 10-day course in the art of milk recording at the Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying.

It was a leisurely business run along typically government lines – start at 9am. Tea break at 11am, lunch break from 1pm to 2pm, tea break at 3pm and knock off at 4pm. In the few minutes between breaks I had to study a slim pamphlet and later be examined on its contents.

The pamphlet was about 16 small pages long and took about 10 minutes to read.

After reading it more than 20 times I knew it by heart and asked to do the test on the second day I was there.

There was a rather attractive departmental secretary in the office and she decided, out of sheer boredom, to write the test with me.

We both passed with 100% and I was left with eight days of idleness ahead of me, as the rules stated I had to complete a full 10-day course.

The secretary, Melanie, and I embarked on a romantic alliance (there seemed to be little else to do in Queenstown) and after my 10 days were up we bid fond farewells and I was posted to the Nanaga Milk Recording Co-op near Port Elizabeth.

TestingTestingTestingTimes>>> David Biggs, columnist and former milk recorder

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Official Milk Recording in South Africa commenced in 1917 in South Africa as the 22nd country of the world, with the United States being the first country to start Milk Recording in 1883 (ICAR, 2012). In South Africa Milk Recording was started as an initiative of the Friesland Cattle Breeders Association in 1912, which became the responsibility of the SA Government by 1919. Initially official milk recorders performed Gerber tests (chemical tests determining the fat content of milk) on participating farms and calculated milk weights over 30-day periods. In 1975 Milk Recording was adapted to allow for owner-sampling and central testing with infra-red analyses to determine butterfat, protein and lactose content. In January 1992 milk sampling on a five-weekly basis was introduced in South Africa (Brand, 2016).

Participation of SA Ayrshire breeders in Milk Recording generated invaluable data on the SA Ayrshire population over many years. The very first lactation record on Ayrshire cows was captured in 1948 from a second parity cow with a 305-day milk yield of 2 979kg. In Fig 1 the number of completed 305-day records and average 305-day milk yields per year of calving are indicated.

Participation in Milk Recording gradually increased over the years with a clear gain in enthusiasm since 1975, when owner-sampling was introduced. The best years of participation were in the mid-2000s with the peak number of lactation records captured in 2007 (7 716 lactations), but a cumbersome decrease in participation since then. Average 305-day milk yield increased significantly from around 3 700kg in 1966 to 7 000kg in 2014.

The first 305-day protein yields were recorded in 1975, with the introduction of infra-red lab analyses. Both butterfat and protein yields increased since then, with 305-day butterfat yield at a slightly higher rate, from an average of 143kg to 280kg in 2014, compared to 305-day protein yield that increased from 130kg to 230kg in 2014 (Fig 2).

>>> Drs BE Mostert

INVEStMENt OF soUth afRiCaN AyRSHIRES IN

Milk Recording

Fig 1: Number of (blue bars) and average (red line) 305-day milk yields per lactation year for the SA Ayrshire population.

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With regards to butterfat and protein percentages (Fig 3), it can be seen that butterfat percentage showed an appreciable increase since 1985, increasing from 3.61% to 4.25% in 2014. Protein Percentage, however, only show a slight, but more directed increase since 2000, changing from 3.03% in 1998 to 3.41% in 2014. This is, however, still at a lower level compared to protein percentages for lactations prior to 1998.

Somatic cell counts (SCC) were only recorded on a few cows before 2002. Since then SCC of almost all cows participating in Milk Recording were also obtained. From Fig 4 it can be seen that SCC gradually increased over the years, from 208 000 cells/ml in 2002 to 318 000 cells/ml in 2014.

Fig 2: Number of and average 305-day butterfat and protein yields per year of lacta-tion for the SA Ayrshire population.

Fig 3: Number of and average 305-day butterfat and protein percentages per year of lactation for the SA Ayrshire population.

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Participation in Milk Recording allows Ayrshire breeders to monitor and control their herds’ production levels, feeding management, udder health and reproduction. However, data from Milk Recording of the SA Ayrshire population stretch over generations and combined with pedigree information, allows for genetic evaluation and prediction of breeding values. This information is indispensable for accurate selection of replacement heifers, bull dams, potential AI bulls and parents of the next generation, thereby ensuring permanent and continuous improvement of the population. Genetic evaluation for the Ayrshire population commenced in the early 1990s, when an Animal Model was fitted to 305-day first lactation yields for the prediction of breeding values for milk, butterfat and protein yields in separate analyses. These evaluations were adapted in 1999, when multi-trait analyses were developed and 305-day milk, butterfat and protein yields were included in one evaluation for the utilization of genetic correlations amongst the traits, which improved the reliability of estimation. South Africa entered the global arena in 2000 when genetic groups were incorporated into the pedigrees in order to qualify for participation in INTERBULL (International Bull Evaluation Service) for the estimation of MACE (Multiple Across Country Evaluation) breeding values. This enabled South African breeders to compare the genetic potential of foreign sires to the genetic levels of their own herds, which was a huge empowerment to the SA dairy industry to enable the prevention of dumping of inferior foreign semen in the South African market. In 2004 South Africa’s genetic evaluations underwent further improvements, from evaluating first lactation 305-day lactation yields, to models including every individual test-day record of the cow for her first three lactations. These models were again advanced in 2012, when different lactations were included as different traits in the genetic evaluations compared to repeated measures in the previous model. Genetic evaluations for udder health (SCC), fertility (inter-calving period) and functional herd life (longevity) were also developed for the SA Ayrshire population.

In the following figures, genetic change in the different traits that occurred in the SA Ayrshire population, can be observed:

Fig 4: Number of and average number of somatic cell counts per year of lactation for the SA Ayrshire population.

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Fig 5: Genetic trends for 305-day production yields of the SA Ayrshire population.

Fig 6: Genetic trends for solid percentages of the SA Ayrshire population.

From Fig 5 it is clear that production traits of the Ayrshire population improved genetically at a tremendous rate. Milk Yield improved genetically by 44.8kg per year, Butterfat Yield by 1.67kg/year and Protein Yield by 1.39kg/year.

Butterfat and protein percentages decreased genetically by 0.0012% and 0.002% per year, respectively, over all the years (Fig 6). However, this decrease slowed down since the late 1990s, with solid percentages staying more or less stable (protein percentage) or even increased slightly (butterfat percentage) since then.

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Fig 7: Genetic trend for somatic cell score of the SA Ayrshire population.

Fig 8: Genetic trend for calving interval of the SA Ayrshire population.

Somatic cell score breeding values have been introduced for selection purposes in 2004 in South Africa for the Ayrshire population. It is interesting to see that since then somatic cell score decreased by 0.6 scores/year, therefore mastitis resistance has improved genetically over the last decade.

With regards to fertility, calving interval increased genetically by 0.95 days per year since 1980 (Fig 8). This is an indication of a rather steep deterioration of fertility of which Ayrshire breeders should take note of. Fertility has been included in the total merit indices of the Ayrshire breed since 2012, which will certainly slow down the rate of increase in calving interval for those breeders that use the indices for selection of their animals.

Functional herd life (longevity) improved with 0.71 units/per year from 1975 to 1991, but decreased at a gradual rate of 0.28 units/year since then (Fig 9). Breeding values for this trait were only introduced in 2012 and thus only included since 2012 in the Ayrshire’s total merit indices. Improvement in functional herd life will therefore be observed in the future genetic trend in herds where selection and breeding of animals are based on the total merit indices of the breed.

For genetic evaluation of production traits, test-day records since 1989 are included. In Fig 10 the number of herds, as well as the number of cows participating in the Ayrshire Genetic Evaluation per year of birth, are indicated. The number of cows that qualified for participation were more than 1000 cows per year of birth for many years, with an exciting increase from 1999, peaking at 1

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Fig 9: Genetic trend for functional herd life of the SA Ayrshire population.

Fig 10: Participation in genetic evaluation on herd and animals level of the SA Ayrshire population.

545 measured cows in 2005. However, since then the number of cows per year of birth decreased drastically, with only 483 cows born in 2013 that were included in the July 2016 Logix Milk Genetic Evaluation. The number of herds participating in Genetic Evaluation decreased from 81 in 1995 to only 23 in 2013. This is in line with trends in other dairy breeds where the number of dairy herds decreased, but herd sizes increased. However, participation of Ayrshire breeders in Milk Recording and Genetic Evaluation is currently in trouble and drastic measures should be taken to ensure that the investment that Ayrshire breeders made over so many years will not disappear in the near future.

Conclusions

Data are a powerful tool and precious commodity for creating knowledge, adding value and monitoring change in a population. Ayrshire breeders should not allow this investment to go in vain. In the world of genomics, the following slogan applies : “Measurements are King!”, because measurements are of vital importance in the interpretation of the DNA code.

References

Brand, W., 2016. The development of standard lactation curves for the South African Jersey population. MSc (Agric) Thesis, University of Pretoria.

ICAR, 2012. ICAR international agreement of recording practices. Section 2: ICAR rules, standards and guidelines for dairy production recording, 23-45.

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Lister-motor aangedryf, aangesien daar nog nie krag op die plaas was nie.

In 1965 het my pa, een van die eerste persone in die land geword, om ‘n K.I. kursus te Irene te volg. Die semen was nog nie gevries nie, en was dus warm vloeibare saad in strooitjies dus: as jou koeie op hitte was tel jy 21 dae en bestel dan die saad vanaf Pretoria. Om 4vm op die 21ste het die semen in ‘n koffie fles van Irene op Bloemhof stasie arriveer. Die fles is afgehaal, plaas toe geneem en die koeie is geïnsemineer. Met die koms van stikstof en kanne het dinge egter verander.

My pa het aan melk aantekeninge deelgeneem en gereeld geskou op omliggende dorpe. In 1999 het hy afgetree en sy kudde verkoop.

In 1975 het my pa 5 Ayrshire verse aan my Danie de Kock Jr. gegee, waaruit my kudde Ruma Ayrshires tot stand gekom het. In 1982 het ek en Makkie, ons gevestig op Grasbult, distrik Boshof, en daar met ‘n melkery begin. Melk is gelewer aan NCD Kimberley.

RumaAyrshiresDE KOCK FAMILIE

In 1962 het Danie de Kock snr, sy eerste Ayrshire koeie gekoop, en in dieselfde jaar by die Ayrshire Genootskap aangesluit. Sy kuddenaam was Gaudensrust Ayrshires, afgelei van ‘n onderafdeling van sy plaas Welverdiend in die Hoopstad distrik.

Eerste koeie wat aangekoop is, was by Burnside Farms van die Kirriemuir Ayrshires van John Walker. Hier was my eerste kennismaking op 5 jarige ouderdom met ‘n Engelsman, wat ‘n ware “ gentlemen” was.

Die koeie wat gekoop is, was Kirriemuir Honey, Kitty en Silver Olive. Eerste bul wat my pa gekoop het was in Johannesburg by name Raigmore Foremost asook die koei Raigmore Dawn, wat 80 pond per dag gegee het. Groot was die opgewondenheid toe Kirriemuir Colorado King op die plaas aangekom het.

Eers is met die hand gemelk, waarna die melk afgeroom is, en die room na Kimberley gestuur is. Die afgeroomde melk is dan vir kalwers en varke gegee. Na ‘n jaar is ‘n klein melkmasjien aangeskaf en met ‘n

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In 2002 het ek, Anton en Edmund die VSA besoek op uitnodiging van Mary Creek. Dit was ‘n wonderlike ervaring om te sien hoe die Amerikaners se teelprogramme werk. Ek het vir 2 jaar melk gelewer aan Bospre Dairies, wat kaas gemaak het vir Woolworths. Daarna is die melk na Homsék Dairies ook ‘n Woolworths verwerker.

In 2007 het ek my kudde aan Anton Homsék verkoop, maar 10 koeie uitgehou, waarmee ek tans nog aangaan met teling en melk lewer aan ‘n plaaslike supermark op Boshof.

Hierdie kudde het dus ’n lang geskiedenis, wat hopelik nog sal voortleef in verskeie ander Ayrshire kuddes, met die aankoop van Ruma teelmateriaal.

Anton Homsék, Jordan Gelber (neé Creek), Edmund Els en Danie de Kock, tydens hul besoek aan Amerika

Skoutoekenning vir die tydperk van 20 jaar, ononderbroke in Bloemfontein geskou

Ruma Moekie 3 - Jongkoei kampioen in 2000 (beoordelaar Alan Barr)

Lusern en voer was beskikbaar aangesien ons naby die Hartswater skema bly. In 1982 het ek by die genootskap aangesluit. Ons het deelgeneem aan verskeie skoue en in 1988 die Vrystaat Kampioen op Kroonstad skou vertoon.

In 1992 het ek, Albert van Zyl, Pierre Bosman, Pieter Bosman en Johan van Aarde begin skou in Bloemfontein, en sedertdien skou ek ononderbroke vir die afgelope 21 jaar by Bloemskou. In 2000 het Ruma kudde die nasionale jong koei kampioen vertoon en 2003 die reserwe groot kampioen koei.

My siening van teling is dat die Ayrshire ‘n melkdier is. Teling is soos ‘n ketting. Gebruik jy ‘n swak bul verbreek jy die ketting. Daar is slegs net van die beste K.I. bulle in die Ruma kudde gebruik. Bospre Wise Warrior van Pierre Bosman het as K.I. bul vir my die koei Ruma Golden Mandy geteel. Sy het op ouderdom 15 gespog met ‘n leeftyd produksie rekord van 106030 liter, wat gelykstaande is aan 10 melk tenkwaens. Verskeie bulle wat geteel is, uit die Ruma kudde, is aan telers verkoop. Seker die bekendste daarvan was Ruma Remus, ‘n Ingevoerde embrio uit Palmyra Bethany, van Mary Creek, in die VSA.

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GisantoBoerderykoeie en verse wat op veilings aangekoop is. Ek was ook bevoorreg om self ʼn paar produksieveilings te hou wat dit moontlik gemaak het om verdere uitbreidings op die plaas te doen.

Ek was ook bevoorreg om in 1988 ʼn toer na Amerika mee te maak wat Herbet Smith, van die destydse NCD, gereël het. Ons het verskeie melkplase in Amerika besoek en het die toer by die World Dairy Expo in Wisconsin afgesluit. Dis iets wat my altyd sal bybly. Dit was vir ons, as Afrikaners, nogal aardig om te sien hoe jong blanke meisies die koeie was en versorg, voer aflaai, stalle skoonmaak en selfs daar tussen die koeie slaap. Op ons vlug terug na SA het van ons stoere boere langs ʼn effense oorgewig man, wat diep uit Afrika kom, te lande gekom. Hulle was gewoond dat niemand Afrikaans verstaan nie, en het die stomme man behoorlik van kop tot tone bespreek. Groot was die vernedering toe hulle op die destydse Jan Smuts-lughawe afklim en die man hulle in behoorlike Afrikaans groet en sommer reageer op ʼn paar van hulle opmerkings ook!

Vir my was die Mallesons-broers, Harry en Ivan, ʼn groot inspirasie. Hulle integriteit en passie vir die Ayrshire-ras sal my altyd bybly. So het dit dan ook gebeur dat ek by ander boere aangesluit het om melk aan

As kind het ek elke Landbouweekblad wat ek in die hande kon kry, gebruik om na Ayrshire-beeste te kyk, oor hulle te lees en selfs van die prente uit te geknip. Die mooi uiers en aanhegting was altyd besonders, die regop horings en rooi en wit was vir my baie mooi. Die regop horings was voorheen baie belangrik; so word vertel dat gaatjies in die horings se punte geboor is en dat die beeste ʼn paar uur per dag met die horings deur ʼn oorhoofse draad moes loop om die horings reg te laat groei. Die punte met gaatjies in, is later verwyder en mooi rond gemaak. Gelukkig tel horings vandag nie meer veel nie!

