WEBVTT 00:00:10.450 --> 00:00:13.250 Welcome to the Bullvine Podcast, where we dig 00:00:13.250 --> 00:00:15.589 deep into the stories shaping dairy's future. 00:00:15.890 --> 00:00:18.730 Today, we're stepping into the elite world of 00:00:18.730 --> 00:00:22.910 Canada's 2024 Holstein Master Breeders, 19 visionary 00:00:22.910 --> 00:00:26.010 farms rewriting the rules of genetic excellence. 00:00:26.829 --> 00:00:29.989 From Quebec's genomic pioneers to Ontario's multi 00:00:29.989 --> 00:00:33.070 -generational dynasties, these breeders are mastering 00:00:33.070 --> 00:00:35.729 the art of balance. High milk yields, flawless 00:00:35.729 --> 00:00:38.469 conformation, and cows that thrive for years. 00:00:38.770 --> 00:00:41.350 Ever wondered how a cow named Allegria produced 00:00:41.350 --> 00:00:44.869 over 100 ,000 kilograms of milk? Or what four 00:00:44.869 --> 00:00:47.390 master breeder shields in a single family really 00:00:47.390 --> 00:00:50.789 means? We're breaking down the strategies, legacies, 00:00:50.789 --> 00:00:54.009 and innovations behind this year's most prestigious 00:00:54.009 --> 00:00:57.719 honor. Let's dive in. Welcome to the Deep Dive. 00:00:57.920 --> 00:01:00.500 Today, we're really digging into something special. 00:01:00.719 --> 00:01:04.959 Not just an award, but what's behind it? Decades 00:01:04.959 --> 00:01:06.560 of work. That's right. We're talking about the 00:01:06.560 --> 00:01:10.120 2024 Holstein Canada Master Breeders. Exactly. 00:01:10.540 --> 00:01:13.420 It represents, well, the absolute pinnacle of 00:01:13.420 --> 00:01:15.799 achievement in Canadian dairy genetics, doesn't 00:01:15.799 --> 00:01:17.640 it? It really does. That Master Breeder shield. 00:01:18.700 --> 00:01:21.420 It's the ultimate recognition. It signifies that 00:01:21.420 --> 00:01:24.060 lifelong pursuit, that dedication to breeding 00:01:24.060 --> 00:01:26.859 truly exceptional cattle, you know, the perfect 00:01:26.859 --> 00:01:29.959 blend. Production, confirmation that lasts, health, 00:01:30.120 --> 00:01:33.519 fertility. And longevity. That crucial piece 00:01:33.519 --> 00:01:35.739 for profitability. Absolutely. Think about it. 00:01:35.739 --> 00:01:38.879 Since 1929, this award, it's been the gold standard. 00:01:39.060 --> 00:01:41.659 A long time. A real testament to breeders who've 00:01:41.659 --> 00:01:44.799 mastered the science, but also have that intuition, 00:01:45.200 --> 00:01:47.599 that eye for cows that work. Productive and built 00:01:47.599 --> 00:01:49.640 to last no matter the system. And this year's 00:01:49.640 --> 00:01:52.319 group, the 19 recipients, they really embody 00:01:52.319 --> 00:01:55.260 that mix, that art and science. 19 outstanding 00:01:55.260 --> 00:01:57.819 farms. And look at the spread. Four provinces. 00:01:58.000 --> 00:02:00.760 Quebec leading the way with nine. Ontario close 00:02:00.760 --> 00:02:03.799 behind with eight and then Saskatchewan and British 00:02:03.799 --> 00:02:06.819 Columbia each with one winner. A truly nationwide 00:02:06.819 --> 00:02:09.300 showcase. What really jumps out though is the 00:02:09.300 --> 00:02:12.319 variety, the types of operations. Yeah, you see 00:02:12.319 --> 00:02:14.740 everything. Traditional tie stalls where that 00:02:14.740 --> 00:02:17.860 individual cow care is just meticulous. All the 00:02:17.860 --> 00:02:19.659 way to, you know, state -of -the -art robotic 00:02:19.659 --> 00:02:22.460 setups leveraging all the latest tech. Plus you've 00:02:22.460 --> 00:02:25.000 got multi -generational legacies right alongside 00:02:25.000 --> 00:02:28.319 farms that are... relatively speaking, newer 00:02:28.319 --> 00:02:30.800 success stories. It really drives home the point, 00:02:30.879 --> 00:02:33.199 doesn't it? Excellence isn't confined to one 00:02:33.199 --> 00:02:36.319 kind of barn or one scale of operation. Such 00:02:36.319 --> 00:02:38.979 a vital point. It shows that those core principles, 00:02:39.219 --> 00:02:42.020 sound genetics, smart management, they work everywhere. 