MEET THE NEW PRESIDENT RANDOLPH MILLER
It’s all change regarding the presidential term for Holstein UK and stepping up to the role for 2014 and 2015 is Randolph Miller from the Moorshard herd in Somerset
in the late 50’s by Randolph’s parents and in the 70’s he and brother Mike focused on the breeding of the herd. This involved moving away from the British Friesian and focussing on bringing in new families from North America. During the 90’s they were awarded Premier Breeder several times for their success in the show ring. Latterly the herd has represented the South West in the Premier Herd Competition seven times finishing third one
R year.
Everything on the farm is bred to a Holstein with embryo work regularly carried out. Heifers are all calved, with the exception of an occasional calf, which is sold at an elite sale, while surplus heifers are sold at Sedgemoor Market. Breeding has always been type focused at Moorshard with the Millers believing that production comes from good functional cows. Bulls that have left their stamp in the herd have been Starbuck, Blackstar, Roylane Jordan and Shottle, with the latter two working well together.
“Genomic sires are heavily used in the herd now with the focus still on type and production, particularly good udders, legs and feet with the aim still to have a functional cow,” explains Randolph.
Bull calves out of the best cows are kept and reared with some 10 to 15 being retained each year for selling off farm to regular customers. Speaking of taking on the role as President, Randolph, who has previously been chairman and president of the South West Holstein Club, says: “It was an honour to be nominated by the club to stand as president, but to be voted in by the board is a fantastic achievement. I’m looking forward to my role greatly and will aim to carry out my role as President to the very best of my ability and hope that the next year is a tranquil and harmonious one for the Society.” Away from the farm, Randolph has been a keen hockey player alongside enjoying the odd skittles match. “However, a combination of old age and laziness has meant I don’t do very much of that anymore. My cows and showing have always been my main hobby as well as my work though.”
HERD FACTS Cow numbers: 210
Average production: 10,900kg 4.1%bf 3.2%p
New technology: ADF back flush and teat dip system Herd classification: 63 Ex and 112 VG
What’s in the flask: Explode, Snowy, McCutcheon, Pirate, Elude, Atwood and Silver
Flagship families: Amanda, Shower, Ambrosia, Alisa and Caramel
THE JOURNAL DECEMBER 2014 15
andolph Miller has recently handed over the reins of the herd and 500-acre farm to son Brian and although he is still working on the farm, he admits he’s taking it “a little easier these days.” The Moorshard herd was established
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