Who we are.

The Sundown Pastoral Co is owned and operated by the Statham Family and comprises multiple properties located throughout Northern NSW, Australia. The company is focused on production of high quality cattle for the local and export prime beef market.

The combined property size is 58,000 ha (143,000 acres) with 12,000 ha (30,000 acres) designated as high performance finishing area and 19,000 ha (47,000 acres) of breeder area.

The herd.

The Sundown Valley cow herd consists of Angus X and Angus joined predominately to Charolais. Smaller framed cows are joined to Limousins and Santas. There is a pure Angus herd for replacement heifers.

The Paradise cow herd are Santa, Beefmaker and Angus X (heifers). The Santa and Beefmaker cows are joined to Santas. The Angus X heifers are joined to Shorthorns.

Performance.

Current cattle performance statistics include conception rates of 95%, weaning percentage of 97%, weaner weights at 5 - 7 months averaging 260kg, and feeder steers 430kg LW at 17 - 20 months.

In addition there are heavy domestic grass fed 300kg HCW at 17 - 20 months and domestic heifers 250kg HCW at 15 - 18 months for contract clients.

Management.

Soils are analyzed before selection of pasture species and determining fertilizer requirements. All paddocks are watered by trough and dam system to reduce travel and maximize pasture utilization.

Stock are rotated and finishing cattle weighed monthly to monitor growth rates. Irrigated forage is produced on the properties and used for supplementary and production feeding as required.

Handling.

Each key property in the Sundown group is provided with the most modern cattle handling equipment including scales, drafting and loading facilities.

Stock yards are rigorously maintained to assure security and safety for animals and operators. Shelters are provided over working areas to reduce stress in all weather conditions.