About 100 breeders, commercial producers and cattle enthusiasts gathered at Waters Edge Farm on 23 and 24 July for two days of practical training, expert insights and knowledge sharing aimed at strengthening the future of Limousin cattle production.
By Lebogang Mashala, editor at African Farming
The Devlan Cattle Farmers Day and Limousin Training Course brought together about 100 breeders, commercial producers and cattle enthusiasts for two days of practical learning and meaningful discussions centred on a shared passion for the Limousin breed.
The event was held at Waters Edge Farm, situated between Heidelberg in Gauteng and Villiers in the Free State, and hosted by renowned Limousin breeders John and Tracy Devonport, owners of the award-winning Devlan Limousins stud. The stud has earned a reputation for producing top-quality genetics while promoting practical livestock farming skills.
According to John Devonport, who is the former president of the Limousin Cattle Breeders’ Society of Southern Africa, the event was about more than showcasing outstanding Limousin cattle. According to him, the gathering was designed to create a platform where farmers could exchange ideas and leave with practical solutions they could implement on their own farms.
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Resetting after a difficult year
Reflecting on the challenges facing the livestock industry, Devonport said farmers needed an opportunity to regroup after a difficult year marked by soaring input costs, the foot-and-mouth disease outbreak and other pressures affecting the agricultural sector.
“Farmers need a mental reset. We have been through a challenging period, but we also need to look ahead with optimism. Bringing producers together to learn, share experiences and hear from experts helps restore confidence and prepares them for better days ahead,” he said.
Practical expertise from industry leaders
The programme featured several industry experts who shared practical knowledge on cattle production and herd management. Devlan Limousins farm manager Manie Zwarts spoke about sustainable cattle farming, the type of animals required for the future and the advantages of crossbreeding to improve commercial beef production.
Veterinarian Dr Dawie Maree highlighted the importance of maintaining optimal herd health, explaining how sound health management underpins fertility, productivity and long-term profitability. He also gave practical strategies for maintaining healthy, high-performing breeding herds.
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Building the next generation of judges
A key highlight of the event was the Beginner and Junior Judge Course presented by respected senior interbreed judge and cattle inspector Marius Barkhuizen. The course focused on cattle evaluation, breed standards, functional efficiency, selection principles and practical herd improvement.
Barkhuizen said the training equipped participants with valuable skills to identify quality breeding stock and make informed breeding decisions that contribute to more productive and profitable herds.
The two-day programme reinforced the importance of continuous learning and collaboration within the beef industry, ensuring that breeders are better equipped to meet future production challenges while maintaining the high standards for which the Limousin breed is known.
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