Barana bulls tick all the boxes in fine style

Lot 59 Barana Ultimate U52 is representative of the article that the Cook family strives for in its seedstock program at Coolah, NSW.

PETER Cook and his family have owned and operated a 940ha mixed farming enterprise at Coolah, on the north-west slopes and plains of NSW since 1980. That same year, Mr Cook established the Barana Simmental stud, laying the foundation for what has become a respected name in the Australian cattle industry.

that the Cook family strives for in its seedstock program

at Coolah, NSW. Picture supplied

Barana cattle are bred for performance, carcase, softness and their ability to cover the country.

"We're committed to producing bulls that sire steers with rapid growth rates, strong carcase characteristics,

and excellent finishing ability," Mr Cook said.

"Our stud sires are carefully selected for medium frame size, softness, thickness, strong muscling, and ample

capacity. A silky, fine, slick coat, sound feet, a strong muzzle and a sirey head are also essential traits."

For the past 20 years, the Cooks have focused on developing poll genetics and ensuring herd longevity.

For the 2025 Queensland Simmental Bull Sale, Mr Cook has selected seven traditional Simmental bulls. "These bulls were selected for their growth and performance, medium frame and good carcase characteristics.

They all display a soft, smooth muscle pattern and slick hair type. Two are homozygous polled. "These bulls were prepared on improved pasture at Barana before heading to Clifton, in April, for finishing on a 90-day ration."

All bulls offered for sale have undergone stringent vet testing for breeding and soundness. They've been

semen tested, including for morphology, performance recorded and scanned for EMA, FAT and IMF. Barana

maintains a Level 7 Johnes Beef Assurance Score. Each bull has been tested negative to pestivirus and all bulls are

vaccinated against BVDV, leptospirosis and vibriosis, along with 3-day sickness and tick fever.

He said the Queensland Simmental Bull Sale gives Barana access into the north. "This sale is an opportunity for northern breeders to see and purchase Barana bulls in the flesh, on their doorstep. I'm looking forward

to catching up with old and new clients on the day."

Credit: Originally published in The Queensland Country Life, Thursday 17 July, 2025.