A Proven Pathway To Purebred Santa Gertrudis
Grading-up to purebred Santa Gertrudis cattle is a breeding program that has many advantages for the commercial cattleman.
The grading-up program offers numerous advantages for the commercial beef producer. This straightforward breeding program involves using classified Santa Gertrudis bulls on cows of any breed or combination of breeds and retaining the female offspring from four successive top crosses.
The result is a herd eligible to produce animals that can be classified as purebred Santa Gertrudis.
How it works:
Step 1
- Purchase a classified "S" Santa Gertrudis bull. Ensure you receive his pedigree and a copy of the registered transfer form.
- The calves from this bull and your cows will be accepted as first-cross Santa Gertrudis.
- RETAIN FIRST CROSS HEIFERS.
Step 2
- Breed these heifers to another unrelated “S” Santa Gertrudis bull.
- The female offspring from this mating will be accepted as second-cross Santa Gertrudis.
- RETAIN SECOND CROSS HEIFERS.
- Note: second-cross females can also be a reject female from classification or an inspected commercial female from a herd of purebred commercials bred and owned by a new stud member and approved by an Association Field Director.
Step 3
- Breed the second-cross heifers to another “S” bull, producing third-cross Santa Gertrudis.
- These females can then be calf recorded with SGB(A)A and presented for classification to gain “S-“ (S Bar) status.
- RETAIN S BAR HEIFERS.
Step 4
- Mate “S Bar” heifers to an “S” bull. The progeny can be calf recorded with SGB(A)A and presented to a Field Director for possible “S“ classification.
- ACHIEVED CLASSIFIED PUREBRED STATUS.
Advantages for commercial producers:
- The program allows you to operate your herd as a commercial cattle unit while selling crossbred steer calves as usual.
- At the same time, you’ll be adding valuable Santa Gertrudis genetics to your heifers.
- Grading up ensures you retain the advantages of heavier calves at weaning while building a herd of purebred cattle — without needing to purchase purebred females.
Support and resources:
- Contact a nearby purebred breeder or an SGB(A)A Field Director to guide you through the process and ensure compliance with program rules.
- Obtain all required forms and further assistance from the SGB(A)A.
Start your grading-up journey today:
- You must be a member of the Santa Gertrudis Breeders’ (Australia) Association to take part in Grading Up.
- A wide selection of classified Santa Gertrudis bulls is available from breeders across Australia.
- Go the Santa Gertrudis website for a list of members and bull sale dates https://santagertrudis.com.au/
- Let an experienced breeder help you take the first step toward creating a herd of exceptional purebred Santa Gertrudis cattle.
The Breed
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