Guy and Lucy Devenish at Flag Springs, 120km north of Chinchilla, have been enjoying considerable success with the Santa Gertrudis/Shorthorn-cross article they produce for the restocker and feedlot markets.
The 5572ha property which was purchased by Guys’ grandfather Jim Lomas in 1970, is home to close to 1200 breeders and their 600 followers which graze on reasonably developed scrub country leading into hilly granite land which opens onto the flats of the Auburn River.
Guy said Santa bulls are usually put over the crossbred females within the operation, though every decade or so, they cross their breeders with Shorthorn bulls.
“We like to keep about 25 per cent Shorthorn content over the entire herd, as we find the cross with the Santa produces great cropped cattle which have appeal in all market types, and we also retain the benefits of the Santas which are well suited to our country.
Their bulls are put in the paddock from October until the end of March or early April, with the resultant weaners fed on to 200 to 280kgs and sold into the restocker market, while the heavier end of the progeny go into the trade job for the feedlots.
“We’re trying to maintain around a 85 per cent fertility rate, which is another reason why we like adding Shorthorn genetics to the mix.
“To sustain this fertility percentage we’re pretty hard on selection, our maiden heifers may be given a second chance if they’re empty on their first try, but older cows go straight to the works if they aren’t in-calf each year.”
Guy said they’re happy with the direction of the Flag Springs herd at present.
“We’ve had constant demand from restockers and the feedlots for 20 years now so we’re fine there, but we’ll continue to keep and eye on the markets and consider any new opportunities which may arise.”
To keep the herd performing well the Devenishs purchase bulls from studs with country similar to theirs.
“We bought a couple of good bulls from the Fox family, Cooinda, and the Hatton families at Santahat and Diamond H just recently, which have produced some really good lines in our females coming through.
“We appreciate all the studs which continue to improve the bulls they produce for commercial breeders like myself, they’re doing a great job with the breed.”
To diversify their operation and maximise their bottom line, the Devenishs have also opened up Flag Springs as a country retreat for tourists.
“About 10 years ago Lucy had friends stay with us from overseas and they really enjoyed the experience, so we thought why not take it a step further and let others enjoy what we enjoy every day.
“It also made practical sense to us, as when my parents Colin and Joyce retired we had a spare second homestead, so we decided to make use of it instead of letting it fall into disrepair.”
When Guy and Lucy want a breather from looking after the cattle and accommodation operations, they enjoy spending time with their twin daughters Kate and Samantha.
“We do also love a spot of fishing here and there when we have the opportunity,” Guy said with a laugh.