00:02:42.240 --> 00:02:44.120 It's about knowing your goals, using your resources 00:02:44.120 --> 00:02:46.120 effectively. And making those informed choices 00:02:46.120 --> 00:02:48.539 with your genetics. Absolutely. The mix of experience 00:02:48.539 --> 00:02:51.639 levels is fascinating too. 13 first -time winners. 00:02:51.879 --> 00:02:54.479 That's fantastic news, right? Shows real innovation, 00:02:54.780 --> 00:02:57.939 new talent rising. But then you also have five 00:02:57.939 --> 00:03:00.719 farms getting their second shield. That's sustained 00:03:00.719 --> 00:03:04.060 excellence. Building on past success. And then 00:03:04.060 --> 00:03:08.199 quality Holsteins and Heather Holm achieving 00:03:08.199 --> 00:03:11.500 their fourth shield. That's just extraordinary. 00:03:11.879 --> 00:03:13.979 Incredible consistency. It paints this picture 00:03:13.979 --> 00:03:17.000 of an industry that's, well, rooted in tradition 00:03:17.000 --> 00:03:19.259 but always pushing forward. Those repeat wins 00:03:19.259 --> 00:03:21.580 really show it's not a one -off thing, is it? 00:03:21.599 --> 00:03:24.539 Not at all. It takes continuous commitment, adapting, 00:03:24.780 --> 00:03:27.259 staying at that high level year after year. And 00:03:27.259 --> 00:03:30.400 for the first timers, what a validation, a huge 00:03:30.400 --> 00:03:33.960 nod to their vision and hard work. Exactly. So 00:03:33.960 --> 00:03:36.060 for everyone listening, whether you're managing 00:03:36.060 --> 00:03:38.360 a herd day to day or you're involved in the wider 00:03:38.360 --> 00:03:41.919 industry, our mission today is to sort of unpack 00:03:41.919 --> 00:03:44.539 what makes these 19 breeders tick. We want to 00:03:44.539 --> 00:03:46.360 find those common threads, maybe some unique 00:03:46.360 --> 00:03:48.259 tactics. And hopefully provide some valuable 00:03:48.259 --> 00:03:51.080 insights, maybe those aha moments you can think 00:03:51.080 --> 00:03:53.219 about for your own operation or breeding program. 00:03:53.439 --> 00:03:55.680 Okay, let's dive in. Starting in Quebec, nine 00:03:55.680 --> 00:03:58.400 winners there. A really strong showing. And a 00:03:58.400 --> 00:04:00.780 theme seems to emerge, doesn't it? A dedication 00:04:00.780 --> 00:04:04.719 to health and fundamentally sound genetics. Yes, 00:04:04.759 --> 00:04:07.180 and often leveraging genomics pretty effectively 00:04:07.180 --> 00:04:09.719 combined with just really sharp management. That's 00:04:09.719 --> 00:04:13.210 a keen observation. Kwebit breeders often seem 00:04:13.210 --> 00:04:16.029 to grasp that long -term value. It's not just 00:04:16.029 --> 00:04:18.329 about the milk check today. Healthy, robust animals 00:04:18.329 --> 00:04:20.949 that thrive. And using genomics lets them zero 00:04:20.949 --> 00:04:22.949 in on traits for productivity and sustainability. 00:04:23.269 --> 00:04:26.829 Yeah. Disease resistance, fertility, things like 00:04:26.829 --> 00:04:29.209 that. Good example, rotali, their second shield. 00:04:29.660 --> 00:04:31.300 And you can't talk about them without mentioning 00:04:31.300 --> 00:04:35.660 Rodalee Goldwyn -Alegria EX96 5E5. What a cow. 00:04:35.879 --> 00:04:39.100 Truly legendary. 2024 cow of the year. Over 103 00:04:39.100 --> 00:04:43.920 ,500 kilos lifetime milk, EX96 type, 97 point 00:04:43.920 --> 00:04:46.319 udder. I mean, wow. She perfectly shows their 00:04:46.319 --> 00:04:47.860 philosophy, right? You don't have to sacrifice 00:04:47.860 --> 00:04:50.319 type for production. They found that balance. 00:04:50.540 --> 00:04:53.000 Alegria is that balance. High production, but 00:04:53.000 --> 00:04:54.860 the structure holds up. And she passes it on. 00:04:55.100 --> 00:04:57.639 that intergenerational influence, that's the 00:04:57.639 --> 00:04:59.699 mark of a great breeding program. Makes you think, 00:04:59.779 --> 00:05:01.720 doesn't it? What traits are key for building 00:05:01.720 --> 00:05:04.180 that lasting influence in your own herd? Then 00:05:04.180 --> 00:05:06.699 there's Kweisi, also their second shield, the 00:05:06.699 --> 00:05:09.259 Roy family. Started with just six cows back in 00:05:09.259 --> 00:05:12.060 87. Meticulously built on exceptional cow care. 00:05:12.220 --> 00:05:15.300 Their focus is longevity, cow families that get 00:05:15.300 --> 00:05:17.459 better with age. They prioritize confirmation, 00:05:17.660 --> 00:05:20.060 but they're strategic about health traits too. 00:05:20.199 --> 00:05:23.100 Again, that holistic view. You really can't overstate 00:05:23.100 --> 00:05:25.220 the importance they place on care and longevity. 