My eerste Ayrshire-beeste het ek in 1972 op ʼn produksieveiling in Steynsrus gekoop. Die koop was ongelukkig teleurstellend - van die koeie was al lank in melk en nie beset nie. Ek het toe van ene mnr McDulling ʼn geregistreerde bul en koeie bekom. Ongelukkig het die bul gevrek net toe sy eerste kalwers aankom. Daar en dan het ek op ʼn KI-kursus gegaan. Die semen het ek by ʼn KI-stasie gekoop wat op ʼn plaas in Heidelberg was - ek dink die naam was Spernova. Een van die bulle wat ons gebruik het en waarvan ek baie gehou het, was Clifton Betty’s Millionaire asook verskeie bulle wat uit daardie bloedlyn gekom het. Ons het die kudde stelselmatig uitgebrei met ons eie aanwas, asook met

>>> Christo Lamprecht

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My raad aan voornemende jong telers in vandag se uitdagende melkbedryf is dat hulle nie net bereid moet wees om lang en harde ure in te sit nie, maar dat hulle ook “slim” te werk moet gaan. Maak seker dat jy genoeg tyd maak om aan jouself en die mense naby jou te bestee. Moenie jou altyd laat lei deur melkkopers en voermaatskappye wat voorstel dat jy moet uitbrei om te oorleef nie – meestal is dit meer tot hulle voordeel as joune. Dit is baie belangrik om te groei en groter te word, maar net as dit ekonomies sin maak. Leer jouself ken en weet wat jou sterkpunte (jou kompeterende voordeel) is en buit dit tot die maksimum uit. Weet ook wat jou swakpunte is en probeer dit verbeter; maar nog beter, as jy iemand kan bekostig om jou op die plaas te help, maak seker dat jou aanstelling jou tekortkominge kan aanvul.

Ek en Sannie is baie dankbaar en trots dat ons seuns, Gideon en Casper, op die plaas is en beheer van die melkery oorgeneem het en vir die gesindheid waarmee hul dit doen. Soos ek voorheen genoem het, dis vandag nie ʼn maklike bedryf nie en oral loop jy jou teen “mure” vas. Dis ʼn bogemiddelde uitdaging met ʼn onvriendelike stelsel. Om die natuur te trotseer, is ook ʼn uitdaging. Ons kan dit net doen met ons besef van ons afhanklikheid en die hulp van Ons Hemelse Vader.

die Mallesons te verkoop, wat dit op hulle beurt vir Woolworths verpak het. Woolworths het, na aanleiding van verskeie navorsing, besluit om Ayrshire-melk te bemark hoofsaaklik as gevolg van die smaak daarvan. Tydens hierdie navorsing het selfs kinders die smaak van Ayrshire-melk bo dié van ander rasse verkies. In 2007 het ons ‘n gedeelte van die Malleson-kudde oorgekoop toe hulle ophou melk het. Die diere het ʼn groot genetiese bydrae tot ons kudde gemaak.

Ek het in die laat 70’s ʼn junior beoordelaarskursus voltooi en het op Lindley, Petrus Steyn en Heilbron op skoue beoordeel. Dit was ʼn goeie ondervinding om as beoordelaar op te tree, maar kon soms ook spanningsvol wees. In daardie jare was diere in groot getalle geskou veral by die Randse Skou in Johannesburg. Daar is altyd pragtige diere geskou en ek het dit baie geniet om dit by te woon, maar het nooit regtig self aan skoue deelgeneem nie.

‘n Staaltjie wat my nogal sal bybly het by een van die groot skoue waar verse beoordeel is plaasgevind. Dit was ʼn groot klas verse en die beoordelaar het die klas verklein deur sekere vertoners gevra, wat volgens hom die swakste was, om die ring te verlaat. Een van die handleiers wat gevra is om die ring te verlaat, vat toe ʼn kans en val ongeërg weer agter die laaste vers in die ring in. Die vers het toe tweede gekom!

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In the 70’s imported semen was only allowed to be used on registered animals. These controls had a negative impact on Ayrshires in SA. Fortunately the rules were slackened and Ayrshire Breeders had the advantage! An innovation that really spiked interest in the breed was the introduction of “youth clubs”. The placid nature of the Ayrshire lends itself to being handled by the young.

In the 1990’s our interest in the Ayrshire breed saw me getting involved at Council level, which led to the position of editor of the magazine for a few years. Advertising and marketing for the breed society was a special privilege. Olene and I created a people’s magazine, spending many hours interacting with all the breeders and bringing their passion for this beautiful cow to life.

Selwood Betty’s Commander, Jack’s Choice and Bankend Legacy became the cornerstone of Kewmar Ayshires. Kath & I showed for many years from our

KewmarAyrshiresCathy & Steve MaraiS

Many holidays, in my youth, were spent on Mike Hornigold’s Ayrshire farm in the Queenstown district. Every spare moment, at the shed carrying cans and feed trays. The evenings with Mike were spent paging through albums of Ayrshires and talking genetics. I became an ardent fan of the Ayrshire breed.

My first 3 heifers came from Brother Charles of St Joseph’s Cathcartvale and Mike milked them while I completed my studies. Between Brother Charles and Mike I was mentored into Ayrshire breeding and went farming with about 20 cows in the Addo district. On our 20 hectare irrigation farm we milked on a 3 point tandem machine. Such pride and joy to be milking the beautiful Ayrshire with her flat-bottomed udder and wedged to her brisket, like no other breed. She just has so much balance and style.

During “nursery time” with the calves one day, a very special little calf, named Hesta, made her presence felt. A friend for life (see article below).

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her peers. She just didn’t have the standard attitude that most “normal” calves should have. No, Hesta always bellow at the end of kindergarten time and I would continually have to promise her that I’d return later.

This relationship flourished when she was quite

small herd of about 50 Ayrshires. PE show Grand Champion and Addo show Interbreed Champion during the 80’s. We took a group of Pant Wizard daughters to Bloemfontein show, with great pride. I became a Junior Judge, but found myself deeply involved with the EP Ayrshire club and promoting this special breed through the youth shows. Our numerous after show parties were a hoot, with the likes of the Walkers, Delports, Bosmans, Lakes and many others. One such event comes to mind. After the Cradock show we became a bit rowdy at the Masonic hotel and the manager asked us to quieten down. John Walker responded immediately, by hauling out his cheque book and enquiring as to the price of the Hotel!

Over the years our cows were bred on two tiers – the Scottish, pretty, overfat cows and the taller milkier Canadian Ayrshire. Today, the Ayrshire has adapted, with clever breeding, to a medium sized milk cow capable of walking and milks well on either TMR or grazing platform systems. So many breeds, especially the Holstein group, have introduced Jerseys creating a small, non-sustainable conformation with a “shotgun” of genetic impact. It would appear that instead of progression, there has been regression from this breeding exercise. SA genetics is on a par with International breeding. We need a company to invest in proof-testing, especially by virtual cattle analysis. The cow on the farm as a base genetic input with a geonomic evaluation of lesser traits.

The Ayrshire is a well-balanced cow with excellent milk to fat and protein ratios. Our breeding has generally centred around a few selective traits which has now

I started farming with Ayrshires in 1975 and St. Josephs Cartcartvale Hella was one of my original cows. Hesta was born in 1977 and right from the start during my normal kindergarten time Hesta and I played together enthusiastically, sometimes bumping each other like young “bulls” and of course to the total amazement of

Seems strange writing about an animal so close, so dear, that only you could understand. I have always thought that everyone, sometimes, has been privileged to have experienced a unique relationship with a very special animal. I have a story to tell - a true story about a very special friend - HEStA

Our dear palHesta

been extended by the introduction of Swedish Red. The red genetic pool is a negative move and if used should be identified for capacity and milkability.

At present, we are milking about 500 Ayrshires with a total herd in excess of 1000 animals. Our breeding is generally along the lines of top

Geonomic

bulls. The milking platform is approx. 80 hectares of kikuyu pasture with an under-sew of annual Rye in Winter. Pasture is supplemented with various combinations of maize silage, lucerne silage, oats silage and citrus pulp. Our heifer run-off farm is used to grow the 600 strong young herd. We are privileged to milk on a 40 point rotary with Afi electronic sytems.

Out herd is not registered, but our genetic base extends over a period of 40 years, using top bulls.

The Ayrshire is still the number one Dairy cow.

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I say so, and how proud I was when the judge placed her in first position. What a laugh for all spectators when then mounted me with enthusiasm, ribbons everywhere. Mostly she would proudly start to lick my hand that was holding her with such loving care – yes she was so special I loved her. The only person Hesta would accept was Kath, my girlfriend, in the late 70’s- maybe she knew a great girl when she saw one. They became good pals and the only thing Kath did not like was Hesta’s abrupt attitude and jumping syndrome – at least she didn’t jump her. Hesta knew there had to be another lady in my life so she gave in to Kath happily. It was after her third calf, we still cared for each other and Kath and I would still call her, when that terrible shock happened. We arrived at the camp and there Hesta was, drooping head turning in circles and the worst – pure red urine. I held back the tears, shaking on the phone, calling Doc Bunton. “you’ve got to come Doc, Hesta’s sick” Who’s Sick?” “Hesta my beautiful heifer”. Doc arrived and treated her as well as he could and we spent the entire night stroking her head. A few days later she was back to her terrific self – I thank God for hearing our prayers that night.

You’re probably thinking well Hesta was a terrific cow, but what about her milk? Well she produced 46 167kg milk in 9 lactations, 1567 kg butterfat and 1471 kg protein, she wasn’t a record breaker but a good average cow. She gave us a calf every year until 1989. During her last lactation her one quarter kept troubling her and continually battled to clean that infection. During 1990 after she had completed yet another lactation of 5000 kg we were forced to say good bye to a great little cow. Somewhat a sad day but never the less we shared time together no one can ever take away. We have Golds Hesse, Lads Hulett, Golds Hesta and Warriors Hesta all to remind us of that fabulous friend.

We hope that you enjoyed this tale and that you too find a “Hesta” jumping around in your kindergarten area. Who knows, it only takes half an hour every day to play with your babies, they will give you immense joy and maybe a different outlook on menial tasks.

Thank youSteve Marais

young and all was manageable, but when I have had company during play time Hesta would display a rather jealous streak, refusing to let anyone touch her but myself and above all bumping them away. As she grew older I would spend much time talking to her and scratching her brisket for which in return she would lick my face and head with immense tenacity (maybe the reason for my premature balding). It reminded me of the Kirriemuir advert where a group of Ayrshires were licking bald heads and the slogan read: Our cows might not cure baldness but they sure can milk.

Anyway, Hesta would then jump up as if mounting her peers and place her front legs on my shoulders, never putting any weight on me. She was, yes we were in love. Even Kath would sometimes query this relationship, but I would have to reassure her that Hesta and I were not lovers, just good pals. When Hesta become a teenager running with the other heifers she would continually create chaos. Our sheep dog, Lassie, would always accompany me to collect the heifers, but no, Hesta refuse to be collected, so she chased Lassie all over the camp, needless to say a futile attempt to collect Hesta. I would have to call Hesta and she would walk next to me and stand with me while talking to a friend or salesman. I would also have to protect people from her jealousy streak which usually ended up with me reprimanding her with a smack on the nose. The worst part was her continuous effort of trying to get into my bakkie – by now she was 350 to 400 kg in weight and rather hefty in stature! She would place her front legs through the open door and squeeze in so that she could carry on licking me. You can imagine the always difficult task of getting her out. She was full of fun, always ready for a game.

I remember one day, after Hesta had grown into a rather splendid heifer, time was right for the old bull or the artificial insemination task. You can simply remember the old poem “The lament of the A.I. cow, a typical expression on Hesta’s face. Anyway she was now a full grown calf and very special. Show time was always a problem. I alone could lead her as she refused to walk with anyone else. She was a real beaut, even if

electronic computers in the stud breeding industrythe registration of animals and issuing of registration certificates, pedigrees and record keeping of animals envisaged by the SA Studbook Association.

1977

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In keeping with our Good Food Journey and in response to growing concern from consumers about the use of the milk hormone recombinant Bovine Somatotropin, or rBST – frequently given to cows to stimulate them to produce more milk – we asked our Ayrshire suppliers to stop using it. Since 2001, our Ayrshire has been rBST free – guaranteed by independent auditing. This ensures that the standards of suppliers are at the same high level as those of Woolworths and that our customers get the finest milk and other dairy products. We also care about the human treatment of farmed animals, so we insist that our Ayrshire farmers follow a strict animal welfare Code of Practice.

Our Ayrshire milk is free of anti- biotics and the animal feed is by-product free. When sick, cows are often treated with antibiotics. Woolworths always ensures that this milk is separated. Daily testing ensures that Woolworths Ayrshire milk does not contain antibiotics and guarantees the milk’s quality, safety and freshness. Woolworths ensures that their Ayrshire cows have a healthy diet and therefore have excluded the use of animal by-products to supplement their feed.

If you haven’t tried our Ayrshire milk and other dairy products yet, why not do so today? Like our customers back in 1987, we think you’ll be impressed by their deliciously creamier taste!

Woolworthsinvolvement since 1987

A difference you can taste

Woolworths is committed to bringing you the best in everything. That’s why, way back in 1987, we began a quest to find the very best tasting milk in South Africa. We tasted and tested milk

from a number of different dairy breeds, and asked customers, through a series of impartial surveys, to help us choose the milk they thought tasted the best.

The winner, hands-down, was Ayrshire, a breed of cow originally bred in the County of Ayr, in Scotland, during the 17th Century and first brought to South Africa in 1890. As it turned out, our customers were impressed by its quality, and by what they described as Ayrshire milk’s delicious flavour and creamy mouth feel. And so Woolworths exclusive Ayrshire milk was born.

Today, more than three decades later, we’re proud to be the only retailer to offer not only Ayrshire milk, but a whole host of really delicious Ayrshire dairy products, including yoghurt, butter, cheese. We’re also proud of the excellent relationship we have with our Ayrshire dairy farmers around the country. Like us, they believe that Ayrshire is something special, and they’re completely dedicated to following the best practices in caring for their herds, making sure they’re relaxed and healthy, because contented cows produce high quality milk. We also continue to work closely with the South African Ayrshire Society.

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taking home the blue ribbon is the last thing on their minds. Volschenk, who joined the Group in 2004, sums it up well when he says that the Group’s mindset is that of “happy cow, happy results”. In other words, by paying close attention to the health of each member of the herd, the awards follow automatically.

infrastructure Upgrade

Volschenk isn’t alone in this thinking. In March 2015, the JSE-listed Group invested in a massive infrastructure upgrade, building new dairy sheds dedicated to the well being of their herd. Completed almost one year ago to the day, the 2 new sheds were custom-designed to ensure stress free, clean and healthy cows. Most notable is the cross flow of fresh air and – given the Ayrshire herd’s northern hemisphere heritage – industrial sized cooling fans and sprayers

Picture Perfect

Located on 104 hectares of lush pasture land in the heart of the picturesque Franschhoek wine region, it’s easy to forget that the Rhodes Food Group Ayrshire Stud Farm & Dairy is in fact a commercial operation that supplies high quality Ayrshire milk for the production of milk, cream and cheese for Woolworths.

This idyllic notion is further compounded by the caring attitude shown by Dairy Manager, Barti Volschenk, and his 30-strong team. In fact, Volschenk’s opening comments of welcome were to remark how each cow has an individual character and that everyone who works at the Dairy knows what each animal likes and what she doesn’t like. Impressive when considering that the farm is home to over 1300 head of cattle.

Almost even more impressive, is the fact that although Rhodes Food Group is no stranger to winning awards,

RhodesFood GRoUPA COMMERCIAL OPERAtION. INDIVIDUAL AttENtION

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member of the World Ayrshire Federation. Rhodes Food Group also uses a breeding programme to prevent interbreeding and improve individual cow weakness.

Cow Signals

Volschenk and his team are also subscribers to the CowSignals school of thought. The CowSignals movement was founded by veterinarians Joep Driessen and Jan Hulsen in the mid 1990s in an effort to tackle common challenges that dairy farmers were facing, including: high instances of chronic lameness, preventable mastitis and other metabolic diseases that can cut cow’s lives short. Driessen and Hulsen devoted themselves to working on prevention rather than medicating. And as such, the European-based duo set about gathering all the information science has available and combined that with best practises from the top farmers in the world into practical advice for farmers, veterinarians and advisors.

“Our mission is to double the productive lifetime of dairy cows: 5 lactations instead of 2,5 is possible. We just have to keep them healthy. Healthy cows have better feed efficiency and longer lives, which is good for the cow and the farmer. By taking better care of cows, we can also diminish methane production in the dairy sector by 32%. By spreading the knowledge we can create a win-win-win situation for cows, farmers and the planet.”

The Awards Flow Naturally

The herd’s impeccable lineage, combined with the Dairy’s impressive infrastructure, technology and dedication to the herd’s well being has resulted in numerous awards over the years.

