Cootamundra's Bush family celebrates 60 years at Wodonga Hereford Nationals

Few names are as tightly woven into the fabric of the Hereford National Show and Sale as the Bush family, Kirraweena and Glenholme Hereford studs, Cootamundra, who will celebrate 60 years in the ring this year.

Having exhibited at every show and sale since its inception in 1965, co-principal Geoff Bush said the journey has been an honour.

"Kirraweena was started by my father [Fred Bush] over 70 odd years ago, and the sale itself began as a herd improving sale led mainly by the Roche brothers from Tumbarumba," Mr Bush said.

"They [invited] my father, who was already selling bulls at Sydney, which was the big sale then, and we've been there ever since."

Mr Bush said the event had long been an essential platform for showcasing Hereford bulls, particularly in Victoria.

"We took two or three bulls to start with, but that built up to about five before we had our first sale in 2003," he said.

"That dropped us down to one or two bulls, but 10 years ago, when it was our 50th year, we decided to take five bulls, which we have maintained each year since."

The Bush family will be the largest NSW-based exhibitor this year, with seven bulls set to go under the hammer in May.

"We aim to breed something that will finish well off grass but still have plenty of weight with traits suitable to every market," he said.

"We're very pleased with these bulls and we're confident that they'll go out, do a good job, and continue that aspect of the very first sale."

Over the decades, Kirraweena and Glenholme bulls have sold to buyers from Vic, NSW, South Australia and Tasmania.

"With a large range of buyers from various areas,it's a must-attend annual event that also acts as a catch-up for breeders, " Mr Bush said.

"While we've never won the grand champion [broad ribbon], we've claimed most successful exhibitor a few times."

Although the event has seen its share of challenges, Mr Bush said it's always worth the trip.

"If you sell a good bull in a tough year for a bit less money, it's not the worst outcome because if he performs well, there's a good chance that buyer will come back again," he said.

With his children Jack, Sam and Cassie now heavily involved, Mr Bush said watching the third generation step into the ring had been special.

"They're attracting new buyers, and on top of that, we're also seeing the third generation of buyers come through, which is just as rewarding," he said.

And as for the future? Mr Bush said they're already making plans to celebrate their 70th year in the ring.