00:05:25.699 --> 00:05:28.980 Cows lasting longer. That's just more profitable. 00:05:29.240 --> 00:05:31.939 And more chances to use those superior genetics. 00:05:32.319 --> 00:05:34.660 Exactly. It shows how fundamental good husbandry 00:05:34.660 --> 00:05:37.079 is. It supports everything else. Now, Belfow. 00:05:37.220 --> 00:05:40.079 That's an inspiring one. First shield, and they 00:05:40.079 --> 00:05:42.839 started from scratch in 2006. A relatively quick 00:05:42.839 --> 00:05:46.220 rise. The Hudon family, deeply involved. Calf 00:05:46.220 --> 00:05:49.759 care, paperwork, milking. Shows what dedication 00:05:49.759 --> 00:05:53.029 and clear goals can do. And their son, Theo, 00:05:53.269 --> 00:05:56.269 already interested in classification. That speaks 00:05:56.269 --> 00:05:58.750 volumes. Yeah, that passion is being passed down. 00:05:58.829 --> 00:06:00.970 Likely ensures excellence for the future. It 00:06:00.970 --> 00:06:03.069 really demonstrates how focus and commitment 00:06:03.069 --> 00:06:06.129 can fast track you to elite status, even starting 00:06:06.129 --> 00:06:08.649 more recently. Me back another first timer. Their 00:06:08.649 --> 00:06:10.870 story highlights persistence, doesn't it? Simon 00:06:10.870 --> 00:06:13.600 Menard, Yvonne Becker. Yeah. Consistently producing 00:06:13.600 --> 00:06:15.279 those high -classifying animals. You see their 00:06:15.279 --> 00:06:17.319 names often in the classification reports. Lots 00:06:17.319 --> 00:06:20.540 of EX and VG cows. It's that long -term commitment, 00:06:20.680 --> 00:06:23.980 that steady focus on quality over years that 00:06:23.980 --> 00:06:26.480 earns this kind of recognition. It's a marathon, 00:06:26.620 --> 00:06:28.920 like you said earlier, not a sprint. Accumulating 00:06:28.920 --> 00:06:30.959 those good decisions. Precisely. Ben Galand. 00:06:31.480 --> 00:06:34.180 Third generation farm. Benoit Gosselin, Katie 00:06:34.180 --> 00:06:37.620 Boutin. Yeah. Milking around 70 cows. So moderate 00:06:37.620 --> 00:06:40.160 scale. But consistently ranking high in Holstein 00:06:40.160 --> 00:06:42.680 -Quebec's on neuromerit production and classification. 00:06:43.100 --> 00:06:45.740 Shows you don't need massive scale to reach elite 00:06:45.740 --> 00:06:48.540 status. It's about the intensity of focus, the 00:06:48.540 --> 00:06:50.680 clarity of your goals, and how will you execute 00:06:50.680 --> 00:06:54.279 that genetic plan. Their rankings prove it. Sardigan, 00:06:54.399 --> 00:06:57.459 first shield. Their strength seems to be exceptional 00:06:57.459 --> 00:07:00.879 overall herd management. Their rankings in Lactinus 00:07:00.879 --> 00:07:03.560 Herd Performance Index, the HPI, really stand 00:07:03.560 --> 00:07:06.379 out. Number two in Canada back in 2018. Across 00:07:06.379 --> 00:07:09.199 everything, milk value, udder health, longevity, 00:07:09.519 --> 00:07:11.639 calving interval. It shows a really comprehensive 00:07:11.639 --> 00:07:14.019 commitment to all the drivers of balance breeding 00:07:14.019 --> 00:07:16.740 and profit. For listeners, it really highlights 00:07:16.740 --> 00:07:18.959 using those kinds of metrics, right? Tracking 00:07:18.959 --> 00:07:22.079 that performance data. Absolutely. Sardigan's 00:07:22.079 --> 00:07:25.139 success with HPI shows the power of a data -driven 00:07:25.139 --> 00:07:29.259 approach. It's holistic, strategic, understanding 00:07:29.259 --> 00:07:31.699 how everything connects. Flea Olay from the Portneuf 00:07:31.699 --> 00:07:33.879 Club. They seem to fit that Quebec pattern too. 00:07:34.079 --> 00:07:36.540 Leveraging genomics, making informed decisions 00:07:36.540 --> 00:07:39.379 for health and genetic potential. It seems like 00:07:39.379 --> 00:07:41.819 a cornerstone strategy in the province. Yeah, 00:07:41.819 --> 00:07:44.620 the strong showing from Quebec and that consistent 00:07:44.620 --> 00:07:48.019 emphasis on genomics. It points to a really proactive, 00:07:48.180 --> 00:07:50.540 forward -thinking approach to genetic improvement, 00:07:50.800 --> 00:07:54.199 especially on those crucial health traits. Drahoka's 00:07:54.199 --> 00:07:56.839 story is really something. First shield and number 00:07:56.839 --> 00:08:00.360 one in Canada for HPI in 2023. Remarkable achievement. 