In 1995 the Dairy, then flying under the name of Rhodes Fruit Farms, produced its first World Record Holder (RFF Greta 29th) – Senior 2 Milking Production: Butter fat % - 3.57, Protein % - 3.25, Milk production – 11,570kg. Another notable accolade saw them wining the Highest Herd Average for 3 times milking – 95,11kg milk in 2010. But most recently, and possibly most importantly to the team, Rhodes Food Group was named Agricultural Research Council’s (ARC) Regional Finalist for Master Dairyman of the Year in 2015. In 2016 they brought home the Best Performing Milking Team award.

On the production side of things, the herd produces fresh Ayrshire milk under private label exclusively for Woolworths in the Western Cape and Eastern Cape under the Ayrshire label. These dairy products have consistently earned recognition for their top quality milk, cream and cheese bringing home top honours in the South African Dairy Championships, most recently:

that automatically switch on when the temperature climbs above 20 °C. Other creature comforts include self-brushing rollers, individual beds and floor cleaning systems, among others.

Computerised Cows

Technology is also something that the Dairy utilises to promote herd health. For example, each cow wears a wireless ankle monitor that records levels of activity, which is then “read” as the animal passes into the milking parlour. The data collected gives a real-time indication of the cow’s health and when she is close to her fertile period.

But technology isn’t something new to the farm. In 2010 the Dairy converted their recording jar milking system to a computerised double 9-point swing over recording system. The immediate advantages include computerised heat observation, automatic milk recording and weighing, as well as the drafting of reports.

Data that is received from the animals and the reports from the parlour is collated and monitored. This enables the team to immediately detect any abnormalities such as metabolic disorders, mastitis and other deviations from the average, and implement the necessary remedial measures.

The Way to a Cow’s Heart

Naturally, a top quality breed deserves top quality feed. Which is why the Rhodes Food Group Dairy only sources quality feed from reputable suppliers to ensure that their herd enjoys a non-GMO diet of lucerne and roughage. The Dairy also follows a zero rBST hormone policy.

Reuse, Repurpose and Recycle

In addition to physical upgrades, the Group also has an on-site water consultant who is working with the farm to find ways to reuse manure and to ensure that wastewater is up to environmentally acceptable standards. The Dairy is already repurposing its manure to generate a steady supply of clean and low-odour sawdust for bedding. This substrate creates a soft and supportive layer for the cows, which is cleaned and refreshed daily.

A Lineage that Spans Decades

Of course the herd’s lineage also contributes to Rhodes Food Group’s ongoing success. The herd can trace its origins back to the late 1800s when the first Ayrshire bull was imported from Scotland.

It’s an impressive legacy that the Group respects and continues, which is why the Dairy is a registered member of the Ayrshire Society, South Africa and a

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producer of fresh, frozen and long life convenience meal solutions for customers and consumers throughout South Africa, Sub-Saharan Africa and in major global markets.

The Group has a well-capitalised production base comprising 13 manufacturing facilities across South Africa and a fruit processing facility in Swaziland. In addition to the Dairy, Rhodes Food Group also owns a pineapple plantation in Swaziland and enjoys a growing portfolio of market leading brands, which are complemented by premium private label product ranges packed for major South African and international retailers. The Group produces canned fruit, jam, vegetable and meat products, bottled salads, fruit juices and purees, fresh ready meals, pies, pastries, bakery and dairy products.

Visit www.rhodesfoodgroup.com for more information

2016

Rhodes Food Group Woolworths Fior Di Latte Mozzarella with Olives & ThymeRhodes Food Group Woolworths BocconciniRhodes Food Group Woolworths Fig & Pecan Nut Mascarpone DuoRhodes Food Group Woolworths Mascarpone with Raspberry, Pomegranate & PistachioRhodes Food Group Woolworths RicottaRhodes Food Group Woolworths Smooth Cultured Low Fat Buttermilk

2015

Rhodes Food Group Woolworths BocconciniRhodes Food Group Woolworths Fig & Pecan Nut Mascarpone DuoRhodes Food Group Woolworths Sweet Tomato & Basil Mini DuoRhodes Food Group Woolworths Ricotta

RHODES FOOD GROUP

Based in Groot Drakenstein in the Western Cape, Rhodes Food Group is an internationally recognised

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Ayrshire milk is different! Bottled and ready for the consumer it may look almost like any other milk, but nature has made it different- different in colour, different in food content, different in digestibility, and different in the structure and arrangement of the tiny particles of life giving nutrients with which is charged. Wise is the dairyman or consumer who learns the secrets hidden in milk for nature in her wisdom has provided a different milk for the young of each kind. For slow growing man coming to maturity in a score or more of years, nature has provided a milk that is low in protein and as- the builders and bones of the muscle. For the quick-growing rabbit, completing his life cycle in a few months, (while man is still a child), nature provides a milk with six times as much protein and twelve times as much ash as that furnished man. To attempt to feed the young rabbit race on human milk, or the rising generation of humans on rabbit’s milk, would bring suffering or death to either.

At the same time, a more thorough knowledge of the cow’s milk best suited to the human family has resulted in more healthier children and happy homes.

Each breed has its Milk Standard

Although any clean, pure cow’s milk is one of the most satisfactory of foods for man, there are marked differences in the milk of various breeds. This may be due in part of the wide differences in breed characteristics, which trace back to the very foundations of the breeds, for breeds were established in different countries and under vastly different conditions.

Ayrshire milk is different from ordinary mixed milk or the milk of other leading dairy herds in flavour, balance offered nutrients and

composition. Because of its tiny fat globules and soft curd content Ayrshire milk is highly digestible.

As a matter of fact, scientist have found that all breeds of dairy cattle are not descended from the same prehistoric ancestry.

Another reason why there is a difference in the milk of various breeds is because for generation cattle have been bred and selected for certain characteristics of their milk, as well as for their type, colour, size and other physical characteristics. It seems only reasonable to believe that man in his selective process may now have certain breeds producing a milk much different in composition than a century ago.

Ayrshire milk is Uniform

Because of its great uniformity, Ayrshire milk differs from ordinary milk. The nutrients in Ayrshire milk are more evenly distributed from the top to the bottom of the container. Instead of thin, skimmed milk, the bottom half of a bottle of Ayrshire milk is filled with particles of life-giving nutrients. This is caused by the small fat globules in Ayrshire milk which do not rise to the surface as readily as large particles of fat.

WHy AyRSHIRE MILK ISPublished by kind permission of the Ayrshire Breeders’ Association, Brendon, Vermont different

we survived and are still going strong to this day.

Over the years we grew rapidly by expanding our cultivation practice and also the heard to where it is today.

We are currently cultivating maize, sugar gaze, sunflower, oats and more products by the proud management of Martiens Homsèk. Around 80 % of this division’s cultivation is used to feed the cows in the housing units.

The rest of the nutrients and minerals that is needed to give the cows the optimum production

Preface

The Homsék group is a well established dairy farm in the heart of the Free State near Bloemfontein.

The activities of the Homsék Group have already commended in 1988 with the acquisition of 43 hectares in the well-watered Bainsvlei area, which was in that time the perfect opportunity to cultivate vegetables, and that is what we did.

In 1999 we bought a farm of 69 ha, which consisted of a 3 point milking parlor. We bought 23 registered Ayrshire cattle and that is where the herd and success started. Yes, we did have some challenging times, but

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passion and knowledge / expertise and the ability to add value to the company.

The Homsèk Group believes that an excellent opportunity exists, through the completion of the entire dairy in a highly professional manner of quality.

A word of thanks

Firstly, I wish to thank my Heavenly Father for the privilege to something that we love.

To all my managers and assistants who help me to get the farm where it is today, without you it would not have been possible.

My sincere thanks go out to my father Anton Homsék, for the opportunity and support he gave me to develop not only the farm and dairy but also me as person, you are truly a great inspiration to all of us.

Greetings from Bloemfontein.Homsèk Group

and reproduction are provided by supplementary feeding.

Genetics

To be in control and improve the herd quality we only use the latest and best genetics.

We use a mating program that is specially designed for our herd and only use semen that is the most favorable for the cows and also the conditions.

By having the best genetics we improve the quality of the herd and make it more susceptible for changes.

Management of the herd

We are currently using the computerized system, Dairy Management system and also the Alpro system with our DeLaval milking parlor, which gives us fully control of the herd.

By using these systems we have control of all data of every cow in the herd for example when they are due to dry-off and also due to AI and Calve, by that type of management you minimize all unnecessary cost like over feeding and helps us to work well in collaboration with the Mating programs.

General

Our business philosophy is to enter into cooperative relations in collaboration with high competent people and companies in areas where the role- players display

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You are as

as your teamSTRonGFairfield Dairy Company, an enormous dairy enterprise in the KwaZulu-Natal

Midlands that processes about 130 000 litres of milk per day, came into

existence through sheer desperation about 30 years ago and now delivers

quality products throughout South Africa.

>>> JOHAN VAN DER MERWE Johan.vanderMerwe@landbou.com

When you think of Mr. Kevin Lang, dairy farmer, businessman and founder of Fairfield Dairy Company, you see a cowboy. A visionary with eyes that stare far into the future, but with boots

covered in dust, sitting on the back of a well-kept horse. Kevin, however, does not gallop across the flats on his own – he has a whole team of capable and empowered people around him. According to Kevin, it is this team that determines the Fairfield’s success.

The enterprise is spread out over five farms, two of which were acquired at the end of 2014. Altogether, about 470 ha is under irrigation, with 2 500 cows being milked every day.

Although farming, and especially a nice-looking dairy cow, is Kevin’s great love, the Fairfield milk factory is the core of his business. The factory currently processes 130 000 litres of milk every day. About a third comes from Fairfields own cows, while the rest is bought from independent farmers to meet the great demand.

Kevin has been producing dairy products in his factory near Howick for almost ten years, supplying mostly Woolworths.

His road to success did not begin with milk, and not even on his own or a family farm. After university, he worked as a manager on a vegetable farm in KwaZulu-Natal. The farm was eventually sold to a neighbour, and Kevin was able to lease it. He began producing his own vegetables. Through this, he established good

relationships with supermarkets by supplying prepacked vegetables, mainly to Pick n Pay.

The farm, Fairfield, was originally a dairy farm. Kevin decided to invest the surplus cash he made with his vegetables in heifers, and also to use the dairy infrastructure that was already on the farm.

In the blink of an eye his milk production reached 1 000 litres per day. This was in the early 1990s, when there were only two big milk suppliers to supermarkets in South Africa, but neither company was interested in milk from Fairfield. Thanks to the relationship he had established with Pick n Pay by supplying vegetables and the fact that competition in the dairy industry was scarce and he could deliver milk at a better price, Pick ’n Pay was keen to also do business with him with milk.

Bun Booyens (left), presenter of kykNET’s Megaboere, and Mr. Kevin Lang, owner of Fairfield Dairy Company.PHOTOS: KHAKI PRODUCTIONS

Roughly a third of the 130 000 litres of milk processed daily at Fairfield is produced in their own dairies. The rest is bought from independent farmers.

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law. Empowerment should form part of what we want to achieve as business people. We have our heart set on building six or seven houses per year and handing the title deeds to the people who have been working for us the longest – some for more than 28 years. We started the project two years ago and have already built 13 houses.

You began small, then took giant leaps and risks. There surely must have been moments when you asked yourself if you would really make a success of the enterprise?

I think you constantly live with a bit of fear. I don’t think you ever feel “now we have made it”. Part of entrepreneurship is to live with a little bit of fear and to have debt. I think debt is a good thing – it keeps you on the right road. Debt is part of business. You must just be clever and manage it well.

Your dad never hesitated to tell you how much debt he had. Were you an entrepreneur since childhood?

I was interested in money and finances from a very young age. My dad was very good to me – since I was 12 years old, he discussed the money matters of his business with me.

I was always aware of how much he owed and how we would get out of the debt. He also made me part of his financial decision-making and negotiations.

How do you beat fixed costs?

Mr. Brian Macaskill, who manages a third of the dairy herd: By building up a committed and passionate team that is focussed on productivity, we try to manage our herd at an optimum production level, eliminate unnecessary buying and get rid of the “dead wood” in all facets of the production system.

How do you beat electricity costs?

Brian: We installed heat exchange units in our dairies, which led to good savings. We also irrigate strictly according to our soil moisture meters and installed more efficient water pumps. Because different centre pivots use the same pumps, Eskom’s Ruraflex tariff structure is unfortunately not an option for us.

What technology caused a radical change in your farming?

Brian: My iPhone. Apart from the fact that I am constantly in contact with my whole team, it also allows me to have important production information, such as cow performance, soil moisture readings and irrigation schedules, at my fingertips at all times.

Anthony: Breeding material from New Zeeland made a huge difference to our enterprise as far as productivity was concerned.

Within weeks the demand for Fairfield milk was so great that Kevin had to buy milk from other farmers. In 2014, Fairfield went into partnership with Mr. Anthony (Ant) Galliers, a dairy farmer from the KwaZulu-Natal Midlands. On the farms that Anthony manages, they milk almost 1 800 cows. Teamwork is just as important for Ant as it is for Kevin. “The biggest opportunity for farmers lies in cooperation. Too much emphasis is placed on ownership. There is enormous power and opportunities in cooperation and stewardship of a resource,” says Ant.

Kevin is not too involved in the details of an operation. He is a “big picture businessman” and develops the undertaking’s vision.

You worked in Australia after school?

Even as a child, I really loved horses. I dreamt about going to Australia to become a cowboy. In one of my university holidays, I went there and was on the back of a horse from early in the morning ’till late at night. I still keep a Quarter Horse team on the farm.

What is your advice to somebody who wants to start a similar business?

Anybody can cultivate, package or bottle something, but it is your market that is important. The key is your route to the market – that is where the value is to be found.

Your advice to young entrepreneurs?

Surround yourself with a good team. I think entrepreneurs are typically “big picture thinkers” and vision driven people. That is precisely why they can come unstuck if they do not have the proper support structure. Having wonderful people work with me allowed me to be entrepreneurial and visionary, while they made things happen, did the planning and sorted out the details.

Things are tough in the South African dairy industry. Which country should we emulate?

I would have loved to farm in Canada. They have a proper supply control system with strict quotas and a price for the farmer that is double what we get. The margins in every industry are constantly under pressure, but in Canada they manage to keep the smaller farmers on their land by keeping the price that the farmers earn high. We are, however, far removed from that because of the free market system. This requires a lot of government intervention, something that I am usually against. The situation in Canada is the only example of a situation where government intervention worked really well.

What approach to empowerment works for you?

I am not a supporter of empowerment enforced by

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Nasionale & Elite VeilingsTerugblik op

SEDERt 1990 Die Prestige Ayrshire veiling wat gehou was op 22 Februarie 1990 het ‘n omset van R186 150 behaal. Van die 77 vroulike diere wat aangebied was, is 51 verkoop met ‘n gemiddelde prys R2862. Daar was altesaam 14 bulle aangebied tydens die veiling waarvan 8 verkoop is met ‘n gemiddeld van R5025.

Nasionale Ayrshire Veiling 28 Februarie 1991 is met 51 diere aangebied met ‘n omset van R89 500 waarvan 23 diere verkoop is teen gemiddeld van R3869. Hoogste manlik R6750 - Hoogste vroulik - R 4600

Tydens die Nasionale veiling van 27 Februarie 1992 het 51 diere onder die hamer gekom en 44 verkoop met ‘n totale omset van R131 700 en gemiddeld van R2993. Die was een van die droogste jare wat Ayrshire telers beleef het. Manlik - R6500 Vroulik – R4500

Nasionale Ayrshire veiling van 20 Julie 1994 het ‘n omset van R143 950 gehad - 41 diere met gemiddeld van R3510. Manlik R5000 hoogste prys - Vroulik R8000

eerste elite veiling gehou by randse skou,14 April 1992

Die Nasionale veiling van 25 februarie 1993 met ‘n omset van R155 700 is 52 diere uit die 65 verkoop teen ‘n gemiddeld van R2994. Manlik R7700 Vroulik R6500

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•Nasionale veiling 26 April 1995 - net 58 van 82 diere is verkoop met ‘n omset van R233 100 en ‘n gemiddeld van R4018. Manlik R7 400 - Vroulik R15 000

1997 - 36 Diere verkoop met ‘n omset van R212 000. Gemiddeld per vroulike dier R5 888

Nasionale Veiling – 25 April 1996 - 45 diere verkoop met ‘n gemiddeld van R3434 - hoogste prys behaal R5000. Omset van R154 530•

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2002 - Elite Veiling – Suiwel Ekspo in BloemfonteinEen van die beste veilings ooit – Malleson Broers verkoop ‘n vers Milkyway Welcome 34 aan Anton Homsék vir die bedrag van R13 500. 9 uitstaande vroulike diere is verkoop @ ‘n gemiddeld van R8727.

