High-grade Angus bulls

The cow herd that produces some of the top Carabar Angus bulls. (Supplied)

The countdown is on for the ninth annual Carabar Bull Sale, with 79 high-grade Angus bulls set to go under the hammer at Meandarra.

Darren Hegarty, principal of Carabar Angus, has spent years refining his herd for temperament, fat cover, longevity and the ability to travel long distances — traits that continue to attract loyal buyers from across western Queensland.

“All of our stud cattle have undergone HD50K genomic testing via Zoetis and have been sire or parent verified,” Mr Hegarty said. “We’ve been running this program for seven years now and the longevity of our bulls is a big factor in our clients’ interest.”

Mr Hegarty noted that the program has allowed Carabar Angus to facilitate multi-sire joinings while still verifying all progeny — a combination that strengthens genetic confidence for buyers.

This year’s catalogue features 56 U bulls and 23 younger V bulls, with 26 specifically suitable for safe joining to heifers. A diverse selection of sires have contributed to the sale team’s strong genetics.

Leading the line-up is Lot 1 U251, sired by Esslemont Lotto L3, out of H180 — a daughter of Te Mania Berkley B1 and one of Carabar’s most outstanding donor cows. H180 is also the dam of a $110,000 sale-topper in previous years. Lot 3 is a full brother to H180, while another standout donor, N44, is the dam of Lot 57.

Kicking off the V bulls is Carabar Versatile V80, by Carabar Gunsmoke G53, a promising stud sire prospect.

The sale will be conducted through GDL and Elders, with the catalogue available from mid-August via mail, the Carabar Angus Facebook page and the Carabar Angus website.

Bulls can be inspected prior to the sale by appointment, with enquiries directed to Darren Hegarty on (07) 4665 6164, 0428 748 542 or via email at carabarangus1@bigpond.com.