00:08:00.720 --> 00:08:02.819 Their philosophy is pretty straightforward. Lots 00:08:02.819 --> 00:08:05.439 of milk and beautiful cows and boy bomb. Capture 00:08:05.439 --> 00:08:07.589 that balance perfectly. And they credit a specific 00:08:07.589 --> 00:08:10.370 management change, a bedded pack for dry cows 00:08:10.370 --> 00:08:12.449 with big improvements. Better health, easier 00:08:12.449 --> 00:08:15.269 calving, longevity. Which directly feeds into 00:08:15.269 --> 00:08:18.430 both their HPI rank and this Master Breeder Award. 00:08:18.569 --> 00:08:20.910 Shows how management and breeding success link 00:08:20.910 --> 00:08:24.250 up. It's a perfect example of synergy. That investment 00:08:24.250 --> 00:08:26.790 wasn't just comfort. It had tangible benefits 00:08:26.790 --> 00:08:29.490 for performance, unlocking genetic potential. 00:08:29.949 --> 00:08:33.200 Okay, last one for Quebec. Lactamont. Their second 00:08:33.200 --> 00:08:36.399 shield. The first was way back in 2003. Incredible 00:08:36.399 --> 00:08:39.320 continuity. Sixth generation now. Established 00:08:39.320 --> 00:08:42.639 in 1900. And they've recently modernized Freestall 00:08:42.639 --> 00:08:45.769 robots. But still respecting that foundation. 00:08:46.149 --> 00:08:48.950 Fanois and Ghislaine Montpetit. Yeah. Adapting 00:08:48.950 --> 00:08:51.649 while staying true to core principles. Strong 00:08:51.649 --> 00:08:54.070 genetics. Focusing on their best animals. The 00:08:54.070 --> 00:08:56.309 timing being bittersweet. Acknowledging the parents' 00:08:56.429 --> 00:08:58.110 work. That really highlights the generational 00:08:58.110 --> 00:09:00.809 effort. Lactamon's story -long history. Embracing 00:09:00.809 --> 00:09:03.710 technology. Honoring legacy. It's a powerful 00:09:03.710 --> 00:09:07.009 narrative of sustainable success. Evolving while 00:09:07.009 --> 00:09:09.029 keeping that focus on genetic excellence. Right. 00:09:09.090 --> 00:09:12.049 Let's shift gears. Ontario. Eight master breeders 00:09:12.049 --> 00:09:15.019 here. A different flavor maybe? but equally impressive. 00:09:15.240 --> 00:09:17.860 The emphasis seems to be on high milk production, 00:09:18.220 --> 00:09:21.960 strong, durable cows, classic type good reproduction, 00:09:22.139 --> 00:09:25.100 and again, that exceptional longevity. Ontario 00:09:25.100 --> 00:09:27.460 definitely has that long history of breeding 00:09:27.460 --> 00:09:30.659 high -performing, well -conformed Holsteins. 00:09:30.759 --> 00:09:32.879 These winners are prime examples. And leading 00:09:32.879 --> 00:09:35.580 the charge? Well, it has to be quality Holsteins, 00:09:35.580 --> 00:09:38.860 their fourth master breeder shield. Unprecedented. 00:09:38.860 --> 00:09:40.980 It's truly a dynasty. Paul Eckstein, now with 00:09:40.980 --> 00:09:43.740 his son Ari. The quality prefix is known worldwide 00:09:43.740 --> 00:09:47.259 for elite type. Show ring dominance. Paul Eckstein's 00:09:47.259 --> 00:09:49.559 philosophy sticks with you. Attention to every 00:09:49.559 --> 00:09:52.220 minor detail can lead to major success. You see 00:09:52.220 --> 00:09:54.779 it in their results. Four shields. It's incredibly 00:09:54.779 --> 00:09:57.620 rare. Decades of commitment to the absolute highest 00:09:57.620 --> 00:10:00.019 standards. That meticulous approach matters. 