YOUNG BREEDERS COMPETITION - TEAMS

Join us in cheering on the 11 teams representing 7 countries while competing on U.S. soil this fall.

USA - Team Blue

North Platte, Neb.

Blake Bruns

Blake Bruns, North Platte, Neb., is a 2025 graduate of Kansas State University (K-State), where he earned a bachelor’s degree in animal sciences and industry. He currently works for National Beef as a cattle buyer trainee, viewing his role as a bridge between producers and the packing industry, serving as a voice for the value of Hereford genetics. Bruns brings extensive experience in both show and production cattle management, along with strong skills in carcass and livestock evaluation. He was a member of both the 2024 national champion livestock judging team and the national champion meat animal evaluation team at K-State. In recognition of his leadership and dedication to the breed, Bruns was awarded the Golden Bull Achievement Award by the Hereford Youth Foundation of America in 2024. His passion for the beef industry is matched by his commitment to supporting the next generation of agricultural leaders. “Experiences like the Young Breeders Competition don’t just provide an opportunity to compete, they help shape the future leaders of our industry,” Bruns says. “I am ready to represent Team USA with integrity, passion and pride and I’m eager to bring back what I learn to help strengthen the Hereford breed at home.”

Ruth, Miss.

Jacob Johnson

Jacob Johnson, Ruth, Miss., is a 2023 graduate of Kansas State University (K-State), where he earned a bachelor’s degree in animal sciences and industry. After graduation, he began his career as a salesman for BioZyme, gaining valuable knowledge in animal health and nutrition. He now serves as an area sales manager for Premier Select Sires while also assisting with his family’s beef processing business, Genesis 31 Beef Processing. In 2022, Johnson was a member of the national champion meat animal evaluation team at K-State and competed on the livestock judging team, concluding his collegiate judging career as an All-American. He brings well-rounded experience across the beef industry, from the showring and Hereford genetics to marketing and public speaking. With aspirations of one day hosting a female production sale alongside his family’s current Hereford operation, Johnson remains passionate about advancing the breed. “I have a great love for the Hereford breed, so to have the opportunity to compete on Team USA at the Young Breeders Competition is an honor,” Johnson states. “To also compete alongside some of the brightest Hereford breeders is incredible.”

Centerville, S.D.

Trevor Johnson

Trevor Johnson, Centerville, S.D., is a 2024 graduate of K-State with a bachelor’s degree in agribusiness. He currently works at Johnke Farms and serves as an independent contractor for both IMI Global, auditing in eastern South Dakota, and the American Hereford Association (AHA) as a commercial marketing representative. Passionate about developing future leaders in agriculture, Johnson co-founded the Evolving Ag Leaders Coalition. A peer group of 10 young men from seven states focused on growing their operations and becoming strong, forward-thinking industry leaders. He is a member of the inaugural class of the South Dakota Cattlemen’s Leadership Academy and a past recipient of the Golden Bull Achievement Award from the Hereford Youth Foundation of America. In 2023, he was a member of the national champion meat animal evaluation team at K-State and previously competed on the livestock judging team at Butler Community College. Johnson brings well-rounded experience to the table, spanning the showring, animal health, nutrition, handling, breeding, marketing and public speaking. “I wholeheartedly believe that the AHA has the most upstanding junior program,” Johnson says. “The Hereford youth program has shaped me into who I am today, and it is an honor to serve alongside other young leaders representing our country on the global stage.”

Grace City, N.D.

Logan Topp

Logan Topp, Grace City, N.D., is a 2025 graduate of K-State, where he earned a bachelor's degree in animal sciences and industry. Following graduation, he returned to his family’s operation, Topp Herefords, where he now plays a key role in both management and ownership. A member of the 2024 national champion livestock judging team and the national champion meat animal evaluation team at K-State, Topp brings experience in cattle handling, livestock evaluation, marketing and Hereford genetics. Raised in a family deeply rooted in seedstock production, Topp is actively involved in all aspects of the operation, from breeding decisions and herd management to customer outreach and bull marketing. He takes pride in developing cattle that meet real-world demands while fostering long-term relationships with both commercial and purebred producers. His approach is grounded in strategic thinking, attention to detail and a commitment to continuous improvement, always with the goal of adding value for the families who rely on their genetics. Topp explains, “What excites me most about representing Team USA is the chance to immerse myself in the Hereford community on a global level while also competing alongside some of the brightest, most passionate young breeders in the world.”

