Meet James Kelly, the chairman of KZN for the Angus Breeders Society. He lets us into the world of Angus farming and the role the society plays in the industry.
Personal Journey
James Kelly’s involvement with the Angus Breeders Society of South Africa began through a family connection. “My father-in-law was a breeder, and I used to help manage the farm. Here, I learned a lot about the breeding process,” he recalls. In 2017, he officially joined the Angus Breeders Society, finding camaraderie and shared passion among fellow members. James notes the positive changes over the years, attributing much of the society’s progress to the influx of younger members. “As a club, we have improved over the years as us ‘youngsters’ have joined on board and brought new, fresh ideas. This has brought more recognition to the society, especially on social media,” he explains.
Passion for Angus
As the KZN Chairman, James’ enthusiasm for the Angus breed is formed both through the exceptional breed and also the community of farmers. “The Angus are all-round good and very versatile breeds, holding the biggest breed in the world,” he says. The rewarding nature of working with these cattle, for James, lies in the impact he can make. “It’s really rewarding to work with these cattle and help strengthen other herds around KZN and South Africa,” he shares.
Market Demand
“Being a meat that has good marbling, tenderness, and flavour, the market demand can fluctuate. However, Angus has a greater marketing value purely based on looks and good genetics that helps many herds of other breeds in traits they lack,” James explains. He emphasises that the primary demand for Angus cattle is for breeding, which subsequently fuels the food market demand.
Breed Society’s Role
The Angus Breeders Society of South Africa plays a crucial role in supporting and promoting breeders nationwide. “Our society, nationally and in KZN, is about supporting farmers to be able to sell cattle, as well as supporting small retailers,” James notes. In KZN, this support extends to businesses like Wozza Meat Co. and The Salt Slab, among others.
Future Opportunities
Looking ahead, James sees significant opportunities for the Angus breed in South Africa and globally. “Although the rest of the world is further evolving in this industry, South Africa is slowly growing in this area. The biggest opportunity for the breed in South Africa is the improvement of commercial herds,” he predicts. He highlights the role of composite breeds in enhancing farming and production across various herds, given Angus cattle’s superior traits.
Sustainability Practises
Sustainability is a key focus for Angus breeders in South Africa. “A few breeders in South Africa are part of Woolworth’s beef programme that requires them to raise and breed hormone-free Angus; this includes hormone-free feed,” James explains. Such practises ensure the long-term health of their herds and the environment.
Community Involvement
Engaging with local communities and farmers is a vital aspect of promoting the Angus breed. “Our biggest engagement with our community here in KZN is through our annual July sale and social media,” James shares. Additionally, local retailers contribute to the promotion of Angus, thereby creating more demand for farmers.
James Kelly’s journey with the Angus Breeders Society of South Africa is a testament to his dedication and passion for the breed. Through innovative ideas, sustainable practises, and community engagement, James and the society are poised to elevate the Angus breed’s presence and impact in South Africa and beyond.
Did You Know?
- South Africa has 90% red Angus, whereas other breeding countries around the world have 90% black Angus.
- Black Angus have the best genetics out of the breed.
- There are 12 breeders in KZN that are a part of the Angus Breeders Society.
- KZN made the highest record sales in July, 2023.