00:10:00.299 --> 00:10:02.379 And their influence through families like Plushansky, 00:10:02.440 --> 00:10:05.789 Valiant, Frankis. Undeniable. Just huge. Think 00:10:05.789 --> 00:10:09.889 of cows like Quality BC Francisco EX96, Quality 00:10:09.889 --> 00:10:13.750 Carlton Pan EX97. Plus, what, nearly 300 excellent 00:10:13.750 --> 00:10:16.250 cows bred, eight All -Canadian Breeders Herd 00:10:16.250 --> 00:10:18.470 titles. McCown Master Breeder Award for Paul, 00:10:18.590 --> 00:10:20.470 Canadian Ag Hall of Fame. The list goes on. A 00:10:20.470 --> 00:10:22.389 global powerhouse, no question. And matching 00:10:22.389 --> 00:10:24.269 that incredible four -shield achievement, Heather 00:10:24.269 --> 00:10:26.870 Holm. Another multi -generational story, roots 00:10:26.870 --> 00:10:29.870 back in the 1930s. Third generation now, Curtis 00:10:29.870 --> 00:10:32.470 McNeil and family. The consistency is remarkable. 00:10:33.149 --> 00:10:36.350 And their herdsman, Greg Segan, 43 years. That 00:10:36.350 --> 00:10:38.970 speaks volumes about stability, shared vision, 00:10:39.070 --> 00:10:41.450 doesn't it? Absolutely. Heather Holm's success 00:10:41.450 --> 00:10:44.549 comes from a clear philosophy adhered to rigorously 00:10:44.549 --> 00:10:47.649 across generations. Functional traits. Their 00:10:47.649 --> 00:10:50.549 motto, breeding the kind dairymen like to milk 00:10:50.549 --> 00:10:54.309 worldwide. So practical. Utters, feet and legs, 00:10:54.470 --> 00:10:56.809 high components, good milk volume. Things that 00:10:56.809 --> 00:10:59.169 work. And they were Canada's first certified 00:10:59.169 --> 00:11:02.029 leucosis -free herd, too. Shows that focus on 00:11:02.029 --> 00:11:04.450 health. Foundational to success, their approach 00:11:04.450 --> 00:11:06.730 mirrors the grandfather's, balancing milk and 00:11:06.730 --> 00:11:10.230 type. And it's worked. Over 130 EX cows, high 00:11:10.230 --> 00:11:12.870 production averages, a testament to that long 00:11:12.870 --> 00:11:15.809 -term, consistent vision. Exactly. Understanding 00:11:15.809 --> 00:11:18.149 the end user, the commercial dairyman and breeding 00:11:18.149 --> 00:11:20.830 cattle that meet those practical needs. That's 00:11:20.830 --> 00:11:23.190 driven their success. Great crest. Second shield, 00:11:23.289 --> 00:11:25.009 they show you don't need the biggest, newest 00:11:25.009 --> 00:11:27.950 setup, right? Smoking 50 cows? Tie stall. Focus 00:11:27.950 --> 00:11:29.610 on good stewardship, looking after the little 00:11:29.610 --> 00:11:32.590 things. Dan Erb learned from his parents, purebred 00:11:32.590 --> 00:11:35.490 since 71. And they've bred over 100 excellent 00:11:35.490 --> 00:11:38.190 cows doing it that way. It powerfully underscores 00:11:38.190 --> 00:11:40.710 the dedicated husbandry and consistent breeding 00:11:40.710 --> 00:11:43.450 decisions are paramount, whatever the scale. 00:11:43.629 --> 00:11:45.830 Really inspiring. Shows core principles are key. 00:11:46.049 --> 00:11:48.509 Kentville Holsteins, also their second shield. 00:11:48.940 --> 00:11:51.740 part of that incredible Magriscan Holstein dynasty. 00:11:51.980 --> 00:11:54.460 Ten master breeder shields in the extended family. 00:11:54.539 --> 00:11:56.480 That's amazing. And they were recognized just 00:11:56.480 --> 00:11:59.240 last year for 100 consecutive years of registering 00:11:59.240 --> 00:12:02.019 Holsteins. Wow. That passion for great cattle 00:12:02.019 --> 00:12:05.299 is just deeply ingrained, passed down generation 00:12:05.299 --> 00:12:07.919 after generation. That shared knowledge, those 00:12:07.919 --> 00:12:10.879 family values centered on the cattle. It creates 00:12:10.879 --> 00:12:12.860 such a... powerful environment for sustained 00:12:12.860 --> 00:12:15.240 excellence. Cherry crest, their third shield. 00:12:15.480 --> 00:12:18.679 And this is despite three complete herd dispersals 00:12:18.679 --> 00:12:21.600 over the years. Incredible resilience. Don Johnston, 00:12:21.720 --> 00:12:24.220 Nancy Beerwart, now son Kevin, and wife Tammy 00:12:24.220 --> 00:12:27.240 take in the lead. Milking about 135 cows, their 00:12:27.240 --> 00:12:30.320 philosophy, animal well -being first, balanced 00:12:30.320 --> 00:12:33.000 breeding, community involvement. Don Johnston 00:12:33.000 --> 00:12:34.820 talks about the satisfaction of validating the 00:12:34.820 --> 00:12:37.379 right decisions. It shows an exceptional ability 00:12:37.379 --> 00:12:40.179 to spot superior genetics. Rebuild effectively. 