Meet The Team

Product Manager

Lisa Rose

This is your Team Member description. Use this space to write a brief description of this person’s role and responsibilities, or add a short bio.

USA - Team Red

Flemingsburg, Ky.

JW Cox

JW Cox, Flemingsburg, Ky., graduated from Western Kentucky University with a degree in animal science and now attends the Auburn University College of Veterinary Medicine, pursuing a doctorate in veterinary medicine. Growing up exhibiting cattle, Cox brings extensive experience in fitting, clipping and showing livestock, along with strong marketing and public speaking skills developed through selling his cattle. His knowledge of animal health practices has grown significantly during his time in veterinary school. Cox also served as chairman of the National Junior Hereford Association (NJHA) board of directors. He is actively involved in the American Association of Bovine Practitioners, the Kentucky Veterinary Medical Association student chapter and the Society for Theriogenology. Cox brings a broad base of experience to Team USA. “I am incredibly excited to join forces with some of the brightest and most talented young breeders to showcase what we as a team can accomplish,” Cox says. “Together, we have the chance to prove that the American Hereford Association is not only a leader in the industry but also a unified and dedicated team capable of competing at the highest level.”

Kearney, Neb.

Ralston Braden

Ralston Braden, Kearney, Neb., is a 2022 graduate of the University of Nebraska-Lincoln (UNL), where she earned a bachelor's degree in animal science and agribusiness. While at UNL, she was a member of the university’s livestock judging team, further sharpening her evaluation and communication skills. She currently works for Merck Animal Health as a rancher success specialist for SenseHub Vence. A fourth-generation Hereford breeder, Ripp brings extensive experience in cattle showing, animal health, livestock evaluation, cattle handling and public speaking. She was an active member of the NJHA, retiring as the vice chairman on the NJHA board of directors. Reflecting on her passion for the breed, Ripp shares, “To represent Team USA is truly a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity where I hope to be in the arena striving for something bigger than my own goals. The American Hereford Association has taught me to value not only strong genetics and good-looking cattle, but also the breeders behind them, those who aren’t afraid to face challenges head-on and rise above obstacles.”

Clayton, Ind.

Dylan Kottkamp

Dylan Kottkamp, Clayton, Ind., is currently a graduate student at Oklahoma State University (OSU), pursuing a master's degree in international agriculture. In 2023, at the Junior National Hereford Expo (JNHE), Kottkamp was named the junior herdsman of the year and senior showmanship champion. Those achievements, along with others, exemplify his skills in fitting, showing, marketing and public speaking. He has worked for some of the largest cattle producers in the United States, helping run nearly 800 head through the sale ring, gaining hands-on experience in everything from sale preparation to daily ranch work. One of his most rewarding experiences has been his graduate assistantship, where he serves as the prospective student services graduate teaching assistant for the OSU Ferguson College of Agriculture. In this role, he also has the honor of mentoring the Ferguson College Ambassador team. When speaking about the opportunity to represent Team USA, Kottkamp shares, “It’s a chance to connect with breeders from around the globe, share knowledge and proudly represent the U.S. on the international stage. This is about being a part of something bigger than myself, and I am truly honored to compete at such a high level.”

Bells, Texas

Tar Tut

Tar Tut, Bells, Texas, is a 2023 graduate of Texas A&M University, where he earned a bachelor's degree in agricultural communications and journalism. He now works as a territory manager in the ruminant business unit at Merck Animal Health, where he combines his passion for livestock production with industry-leading animal health solutions. Tut is a former chairman of the NJHA board of directors and also served on the National Junior Red Angus Association board, bringing years of leadership and mentorship to youth in the cattle industry. He competed on livestock judging teams at both Butler Community College and Texas A&M, later coaching the Texas 4-H reserve national champion team. As a multiple-time top 10 showman at the Junior National Hereford Expo, he’s known for his strong skills in fitting, clipping, handling and presenting cattle. Tut’s background in animal health, marketing, public speaking and leadership has positioned him as a driven and well-rounded individual in the beef industry. “Being a part of Team USA at the Young Breeders Competition is an opportunity to represent everything that has shaped me,” Tut says. “It’s about more than just competing, it’s about showcasing the knowledge, work ethic and dedication that define young American Hereford breeders.”

Meet The Team

Founder & CEO

Don Francis

This is your Team Member description. Use this space to write a brief description of this person’s role and responsibilities, or add a short bio.