2000 - 20ste Nasionale Ayrshire Veiling met 33 vroulike diere en 6 bulle word aangebied op 16 Augustus 2000. 3 Bulle en 25 vroulike diere is verkoop met ‘n omset van R 133 700.

Gemiddeld: Vroulik R4698 - Manlik R5417

2004 - 1 Oktober 2004 Saasveld, George. 8 Vroulike diere aangebied waarvan 7 verkoop is met omset van R66 500. Gemiddeld van R9500 per vroulike dier

2006 12 vroulik en 2 bulle word aangebied - 5 verkoop teen R141 700 teen ‘n gemiddeld Manlik R14 000, Vroulik R11 900

2008 (Mega) - Bredasdorp 37 Koeie en 6 bulle ingeskryf - Omset R 256 250. Teen ‘n gemiddeld - Vroulik R11 300 Manlik R12 750 - 22 diere verkoop

1998 Nasionale veiling - 45 vroulik en 2 bulle is ingeskryf waarvan 41 diere verkoop is met ’n omset van R272 180 @ gemiddeld: Vroulik R6654 - Manlik R6000

2001 - 8 diere opgeveil 20 Maart 2001Omset was R49 300 met gemiddeld van R6162

2003 - 10 diere – 8 diere verkoop met ‘n gemiddeld van R9931

Hier staan Marinda Briel (neé Delport), Olene van Vuuren, Ivan Malleson en Piet Delport by die Suiwel Ekspo Ayrshire stalletjie

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1999 Nasionale Veiling – 21 Vroulike diere en 3 bulle – met ‘n omset van R72 500 - 12 diere is verkoop teen ‘n gemiddeld: Vroulik R6250 - Manlik R5000

2005 Ilanga Estate - 13 Ayrshire koeie – Omset van R150 500

Gemiddeld van R11 576 per vroulike dier

Malleson Produksieveiling – 4 Mei 2006

Die Produksieveiling van Milkyway Ayrshires was ‘n groot sukses vir die Malleson Broers. Die veiling was onder beskerming van die Genootskap en was die eerste produksie veiling, met Eco afslaers wat die veiling hanteer het. Daar was 186 diere aangebied met ‘n nuwe rekord prys, vir 13 maande oud bulletjie, van R 27 000, Milkyway Lorenzo. Die gemiddelde prys vir top 33 diere was R 17937 elk. Die gemiddeld vir koeie met drie of minder laktasies, vars in melk was R 14 447 stuk, en R 11 333 vir droë en dragtige koeie. Altesaam 13 verse is verkoop teen gemiddeld R 12 846. Daar het 7 bulle onder die hamer gekom teen ‘n gemiddelde prys van R 11 741.Die omset van die veiling was R 2 172 150, 00

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verkoop @ ‘n gemiddeld van R8727.

Hier staan Marinda Briel (neé Delport), Olene van Vuuren, Ivan Malleson en Piet Delport by die Suiwel Ekspo Ayrshire stalletjie

2010 Tydens die Nasionale Veiling is 37 vroulike diere en 3 bulle aangebied - Gemiddeld vir vroulik R12000 - Bulle R18667•

2011 Nasionale Veiling – 18 Vroulik en 2 bulle – omset R187 000 11 Vroulike diere verkoop teen ‘n gemiddeld van R16 272 Bul R 8000

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In 2015, is 9 vroulike diere, 2 bulle en 3 embrios tydens die Nasionale Elite veiling aangebied te Bredasdorp. Blom Broers verkoop aan Rhino Ridge ‘n vers, Free Beer 11, vir ‘n nasionale rekord bedrag van R60 000.9 Van die vroulike diere wat aangebied is, is verkoop teen ‘n gemiddeld van R20 500 en 1 bul teen R22 000. Melkhout Free Beer 11

2012 AYRSHIRE WêRELD KONGRES VEILING

Die 2012 Ayrshire Wêreld Kongres Veiling in Bloemfontein het 18 top elite diere aangebied met ‘n gemiddeld van R22 250 wat behaal is. Die spog geleentheid is bygewoon deur 120 internasionale gaste van die eerste deel van die Wêreld Kongres wat in Bloemfontein afgeskop het.

‘n Oopvers, geteel deur Blom Broers, Bredasdorp, Melkhout Reality 1 word verkoop vir ‘n SA rekordprys van R50 000. Koper : Rhodes Food Group (Pty )Ltd van Paarl.

2017 - Eeufees Elite-versveiling/ Centenary Elite Heifer Sale Die Elite-versveiling is op 26 April 2017 aangebied waar JD Marais, Gregg Edmonds (Australië) en Tom Fenton (Amerika) sewe van die bestes uitgekies het. Die verse moes jonger as 16 maande wees. Die jongste vers op die veiling was nege maande oud.

Ses lotte is verkoop. Een lot het uit twee verse bestaan en die hoogste bieër kon kies watter vers hy huis toe wou neem.

Geluk aan Kevin Lang wat die vers by Edmund Els vir die bedrag van R26 000 gekoop het; sy het ook die volgende dag haar klas in die skouring gewen. Die omset van die veiling was R99 500 met ʼn gemiddeld van R16 583 per vers.

The Centenary Elite Auction was presented on 26 April 2017 where JD Marais, Gregg Edmonds (Australia) and Tom Fenton (USA) selected seven of the best heifers. The heifers had to be younger than 16 months and the youngest one at the auction was nine months old.

Six lots were sold. One of the lots consisted of two heifers and the highest bidder could choose which heifer he wanted to take home.

Congratulations to Kevin Lang for having bought the heifer from Edmund Els for R26 000; she won her class in the show ring the following day. Turnover for the auction was R99 500 at an average of R16 583 per heifer.

2013 Veiling 11 Vroulik en 4 bulle - R 81 0000

6 verkoop teen R 13 500 gemiddeld•

GenooTSkap aaNgElEENthEdE

Olene van Vuuren sedert 1982 As Me Neethling het ek op ‘n jong ouderdom met die Ayrshire ras kennis gemaak die 1ste Mei 1982 by die destydse Stoetvee Dienste waar Mnr Piet Du Plessis my in diens geneem het. 35 Jaar later en ek is nog steeds verknog aan die Ayrshire ras. Hoe dan anders, met telers wat jou altyd laat welkom voel as deel van die Ayrshire familie. Met my naleeswerk vir die gedenk joernaal het ek ‘n artikel teëgekom waar daar melding gemaak is van “ Me Mysie Gibson”, van Engeland wat 43 jaar van haar lewe aan die Ayrshire Genootskap gewy het vanaf 1915 – 1958. Dis is ‘n leeftyd se toewyding en sal graag haar prestasie wil ewenaar, as dit my beskore is.

Graag bedank ek elke teler, raadslid, President en Vise-President wat op die raad gedien het, vir al die jare se samewerking. Elke dag het ook van tyd tot tyd sy uitdagings gehad, maar om op my stoel te sit, vroeg oggend in die kantoor, is ek op my gelukkigste.

Dit is met trots om my dank oor te dra aan die Ayrshire raad en lede van die Genootskap vir die eer wat my te beurt geval het, om ‘n oorkonde in ontvangs te neem vir my 35 jaar diens aan die genootskap, tydens die Eeufees vieringe. Mag die Ayrshire ras vir die volgende 100 Jaar nog steeds net van krag tot krag gaan.

On 1 May 1982, as Ms Neethling, I was introduced to the Ayrshire breed at a young age by the former Ped Stock Services when Mr Piet du Plessis appointed me. Thirty-five years later I am still – inevitably - devoted to the Ayrshire breed with breeders always bidding one welcome as part of the Ayrshire family. During my reading up for the Commemorative Journal I came across an article mentioning a Miss Mysie Gibson in England who devoted 43 years of her life, from 1915 to 1958, to the Ayrshire Society – a lifetime of dedication. I should like to equal her achievement if I’m destined to do so.

I thank every breeder, member of Council, President and Vice President who served on the Council for all their years of collaboration. From time to time every day had its challenges, but sitting on my chair, early in the morning in the office, I’ve been at my happiest.

I proudly convey my thanks to the Ayrshire Council and members of the Society for their honouring me with the Commemorative Certificate I received for my 35 years of service to the Society during the Centenary celebrations. May the Ayrshire breed continue to excel for the next 100 years!

Edmund Els, huidige President, Olene van Vuuren, Admin bestuurder - 35 jaar diens, JD Marais, huidige Tegniese Adviseur

“What you do today can improve all your tomorrows” – Ralph Marston

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Aanstelling van eerste tegniese adviseur in die Genootskap

Charles McCarthy was in diens van die Ayrshire Genootskap sedert 13 September 1999 tot 16 September 2005. Charles was baie geliefd en bekend onder die Ayrshire boere. Charles was voorheen in diens van RFF (Anglo American Farms) want tans beter bekend staan as Rhodes Food Group (Pty) Ltd.

Na sy aftrede het mnr Kevin Lang hom genader om die kommersiële kuddes in die land te besoek en alle graad diere wat fenotipies soos Ayrshires lyk, op te gradeer, in die hulpstamboek register. Daar is 8500 diere in die tydperk vanaf 1999 – 2005, opgegradeer. Hy het elke teler persoonlik geken en het telers ook gehelp met die seleksie van bulle.

Daarbenewens het hy ‘n wye kennis gehad van kalf grootmaak en mastitis beheer en het telers bygestaan met raad op die gebied. In gevalle waar daar sukses met die kalf grootmaak was, is die resultate vanaf 40 % verhoog na 100%.

Na sy uittrede by die Genootskap verhuis Charles na Boksburg waarna hy na ‘n lang siekbed oorlede is op 25 Maart 2009. Charles het verseker ‘n groot leemte gelaat in die Ayrshire kringe.

Op 1 Junie 2005, word Mnr Edmund Els aangestel as Rasdirekteur van die Ayrshire Beestelers Genootskap. Edmund het begin boer met Ayrshires in 1989 in die distrik Heilbron onder die kudde naam, The Ridge tot September 2004.

Mnr Els se pligte het behels die uitvoering van Woolworths oudits, klassifikasies van Ayrshire beeste en registrasies van hulpstamboek diere. Hy was ook betrokke by die organisering van skoue, boeredae, beoordelaarskursusse en veilings. Hy dien as ambassadeur namens Suid-Afrika by die Ayrshire Wêreld Federasie en tree ook op as beoordelaar by verskeie skoue plaaslik asook internasionaal, onder ander in Kenia en Amerika.

Na ‘n tydperk van 7 jaar, op 31 Mei 2012 beëindig hy sy dienste aan die Genootskap om sy horisonne te verbreed en sy belange uit te brei in die bedryf. Hy dien as raadslid sedert Augustus 2000 en word verkies as President van die Genootskap in 2015.

Meeste van julle ken my reeds maar ek noem maar net ‘n interessante feit of twee. Ek, JD Marais is gebore 1992 in Bothaville, naaste hospitaal van waar my ouers boer.

Ek is ‘n avontuurlustige persoon wat hou van die buitelewe en ek is lief vir my 70 minuut- Vrystaat rugby, maar terug by die onderwerp kan ek wel sê dat ‘n mens werklik ‘n groot liefde ontwikkel vir die Ayrshire ras. Jy kan regoor die wêreld toer en daar waar daar Ayrshires is, sal jy vriendelik ontvang word.

Dit voel wel nie dat tyd so vinnig vlieg nie, maar ek is al 5 jaar in diens van die Ayrshire genootskap. In hierdie tyd het ek baie kennis opgegedoen en baie geleer by sommige van julle. Baie dankie vir die die telers wat altyd tyd maak om my vriendellik te ontvang. So het ek ook baie vriendskappe opgebou en kan ek met vrymoedigheid sê dat die Ayrshire ras soos familie is. Baie dankie aan die raadslede, Edmund en Olene julle het my gestuur en baie geleer. Ek kan vandag met trots sê dat dit ‘n voorreg is om deel te wees van die Ayrshires. Dit is vir my ‘n baie klein gedeelte van die 100 jaar waar dit vir sommiges anders is, maar ek wil graag elke teler aanmoedig om aan te hou met meet en diere te registreer. Daar is verseker waarde daarin indien die eerste pioneers in ons ras nie gemeet het nie sou ons nie die boek met waardevolle inligting kon saamstel nie. Dankie vir die wat vandag steeds aktief is, want in die volgende 100 jaar sal dit weer vir volgende generasies waarde hê. Julle impak, sal ook gesien word as pioneers of as telers wat werklik deel was van die ras. Bly aktief en wees betrokke by die genootskap.

Dankie aan my liefdevolle gesin vir julle raad en ondersteuning ek waardeer dit opreg.

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President: WA Walker 1955Vice-President: C Malleson President: WA Walker 1956Vice-President: C MallesonPresident: N van der Walt 1957Vice-President: C Malleson President: Dr. MH Finlayson 1958Vice-President: CRS MallesonPresident: Dr. MH Finlayson 1959Vice-President: CRS Malleson President: Dr. MH Finlayson 1960Vice-President: C Malleson President: Dr. MH Finlayson 1961Vice-President: CRS Malleson President: CRS Malleson 1962Vice-President: Dr. MH Finlayson President: CRS Malleson 1963Vice-President: JM WalkerPresident : Dr. MH Finlayson 1964Vice-President: JM Walker President: Dr. MH Finlayson 1965Vice-President: JM WalkerPresident: Dr. MH Finlayson 1966Vice-President: JM Walker President: Dr. MH Finlayson 1967Vice-President: JM Walker President: Dr. MH Finlayson 1968Vice-President: H Konig President: Dr. MH Finlayson 1969Vice-President: JM WalkerPresident: JM Walker 1970Vice-President: Philip Gray President: JM Walker 1971Vice-President: Philip Gray

President: Alex Drysdale 1922Vice-President: Gordon Thompson President: Alex Drysdale 1923Vice-President: FA Stockil President: Alex Drysdale 1924Vice-President: G Gordon ThompsonHonorary President: James Rawbone Hon. President: JAS Rawbone 1925President: Alex DrysdaleVice-President: G Gordon ThomsonHonorary President: JAS RawboneHon. Secretary: J.G. TorrancePresident: Alex Drysdale 1926 - 1934Vice-President: Montagu Simpson 1926,1927,1929 - 1931President: Alex Drysdale 1937Vice-President: M SimpsonPresident: Alex Drysdale 1944Vice-President: C MallesonPresident: C Malleson 1946Vice-Presient David S FowlerPresident: C Malleson 1948Vice-President: LC BrownPresident: Montagu Simpson 1949Vice-President: Philip GrayPresident : Montagu Simpson 1950Vice-President: C MallesonPresident : C Malleson 1951 Vice-President: G S ScottPresident: C Malleson 1952Vice-President: GS ScottPresident: CE Malleson 1953Vice-President: GS ScottPresident: C Malleson 1954Vice-President: David S Fowler

OFFICE BEARERS SINCE 1922

Ayrshire CattleBreeders’ Society of SA

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President: JM Walker 1972Vice-President: PO Gray President: JM Walker 1973Vice-President: PO Gray President: JM Walker 1974Vice-President: PFR BosmanPresident: PFR Bosman 1975Vice-President: PO GrayPresident: PFR Bosman 1976Vice-President: IL De Bruyn President: PFR Bosman 1977Vice-President: IL De Bruyn President: PFR Bosman 1978Vice-President IL De Bruyn President: PFR Bosman 1979Vice-President: JM Walker President: JM Walker 1980Vice-President: PFR BosmanPresident: JM Walker 1981Vice-President: PFR BosmanPresident: W Hefer 1982Vice-President: PF Delport President: WJ Hefer 1983Vice-President: P PF DelportPresident: WJ Hefer 1984Vice-President: PF Delport President: PF Delport 1985Vice-President: PF Bosman Jnr President: PF Delport 1986Vice-President: PFR Bosman Jnr President: P Delport 1987Vice-President: PF BosmanPresident: PF Bosman Jnr 1988Vice-President: JM Walker President: PF Bosman 1989Vice-President: JM Walker President: JM Walker 1990Vice-President: PF DelportPresident: JM Walker 1991Vice-President: PF DelportPresident: PF Delport 1992Vice-President: Dr. G C Engelbrecht President: PF Delport 1993Vice-President: Dr. GC Engelbrecht President: PF Delport 1994Vice-President: JC Papenfus

