Rare Brahman genetic auction raises thousands for childhood cancer research
The Cattle for a Cure Brahman genetics auction raised thousands of dollars for childhood cancer research, drawing strong support from Brahman community.
The Kirk family of Hazelton Brahmans established the Cattle for a Cure semen auction.
The cause holds deep significance for Stuart and Taylor Kirk whose daughter, Lily, who was diagnosed with Infantile Sarcoma after they noticed a lump under her eye.
Initially diagnosed as a blocked tear duct, the family sought a second opinion, which led them to the oncology department at the Royal Children's Hospital in Brisbane.
They faced an uncertain period, knowing it was cancer but unsure of the type, with potential outcomes being fatal.
Fortunately, their daughter's cancer was a rare but treatable strain, and a recent scan shows significant progress with the lump shrinking from the size of a golf ball to about seven millimetres.
In response to their experience, the Kirk family wanted to give back.
Among the offerings in the charity auction were straws of semen from 2AM Beef Wood 7955, a son of Clukan Boabab, the $100,000 Elrose Exception 19519, Muan A Mitchum 3693, Be Os Finegan Manso, Hazelton B X Factor 4242, Cambil Neptune 6322, Jaffra Maximus 5129, JDH Lord Hershey and JDH Data Bank.
Each package included two straws and two registrations for every bull. Additional registrations will be available for $150, with that fee also going directly to the charity.
The charity auction concluded last Friday with $34,000 raised for the Children's Cancer Institute
Ms Kirk expressed gratitude for the overwhelming response.
"We have been very overwhelmed and shocked with the support we have received. We never expected to receive this amount of money from the auction," she said.
Callan Solari was the top bidder across the auction, purchasing the 2 AM Beefwood two straw package for $4600.
Plans are already underway for a future all-breeds auction, with breeders eager to contribute semen packages.
"We've been inundated with breeders wanting to donate semen, and we're excited to keep the momentum going," Ms Kirk said.
Hazelton Brahmans also thanked the studs who contributed to the auction, including Ahern Brahmans, Carinya Brahmans, Palmal Brahmans & Brangus, Garglen Brahman Company, Danarla Brahmans, Rockley Brahmans, Elmo Brahmans, Hardacre Brahmans, Ruan Grazing, Tango Brahmans, Gipsy Plains Brahmans, and Turnbuckle Brahmans.
Children's Cancer Institute is the only independent medical research institute in Australia solely dedicated to curing childhood cancer in children.
Approximately 86 kids are diagnosed every month in Australia with cancer, and three children die per week.
In March, Taylor is walking 172km for the 86 kids diagnosed with cancer every month.
Donations are also welcome for those who may not be able to participate in the auction, allowing everyone to contribute to this vital cause.
"We were the lucky ones. Our daughter's cancer is treatable, and we're sharing this auction as a way to give back to those who might not be as fortunate," Mr Kirk said.
"We hope the community will get behind this charity and help make a difference for children fighting cancer."