Team Australia

Indigo Valley, VIC

Tabby Cross

Tabby Cross, Indigo Valley, VIC, is a vibrant voice in the Australian beef industry, combining practical experience, academic knowledge, and a clear passion for the Hereford breed. Raised on her family’s cattle property in North East Victoria, Tabby now runs her own stud herd TJC Cattle Company alongside her family’s beef cattle operation. She holds a bachelor of agriculture from Charles Sturt University and works full-time as the Administration supervisor at the Barnawartha Saleyards, which processes over 120,000 head of cattle annually. Tabby has exhibited cattle at youth and Royal shows across the country and was the NSW 2019 Beef Cattle Young Judge and is a proud member of the Herefords Australia Youth Committee. Tabby was the recipient of the Herefords Australia Travel Award in 2024 and the most potential breeder award in 2025. With her energetic approach, commitment to lifelong learning, and dedication to breed promotion, Tabby brings a valuable blend of industry insight and enthusiasm to the 2025 World Hereford Conference Youth Team.

Glenormiston North, VIC

Lochie McLauchlan

Lochie McLauchlan, Camperdown, Victoria, has a strong foundation in both commercial operations and national-level showing. Raised on his family’s farm, Lochie has been involved in calving and managing a 70-cow herd alongside his parents from a young age. He currently works full-time on a large-scale cattle property and has recently purchased his own land to trade commercial cattle. Lochie’s dedication to the industry has taken him across North America, where he travelled under the 2024 Mathew George Young Stockman Award. Visiting Madison, Wis., and the Calgary Stampede, further fueling his passion for global beef production. He has achieved national success in the ring, winning the 2017 Gun Fitters Competition, 2019 Sydney Royal Team Fitting Contest, and 2020 National Paraders Competition. With a deep respect for the Hereford breed, Lochie recently purchased his first Hereford female with plans to exhibit her and support younger participants entering the ring. He brings strong leadership, a practical skill set, and a commitment to breed promotion to the 2025 World Hereford Conference Youth Team.

Quipolly, NSW

Emily Taylor

Emily Taylor, Quipolly, NSW, is a passionate young leader in Australia’s beef industry with a strong focus on genetics, carcass performance, and breed education. Emily is currently in her third year of a bachelor of rural science at the University of New England and aspires to a career in animal nutrition or genetics. She founded Eclipse Poll Herefords in 2018, marketing and selling bulls through the Dubbo National Poll Hereford Show and Sale with a focus on commercial relevance. A lifelong advocate for Hereford genetics, Emily grew up on her family’s commercial beef operation, where the breed’s fertility, longevity, and crossbreeding performance stood out. Emily’s dedication to agricultural excellence is reflected in her many achievements. She is the current Australian Champion for the National Grains Judging Competition, graduated from Calrossy Anglican School earning 3rd in the state for Primary Industries and recognition as a Distinguished Achiever in Agriculture, and has been awarded both the CM Hocking Scholarship (2022) and the Most Potential Breeder title (2024). An active member of the National Hereford Youth Committee, Emily served as President of the 2024 Northern Hereford Youth Show and is Chief Steward of the Quirindi Show cattle section. An accomplished young judge and educator, she brings curiosity, leadership, and a desire to support the next generation to the 2025 World Hereford Conference Youth Team.

O'Connell, NSW

William van Gend

William van Gend, O’Connell, NSW, is a dedicated young herdsman with a strong foundation in both commercial and stud cattle operations. William works full-time at Llandillo Poll Herefords, managing the show and sale barn and contributing to the daily care and presentation of Hereford cattle. He grew up on his family’s mixed farming operation, breeding crossbred commercial cattle and producing grain and hay crops. After graduating from St Stanislaus’ College, where he earned a place on the HSC Honour Roll and was named VET Student of the Year for the Bathurst Diocese, William launched his own stud, Broken Bow Poll Herefords, with a current focus on building his herd. William has shown cattle across Australia and honed his skills internationally, with Merit Cattle Co. in Saskatchewan, Canada over the past 2 years. Calm, capable, and deeply committed to the Hereford breed, William brings hands-on experience, global perspective, and steady professionalism to the 2025 World Hereford Conference Youth Team.

Meet The Team

Product Manager

Lisa Rose

This is your Team Member description. Use this space to write a brief description of this person’s role and responsibilities, or add a short bio.

