Woulfe’s Ballyclough Aubrac Herd Sets New Standard in Beef Farming

In a remarkable blend of dedication and innovation, Jim and Ann Woulfe have established the Ballyclough Aubrac herd in Mallow, Co. Cork, fulfilling Jim’s long-held aspirations for a small-scale beef enterprise. With a focus on quality and sustainability, the couple has harnessed their extensive experience in the dairy and agri-food sectors to create a breeding program that promises to reshape industry standards in Ireland.

A Vision Realized After Retirement

Jim Woulfe’s journey into beef farming began in earnest following his retirement in December 2021. A University College Cork dairy science graduate, he had devoted over 42 years to various roles in the dairy industry, culminating in his position as chief executive at Dairygold. With a wealth of industry knowledge, Jim’s dream of establishing the Ballyclough Herd became a reality.

“Establishing a small beef herd was always on my bucket list. In 2019, I invested my spare time researching breeds that met crucial criteria for a beef enterprise,” Jim explained. His search focused on key traits including docility, fertility, shapeliness, milky characteristics, calving ease, and longevity, alongside an efficient ability to convert grass to beef.

Jim sought advice from beef specialists at Teagasc, Munster Bovine, and ICBF, ultimately deciding on the Aubrac breed after visiting local herds and engaging with seasoned breeders.

Building the Herd: A Foundation of Excellence

Demonstrating a commitment to quality, the Woulfes selected females from proven cow families to establish their herd, sourcing foundation stock from established herds such as Calverstown, Mountcain, Turloughmore, and Ballinclea. In just four years, the Ballyclough Herd has grown to include 22 cows, 22 calves, ten in-calf heifers, and two maiden heifers. Notably, they have bred the first-ever polled Aubrac bull to enter Irish AI.

The herd is characterized by a rigorous breeding protocol that employs 100% artificial insemination (AI) and synchronization techniques. “This approach gives us a significant advantage in maximizing genetic gain,” Jim noted. Sires used in breeding include renowned names like Dauphin, Dolby, and the newly introduced polled bulls for 2024 including Johnstown Prince and Tyrol.

Genetics and Sustainability: A Forward-Thinking Approach

The Woulfes have integrated progressive practices into their breeding program, instituting a strict culling policy where only females that meet their high standards for docility, fertility, and milking ability remain in the herd. This strategic approach ensures that they produce quality stock tailored to the needs of their clientele, which includes pedigree breeders, dairy farmers, and suckler producers.

The focus on polled genetics began in 2021, and Jim expressed satisfaction with the progress. “We are very pleased with the performance of polled animals. Currently, our leading cow has produced a polled bull calf whose performance exceeded expectations,” he highlighted. The polled Ballyclough Theo Pp, standing at the National Cattle Breeding Centre, is now the highest replacement index bull on the ICBF’s Suckler Beef Gene Ireland Replacement Panel for Autumn 2024.

Technology-Driven Management

At the forefront of sustainable farming, the Ballyclough Herd adopts advanced technology and a data-driven management style. Their comprehensive vaccination program addresses major health risks, and tools like the Farm Ops App help them monitor animal health and performance.

Regular soil, silage, and grass analyses inform their fertilization and feed strategies, aiming to optimize both yield and efficiency. “This level of information allows us to make appropriate breeding decisions based on our goals,” Jim explained. Utilizing a rotational grazing system, they ensure that animals receive fresh pasture weekly while also prioritizing sustainability with a heavy reliance on protected urea/nitrogen and low-emission slurry spreading.

Community Engagement and Educational Outreach

Recently, the Woulfes welcomed members of the Irish Aubrac Cattle Society to their farm for an educational open day. Experts including Dr. Doreen Corridan, CEO of NCBC, and Dr. Niamh Larkin from Buttevant Veterinary Clinic shared insights on the evolving landscape of beef farming, enriching the experience for local farmers and enthusiasts.

As Jim summed it up, “An Aubrac is a profitable animal without hardship and unnecessary risk. Their docility, calving ease, high fertility, and excellent feed conversion traits truly fulfill our beef farming requirements.”

Jim and Ann Woulfe’s journey through the establishment of the Ballyclough Herd serves as an inspiring model for farmers seeking a sustainable and profitable approach to beef production. As they continue to innovate and engage with the community, the Woulfes are poised to make an even greater impact on the industry.

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