President: PF Delport 1995Vice-President: JC PapenfusPresident: PF Delport 1996Vice-President: JC Papenfus President: PF Delport 1997Vice-President: IA Malleson President: PF Delport 1998Vice-President: IA MallesonPresident: PF Bosman 1999Vice-President: KD Lang President: KD Lang 2000Vice-President: PW BosmanPresident: KD Lang 2001Vice-President: WM FinlaysonPresident: WM Finlayson 2002Vice-President: PF DelportPresident: WM Finlayson 2003Vice-President: PF DelportPresident: KD Lang 2004Vice-President: PF Delport President: PW Bosman 2005Vice-President: DR De Kock President: PW Bosman 2006Vice-President: DR De KockPresident: PW Bosman 2007Vice-President: DR De KockPresident: AA Muller 2008Vice-President: RR BlomPresident: AA Muller 2009Vise-President: BS Volschenk President: AA Muller 2010Vise-President RR Blom President: AA Muller 2011Vice-President: BS VolschenkPresident: AA Muller 2012Vice-President: BS VolschenkPresident : RR Blom 2013Vice-President: EH Els President: RR Blom 2014Vice-President: EH ElsPresident : EH Els 2015Vice-President: AA Muller President: EH Els 2016Vice-President: AA Muller President: EH Els 2017Vice-President: AA Muller

Mnr IL De Bruyn first exhibitor at the Nampo harvest day at Bothaville (formerly known as Sampi Harvest day)1978

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VLNR: Edmund Els, Boeta Wessels, Robert Blom & Alec

Muller by die Hilton Farm van Mervyn Nicholls

Die Maandagoggend het ons die eerste kudde naamlik “Rosehill Ayrshire’s” besoek. Die grootte van die diere in die kudde en die geweldige kapasiteit het my beïndruk, omdat ons in Suid-Afrika die persepsie het dat die Engelse Ayrshires, kleiner koeie is. Wat my verder beïndruk het was ook die goeie bene, hoewe en uiers van die diere. Mnr Colin Christophers, die eienaar van die kudde, het ook geen rooi Holstein bulle in die kudde gebruik nie. Hy het wel ‘n paar strooitjies semen van T-Bruno gebruik, maar was nie beïndruk met die twee verse wat hy geteel het nie en hulle is reeds uit die kudde. Die kudde is dus 100% suiwer Ayrshire. Ons was ook bevoorreg om die “Royal Show Champion 2006” koei in die kudde te sien. Sy is “Rosehill Black Velour Ex 94” ‘n dogter van Rosehill Blackthorn (Genimex bemark

Ek was heel opgewonde toe Johan Muller (Genimex) my die Maandag oggend vroeg bel en vra of my paspoort reg is, om Engeland toe te gaan. Genimex het ‘n gesamentlike toer gereël met die Britse Konsulaat na Engeland vir twee van hulle lede en ses boere. Ons het via

Dubai na Engeland gevlieg. Ongelukkig het ons in Dubai teëspoed gehad en een van ons boere moes terug draai. Nee, hy het nie moeilikheid gemaak nie, daar was ‘n fout met sy paspoort. Dit was as gevolg hiervan dat daar toe ‘n probleem ontstaan het met ons tasse. Alhoewel ons die Sondag in Engeland aangekom het, het ons eers die Dinsdagaand ons tasse gekry. “Likkewaan Labuschagne” (Boeta Wessels) se tas het egter eers die laaste aand by ons in Engeland opgedaag.

Engeland2006 Toer na A l e c M u l l e r

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Na die besoek aan Sire Services het ons “East Church Farm” besoek. Die Ayrshires op die plaas word vanaf ‘n organiese sisteem gemelk. Dit was ook die kudde wat die minste beïndruk het. Die koeie in die kudde is kleiner as in die ander 4 kuddes sekerlik as ‘n gevolg van ‘n baie laer voedingspeil. Daar was egter ‘n paar dogters van “McCornick Nelson” wat ons beïndruk het. Dit is nogal jammer dat ons nie “McCornick Nelson” in Suid-Afrika sal kan gebruik nie, omdat daar nie meer semen van hom beskikbaar is nie. Al sy dogters wat ons gesien het was uitstekende koeie. Miskien moet Genimex kyk of hulle ‘n seun van Nelson se semen kan invoer vir gebruik in Suid-Afrika.

Die volgende kudde om te besoek was die “Hunning-ton” kudde van Mnr Chris Window. Weereens was dit ‘n baie besondere kudde met groot diere en goeie kapasiteit. Oom Chris is ook baie gesteld op goeie hoewe en bene, en dit is dan ook een van die eienskappe van die kudde wat jou dadelik opval.

His daughter “Lisa” became involved in the herd after her graduation and the farm is run as a family enterprise, incorporating a farm shop, which sells milk, cream, fruit and vegetables. They milk 70-80 cows, with an average

Die Dinsdagoggend het ons “UK Sire Services” se sentrum waar die bulle gehou en getap word besoek. Die belangrikste aspek wat hier na vore gekom het, is dat “UK Sire Services” geen bulle aankoop nie. ‘n Bul word deur die telersgenootskap genomineer as ‘n toetsbul, waarna die bul na die sentrum gaan. Sodra daar genoeg semen van die bul versamel is, gaan hy terug na die eienaar. Die bul bly dus die eiedom van die eienaar/teler. Dit is ook nie “UK Sire Services” se taak om die bul te bemark en die semen te verkoop nie. “Cattle Services (Ayr) Ltd” wat die bemarker van die UK Ayrshire telersgenootskap is, doen die bemarking en verkope van die semen. As die bul se nageslagtoets positief is en daar is verdere aanvraag vir die bul, gaan hy terug na die “UK Sire Services”, vir verdere kolleksie. Die telersgenootskap is dus aktief betrokke by die bemarking van die semen aan die boere. Die bemarking word nie aan ‘n buite instansie oorgelaat nie.

semen van Blackthorn). Die Blackthorn dogters in die kudde lyk regtig baie goed. Die kudde word vanaf weidings (kuilvoer in die winter) gemelk met ‘n hooi aanvulling met ±1,7 ton kragvoer per laktasie. Die kudde-gemiddeld vir melk is oor die 7000kg per laktasie.

Die middag het Rob Wills van “UK Sire Services” ons vir ‘n tradisionele “pub lunch” na ‘n Engelse kroeg geneem. Ek weet nie of die Engelse baie eet nie, maar ons kon nie alles opeet wat voorgesit is nie. Ons het toe maar ‘n “doggie bag” geneem.

Na die heerlike middagete het ons die “Hilltown” kudde van Mnr Mervyn Nicholls gaan besoek. Weereens was die koeie besonders groot. Wat my as weidingsboer hier opgeval het, is die grootte van die verse op ‘n ouderdom van 27 tot 29 maande tydens kalwing. Omdat ek op dieselfde ouderdom my verse laat kalf, sukkel ek om hulle so groot te kry. Weereens was dit ‘n uitstekende kudde wat besonders goed bestuur word. Mnr Nicholls het ook ‘n moderne melkstal met ‘n rekenaarstelsel, in teenstelling met die ander kuddes, wat nog redelike ou melkstelsels het. In die kudde is daar ook geen Rooi Holsteins of SRB gebruik nie.

Beoordeling tydens UK Dairy Event

Besoek van “aliens” aan UK Sire Services - KI Stasie

over 7 000 litres, using 1.7tons of concentrate. A simple system is practised with a winter diet of maize/grass silage and hay, plus seed cake fed in the parlour. No red and white has been used in the herd, but a certain amount of Canadian semen has been introduced with encouraging results.

Ons het ook ‘n hele paar “Hunnington Admiral” (Wat deur Genimex in SA bemark word) dogters gesien in die kudde. Hulle lyk goed en gee melk, maar hulle is kleiner as die “Blackthorn” dogters. As daar egter na langslewendheid gesoek word, is dit die bul om te gebruik. Sy ma het oor die 20 jaar oud geword en het oor die 118 ton melk geproduseer. Haar oudste dogter is oor die 16 jaar oud en het in 13 laktasies oor die 100 ton melk geproduseer.

Woensdag en Donderdagoggend het ons die “International Dairy Event” in Warwickshire gaan bywoon. Die “Dairy Event” is dieselfde as ons “Dairy

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4. Daar is 5 jaar terug 40% rooi Holstein en 60% Ayrshire semen aan Ayrshire boere verkoop.

5. In 2005 was die verkope van rooi Holstiens 9% en suiwer Ayrshire semen 91% aan Ayrshire boere. Ons is ook meegedeel dat die verkope van rooi en wit sover vir 2006 onder die 5% is. Deur gesprekke met die telers kon ek aflei dat die boere besef dat daar te veel van die goeie eienskappe van die Ayrshire verlore gaan deur die ras met rooi Holsteins te kruis.

6. Wat wel ‘n groot tendens tans daar is, is die gebruik van Ayrshire semen in swart en wit kuddes. In 2005 was 40% van alle Ayrshire semenverkope aan wit en swart kuddes.

7. Daar is baie kuddes in die Verenigde Koninkryk wat glad nie rooi en wit semen in hul kuddes gebruik nie. Daar is wel Noord Amerikaanse bloedlyne ingebring in die Ayrshire kuddes om hul eie bloedlyne te verbreed.

8. Daar is wel “Swedish Red Breed” (SRB) ook beskikbaar as 100% Ayrshire in die Verenigde Koninkryk. My gevoel is egter dat daar baie min SRB daar gebruik word. Ek het geen dogter van SRB gesien nie. Ook het ek geen advertensie van jong bulle gesien wat SRB vaders het nie.

9. Die Ayrshire-ras in Engeland word vergelyk met die Holsteins. Daarom is hul proefsyfers so laag. Ons weet almal dat ‘n bul soos Tridents Lot in Suid-Afrika +2000kg vir melk het. In Engeland word hy aangegee vir +63kg vir melk. Jy kry nie sommer ‘n Ayrshire bul in Engeland wat hoër as +200kg vir melk het nie.

Wat my die meeste beïndruk het van die Ayrshire daar, is die geweldige kapasiteit en diepte van die koeie en die klem wat die telers plaas op langslewendheid, goeie hoewe en bene.

Die hele toergroep was dit eens dat ons met ‘n geruste hart van die semen in Suid-Afrika kan gebruik.

Ten slotte wil ek vir Genimex en die Britse Konsulaat in Kaapstad bedank vir die reëlings van die toer en dat hulle dit vir ons as Ayrshire telers moontlik gemaak het om Engeland te besoek.

Expo” in Suid-Afrika. Dit is net heelwat groter as die Expo. Wat ons wel op geval het is hoe goed dit ondersteun word deur die boere in Engeland. Sewe Suiwelrasse was geskou gedurende die “Dairy Event.” Gedurende die Ayrshire jongkoei beoordeling het ons redelik verskil met die beoordelaar se plasings, maar verder het ons nie probleme gehad met die beoordeling nie. Ek het persoonlik die interras beoordeling baie geniet. Dit was ‘n skouspel om sewe verskillende suiwelrasse in die ring saam te sien. Die manier waarop die interrasbeoordeling plaasgevind het, het verder bygedra om dit regtig ‘n skouspel te maak. Die hoogte punt was toe die Senior Ayrshire koei, aangewys is as die interraskampioen van die “Dairy Event.”

Die Donderdag middag het ons die “Stanford Ayrshires” kudde van Mnr H. Oultram in Wallis besoek. Dit was ook regtig weereens ‘n uitstekende kudde. Mnr Oultram het vir ons ‘n paar bulmoeders in sy kudde uitgewys en ons hele groep was baie beïndruk met wat ons gesien het. Ons het ook ‘n paar dogters in melk, van ‘n bul “Stanford Triple Threat” gesien wat baie goed gelyk het. Die koeie wat ons op die toer gesien het van Triple Threat se vader “Meikle Laught Triple Crown” was ook almal uitstekende diere met goeie produksie. Ek dink Triple Threat as ‘n jong beproefde bul se semen kan oorweeg word.

Ek dink ons groep boere is met gemengde gevoelens na Engeland, omdat die prentjie in SA oor die Ayrshire bedryf in Engeland nie as rooskleurig geskilder was nie. Daar is byvoorbeeld aantygings gemaak dat die Ayrshires daar, heeltemal verbaster is met rooi Holsteins, en ander rooi en wit rasse. Ek sal graag vir u as teler die ware toedrag van sake daar wil deurgee:

1. In alle bul katalogusse wat ek gesien het asook advertensies in joernale van bulle word daar duidelik gesê of die bul honderd persent Ayrshire is of nie.

2. Die telers is baie gesteld op watter diere 100% Ayrshire is en watter nie.

3. Dat daar wel redelik rooi en wit semen in Ayrshire kuddes gebruik is, is so, maar dat die tendens besig is om af te neem kan ook in die volgende gesien word.

Ons eie “Likkewaan Labuscagne” in die UK

Besoek aan Stanford Ayrshires

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Op 30 Mei 2006 vind die Nasionale Kampioenskappe in Pietermaritzburg plaas, met Lynn Lee van Amerika wat kom beoordeel het. Hy het dit nie so gelukkig getref nie. Groot was sy verbasing toe hy in SA land, en besef sy bagasie het nooit hom vergesel nie. Olene en Edmund het tot sy redding gekom en hom na ‘n nabye winkelsentrum geneem, vergesel met Mary Creek, om hom te help om ‘n uitrusting te koop en met ‘n geleende baadjie het hy heel skaflik gelyk in die skouring. Tydens die kampioenskappe was daar ook oorsese besoekers teenwoordig naamlik: Linda Ness (Kanada), Daniel Luisere en Grant Roy.

Groot Kampioen KoeiGrace Valley Sweetness - KD Lang

Reserwe Groot Kampioen KoeiMelkhout Milky Model 7 - Blom Broers

Nuwetradisie

Nuwe tradisie van ‘n eerste Nasionale Wenner (Robert Blom kry ‘n haarsny van sersant-majoor Fires van Vuuren)

Royal Skou

Sedert 1978 - 2014

Pietermaritzburg 2006

NAMPONeem asb kennis dat dit die laaste Nampo Oesdag uitstalling vir die Ayrshire Genootskap in 2014 was. Die raad het dit goed deurdink en besluit dat die uitstalling nie meer sal plaasvind nie omrede dit nie vir die Genootskap enige finansiële voordele inhou nie.

Graag wil ons ook die vorige uitstallers bedank vir hulle getroue ondersteuning deur die jare. Asook ons telers wat gereeld besoek gebring het aan die stalletjie.

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The society would also like to take this opportunity to congratulate Kevin Lang for the amazing year he has had and all the highlights which make him stand out as the premier breeder of the year:• He bred and showed three of the six champions and reserves

during the National Championships in Bredasdorp.• At the 2015 National De Heus Ayrshire Herd Competition,

Kevin was appointed as the overall winner.• During the World Dairy Expo in Madison, Wisconsin in USA, Kevin Lang received the International Person of the Year award.• He is the first person who has won the Golden Cup six times.Congratulations Kevin, with your huge successes and an outstanding Ayrshire career!

•USA, Kevin Lang received the International Person of the Year award.•times.Congratulations Kevin, with your huge successes and an outstanding Ayrshire career!

2004BESTE JAARVERSLAG: Die Ayrshires Genootskap het die toekenning vir die beste jaarverslag ontvang tydens die Gala dinee met die 100 Jaar viering van SA Stamboek in 2005.

Olene Van Vuuren neem die toekenning in ontvangs van Dr Pierre van Rooyen ( Hoofbestuurder SA Stamboek)

2012 - Die Ayrshire kantoor skuif saam met die Brahman Genootskap in Augustus 2012 in

hul nuwe kantoor kompleks in Langenhovenpark, Bloemfontein

Bultoetsstasie van Taurus nou bekend as Taurus-Evolution word aan belangehebbende partye

bekend gestel, 23 Oktober 2015.

BrOkkiesSnippets

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• In Augustus te Bredasdorp 2003 meld 14 kandidate aan om te slaag as Junior beoordelaars, waarvan net 5 suksesvol was.