Canada - Team Red Coats

Camrose County, Alberta

Emma Cross

Emma Cross, Camrose County, Alberta, owns and operates Sundance Herefords near Tofield, Alberta, where she markets 2-year-old Hereford bulls both privately and through consignment sales across the province. She has been actively involved in the cattle industry since the age of 11, exhibiting cattle at major shows including Bonanza, Farmfair and the Alberta Hereford Showcase. A graduate of the University of Saskatchewan with a degree in animal science, Cross earned the Governor General’s Silver Medal for achieving the highest academic average among all undergraduate students in her class. In addition to her work on the ranch, she serves as the director of communications for the Canadian Hereford Association, the stakeholder engagement social media coordinator for the Canadian Cattle Association and a communications specialist for Verified Beef Production Plus.

Rocky View County, Alberta

Brandon Fraser

Brandon Fraser, Rocky View County, Alberta, is a graduate research assistant at K-State, where he is pursuing a master’s of science in animal science with a focus on ruminant nutrition and reproductive physiology. Raised on a purebred Hereford operation, he remains actively involved in his family’s cattle herd. Throughout his youth, Fraser was engaged in 4-H and held leadership roles with both the Alberta Junior Hereford Association and the CJHA. He began his collegiate career at Northeastern Oklahoma A&M College on a livestock judging scholarship before transferring to K-State, where he competed as a member of the livestock judging team and the national champion meat animal evaluation team. Fraser looks forward to representing Team Canada in the Young Breeders Competition.

Milestone, Saskatchewan

Megan Nicholas

Megan Nicholas, Milestone, Saskatchewan, and her family own and operate McCoy Cattle Company, where they run 300 purebred Hereford and commercial cows. She graduated in 2024 from the University of Saskatchewan with a bachelor’s in education, majoring in mathematics and minoring in science. While at university, she was an active member of the livestock judging team, serving terms as vice president and president. Nicholas also dedicated three years to the Canadian Junior Hereford Association (CJHA), including serving as president in 2024, and he spent 15 years as a member of the Milestone 4-H Beef Club. She is currently employed as a mathematics and science teacher in southern Saskatchewan and is eager to continue sharing her passion and knowledge of the Hereford breed.

Edgerton, Alberta

Matthew Trefiak

Matthew Trefiak, Edgerton, Alberta, helps manage his family’s multi-generational seedstock operation, MJT Cattle Company, boasting 500 head of Hereford, black Angus and Charolais genetics. His family’s involvement in the Hereford breed dates back to 1945, and he has continued that legacy by successfully exhibiting cattle across Canada, earning multiple national and world champion titles. A 2019 Rebanks Family Loran Scholar, Trefiak earned his bachelor's degree in agriculture, majoring in animal science at the University of Saskatchewan. He has been recognized as the high-point senior judge at Summer Synergy and has sorted major shows across Canada and Mexico. Alongside the daily management of the ranch, Trefiak is passionate about connecting with industry members worldwide, fostering relationships and exploring new opportunities in genetics and the beef industry.

Meet The Team

Founder & CEO

Don Francis

This is your Team Member description. Use this space to write a brief description of this person’s role and responsibilities, or add a short bio.

Canada - Team National Selects

Canora, Saskatchewan

Codee Kopelchuk

Codee Kopelchuk, Canora, Saskatchewan, and her family operate PK Herefords and Angus, raising and marketing purebred horned Hereford and Red Angus seedstock. After graduating high school, she pursued further education in the United States, earning an associate of science in agriculture from Hutchinson Community College. She is currently completing her degree in animal science with a specialization in production management at South Dakota State University. Throughout her college career, Kopelchuk has been actively involved in livestock judging at both institutions, a passion that inspired her to continue her studies abroad. Honored to represent the Canadian Hereford breed at the World Hereford Conference, she views this opportunity as a privilege to showcase the quality and dedication of Canadian cattle producers while continuing to promote the industry that has shaped her life.

Arcola, Saskatchewan

Emma Lees

Emma Lees, Arcola, Saskatchewan, recently graduated from the University of Saskatchewan with a bachelor of commerce degree, majoring in human resources. She and her family operate Glenlees Farm, raising purebred Hereford cattle alongside a small commercial herd. Growing up, she was actively involved in the CJHA and 4-H Canada, where her passion for cattle developed. Lees currently serves as the president of the CJHA and looks forward to representing the Canadian Hereford Association at the Young Breeders Competition.