00:12:40.559 --> 00:12:42.980 Apply that winning strategy again and again. 00:12:43.299 --> 00:12:46.120 Truly remarkable. To hit that level three times 00:12:46.120 --> 00:12:49.120 with those disruptions speaks to a deep understanding 00:12:49.120 --> 00:12:51.679 of the cow and sound principles. O 'Connor's 00:12:51.679 --> 00:12:54.200 first shield, and this is after dispersing a 00:12:54.200 --> 00:12:56.539 milking herd, shows the lasting impact of genetics, 00:12:56.740 --> 00:12:59.320 doesn't it? The award recognizes the cumulative 00:12:59.320 --> 00:13:01.580 performance of cows with the O 'Connor's prefix. 00:13:02.000 --> 00:13:04.840 Key contributor, the O 'Connor's Planet Lucia 00:13:04.840 --> 00:13:08.149 family. Included Canada's hashtag one genomic 00:13:08.149 --> 00:13:11.169 cow in 2013. High type, high production. And 00:13:11.169 --> 00:13:13.509 their pride in seeing those cows thrive in other 00:13:13.509 --> 00:13:16.090 herds. That's a real testament to their breeding 00:13:16.090 --> 00:13:18.809 legacy. It's a potent reminder, isn't it? A good 00:13:18.809 --> 00:13:21.350 breeding program's impact goes beyond your own 00:13:21.350 --> 00:13:23.990 farm gate. The Lucia family highlights finding 00:13:23.990 --> 00:13:26.330 those individuals with real breed -influencing 00:13:26.330 --> 00:13:29.210 genetic merit. Aveline, first -timer. Said before 00:13:29.210 --> 00:13:32.490 cows, tie stall. Their focus, longevity. They 00:13:32.490 --> 00:13:34.330 see later lactations as the most profitable. 00:13:34.669 --> 00:13:36.750 Makes sense. And their foundation cow, Avaline 00:13:36.750 --> 00:13:40.009 Master Amanda EX93, descended from a barnyard 00:13:40.009 --> 00:13:42.769 bull. Yet she became hugely influential. Shows 00:13:42.769 --> 00:13:44.450 exceptional female lines and breeder judgment 00:13:44.450 --> 00:13:46.710 can come from unexpected places. It's a great 00:13:46.710 --> 00:13:48.690 reminder you don't always need the most famous 00:13:48.690 --> 00:13:51.490 pedigree to breed great cattle. Absolutely. It's 00:13:51.490 --> 00:13:53.389 about identifying and developing those strong 00:13:53.389 --> 00:13:56.070 maternal lines wherever they start. Their focus 00:13:56.070 --> 00:13:58.970 on longevity is smart and practical too. And 00:13:58.970 --> 00:14:02.629 rounding out Ontario, Dutchdale Farms First Shield. 00:14:03.240 --> 00:14:05.580 Adds to the strength of the Huron County Holstein 00:14:05.580 --> 00:14:08.080 Club. Their success reflects those Ontario themes. 00:14:08.480 --> 00:14:11.179 High production, durable type, good reproduction, 00:14:11.500 --> 00:14:13.820 longevity. Solidifies that breeding expertise 00:14:13.820 --> 00:14:16.779 in the Huron region. Definitely. Huron County 00:14:16.779 --> 00:14:19.860 is a real hub for quality Holsteins. Okay, let's 00:14:19.860 --> 00:14:23.000 head west. Saskatchewan first. Mill and Roy Holsteins. 00:14:23.139 --> 00:14:25.940 A first shield and a real milestone for the prairies. 00:14:26.360 --> 00:14:28.919 Lyle Pretty, second generation. Prefix established 00:14:28.919 --> 00:14:32.100 by his parents, Roy and Mildred. Family homestead 00:14:32.100 --> 00:14:34.379 since 1900. Talk about resilience adaptation. 00:14:34.840 --> 00:14:37.879 Post -WWII cream shipping, early electricity, 00:14:38.159 --> 00:14:41.059 purebreds in the 50s, showing since 51. It's 00:14:41.059 --> 00:14:43.340 that enduring passion and love for dairy cattle. 00:14:43.519 --> 00:14:47.000 Over 120 excellent cows bred. A well -deserved 00:14:47.000 --> 00:14:48.779 point of pride for the Saskatchewan Holstein 00:14:48.779 --> 00:14:51.279 community. Then British Columbia. Fruit farms 00:14:51.279 --> 00:14:53.799 from Vancouver Island, also a first shield. Their 00:14:53.799 --> 00:14:57.460 philosophy, manage cows to hit those thresholds 00:14:57.460 --> 00:15:00.970 for production and classification. Strategic 00:15:00.970 --> 00:15:03.669 breeding. They mentioned the fruit, Chesapeake, 00:15:03.669 --> 00:15:06.149 candy family as important. And they highlighted 00:15:06.149 --> 00:15:08.169 the importance of their local club community. 