A husband and wife have traded Bundaberg’s inner-city suburbs for a commercial Square Meater operation on the outskirts of the Rum City.
Michael and Nicole Rechenberg built a global reputation through their company, Rechenberg Security and Locksmiths, before shifting their focus to the agricultural sector after feeling “something was missing.”
“Running a 24/7 operation demands constant availability, leaving little time for relaxation or a deeper connection to the environment. We are always on call, always plugged in,” Michael said.
“It felt like life was passing us by while we focused 100 per cent of our time on the business.”
Thanks to Michael’s previous experience from growing up on his family cattle farm, when the opportunity to purchase a block presented itself, the pair jumped at the idea.
“We thought of it as the perfect way to strike a balance between our busy professional lives and our desire to connect with land,” Nicole said.
“This allows us to nurture both our business and a more fulfilling, sustainable lifestyle.”
Following extensive research, the couple determined that the Square Meater breed was the perfect fit for their property.
The beef is renowned for its tender texture, rich flavour, and excellent marbling, delivering a consistently high-quality, sustainable product which made all more appealing to Michael and Nicole.
Michael said they consider their herd a resounding success and encourage others to consider the breed.
“For those looking to invest in cattle, we highly recommend Square Meaters,” he said.
“They are ideal for smaller properties as we can run more cattle per hectare and have a quick turnover due to their early maturity.
“They have standout qualities of good temperament, naturally polled, easy-handling, medium-framed, easy calving — the list seems to be endless.
“They perform exceptionally well, especially in drought conditions.”
Before they purchased their farm, Nicole said it used to be a small cropping operation for over 30 years.
“Because of this, we basically started with a blank canvas,” she said.
“We decided to use this as an opportunity to build something sustainable and productive from the ground up using regenerative farming.”
Michael and Nicole move their herd every second day, using a cell grazing system to divide paddocks into smaller sections.
By doing this, the practice allows the pasture to recover, preventing overgrazing and promoting deep-root growth.
Thanks to their herd’s Square Meater genetics of efficient grazing, manageable size and calm temperament, Michael and Nicole say the process is easier.
“Square Meaters smaller frame and lighter weight minimise pasture damage, while their grazing efficiency ensures they make the most of available feed,” Michael said.
“Their docile nature simplifies the process of moving the herd every second day, making them perfectly suited to a cell grazing system.”
Although she doesn’t have an immense agricultural background, Nicole believes she has quickly adapted to farm life and has started embracing the challenges and rewards of farming.
“It has certainly been a learning curve for both of us,” Nicole said.
“It really is a completely different environment to what we are used to, but it has been an incredibly rewarding experience.
“We have found invaluable support through the Square Meaters Cattle Association of Australia and regional breeder networks, which provide a wealth of resources, advice, and a strong sense of community to help navigate our agricultural journey.”
Now, Michael and Nicole are ready to take the next step by expanding their operations and beginning to sell their herd to nearby abattoirs and butcheries.
By focusing on the breed’s natural qualities and integrating regenerative farming practices, they strive to produce high-quality, sustainably raised beef.
“We want to ensure that every step, from grazing to processing, reflects our commitment to quality, sustainability, and animal welfare,” Michael said.
Michael explained they aim to offer consumers a premium product that not only supports local agriculture but also fosters a deeper connection to where their food comes from.
For more information head to the Freely Farm Miniature Galloway and Square Meater Cattle Facebook page or email life@freelyfarm.com.au.
Do you want to try this breed in your program? Then chat to Lachlan Howland on 0400 030 222.