Oaklake, Manitoba

Levi Rimke

Levi Rimke, Oaklake, Manitoba, was raised on a purebred Hereford operation, where he remains actively involved in the growth of the herd’s AI and ET programs. Growing up, he was an active 4-H member and held leadership roles with both the Manitoba Junior Hereford Association and the CJHA, serving as a past president. Rimke graduated from Olds College with a diploma in agricultural management and later from the World Wide College of Auctioneering in Des Moines, Iowa. Rimke is excited to represent Team Canada at the World Hereford Conference Young Breeders Competition and looks forward to connecting with fellow cattle enthusiasts from around the world.

Claresholm, Alberta

Daniel Schuepbach, Alberta

Daniel Schuepbach, Claresholm, Alberta, is a third-generation Hereford breeder, who grew up on his family’s purebred operation, Lilybrook Herefords Inc. He recently completed a bachelor’s of science in agriculture, majoring in animal science, at the University of Saskatchewan’s College of Agriculture and Bioresources. Following graduation, he returned to the family farm, where he plays an integral role in daily operations. Throughout his youth, Schuepbach was actively involved in the CJHA, benefiting from programs such as the Heifer Lottery and Semen Donation to expand his herd. In 2022 and 2023, he represented Alberta as a provincial delegate on the CJHA board and served as president in his final year. Deeply rooted in the Canadian Hereford industry, Schuepbach is proud to represent Canada at the World Hereford Conference.

Meet The Team

Product Manager

Lisa Rose

This is your Team Member description. Use this space to write a brief description of this person’s role and responsibilities, or add a short bio.

Denmark - The Danish Vikings

Varde, Vestjylland

Sofie Brydsø

Sofie Brydsø, Varde, Vestjylland, lives with her parents and siblings while in her final year at Varde Gymnasium, where she will graduate in 2025. At home, she and her father run a hobby farm with both Highland cattle and Herefords. She first entered the showring at age 9 at the Ribe Show, sparking a passion for cattle and exhibiting that has only grown. At 13, she purchased her first Hereford with her confirmation money; her herd has expanded to 14 head. Since 2019, Brydsø has exhibited Herefords at numerous shows. After graduation she plans to spend a year working on a dairy farm before pursuing her goal of studying to become a cattle veterinarian.

Auning, Midtjylland

Natasja Jakobsen

Natasja Jakobsen, Auning, Midtjylland, graduated in 2021 as an EUX-farmer from Asmildkloster Agricultural School/Viborg Gymnasium. She currently works as a team leader at Gl Estrup Manor Museum and as a substitute at a residential facility for individuals with acquired brain injuries. In her spare time, Jakobsen operates a hobby farm with her father and grandfather, managing 40 head of Hereford cattle and 150 hectares of crops. Beyond her professional and farming commitments, she serves on the board and organizing team for the Agricultural Fair at Gl Estrup, where she is responsible for coordinating stand sales, ticketing and event logistics. She is also active in LandboUngdom, where she contributes to tractor pulling events during the summer.

Horsens, Mitdtjylland

Maria Nygaard Jensen

Maria Nygaard Jensen, Horsens, Midtjylland, is currently studying agricultural technology in Aarhus, specializing in cattle, with the goal of pursuing a career as an advisor or consultant in agriculture. She holds a high school diploma from Horsens Gymnasium and an agricultural degree from Bygholm Agricultural School. Since 2015, she has been actively involved in exhibiting Herefords, which has deepened her passion for the breed and the cattle industry. Outside of her studies and cattle interests, Jensen enjoys creative projects, sports and spending time with family and friends.

Allingaabro, Djursland

Peter Oleson

Peter Højris Olesen, Alligaabro, Djursland, grew up with Hereford cattle in his father’s herd, Højris Hereford, currently consisting of eight cows. He has been involved with the breed for as long as he can remember, contributing to daily work on the farm and exhibiting cattle at shows such as Roskilde, Bregentved and the Autumn Show. For the past two years, he has also assisted Moeskær Polled Hereford in exhibiting animals at the National Show. In 2024, Olesen completed his degree as a production manager at Agricultural School Zealand, where he graduated as an EUX-farmer. He now works as herd manager at Fredenslund v. Arne Porse on Djursland, overseeing a conventional dairy herd of about 300 Jersey cows and youngstock, where Hereford genetics are also utilized.

Meet The Team

Product Manager

Lisa Rose

This is your Team Member description. Use this space to write a brief description of this person’s role and responsibilities, or add a short bio.

