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If you want to stay ahead of the latest genetic research, livestock production techniques, industry trends, and animal health matters, do not miss this year’s 17th Livestock Registering Federation (LRF) Stockman School. The event will once again be held at the Aldam Holiday Resort and Conference Centre near Ventersburg, from 8 to 10 October. In other words, just one month left to register!
This year’s theme is “Smart Stockmanship: Back to Basics”, and focusses on timeless principles relating to livestock management, animal health, farm management and breeding, combining them with modern-day realities. Progress is embraced with open arms, without losing sight of the core principles that define successful farming.
On the agenda
The Stockman School once again promises food for thought with an impressive lineup of speakers, all specialists and practitioners in their respective fields.
Markets and competitiveness: Dr Gerhard Neethling, general manager of the Red Meat Abattoir Association (RMAA) will kick things off with a discussion on current meat market requirements, exports, and the red meat value chain. Gerhard van der Burgh, senior analyst at the Bureau for Food and Agricultural Policy (BFAP) and managing director of Integrated Value Information System (IVIS) will discuss competitiveness, focussing on South Africa versus the international red meat market. Prof Norman Maiwashe, general manager of Animal Production at the Agricultural Research Council (ARC) will highlight the importance of public research and development when boosting competitiveness.
Genetics, research and development: Prof Bob Weaber, head of the Eastern Kansas Research-Extension Centres at Kansas State University and Dr Christian Duff, industry leader at ABRI, both bring years of experience in beef genetics to the table and will share insights from their global experience.
Rangeland and soil management: Dr Louis du Pisani, independent agricultural consultant and Gerrit van Zyl, owner of Hanzyl Bonsmaras, know that sustainable production starts with the soil, not the cattle. These sessions promise highly practical insights from well-respected figures in South African agriculture.
Animal health: Reproduction, disease resistance, vaccines, and nutrition are some of the topics that will be covered by Dr Stephan Hughes, veterinarian and reproduction specialist at the Howick Veterinary Clinic, Dr Danie Odendaal, owner of Veterinarian Network, Erin Graham, technical manager and improvement specialist at Molatek/RCL Foods, and Dr Schabort Froneman, Zoetis technical manager: ruminants. Learn about bull fertility, rumen development, and the latest disease trends every livestock farmer needs to know.
Efficiency, selection, performance, and profit: Dr Nina Casagrande, international partner manager at Vytelle, Prof Bob Weaber and Johan Styger, chairperson of LRF and owner of BTB Simmentalers, will explore everything from feed efficiency to genetic performance indicators – sessions you cannot afford to miss!
Financial and business aspects: Prof Cletos Mapiye of Stellenbosch University will present on low-cost alternative feed sources while Mornay Verster of Le Roc Brangus will cover the principles of successful business management.
Stockman School attendees can also expect other notable speakers on topics such as traceability and hands-on practical workshops. During the kraal sessions, speakers like Kobus Bester, LRF director, will explain some key principles of cattle selection while Dr Douglas Bruce, veterinarian at Bargrove Veterinary Group and Dr Danie Odendaal will lead a practical session on animal health.
For more details, download the full preliminary programme here.
A valuable networking opportunity
The Stockman School also offers ample opportunity for networking with stakeholders in the livestock industry as well as our loyal, valued sponsors. As always, the programme includes a semi-formal gala dinner and awards ceremony on Thursday evening, 9 October, during which the LRF Santam Agriculture Livestock Producer of the Year will be announced, along with various other awards.
Time is running out!
The Stockman School is the premier learning platform for livestock producers and industry role-players who want to stay informed about the latest technologies and trends driving profitability and sustainability. It is also the perfect opportunity for those who want to sharpen their knowledge, optimise their livestock practices, or expand their professional network.
Seats are limited – do not miss this flagship event on the agricultural calendar!
Click here to register for the 2025 LRF Stockman School.