•1 Oktober 2004 – slaag 3 kandidate as Junior beoordelaars onder leiding van Mnr Piet Delport tydens die Suiwel Ekspo by Saasveld, George.

•17 Februarie 2005 – By Riversdal word daar aan 3 kandidate Junior beoordelaars sertifikate toegeken.

• In 2006 op die plaas van Pierre Bosman het 19 kandidate ingeskryf vir ‘n junior en senior beoordelaars eksamen waarvan 6 kandidate as junior en 2 as seniors geslaag het. Die eksaminatore was Walter Finlayson, Piet Delport asook Pierre Bosman Sr.

•Op 6 Oktober 2009 in die pragtige Oos Vrystaat, in die Bethlehem distrik by Riaan en Marlise Reynders is ‘n beoordelaars kursus aangebied onder die leiding van Edmund Els en Walter Finlayson. Walter moes ongelukkig onttrek as gevolg van ‘n ongesteldheid en Alec Muller het vir hom ingestaan. Daar was 5 junior kandidate en 1 senior vir die kursus. Dit was ‘n warm dag en die waterkar moes nader gebring word en let wel nie vir die diere nie, maar wel vir die manne! Twee juniors het dié dag die kursus geslaag.

•Rhodes Food Group and Barti Volschenk must be thanked for availing their facilities and animals for our Judging course the day before the AGM on 20th October 2010.

Twelve Ayrshire enthusiasts attended and I was very ably assisted in judging by Edmund Els. We had selected three groups of animals, five in-calf heifers, five young cows and five mature cows. Participants were given 20 minutes for each class, to write down their placings after which they were each asked individually to explain their reasons for the positions given. Marks were given on the basis of half for their placings and half for their reason for those placings. 75% was regarded as a pass mark. Of the twelve students, three achieved this standard as Junior Judges, whilst three others achieved more than 50%. The three participants who achieved their Junior Judging certificate were then put through their places for the Senior Judges examination. A class of nine animals was selected from the previous exam. Once again our three Junior Judges were able to place the class in the correct order with the senior cow again leading the class, she is a BB Kellogg daughter. The winner of the young cow class with an excellent udder, was placed as the runner up.

Congratulations to Rob Slater, Theuns Bruwer and Jan Coetzee who will now have to assist at two more major shows before being placed on our Senior Judges panel.

- Walter Finlayson

•17 September 2013 – Napier

12 Kandidate skryf in vir die kursus op die pragtige plaas van mnre. Jan en Koos Wessels wat onder die bekwame leiding aangebied is deur mnre. Edmund Els en Walter Finlayson. Twee persone wat altyd bereidwillig is om as eksaminatore op te tree.

kursusse

Rhodes Food Group and Barti Volschenk must be thanked for availing their facilities and animals for our Judging course the day

again our three Junior Judges were able to place the class in the correct order with the senior cow again leading the class, she is a BB Kellogg daughter. The

Beoordelaars-

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As Ayrshire telers sien ons almal met verwagtinge uit na die toekoms. Nuwe en verbeterde seleksie metodes maak dit so veel makliker en vinniger om ons diere te verbeter. Daar is ook nog die Wêreld Kongres wat voorlê en kan telers nie wag om telers van oor die wêreld, ons land, sy mense en pragtige diere te vertoon nie.

Dinge het egter nie vanself gebeur nie. Daar moes ´n stewige basis gelê word deur mense wat hul hart en siel vir die Ayrshire gegee het. Persone wat in moeilike omstandighede met min middele tot hul beskiking hulself en hulle tyd opgeoffer het vir die uitbreiding van die Ayrshire ras in SA.

´n Goeie grondwet is opgestel, skoue het gereeld plaasgevind, boeredae is gehou en beoordelaarskursusse is aangebied. Mede telers is besoek, gemotiveer en aangemoedig om teling te verbeter. Die talle hulpmiddels vir gebruik met seleksie was daar nie. Telers moes op dierekennis en eie insig staatmaak om diere te teel.

Na al die jare wat die Genootskap Bloemskou ondersteun en vertoners jaar na jaar van Genootskappe se klubhuise moes gebruik gemaak, is dit nou verblywend om te kan noem dat die Ayrshire Genootskap ook nou spog met ´n eie klubhuis tydens skoutyd.

Met die inhuldiging van die klubhuis is twee van die lede met ere lidmaatskap van die Genootskap vereer. Walter Finlayson het aan Mnr Piet Delport sy oorkonde oorhandig. Hy het Piet geloof vir dit wat hy vir die Ayrshire en Genootskap beteken het. Mnr Delport was jare lid van die raad en ook voorsitter, ´n man met sterk beginsels.

Hy het ook baie skoue oor die jare ondersteun en menige kampioene opgelewer. Tydens beoordelaarskurssuse het hy verskeie telers en beoordelaars opgelei. Piet het ook bulle vir KI geteel en van die bulle se bloedlyne is oor die land versprei. Ook op wêreldgebied was hy baie bekend en het wêreldwyd vriende gemaak.

Danie De Kock het aan Mnr Pierre Bosman sy oorkonde oorhandig. Volgens Danie was Pierre Bosman vir almal ´n vriend en voorbeeld en waar Pierre hom bevind het, was hy ´n aangename mens om in jou midde te hê.

Pierre Bosman was betrokke by skoue dwars oor die land. Die skou kampioene van Bospre en KI bulle wat hy geteel het, is in die geskiedenis opgeskryf. Pierre se vriendelikheid, respek en integriteit teenoor ander mense sal altyd onthou word. Pierre was jare lid van die Ayrshire raad en het dan ook as President gedien. Hy was ´n senior beoordelaar, wat geskou, beoordeel en beoordelaarskursusse aangebied het.

Die twee here en hul families en dit wat hul gedoen het vir die Ayrshire ras sal altyd onthou word. Hiervoor bedank ons weereens vir Piet Delport en Pierre Bosman.

Pierre Bosman ontvang sy oorkonde vanaf Danie de Kock

Piet Delport neem sy oorkonde in ontvangs van Walter Finlayson

As Ayrshire telers sien ons almal met verwagtinge uit na die toekoms.

Oorhandigingvan

Oorkondes>>> DANIE DE KOCK

Openingvan Ayrshire Klubhuis by Bloemfontein Skou 21 April 2010

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OA M B P B% P % Mi Bi Pi1 2/0 8042 333 296 4,14 3,68 98 113 1062 3/3 11474 417 377 3,63 3,29 122 124 1243 4/2 10498 417 350 3,97 3,33 104 114 1104 5/2 12899 505 420 3,92 3,26 126 136 1285 6/3 12705 541 403 4,26 3,17 127 146 1286 7/4 12655 510 422 4,03 3,33 135 146 1407 8/3 11450 461 391 4,03 3,41 128 136 1318 9/4 11009 470 371 4,27 3,37 128 138 1339 10/5 8405 365 289 4,34 3,44 95 105 10310 11/5 7341 323 257 4,40 3,50 82 91 91

OA M B P B% P % Mi Bi Pi1 2/8 5065 205 173 4,05 3,42 123 115 1192 3/8 5548 214 187 3,86 3,37 110 108 1073 4/9 10367 356 323 3,43 3,12 154 141 1434 5/8 7458 291 249 3,90 3,34 94 98 925 6/11 10706 400 331 3,74 3,09 128 129 1166 8/1 10542 400 331 3,79 3,14 125 127 1167 9/1 10769 357 352 3,32 3,27 125 114 1238 10/4 9824 412 318 4,19 3,24 112 128 1099 11/4 10993 405 350 3,68 3,18 129 131 12410 12/7 7670 248 255 3,23 3,32 93 84 91

OA M B P B% P % Mi Bi Pi1 2/5 6963 189 218 2,71 3,13 184 134 171 2 3/5 9004 294 271 3,27 3,01 158 148 1463 4/5 9292 320 274 3,44 2,95 154 143 1364 5/6 10960 314 334 2,86 3,05 170 137 1555 6/6 10127 272 308 2,69 3,04 138 107 1296 7/5 9429 302 312 3,20 3,03 125 111 1267 8/5 9497 300 292 3,16 3,07 143 127 1318 9/6 10065 308 302 3,06 3,00 144 123 1319 11/2 9701 300 299 3,09 3,08 131 114 124 10 13/0 8311 298 263 3,59 3,16 107 91 105

100 000 kgRuMa GolDen GiRl Bred by: danie de KockSire: Bospre Wise Warrior 83

RFF 030536 Bred by: Rhodes Food group (Pty) ltdSire: Plum Bottom trident’s lot

MeeSuiD JW 1048 Bred by: JJ WesselsSire: grace Valley Viking

life Time productions: 106 030 kg 11 lactations 438 ICP

life Time productions: 107 055 kg 10 lactations 381 ICP

life Time productions: 104 616 Kg Milk 11 lactations 658 ICP

lifetimeproductions

Milk

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1977 - THiRD WORLD CONFERENCE iN GREAT BRiTAiNAyrshire cattle of Great Britain and Ireland celebrates its centenary year.

During this conference a visit to the Windsor herd, owned by Her Majesty, the Queen, as well as Windsor Castle was on the program.

1969 – The inception of the World Federation of Ayrshire Breed Societies which joined every individual Associations in the common aim of promoting the Ayrshire as the International Breed.

The World Ayrshire Federation was inaugurated in Canada in November 1969 where the first World Conference was hosted.

2nd 1972 - Finland • 3rd 1977 - Great Britain • 4th 1980 - New Zealand • 5th 1985 - Kenya

6th 1988 - USA • 7th 1992 - Sweden • 8th 1996 - Canada • 9th 2000 - UK

10th 2004 - New Zealand • 11th 2008 - Finland • 12th 2012 - South Africa • 13th 2016 - USA

The 14th : 2020 Ayrshire World Conference - Australia 12th - 30th January 2020

South African DelegatesF.l.t.r: Ben Spies, Margaret Weir, UK Ayrshire information officer, Fred Duckitt, Hannie Spies, Pierre Bosman, President South Africa, Dorothy Duckitt, Pierre Bosman Jr., Philip Gray, Garth Johnson and Ivan Malleson

WoRlDWoRlDThe SpoTliGhT on past and future

Conferences

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AyrshireWorld ConferenCe Walter Finlayson

2012April 2012 provided a wonderful Jamboree for the worldwide Ayrshire family. On Sunday the 22nd April, having settled our show string at the Bloemfontein Show grounds, Riaan Reynders drove us four council members to meet many old friends gathered at the Sun City Hotel complex, where Kevin and Edmund were already making everyone feel at home. We all met in the gardens of the hotel: a truly magnificent setting of manicured lawns and swimming pools against the backdrop of the African bush - complete with entertaining troops of Vervet monkeys in the trees. It was in this convivial setting that we could reconnect with familiar faces, such as the Boswalls, Henry Hofer and Gordon Glentworth amongst others, as well as having the pleasure and making the acquaintance of many new faces. An excellent dinner on the patio was accompanied by welcoming speeches and introductions. Some of us older members retired early but there were many “high rollers” who spent the night availing themselves of the Casino and the 24 hour entertainment. The next morning dawned just as one would expect in Africa, bright and sunny, and we all enjoyed a superb breakfast, whilst watching the first golfers tee off on Sun City’s world famous golf course. Our group then set off back to Bloemfontein, leaving the other guests to go on a game drive through the wilds of the beautiful Pilansberg Game Reserve.

On Tuesday the 24th, the guests traveled to Bloemfontein, where they were treated to the best sale of elite Ayrshire females ever seen in South Africa. A total of eighteen animals sold for an average of R 22,250, with the top price achieved, an excellent R 50,000! On Wednesday the 25th, the National Championships commenced with the heifer classes, showing around 60 animals. Kevin Lang showed the Champion Heifer - ‘Grace Valley Ideo Stars H20’ (21 - 24 month old class). The Reserve went to Edmund Els and Maans Kotze -

“Kleynrivier Emily” a Palmyra Tri -Star Reality’ daughter. The following day saw the cows in the ring and we were treated to some truly outstanding examples of the breed. The young cow, ‘Raigmore Jemima 127th’ - a Bonnie Brae Ambush daughter – took our Australian judges’ fancy and went on to win the udder champion, young cow and ultimately the Grand Championship awards. The Reserve Champion, ‘RFF 06101’ a Labrie Wilton daughter - was shown by Barti Volschenk. A big thanks you to our judge, David Mayo, for all his hard work and the clear, concise reasoning he gave for his decisions.

The Championship culminated in a dinner and prize giving and it gave me a great deal of pleasure to be one of three breeders, including Piet Delport and Kevin Lang, who have had the good fortune to each win the Warwick Gold Cup four times. The next morning we took leave of our guests and returned to the Cape, whilst they traveled on to KwaZulu-Natal to spend the weekend in the grandeur of the Drakensberg Mountains and visiting the herds at Farview and Grace Valley, near the picturesque town of Howick.

On Monday the 30th April our visitors arrived in Cape Town in the teeth of an early winter storm. This did nothing to dampen spirits and a most enjoyable afternoon was spent tasting and drinking at the Sandringham Cheese Festival. Many made a point of visiting the Ayrshire stall organized by Barti and Rhodes Food Group. A long day was topped off by an excellent dinner at the Vineyard Hotel whilst being entertained by the laid back Jazz vocals of Monique Hellenberg and her trio. By Tuesday morning the storm had blown itself out and the day dawned bright, perfect weather to visit the Rhodes Foods herd in Groot Drakenstein, one of the Cape’s biggest, and indeed one of the country’s top herds.

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The party then split into three and lunched respectively at restaurants on three local wine estates ‘The Goat Shed’ on Fairview, ‘Cottage Fromage’ on Vrede En Lust and at Glencarlou. The afternoon was spent tasting wine at Delaire De Graf, Tokara and Thelema. These world class wine estates are situated in the craggy mountains of the Banghoek region, high above the town of Stellenbosch. Everyone was most complimentary.

On Wednesday the conference proper started at the Vineyard Hotel with lectures by the general manager of Woolworths (who are responsible for the marketing of the Ayrshire brand in South Africa) and covered issues from marketing, to the future of the Ayrshire society, to global warming. After a break for tea, we heard a lecture about genomics and the development of the breed in the future. The rest of the afternoon was taken up with a boat trip to Robben Island, the notorious prison in Table Bay, where Nelson Mandela and many other political prisoners were incarcerated for many years.

The second day of the conference began with a report from a number of delegates, detailing how the Ayrshire breed was progressing in their respective countries. This session culminated in a panel discussion led by Henry Hofer, Norman Boswall, George Templeton and our Finish delegate, Sepo. Friday morning was an early start, with a cable car trip to the top of Table Mountain. The weather played its part and it was a glorious, calm morning, providing one of the most scenic views in the world over the city and the ocean around the Cape Peninsula. We then left by coach on a 90 minute trip for the town of Hermanus situated on Walker Bay and famed for its breeding whales which congregate in numbers during the latter half of the year. Unfortunately we were out of season but it is an event that is well worth seeing. Lunch was eaten at the Old Harbor – the quaint stone harbor from whence the fisherman would set out in their rowboats in times gone by. After lunch we dropped in on Maans Kotze’s farm in Kleynrivier and saw top cows, including the National Champion.

That afternoon we traveled 100km onward to the picture-postcard fishing village of Arniston and were soon comfortably ensconced in the charming Arniston Hotel. An excellent evening was spent in the company of Carolyn Martin from Creation Wines in Hermanus, who conducted a food and wine ‘paring’ event. On Saturday the 5th May we visited the Melkhout herd of Robert Blom and then on to the high producing cows of Jan Wessels. The day ended with a drive to Cape Agulhas and a champagne toast to the southern most tip of the African continent. Sunday morning saw us once again aboard our coach for a five hour journey to Herbertsdale where we had lunch at our president, Alec Muller’s farm, and saw his well-managed pasture-fed cows.