Ireland - Team Green

Kinnegad, Co. Westmeath

Colin Burke

Colin Burke, Kinnegad, Co., Westmeath, is currently in his third year studying agricultural science at University College Dublin, specializing in animal science. This autumn, he is honored to be studying at Iowa State University through the International Exchange Program. Deeply involved in his family’s farm, which was established in 1968 by his grandparents, Burke developed a strong interest in beef cattle from an early age. At just 13, he founded his own pedigree Hereford herd by purchasing a foundation heifer—a decision that ignited his passion for animal breeding and livestock management. This dedication has now led to the honor of representing the Irish Hereford Breed Society at the World Hereford Conference.

Athlone, Co. Westmeath

Patrick Farrell

Patrick Farrell, Athlone, Co. Westmeath, is a third-generation Hereford breeder proudly continuing his family tradition. The Cave Hill herd, established by his father in 1980, has since become a well-regarded name in Irish Herefords. Farming has always been central to Farrell’s life, leading him to study agriculture and environmental science at Atlantic Technological University in Galway. Since graduating in 2023, he has been working as an agricultural advisor, supporting beef and sheep farmers while remaining actively involved with his family’s herd.

Tullamore, Co. Offaly

Jack Larkin

Jack Larkin, Tullamore, Co. Offaly, is deeply passionate about agriculture and livestock breeding. In 2022, he established the Corndarragh Hereford Herd with the purchase of his foundation heifer and has since been dedicated to developing a herd that reflects the qualities and standards of the Irish Hereford breed. In addition to his pedigree herd, he is actively involved in the daily management of his family’s 70-cow, spring-calving dairy operation. Having recently completed his Leaving Certificate, Larkin plans to pursue a degree in agricultural science. Honored to represent the Irish Hereford Breed Society at the World Hereford Conference, he looks forward to connecting with breeders and industry leaders from around the globe, learning new skills and showcasing the strength of Irish Herefords on the international stage.

Navan, Co. Meath

Catherine Smyth

Catherine Smyth, Navan, Co. Meath, runs the Ardmulchan Hereford herd alongside her father, Phil. The herd was established in 1933 by her grandfather, Thomas, and has remained focused on producing solid cattle with strong breed character. Their bulls are marketed primarily to local dairy herds, while they also finish a number of HEX stock, aiming to breed pedigrees well-suited for commercial farmers. Smyth has been passionate about Herefords from a very young age and continues to play an active role in the herd’s development. She studied sustainable agriculture at Dundalk Institute of Technology/Ballyhaise Agricultural College. She also works off-farm in the agricultural industry. Smyth is honored to be part of the Young Breeders Competition team and is looking forward to not only competing but also to meeting like-minded people, experiencing Herefords in the United States and building new skills and friendships along the way.

Meet The Team

Founder & CEO

Don Francis

This is your Team Member description. Use this space to write a brief description of this person’s role and responsibilities, or add a short bio.

Ireland - Team White

Arva, Co. Cavan

Sarah Armstrong

Sarah Armstrong, Arva, Co. Cavan, is a sustainable agriculture graduate of Dundalk Institute of Technology/Ballyhaise Agricultural College. She comes from a suckler beef background and has also gained international experience working on large-scale dairy farms in both America and New Zealand, as well as serving as a college lecturer. Armstrong is currently completing a PhD with University College Dublin, based at Teagasc Grange, where her research focuses on evaluating lifetime enteric methane emissions from suckler beef herds. Her project aims to quantify total lifetime methane emissions while also assessing management strategies to reduce them, including pasture type, silage quality, feeding regimes and animal genetics. At home, she remains actively involved in the day-to-day management of her family’s herd, which consists of both spring-and fall-calving suckler cows. In addition to their commercial herd, the family also maintains a small number of pedigree Hereford, Limousin and Charolais cattle.

Carrigallen, Co. Leitrim

Mark Hyland

Mark Hyland, Carrigallen, Co. Leitrim, is a third-generation Hereford breeder in his family’s herd, Hillock Herefords, established in 1950. He comes from a suckler farming background, with the herd primarily consisting of Limousin cows, while also rearing Angus and Hereford calves sourced from the dairy sector. Hyland is entering his final year of studies in sustainable agriculture at Dundalk Institute of Technology and Ballyhaise Agricultural College. Passionate about breeding high-quality Hereford cattle, he has focused on selecting top genetics and has actively competed in both local and national shows since 2016. Honored to represent the Irish Hereford breed at the World Hereford Conference, Hyland looks forward to broadening his knowledge of the breed on an international scale and contributing to the future of Irish Herefords.

