Dedication and passion is required by Wagyu breeders to produce the best quality Japanese Wagyu carcasses. David & Julie Blackmore believe that farm management and animal husbandry must be of the highest standard, years of research, trial and error of adjusting and perfecting a feed ration, and the study of genetics and bloodlines are all ongoing criteria for production.
While genetics obviously plays a big part in delivering high marbling performance, David & Julie Blackmore have developed a supply chain which provides greater control over all stages of production which have the potential to influence marbling and other quality traits.
Blackmore Wagyu Beef has developed a progeny testing scheme in order to provide reliable data on the quality of genetics being produced for natural grazing conditions. Through the breeding and assessment of offspring under controlled conditions, David Blackmore is able to identify sires and donors of superior genetic merit, provide accurate predictions on future breeding and minimize the likelihood of genetic defects. All genetic selections are based on progeny testing and performance data.
Farm management is of high importance to Blackmore Wagyu Beef, who are continuously looking at new ways to manage livestock, crops and pastures to maintain high production, reduce costs and ensure the future environmental health of the land. The continued farm management initiatives help to improve profitability and sustainability.
Once calves are 15 months old, they are sent to a feeding facility specialising in traditional Japanese feed and management practices. The cattle are introduced to a secret feeding regime for 500-600 days designed by a leading Japanese producer and feedlotter in conjunction with specialists from a leading Japanese university. This feed mix has been customized over the past decade to suit Australian conditions and commodities.
Processing occurs at a specalised Japanese owned abattoir under chilling and processing systems designed to enhance Wagyu carcass performance and quality. Innovative cuts and presentation have been introduced to enhance the unique qualities of Blackmore Wagyu Beef. Rockdale Beef pride themselves on complying to world class ISO standards, while providing a stress and injury free process during transportation, handling and processing.