At this juncture we bade farewell to about a third of our delegates, who left for home, whilst the rest left the Cape and traveled via Johannesburg to Kasane in Botswana. We transferred to the Chobe Safari Lodge and at last felt the sense being in the true, wild Africa. The next two days were spent in this idyll, viewing animals on game drives and by boat on the Chobe River. We were treated to a wealth of wildlife- with elephant, antelope, buffalo, lion, hippo, Nile crocodile, and a fortunate few who were lucky enough to see a leopard kill! On Wednesday we all departed for the legendary Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe and booked into the magnificent old colonial Victoria Falls Hotel, with its commanding views of the river gorge and the bridge to Zambia. Some of the brave members of our party were bold enough to bungee jump from a point high above the mighty Zambezi River. And so, with these acts of derring-do, we came to the end of a wonderful three weeks during which old friendships were renewed and new friendships forged, many miles traveled, ideas shared and our common passion for Ayrshires indulged. Thus ended a wonderful World Conference. Our thanks go to all those who made it possible, especially to Kevin, Shannon, Craig, Edmund, Alec and last but not least, Olene. Till next time.

AyrshireWorld ConferenCe

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After the judging we went straight on to Kleynrivier Ayrshires, the herd that won overall and had the champion cow, already eight years of age but still one hell of a cow! The judge started struggling; the competition bar just kept on being raised. At the same farm we met one of our oldest breeders with his years of experience breeding genetic cows, Walter Finlayson, who was also competing. We ended the day successfully with some extraordinary cows and had a good night’s rest in Caledon.

On the third and final day we drove to RFG where Barti Volschenk had arranged for some tasty platters and drinks after we had seen all the beautiful cows set up in individual pens.

This was a successful week, with farmers travelling along and the support from all our sponsorships as well.

Our sincere thanks to all the sponsors - World Wide Sires, Four Lakes, Taurus, Ayr Genetics and our main sponsor, TAG. Without their sponsorship it would not have been possible to have such a successful event. We would also like to thank all the farmers who received us with such kindness and showed

us all their wonderful Ayrshire girls!

The Ayrshire Society hosted the first national herd competition in 2013 with great achievements. We nominated a well-known dairy judge in the field, Francois Potgieter, all the way from Calitzdorp.

We started off at Herbertsdale with Gouritz Ayrshires with a well-established, profitable pasture system and an excellent dairy herd, accompanied by Rennie Pringle from one of our proud World Wide Sires sponsorships. After the judging, we first had to fit our judge into the small Fiat 500 - a case of a small car and a well-built judge. We travelled through the lovely Southern Cape’s small towns with lively humour from our judge and arrived safely at Kosie Wessels’s farm in the Bredasdorp area where we met another few breeders to enjoy the judging day with us. Our judge left the farm and ended the day with a satisfied feeling about Kosie Wessels’s young cows.

Early morning we headed toward the Blom brothers who are on a TMR system with a good production herd and splendid cows at all stages. Robert has a self-bred bull - Jordner - that has exhibited some impressive progeny. We next stopped at Nicobus Ayrshires with its unexpectedly lovely ‘elderly’ cows. At this herd our judge uttered his words of the day, “What a lovely milking herd.”

herd competition>>> JD MARAIS, technical adviser

NatioNalf rsti

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Op 23 Oktober 2013 het die Suid-Kaap Ayrshire Klub weer ‘n boeredag by

Bertie Horn op die plaas Soutpan aangebied. Die dag is bygewoon deur

15 telers met Prof Rubin Meeske wat as gasspreker opgetree het.

Prof. Meeske het begin met ‘n baie interresante praatjie oor hoe daar te

werk gegaan moet word om die vastestowwe vir ‘n kudde te verbeter.

Hy het beveel dat die boere bulle gebruik wat positief is op kg sowel as

persentasie vastestowwe. Het ook dit daarop gewys dat vastestowwe

geneties hoogs oordraagbaar is, en indien ‘n teler die regte genetika

sou gebruik, behoort hy vinnig vordering te maak.

Voorts lig hy die telers in hoe om te werk te gaan om vastestowwe

deur voeding aanvulling te verhoog. Hy het ook die resultate gewys

van ‘n klomp proewe wat hulle op Outeniqua proefplaas gedoen het.

Daarna het Alec Muller die telers ingelig oor watter bulle tans in die

Ayrshire familie beskikbaar is wat voldoen aan bo-genoemde vereistes.

Dit was ook duidelik uit die besprekings dat daar tans ‘n beperkte

genetika is om aan die vereistes voldoen.

Alec het ook in die telers verduidelik waarna opgelet moet word as hulle

‘n bul van ‘n ander teler aankoop. Prof. Meeske het dit beklemtoon dat

die koper moet daarop aandring dat die bul se beraamde teelwaardes

beskikbaar gestel word.

Hy verduidelik ook dat die Logix Meriete Indeks (LMI) ‘n goeie aanduiding

is van in watter klas die bul val. Na ‘n kort bespreking oor die LMI van

bulle is besluit dat ‘n bul ten minste ‘n LMI van + 1000 moet hê, alvorens

‘n bul oorweeg sal word.

Die dag is afgesluit met ‘n gesellige braai.

Wil graag ons dank oordra aan Berti Horn en sy vrou vir die ete reëlings en

vir die fasiliteite wat hulle beskikbaar gestel het.

Dankie namens die klub aan Prof. Meeske vir al die interessante feite wat

aan die telers oorgedra is tydens die dag en die tyd wat hy saam met klub

lede deurgebring het.

Laastens wil die Suid-Kaap klub graag die genootskap bedank vir die

borgskap om die dag moontlik te maak.

Suid-Kaap Ayrshire KlubBoeredag>>> ALEC MULLER

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the uniformity of the herd has improved. This is a very good herd of cows that are managed exceptionally well. Michael had just finished a classification training session a few weeks before we came so he and JD did some practice animals to sharpen their skills. JD shared that he has been working to get more cows scored and we hope he finds the time to continue to do more. There is an enormous amount of confirmation type data in the herds in South Africa that needs to be gathered and included in the sire evaluation information for the rest of the world to see and use. After finishing our visit at the farm and a lovely lunch with Jan and Merolyn we visited a very large Jersey herd that milks on a huge rotary and uses a TMR ration to help them have a high milk yield.

The next day we were off to visit Tersius. It is always pleasant to visit with him and learn more about his management practices and his other farming enterprises. His herd is growing and doing very well. The cows have very dairy frames and lovely udders. I look forward to checking in with him again in a few years, I expect him to make even more advancements. Our next stop that day was at Dieter Spies’s farm. I had never met him before and looked forward to the opportunity. We shared a good laugh at Edmund and JD’s expense when we found out Dieter is very fluent in English and they did not have to be concerned with translating for us. I had never had the pleasure of meeting Dieter and we greatly enjoyed touring his facilities. He and his brother constructed nearly all of their milking and cattle areas themselves. The cows were grazing a short distance down the road and it is easy to see how they can walk so freely to and from the pastures. We found a herd that was very youthful with neat udders and exceptional feet and legs. This is another herd that will be very exciting to watch develop in the coming years. We had a delicious brie with everyone before heading back to our hotel at Arniston. We took a short side trip and allowed Michael his first visit to the Indian Ocean and the monument demarking the southern-most point in Africa.

The next day we turned back east to make a visit at RFF. Mike was still traveling with us and he and Barti ended up in deep conversation about the new barns

Greetings! November 1, 2014 we arrived back in Cape Town. It is the first I was able to return since the World Conference Tour. It was far too long! This time I brought my son Michael with me for his first visit to South Africa. My husband Mike was already in the country doing business with his GEA distributors. We all got together and met Edmund and JD at the airport for a great reunion. The weather was wonderful and we had a beautiful scenic trip to Edmund’s home in Hermanus. We took the coastal route so we could impress Michael with the breath taking scenery. To help us adjust for the jet lag we took some short tours into the vineyard areas and did a little wine tasting while we caught up on everything Ayrshire that is happening in the US and South Africa. Kevin Lang soon joined us and of course we had more to share with each other and our conversation also expanded to many of the issues that were discussed at the World Ayrshire Federation Directors meetings that were held the past July in the UK.

During those meetings in the UK we talked about youth activities, promotion ideas and defining the purity of Ayrshires as well as reviewing past minutes and financials. Efforts are being made to publish our newsletter and update our website more frequently so all of us can keep up with what is happening with our friends around the world. We are also trying to complete a project that will have a listing that explains the factors considered in each country’s genetic evaluations, allowing each of us to better understand and interpret the data so we can make more informed mating decisions. One youth event has already been hosted by the Finish Ayrshire Society in January of this year and another is being planned for October 2015 in Sweden. Please look for details later this summer for this event so South Africa can have a representative attend. Isn’t it amazing to have such overwhelming support for our youth!

We soon were anxious and ready to get to work and see some cows. Our first stop was at Jan and Merolyn Wessels herd. The grass was in top shape and the cows looked like they were in heavy production, which is not a surprise. It is encouraging to note that each time I visit I do not know how Jan does it but the quality and

Great visitaNotheR

>>> MARy CREEK, 2014

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that are going to be built at RFF. We had a great herd visit too. The cows look really good and are obviously milking well. The young cows were very impressive and uniform also. We were particularly impressed with the newborn calf area. The calves were very healthy and had a great start on their careers. It was fun to see so many different sires represented in the pens. You can get a good idea of what to expect from different matings by just walking through the herd at RFF.

One of our primary reasons for our visit besides getting to see so many friends was to attend and judge the Sandringham Show. Michael and I had never been to the show but we were very impressed. The various displays were informative and interesting. Michael ended up helping some of the exhibitors in the barn while he was there and I was busy at the show ring. The show was a real highlight. Even though there were not many entries the ones that exhibited were exceptionally high quality. I really enjoyed working with JD as my ring steward. We had great conversations about the animals and reasons for placing the classes.

The most exciting highlight of the show happened during the Interbreed competition when the young Ayrshire Heifer Champion was unanimously named Interbreed Heifer Champion. The cow classes were top notch and the animals were all presented extremely well. The high quality class winners returning for the champion parade made my decisions difficult. It was a pleasure to work with all of them. The exhibitors made an excellent presentation and served the breed well.

Following the end of the show we took Michael on a tour of Cape Town and some of the wine area around Franschoek so he could further enjoy the beauty of the area. Unfortunately, the winds were too strong to go up Table Mountain so he will just have to come for another visit to enjoy that landmark. We all had a wonderful visit and certainly enjoyed the invitation to judge the show. We thank everyone that helped with our tour and hosted us during our visit. We look forward to being able to come back soon to see more old friends and find other new ones we have yet to meet.

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It was a first in the history of Bloemfontein show that three dairy societies made an effort to unite and presented the Meadow Northern Dairy show in conjunction with Jersey, Holstein and the Ayrshire Society.

Walter Finlayson officiated as Ayrshire judge for the 2015 Meadow Northern Dairy Show. Walter has been a member of the Ayrshire Society since 1952 and has won the Gold Cup at the Ayrshire National Show 4 times, the first time in 1963 and most recently 2012. In addition to the national championship trophies his “Raigmore” prefix has won countless show titles over the years and Walter has also served on the Ayrshire society council as member and President for many years. this championships was presented by 6 Ayrshire, 6 Jersey and 10 Holstein exhibitors.

Northern

BloemfoNteiN - 23 APRIL 2015

Dairy ShowDairy ShowJudged by Walter Finlayson

Team behind the scene who worked very hard to make a success of the show: LTR: Jannie Nel (Jersey) John Terblanche, Hannes Pretorius (Holstein), Tessa Opperman (Jersey) Olene Van Vuuren (Ayrshire), Susan Van Niekerk & Herman Duvenhage (Holstein), Wikus van der Merwe and JD Marais (Ayrshire).

GRACE VALLEY REALITY’S HELLBENTUdder Champion, Jnr Champion cow and Grand Champion CowOwner: Kevin Lang

HOMSéK PENTIUM 7Reserve Grand Champion – Exhibited by Franz Homsék

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Melkhout Free Beer 11 is the first Ayrshire heifer to have won five shows. Among others, she was crowned National Heifer, National On-Farm Challenge Champion and the Interbreed Heifer at the Sandringham Show. She also won several awards at the Swellendam Show, Agri Mega Week 2014, Sandringham Show 2014 and the Mega National Championships. This heifer also earned the new South African record price at the Ayrshire Elite Auction, when she was sold for R60 000 to Rhino Ridge.On 20 September 2016 the Ayrshire World Congress will take place, hosted by the American Breed Society, and planned to be a part of the famous World Diary Expo. Any queries can be directed to the Ayrshire office. The South African Ayrshire Cattle breeders’ Society will be celebrating our centenary in 2017 with a National Show and auction. The National De Heus Ayrshire Herd Competition took place all over the country this year. Judge Walter Finlayson undertook the huge task and visited all the participants’ farms within two weeks. He viewed six different classes of cows in their working clothes and participants welcomed him onto their farms with open arms. We would like to thank all the breeders for their hospitality during the judging, as well as our main sponsor, De Heus.

AyrshireHistory was made at Bredasdorp during Agri Mega Week this year when the South African Ayrshire Cattle breeders’ Society for the first time presented their National Championships with all animals being housed indoors. The public could view the 120 animals and could also attend daily milking sessions. Woolworths’ exhibition at the show created huge interest by inviting the public to taste various Ayrshire products such as yogurt, milk and cheese.The first judging took place on the Thursday evening with the heifer exhibition. New Zealand judge Selwyn Donald crowned the heifer, Melkhout Free Beer 11, owned by the Blom Broers (Bredasdorp), as the Champion Heifer of the evening. The Reserve Champion Heifer was Grace Valley Burdette’s Lady Bee, owned by Kevin Lang from Howick in KwaZulu-Natal.The judging of the senior cows took place the next day. Grace Valley Hellbent, owned by Kevin Lang, was named Young Cow Champion, and Grace Valley Burdette Petal, exhibited by Edmund Els and Robert Blom, was the Reserve Young Cow Champion. The Senior Champion Cow, Grace Valley Burdette’s Wilma 5th, was exhibited by Edmund Els and Robert and the Reserve Senior Champion Cow, Raigmore Doreen 29, was exhibited by Edmund Els.The highlight of the day was the bagpipe player’s accompaniment to the crowning of the Golden Cup winner of the 2015 National Ayrshire championships. The holder of this year’s cup is Grace Valley Hellbent, owned by Kevin Lang, with the reserve cow prize going to Grace Valley Petal, owned by Edmund Els and Robert Blom.

aGRi meGa WeeK - 16-18 SEPtEMBER 2015

National Championships

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ayRshiRe NatioNalChamPioNshiP shoW

2 0 1 5 Judged by Selwyn Donald

CHAMPiON HEiFER - MELKHOUT FREE BEER 11 - BLOM BROTHERS

SENiOR CHAMPiON COW - GRACE VALLEY BURDETTE’S WILMA 5TH – E ELS & R BLOM

YOUNG COW & GRAND CHAMPiON - GRACE VALLEY REALITY’S HELLBENT – KD LANG

RESERVE GRAND & YOUNG COW CHAMPiON - GRACE VALLEY BURDETTE’S PETAL – RHINO RIDGE - E ELS / R BLOM

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>>> PRIZE GIVING 2015

>>> DE HEUS 2015

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Selwyn and Lorraine farm on the outskirts of the Featherston Township nestled under the Tararua Ranges and is approximately an hour’s drive from New Zealand’s capital city Wellington.

Selwyn milks 400 cows registered under the Arran prefix. Arran is one of New Zealand’s oldest Ayrshire Studs and with Selwyn being the 4th generation to farm the Arran property.

Selwyn has added to the farming operation over the last 20 years which now includes Holstein Friesians, Jerseys and 2 Milking Shorthorns. The farm has a 40 bale Rotary Milking Parlour and is irrigated by a central pivot irrigation system & single laterals as the cows graze all year round & calve down once a year. Selwyn employs 1 full time and 1 part time staff member to help him on the farm.

Selwyn has exhibited at many shows throughout New Zealand and has gained many broad ribbons with all his individual breeds. A major highlight for Selwyn was when he won Supreme of the Breed at a major show in 3 individual breeds at the same show – it is believed that he is the only person in New Zealand to have ever accomplished this.

Selwyn is very proud of the way his animals perform not only in the show ring but also in National & International Photo Competitions. A huge highlight this year is Winning the 2 Year Class of the World Red Cow Photo Competition with ARRAN Pring Beaujolias with only 2 Milking Shorthorns milked at ARRAN this is an amazing accomplishment.

Selwyn is also very involved with his Family’s Semen Company and is responsible for the Holstein and Ayrshire Sire Selection. The company markets the TAG and Taurus product in New Zealand and also product from Semenzoo, and Cogent.

Selwyn is also a Livestock Agent for Carrfields Livestock specialising in Dairy Stud Sales. He is also an accomplished Auctioneer.