Moate, Co. Westmeath

Sarah Murray

Sarah Murray, Moate, Co. Westmeath, recently completed a bachelor’s of business (Honors) in agriculture. She has been actively involved on her family’s farm from a young age, working with both pedigree Herefords and commercial suckler cows. Over the years, her passion for the Hereford breed has grown through hands-on experience in breeding and showing cattle at both local and national levels. Murray is honored to represent Ireland at the World Hereford Conference Young Breeders Competition, viewing it as a unique opportunity to engage with like-minded young farmers from across the globe. She looks forward to broadening her knowledge of Hereford genetics, breeding strategies and international agricultural systems, while continuing to develop personally and professionally through this experience.

Nenagh, North Tipperary

John O'Dwyer

John O’Dwyer, Nenagh, North Tipperary, runs a dairy calf-to-beef system alongside his family, who also maintain a small number of pedigree Hereford cows under the Scarragh Hereford prefix. He became involved with Herefords in 2016 when he received his first heifer as a Christmas gift, sparking his passion for the breed. Each year, O’Dwyer focuses on improving the quality of calves through the careful selection of AI sires, with the goal of producing animals capable of earning red rosettes in the showring. After completing his Leaving Certificate in 2024, he began studying agricultural science at University College Cork, where he has now completed his first year.

Meet The Team

Product Manager

Lisa Rose

This is your Team Member description. Use this space to write a brief description of this person’s role and responsibilities, or add a short bio.

Team UK - Hereford Cattle Society

Bath, Somerset

William Awan

William Awan, Bath, Somerset, owns and manages the Midford Polled Hereford herd, running 15–20 pedigree cows that are sold and shown across the country. Alongside the farm, he works full time for Arla Foods as the customer agriculture manager for Organic and McDonald’s. Although not from a farming background, his passion for agriculture began when he received two cows for his eighth birthday and the herd has continued to grow ever since. Motivated by this passion, Awan studied at Harper Adams University, graduating with an honors degree in agriculture with animal science. Outside of work and cattle, he enjoys showing his flock of sheep and the social side of agricultural events.

Mynach, Hengoed

Ethan Brook

Ethan Brook, Mynach, Hengoed, is a dedicated member of the agricultural community, currently working with Premier Cattle Services while also operating his own livestock contracting business. Although not from a farming background, his passion for agriculture began at a young age with a love for machinery, which led him to work on a local farm. He later gained valuable experience at Bowendu Herefords, where he was involved in preparing and showing cattle, contributing to numerous breed and interbreed championships at agricultural shows. This experience further fueled his enthusiasm for quality livestock and professional stock presentation, ultimately leading him to establish his own contracting business. Outside of work, Brook is an active member of Young Farmers Clubs, where he continues to build connections within the industry.

Carlisle, Cumbria

Cara Doggett

Cara Doggett, Carlisle, Cumbria, is originally from a small town in New Zealand, where her family raised both beef and dairy cattle. Since moving to the UK in 2022, she has established Maxwell Polled Herefords, beginning with the purchase of Coley 1 Mink from the renowned Coley Herefords herd. A well-known freelance cattle fitter, Doggett travels across the UK preparing cattle for shows and sales, combining elite stockmanship with a keen eye for presentation. She is currently based at Linn’s Dairy in Dumfries, where 680 cows are managed through an intensive eight-week calving season, while she continues to balance her professional commitments with her show preparation work.

Turnberry, Ayrshire

Iona Smith

Iona Smith, Turnberry, Ayrshire, is from a pedigree beef and sheep farm and the team captain. She graduated from Scotland’s Rural College in 2022 with an honors degree in rural business management and now works with Blackhall & Powis, contributing to renewable projects across the UK. In 2020, she established her own pedigree Shorthorn herd, which runs alongside her family’s Aberdeen Angus and Herefords, bred under the well-known Milovaig prefix for more than 30 years. Smith is also the current chair of Women in Agriculture Scotland, a role she is proud about and an organization she is passionate to lead. Outside of work and farming, she is an avid gym-goer, enjoys swimming and plays rugby for Marr Ladies. A keen traveler, Smith embraces every opportunity to explore new places, cultures and histories.

