Chris Todd has resigned as general manager of the Santa Gertrudis Breeders (Australia) Association.
Appointed in May 2019, Mr Todd cites membership growth, consistent stud and commercial sales and the breed’s unique classification system that provides a “stamp of approval” on bulls bought as his biggest achievements over the past four years.
“(When I started) we were going backwards in membership so it was nice to turn that around and we’ve been in the black the past three years,” Mr Todd said.
“Classifications are up and that’s one of the things that I love is that people can buy (Santa Gertrudis bulls) knowing the animal will perform.
“I think that allows us to maintain high standards in regards to what’s offered through the system to the domestic and export market.”
Mr Todd “fell in love” with the Santa Gertrudis breed when he first saw the cattle aged 18 in 1977 at a King Ranch sale at “Risdon” Warwick.
“I just fell in love with this magnificent large animal and it’s almost like royalty, I suppose.
“It just had such appeal – size, power and grunt – and presented beautifully.
“And the other thing when I got to know them a bit better, I realised in the processing game you get paid on weight for age and Santas deliver that.
“They’ve also got marbling, they’re an animal that survives well and one that produces quality meat.
“It’s the full package.”
Mr Todd came to the association four years ago with a wealth of experience in the rural industry.
He worked as a stock agent in Queensland towns such as Roma, Blackall, St George, Injune, Dirranbandi and Charleville and held senior roles in the meat processing and feedlot sectors.
He also has strong connections to the big Beef Australia event in Rockhampton, serving as treasurer in 2003 and vice-chairman in 2006.
Previous roles have included Queensland and Northern Rivers livestock manager for Primac Elders Ltd, general manager of livestock procurement at Consolidated Meat Group, general manager of leading feedlotter, Mort and Co and director of rural sales for Colliers International and CSMDG Pty Ltd.
The one role Mr Todd coveted, however, was general manager of the Santa Gertrudis Breeders (Australia) Association.
Mr Todd first applied for the position when Russell Reed resigned 15 years ago. He was unsuccessful then but later succeeded Stephen Ware.
“It’s just been an absolute pleasure dealing with Santa members across Australia, the majority of whom are down-to-earth, good hard working people who are striving to maintain a position within the competitive stud and commercial cattle market within Australia.”
And, what’s next for Chris Todd?
“I’m going to have a couple of months off and get fit again,” he said. “I’ll smell the roses, catch up with grandkids and then wait for things to unfold in the next couple of months.
“No, I’m not going to retire at 64. I enjoy being busy and tackling new challenges.
“But, I leave with the Santa Gertrudis Association with my head high, absolutely, for what we’ve achieved over the past four years.
“It has been a team effort and yes, thankfully, I’ve had a good team.”
Santa Gertrudis president Michael Doering, Walmona, Coolah, NSW released a statement following Mr Todd’s resignation.
It said: “Chris has been a passionate supporter of Santa Gertrudis. His enthusiasm for the breed and its people has seen him travel the length and breadth of the country attending stud sales, field days and Santa-infused commercial sales. His personal visits to members have been warmly welcomed and received.
“Under his leadership, membership has increased, youth camp reinvigorated, promotion intensified and stud sales strong.
“He made it his mission to ensure the best beef was served at field days and took great delight in knowing the queues were always longest to buy a Santa Gertrudis steak burger.
“Special mention must also go to his wife Sandy who has been by his side and a great support to Chris and to the breed.
“We thank them for their contribution to the breed and members.“