Selwyn is New Zealand’s most travelled judge of any breed. He has recently judged in Australia at the Brisbane Royal Show 2015 officiating in the Brown

Swiss ring. Other major shows Selwyn has judged at include New Zealand Royal Ayrshire and Holstein Friesian, many New Zealand feature Championship shows Ayrshire, Holstein Friesian & Jersey, Holstein Friesian Semex On Farm NZ Competition (travelling over 2000 kilometres visiting farms), Over Judge for Holstein Friesian NZ Judges Certification for 4 years, Royal Shows in Australia (Sydney, Adelaide, Melbourne), International Dairy Week Australia Ayrshire Section, North Coast Spectacular Australia (Guernsey, Swiss, Ayrshire & Interbreed Sections), The Great Yorkshire Show UK, UK Dairy Event 2014 (Ayrshire & Interbreed Section). A big thrill for Selwyn & the team at ARRAN was in 2014 when Selwyn made the final ballot for World Dairy Expo and then gaining Associate in 2015. Also on the agenda for 2015, Selwyn is very excited about judging in Ireland at the Royal Winter Fair in December.

A big highlight in Selwyn’s Judging Career was in July 2014 at the UK Dairy Event when he stepped forward & split a tie under controversial circumstances for the Interbreed Senior Champion of the show, you can view on the link below. https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=vb.238456219616890&type

Kind Regards

Selwyn Donald

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KenyaVisit to

Firstly, I should like to thank you as President of Ayrshire Kenya, and in particular the Ayrshire Society of Kenya, for the invitation you extended to me to act as a judge. It was truly a great privilege for me to be part of the Ayrshire family at the Livestock Breeders’ Show.

I was pleasantly surprised by the high quality of the Ayrshires in Kenya. Climatic conditions in Kenya differ considerably from those in South Africa. In Kenya the Ayrshire is a medium framework cow with very good feet and legs, and having particularly good udders. It is important not to breed too extremely. I regard the Ayrshire cow in Kenya as a very good functional cow that can produce under harsh circumstances.

I should also like you, on my behalf, to convey my thanks to the ring officials and organisers for all their support, arrangements and the professional way in which the show was conducted. All these aspects contributed to the great success of the show. It was a pleasure and a privilege to judge in such attractive show grounds.

I should furthermore like to commend you and the ring officials for the quality of the animals during the inter-breed judging. It was gladdening to see that the Ayrshire breed champion was elected as the Reserve Champion during the Inter-breed, as well as the breed group of 7 that was in second place. The nomination of an Ayrshire handler, who won the category as best handler, was most encouraging; also for being a personal achievement.

I believe some improvement is possible in the preparation of animals as well as handlers. Offering courses on training manual leaders and animals should be considered. I was amazed by how keen people are to learn and presenting such courses will be to the benefit of showing animals.

In conclusion I wish to thank you and everyone involved in the arrangements for my visit most sincerely. Thanks for your hospitality in making this a memorable experience. I want to request in Swahili that Ayrshire Kenya may give themselves a loud “makofi”*. Ayrshire Kenya is in good hands!

>>> Edmund Els(Judged the Livestock Breeders’ Show in July 2016)

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2017 – A milestone in the history of the South African Ayrshire Breed.

Looking back, we have seen remarkable changes in the type and efficiency of our breed over the last century. The question is, how can we still improve to remain competitive with other breeds, and remain top in the dairy industry?

In a world of growing populations which will explode to millions more people in South Africa by the year 2027, economical food production will be the most important factor, including dairy products which will be a major source of protein.

In the Ayrshire herds, already there is a move away from the pretty cow with the perfect udder, to a more functional animal, but do not let us forget that the udder of our breed is still possibly the best of all breeds and has been copied and fashioned from the Ayrshire, by them!

We are looking for a cow that is much sharper, leaner and bigger (±140 cm at shoulder) than in the past, but again the breeder of the future should not sacrifice everything for size, as many a lighter cow has paid her way handsomely, filling the bucket economically and for more years.

My experience is that the length of the body, shape and dairy quality, are the best indication of a good producer. If we look at our national herd average of 12 years ago, of 4,110 kg milk and 157 kg butterfat, with the top herds producing 5,000 kg milk @ 4,1% butterfat and today’s national herd average of 7,655 kg milk and 172 kg. butterfat and follow what has happened in the UK over the last 10 years, where today the top herds are producing 8,558 kg milk @ 4,02% butterfat, we must aim for top herds here, to produce in the 9,000 to 10,000 kg milk bracket.

Over the past 10 years the Ayrshire breed has had the highest percentage increase for both milk (17,3 %) and butter fat (10,2%) for all breeds.

We claim to be a 4% butterfat breed, but many herds do not achieve this, therefore to set the Ayrshire in its proper place, we must be more selective in the choosing of our breeding stock, particularly with regards to butterfat and protein.

We do produce the finest milk and need to continue to prove this fact and need to favor breed improvement

The South African >>> Walter Finlayson

AyRSHIRE IN tHE yEARS AHEAD

as our main objective.

One way to achieve this, is a register of top cows in the breed which can advance the national herds as a nucleus of genetics, to use for embryo transplants.

Many a farmer was skeptical of A.I. in its infancy.

Splitting the embryo in the future, may become common practice.

Therefore, we are going to require laboratories to produce super cows for the future.

A point that requires attention that is often not accepted, is that the fertility of our breed.

Has the fact that many farmers do not have grazing facilities anything to do with the problem? Our aim should be a national calving index of less than 385 days in the years ahead.

How many breeders select on fertility and are prepared to sacrifice a good-looking beast that does not conceive regularly. We expect high production and regular calving. Can we produce the cow that is required to take our breed into the next quarter of the century and are the younger generation of stockmen going to be trained to care for cows of this caliber?

I am convinced that the Ayrshire breed, with the enthusiasm and co-operation of all our breeders in South Africa, will achieve the ultimate dairy cow in the next few years.

Visit to

Genomiese

GenomictOEtSINg

tEStINgVerstaan wat dit behels… Genomiese toetsing is meer net ʼn (waardetoevoeging) aanvulling tot die teelwaarde. Om ʼn dier genomies te toets beteken nie dat jy ná die ontleding hoef op te hou meet nie. Dit is juis van belang om hierdie hulpmiddel deel te maak van jou (meet en weet) melkaantekening en beraamde teelwaardes.

Genomiese toetsing het wel voordele, maar as ons nie almal in die Ayrshire-ras saamwerk nie, sal dit nie moontlik wees om ten volle hierby te baat nie:

• Genomiese toetsing verhoog die betroubaar-heidsyfers op beraamde teelwaardes;

• Vergemaklik keuses by die identifisering van bulle; • Vroeë identifisering en eliminering van jong bulle

wat moontlik nie belowende beproefde bulle sal word nie;

• Genetiese vordering om produktiwiteit te verhoog;• Dit gee ook ʼn aanduiding van watter diere op

veelvuldige merkers sterk oorerfbare eienskappe besit.

TANS

Die eerste genomiese toetse is al in 2013 uitgevoer en vanaf 2016 is die telersgenootskappe aktief by die “dairy genomic project” (DGP) betrokke waar daar befondsing beskikbaar gestel is om die mees betroubare diere en invloedryke bulle vir ontledings te selekteer. Die mikpunt is om ʼn verwysingspopulasie te stig en, om die genomiese seleksiebasis te kry, is dit nodig dat ten minste ʼn 1 000 diere getoets word om doeltreffend te wees.

Skakel asb. die kantoor om deel te vorm van die program of om meer oor die projek uit te vind.

Understand what it entails ... Genomic testing is more than just a (value added) supplement to the breeding value. Testing animal genomics does not mean that you have to maintain the analysis. It is very important to utilise this (measure and know) milk recording and estimated breeding values:

• Genomic testing increases the reliability of figures on estimated breeding values;

• Facilitates choices in the identification of bulls;

• Early identification and elimination of young bulls that may not become promising fertile bulls;

• Genetic progress to increase productivity;

• It also indicates which animals on multiple markers possess strong hereditary properties.

CURRENTLY

The first genomic tests were conducted in 2013 and from 2016 the breed societies have been active in the dairy genomic project (DGP), where funding was made available to select the most reliable animals and influential bulls for analysis. The aim is to establish a reference population and, to get the genomic selection base, it is necessary to test about one thousand animals to be effective.

Please contact the office to participate in the programme or to get further details about this project.

>>> JD Marais

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Judged by Garnet Schellen from Canada(Forever Schoon herd)

On Monday Oct 10th myself and my wife Sheryl left home for a long trip to Cape Town South Africa we arrived on Wednesday at 9am. After some rest, we meet with some breeders for supper in Stellenbosh.

The next day was the heifer show at the Sandringham Agri Expo. The show format was different with the three breeds alternating. It was a strong heifer show with my junior champion coming to the top very easily, on Saturday, she went on to be all breeds junior champion. Friday was a small day with just the intermediate cows to judge but what a day. The classes were filled with real dairy cows with great udders and clean feet and legs. My intermediate champion and reserve were two beautiful Burdettes, owned by Rhodes Food Group. Saturday was the last day for judging with the senior cows and champion to be selected. My senior champions were two big strong cows with lots of openness and depth of ribs, walking on great feet and legs owned by Edmund Els and Walter Finlayson. It was great show with really strong classes and the champions could compete anywhere and place at the top.

On Sunday, we went to Table Mountain and around the water front with JD Marais and Edmund Els, we meet up with Edmund’s daughter Melandri, who joined us for the rest of the week. Monday started with a visit to Rhodes Food Group, with two new modern barns for the milk cows. We saw a lot of cattle there and not a poor one. Later that day we drove to the beautiful town of Hermanus where we spent the afternoon and evening on our own.

The next day we visited two farms Meesuid Ayrshire and Spies brothers. At these two farms, the cows were housed outside grazing on grasses. The cows have to walk a long distance to get to the milking parlours so they have great feet and legs and good production.

Our last night we stayed at the beautiful Arniston resort. The last day on our way back to the airport we stopped at the most southern point of Africa. Sheryl and I had a great visit to South Africa, we met some wonderful people and saw a lot of great cows. We would like thank Barti Volschenk, Jan Wessels and

sANdriNghAM13-15 OCtOBER 2016

Show Results

Dieter Spies for taking the time to show us your farms and cows. Walter Finlayson for the wine, we wish we had taken more home. And most of all a big thanks to JD, Edmund and Melandri for touring us, showing us your beautiful country and the great hospitality. It was a fantastic week.

Thank you for Reeds who sponsored the car for the judge and his wife Garnet and Sheryl Schnell with JD Marais

GRAND CHAMPiON COW - RFF ANITA 102

RESERVE GRAND CHAMPiON - KLEYNRIVIER EMILY

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>>> JD Marais

Wonderful cows and exceptional breeders made sure that another highlight of the SA Ayrshire Breeders’ Society could be recorded. The 100 Year existence of the Ayrshire Society was another unforgettable highlight in the breed’s history. In my involvement of five years with the Society I am privileged to have been part of the World Conference 2012 hosted in SA and the Centennial Celebrations. I believe these two events are probably the most significant highlights we could celebrate and enjoy!

Let me take you through our wonderful event seeing that some guests were unable to attend. The first cows arrived a week prior to the National Championships. A 16 hour drive all the way from the Western Cape had an impact on the show string condition as you might imagine. Over the weekend more cows arrived at the show grounds, from KwaZulu-Natal, Free State and North- West Province, where we had a total of 80 quality animals. On Monday, all the cows had to be there as our international guests and local breeders started arriving on Tuesday. Tom Fenton from the USA, current president of the US Breeders’ Society, was struck by the most common and undesirable problem caused by international travel - his luggage did not arrive at his final destination! Fortunately, we could get hold of his luggage and had it at the hotel before nightfall; it can usually take up to a week (from my own experience).

On Wednesday, our attendance number grew as more local breeders arrived. We had a farm visit in the morning at Franz Homsék where they milk 900 Ayrshires. At the end of 2017 they will have 1 300 Ayrshires in milk production, milking three times a day. After the farm visit, Edmund Els and Jan Wessels took our international guest on a visit to Bagamoya Lodge where they could play with some lion cubs. They enjoyed their afternoon with our two entertaining breeders. Wednesday evening was a very exciting time as we had a Birthday Bash and the opening of

our celebrations. There was a memorable spit braai for dinner and a few awards were handed over with interesting stories from older breeders.

Commemorative certificates were awarded to Ivan Malleson (Life Long Vice-President) and Olené van Vuuren (35 years of service) at the Society’s Centenary Celebrations with a few other breeders who have been active in the Society for many years. We hosted an Elite Sale where Thom Fenton, Gregg Edmonds and I selected a few outstanding animals from breeders that Selwyn Donald could auction and the new owner could show her the following day. The heifers had to be younger than 15 months and all the heifers that participated in the auction were sold at high prices. The highest bid on a young heifer was the last lot where the highest bidder could make his own pick between a 12-month old Platinum heifer (which won her class the next day) or a Predator heifer aged 15 months and already confirmed pregnant by Sandyford Supreme, both animals bred and owned by Edmund Els. Congratulations to Kevin Lang who bought the young Platinum heifer for R26 000.

On Thursday morning, we had our Board meeting. Breeders had to make their final preparations to be ready for the heifer show starting in the late afternoon. We had some stunning heifers with an exciting atmosphere in the show ring which Olené managed; she also organised an Ayrshire booth at our Ayrshire Clubhouse at the Bloemfontein Show Grounds.

Early morning coffee, beverages and snacks were always ready and waiting. Selwyn Donald officiated as a judge; it was moreover his second consecutive National to be judged in South Africa. At the end of the day the Rhodes Food Group (Pty) Ltd won the National Champion heifer and Edmund Els the National Reserve champion.

On Friday, the third and final day, we started early in the morning with the cow judging. We had some really

CELEBRATING THE AYRSHIRE

100 Years

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good quality young cows and we can see the genetic improvement from the early stages, but that takes nothing away from the old ladies that have already proved themselves and are still looking good! The Young Cow Champion was bred and owned by Jawilco Ayrshires, while the Reserve Champion was from Franz Homsek. Kevin Lang set new records, winning the Gold Cup more often than anyone else before and also claimed the fame of having the same cow winning Nationals as Grand Champion twice in succession. Well done, Kevin. Various people told me, “She is one of the best Ayrshire cows I have seen.”

After the exciting show and emotional moments by Selwyn, we all had an opportunity of enjoying an ice- cold beer and getting ready for our Gala dinner at the

Windmill Casino. The dinner was great, but the function with the party was even better; probably as much fun as the one we had at Ilanga Estate during World Conference 2012. The only difference was that this one continued for much longer and everybody wore their dancing shoes. After a long, fun-filled night, we had to say goodbye. The next day some international guests took off with Kevin and joined a trip to Botswana. Thus, the long walk over a 100 Years ended and all the local breeders went on their way home - some with the lovely new champions and some with new owners.

Thank you for all your support! It was a truly great Centennial Celebration; memories were made and friendships were reinforced.

Nationals as Grand Champion twice in succession. Well done, Kevin. Various people told me, “She is one of the best Ayrshire cows I have seen.”

After the exciting show and emotional moments by Selwyn, we all had an opportunity of enjoying an ice- cold beer and getting ready for our Gala dinner at the

breeders went on their way home - some with the lovely new champions and some with new owners.

Thank you for all your support! It was a truly great Centennial Celebration; memories were made and friendships were reinforced.

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GRAND CHAMPiON - GRACE VALLEY REALITY’S HELLBENT - KD Lang

RESERVE HEiFER CHAMPiONTHE RIDGE PREDATOR’S NINAEH Els

RESERVE YOUNG COW CHAMPiON BELLE VASHES EXPRESS 202Anton Homsék Familie Trust

RESERVE SENiOR CHAMPiONGRACE VALLEY BURDETTE’S ORANGEKD Lang

NATiONAL UDDER CHAMPiON - RAIGMORE LANA 275 - Walter Finlayson

CHAMPiON HEiFER - RFF KATY 81 - Rhodes Food Group (Pty) Ltd

YOUNG COW CHAMPiON - JAWILCO ZINY - Jawilco Ayrshire Stoet

NatioNal ChamPioNshiPs 2017NatioNal ChamPioNshiPs 2017

CentenaryBloemfontein – 27 & 28 April 2017 | Judged by Selwyn Donald from New Zealand

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