00:15:08.450 --> 00:15:10.950 Especially vital in smaller regions, right? Absolutely. 00:15:11.110 --> 00:15:13.529 That network matters. They talked about loving 00:15:13.529 --> 00:15:16.149 the whole scope of dairy, farming, cows, crops, 00:15:16.450 --> 00:15:19.509 business, family. A passion for the entire lifestyle. 00:15:19.889 --> 00:15:24.409 So, stepping back, looking at all 19, these incredible 00:15:24.409 --> 00:15:27.669 farms, the people behind them. some common threads 00:15:27.669 --> 00:15:29.750 really start to stand out, don't they? They really 00:15:29.750 --> 00:15:32.509 do. While each path is unique, there are definitely 00:15:32.509 --> 00:15:34.769 shared principles underpinning this level of 00:15:34.769 --> 00:15:37.610 success. One of the clearest, that commitment 00:15:37.610 --> 00:15:40.210 to balance. Absolutely. But most all of them 00:15:40.210 --> 00:15:42.509 avoided extremes, not just chasing milk, not 00:15:42.509 --> 00:15:44.730 just chasing type. They understand that synergy, 00:15:44.789 --> 00:15:48.169 confirmation, yield, health, longevity, it all 00:15:48.169 --> 00:15:50.409 works together for sustainable profit. Rodally 00:15:50.409 --> 00:15:52.470 with Allegria, Heather Holm with their functional 00:15:52.470 --> 00:15:55.340 focus. Perfect examples. You just can't neglect 00:15:55.340 --> 00:15:57.620 one area for another and expect long -term success. 00:15:57.879 --> 00:15:59.820 They're all interconnected. Another big one. 00:16:00.220 --> 00:16:03.379 The prevalence of multi -generational family 00:16:03.379 --> 00:16:06.159 farms over half the winters. That's significant. 00:16:06.419 --> 00:16:09.500 It suggests real value in that long -term vision, 00:16:09.620 --> 00:16:11.779 the knowledge transfer. And that deep -seated 00:16:11.779 --> 00:16:14.779 passion that gets passed down. It seems key to 00:16:14.779 --> 00:16:17.120 achieving and maintaining this level of excellence 00:16:17.120 --> 00:16:20.120 over time. That continuity provides a huge advantage. 00:16:20.730 --> 00:16:23.870 allows for strategies that take years, decades 00:16:23.870 --> 00:16:26.409 sometimes, to pay off. And helps weather the 00:16:26.409 --> 00:16:28.750 inevitable ups and downs. Even in farms that 00:16:28.750 --> 00:16:30.730 aren't multi -generational, you often see strong 00:16:30.730 --> 00:16:33.509 partnerships, good mentorship, fostering that 00:16:33.509 --> 00:16:35.429 same kind of shared vision. Then there's the 00:16:35.429 --> 00:16:38.309 power of cow families. Identifying, cultivating, 00:16:38.309 --> 00:16:40.889 leveraging those strong maternal lines. Absolutely 00:16:40.889 --> 00:16:43.159 key. We saw it with Fran at Quality, Allegri 00:16:43.159 --> 00:16:46.240 at Rodalee, Amanda at Avaline, Lucia at O 'Connor's, 00:16:46.259 --> 00:16:48.840 Candy at Frew. They're the genetic bedrock, providing 00:16:48.840 --> 00:16:51.960 predictability, consistency. Amplifying the herd's 00:16:51.960 --> 00:16:54.340 potential over generations. And longevity in 00:16:54.340 --> 00:16:56.059 those families isn't just about living long. 00:16:56.259 --> 00:16:58.559 It's extended productivity, a continued breeding 00:16:58.559 --> 00:17:01.399 influence. Exactly. Strong eternal lines are 00:17:01.399 --> 00:17:03.799 the foundation. They let you build reliably on 00:17:03.799 --> 00:17:06.839 desirable traits. Longevity is crucial for profit 00:17:06.839 --> 00:17:10.140 and genetic impact. And finally, it's fascinating 00:17:10.140 --> 00:17:13.059 how they blend innovation with tradition. Adapting, 00:17:13.059 --> 00:17:15.900 integrating new tools. Genomics, data management, 00:17:16.119 --> 00:17:18.240 facility upgrades like Drohoka's Bitted Pack, 00:17:18.480 --> 00:17:21.240 robotics like Atlactamont. It shows a progressive 00:17:21.240 --> 00:17:24.960 approach, but crucially. These tools aren't replacing 00:17:24.960 --> 00:17:27.900 fundamental skills, they're enhancing them. That's 00:17:27.900 --> 00:17:30.539 the critical distinction. Technology