US breeder secures exclusive semen rights for record-breaking Santa
A US breeder has outlaid an undisclosed six-figure sum to purchase the exclusive American semen rights for the current Australian record price Santa Gertrudis bull.
Yarrawonga Spartacus S316 is owned by NIOA Santa Gertrudis (7/8th share) and RL Pastoral Company (1/8th share).
The landmark deal will see Yarrawonga Spartacus' bloodlines incorporated into Texas-based Ellis Pastures' breeding program, owned by Saenger Ellis.
The deal, brokered by NIOA's annual sale strategic partner RL Pastoral Co.'s Rob Sinnamon for an undisclosed six-figure sum, has been described as a game changer for the US Santa Gertrudis industry.
"We are happy to be working with NIOA and RL Pastoral Company on this opportunity," Mr Ellis said.
"Securing genetics from a bull of Spartacus' calibre is a game changer for the US Santa Gertrudis industry.
"His outstanding phenotype, structural correctness, and genetic potential will be a tremendous asset to American breeders looking to enhance their herds."
Spartacus was introduced to the Allora-based NIOA stud's sire battery in November 2022 after NIOA paid an Australian record breed price of $250,000 at the Bassingthwaighte family's Yarrawonga Santa Gertrudis annual sale.
He is the grandson of 2014 Brisbane Ekka Grand Champion Yarrawonga Corvette H730, described by Yarrawonga stud principal Andrew Bassingthwaighte as "without doubt, the best bull that Yarrawonga has produced".
With more than 140 calves on the ground through natural service, artificial insemination, and IVF, his offspring are said to be demonstrating the quality traits their bloodline is renowned for - growth rate, temperament, fertility, consistency and adaptability.
Mr Sinnamon said Spartacus represented the modern-day Santa Gertrudis bull.
"He combines the breed's most desirable characteristics with flawless structure, tremendous volume, and body capacity," he said.
"His genetic potential meets a wide range of market specifications, making him a valuable asset globally. To be selling genetics in an American breed back to American breeders demonstrates just how exceptional this bull is."
"Spartacus has already proven his worth here and we have no doubt his influence will be just as significant in the US," NIOA Santa Gertrudis general manager Shannon Gardner said.
Up to 40 sons of Spartacus are currently being evaluated ahead of the annual NIOA RL Pastoral Sale at Talgai Homestead on September 4.