augments 00:17:30.539 --> 00:17:33.920 knowledge, skill, intuition. It doesn't replace 00:17:33.920 --> 00:17:36.390 it. They use it strategically. within their existing 00:17:36.390 --> 00:17:38.930 philosophies. To get better health, more efficiency, 00:17:39.210 --> 00:17:41.710 faster genetic progress. Precisely. Smarter, 00:17:41.809 --> 00:17:44.890 not just newer. So when we reflect on this 2024 00:17:44.890 --> 00:17:48.930 class, they truly represent the peak of Canadian 00:17:48.930 --> 00:17:51.950 dairy breeding. Absolutely. Their success across 00:17:51.950 --> 00:17:54.289 different regions and systems is a testament 00:17:54.289 --> 00:17:57.630 to dedication, skill, and that deep understanding 00:17:57.630 --> 00:17:59.730 of the Holstein cow. They're lifting their own 00:17:59.730 --> 00:18:01.769 operations, but also strengthening the whole 00:18:01.769 --> 00:18:04.029 Canadian Holstein industry. Through genetics, 00:18:04.269 --> 00:18:06.910 mentorship, just setting that incredibly high 00:18:06.910 --> 00:18:09.670 bar. They are masters of their craft, carrying 00:18:09.670 --> 00:18:12.690 that torch of Holstein excellence. Their commitment 00:18:12.690 --> 00:18:15.289 to balanced performance, longevity, health, efficiency. 00:18:15.690 --> 00:18:19.150 It reinforces that global reputation for Canadian 00:18:19.150 --> 00:18:21.589 Holsteins. And blending tradition with modern 00:18:21.589 --> 00:18:24.710 tools. That paves the way for the future. Definitely. 00:18:24.910 --> 00:18:27.589 So for you listening, the key takeaway from this 00:18:27.589 --> 00:18:30.690 deep dive. Achieving this top tier of success, 00:18:31.029 --> 00:18:35.190 it hinges on that unwavering dedication to balanced 00:18:35.190 --> 00:18:37.869 breeding. It's appreciating the power of long 00:18:37.869 --> 00:18:40.930 -term vision, often seen in family farms, but 00:18:40.930 --> 00:18:43.190 achievable through focus. It's strategically 00:18:43.190 --> 00:18:46.109 integrating innovation, but always built on that 00:18:46.109 --> 00:18:48.569 foundation of exceptional cow families. Which 00:18:48.569 --> 00:18:51.150 leads to a question for you to mull over. Reflecting 00:18:51.150 --> 00:18:53.789 on these master breeders, what specific part 00:18:53.789 --> 00:18:56.089 of their approach resonates most with your goals? 00:18:56.289 --> 00:18:58.710 Is it their focus on a certain trait? how they 00:18:58.710 --> 00:19:01.269 use technology, their emphasis on a cow family. 00:19:01.450 --> 00:19:03.130 What element could you potentially integrate 00:19:03.130 --> 00:19:06.130 into your own operation for better long -term 00:19:06.130 --> 00:19:08.609 success and sustainability? We really encourage 00:19:08.609 --> 00:19:11.190 you to look deeper. Explore the profiles on places 00:19:11.190 --> 00:19:13.329 like the bullvine. Get into their individual 00:19:13.329 --> 00:19:15.690 stories. There's always more to learn from their 00:19:15.690 --> 00:19:18.130 journeys. Ultimately, it's the hard work and 00:19:18.130 --> 00:19:20.750 dedication of all dairy farmers and industry 00:19:20.750 --> 00:19:23.779 pros that drives things forward. These master 00:19:23.779 --> 00:19:26.279 breeders are truly inspiring examples within 00:19:26.279 --> 00:19:28.220 that community. Showing what's possible with 00:19:28.220 --> 00:19:30.539 passion, knowledge, and that relentless commitment 00:19:30.539 --> 00:19:32.920 to the art and the science of breeding great 00:19:32.920 --> 00:19:35.160 dairy cattle. Whether it's a fourth -generation 00:19:35.160 --> 00:19:38.779 farm or a first -time winner, the 2024 master 00:19:38.779 --> 00:19:41.640 breeders prove that greatness in dairy isn't 00:19:41.640 --> 00:19:44.619 about chasing trends. It's about crafting cows 00:19:44.619 --> 00:19:48.480 that last. Huge thanks to our listeners for joining 00:19:48.480 --> 00:19:51.349 us. Want to meet these legendary breeders? Visit 00:19:51.349 --> 00:19:54.150 thebullvine .com for the full feature. Until 00:19:54.150 --> 00:19:56.910 next time, keep your eyes on the cows and your 00:19:56.910 --> 00:19:58.250 goals on the horizon.