Meet The Team

Founder & CEO

Don Francis

This is your Team Member description. Use this space to write a brief description of this person’s role and responsibilities, or add a short bio.

UK - Team Beef & Beyond

Keswick, Cumbria

Matthew Fearon

Matthew Fearon, Keswick, Cumbria, developed his interest in working with cattle on his family’s farm in the Lake District, where he gained early experience preparing pedigree cattle for shows and sales alongside his grandfather’s Limousin herd. After earning a diploma in agriculture from Newton Rigg College, he furthered his skills working with pedigree Limousins and fell-going sheep flocks at the renowned Haltcliffe and Kinniside herds. He later spent a winter in New Zealand on a Hereford stud farm, supplying bulls into the dairy industry. Following several years self-employment, Fearon’s career took him into hill farming, where he managed a 3,000-acre flock of Herdwicks for United Utilities. In November 2024, he and his partner Ruby took on a National Trust tenancy, where they manage a flock of hefted Cheviot and Herdwick ewes and plan to establish a Luing cattle herd, aiming to finish stock on a pasture-based system with outwintering where possible. In 2024, he represented the UK at the World Young Shepherd Competition in France, where he finished 5th overall. Fearon is excited to compete at the World Hereford Conference, expand his network and continue developing his skills within the global Hereford community.

Shepton Mallet, Somerset

Lottie Hill

Lottie Hill, Shepton Mallet, Somerset, and her family run the Quaish Pedigree Limousin herd alongside commercial show cattle and pedigree Beltex sheep. From an early age, she developed a passion for competition, excelling in beef showmanship and qualifying for Young Stockperson of the Year in 2018. In recent years, she has been honored to judge both showmanship and breed classes at agricultural shows across the country. An active member of Somerset Young Farmers Club (YFC), Hill has held leadership roles at club, group and county levels. She currently serves as group chairman, club vice-chairman and county stock judging vice-chairman. In 2024 she was Somerset YFC’s county rally chairman and livestock show chairman, organizing competitions for more than 1,000 members. Among her achievements, she has won the senior live beef category at the English Winter Fair, competed successfully in public speaking and team sports and was recently named Somerset YFC’s Senior Member of the Year. Since completing a business course in 2020, Hill has worked for Genus ABS in the southwest.

Carlisle, Cumbria

Sean Mitchell

Sean Mitchell, Carlisle, Cumbria, is the third generation on his family’s farm. The operation includes 160 Holstein/Friesians, 40 pedigree beef cattle consisting of Charolais, Limousin, Belted Galloway and Blondes, along with 600 pedigree and commercial ewes. In addition to farming, Mitchell runs his own cattle dressing and livery service for shows and sales across the UK, working with six main clients and attending many of the country’s major events. Despite being relatively new to pedigree breeding, he has already celebrated notable successes, including Charolais champion at the Royal Welsh Show in 2023, Blonde champion at the Great Yorkshire Show in 2024 and multiple interbreed wins at local shows. His sale highlights include Charolais cattle selling up to £16,000 and Belted Galloways up to £14,000, with his first Limousin set to sell in early 2025. He is excited to attend the World Hereford Conference to learn new skills, make new connections and compete to the best of his ability.

Ashby De La Zouch, Leicestershire

Isla Soutter

Isla Soutter, Ashby De La Zouch, Leicestershire, is originally from the Lake District and now lives on a pedigree Hereford farm. She grew up with Limousin and commercial cattle before moving into Herefords in 2016, when her family joined the Normanton herd. Soutter studied agriculture with animal science at Harper Adams University, completing her placement year with McDonald’s UK in their poultry and egg division. In 2022, she was nominated for Agricultural Student of the Year in both the British Farming Awards and Farmers Weekly Awards, before graduating later that year. She now works as an agriculture manager with ABP Food Group, one of the UK’s largest meat processors, on their integrated program. Soutter has been actively involved in Young Farmers Club from a young age and has enjoyed showing cattle for many years. Having previously attended the World Hereford Conference in New Zealand in 2020, she looks forward to further developing her knowledge and building new connections at this year’s event, with the hope of bringing valuable insights back to the UK Hereford community.

Meet The Team

Product Manager

Lisa Rose

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Team New Zealand

Southland

Niamh Barnett

Niamh Barnett, Southland, grew up on an East Coast sheep and beef station and is proud to be the sixth generation in a family of passionate breeders. She has been actively involved with NZ Herefords and Hereford Youth for more than 10 years, with the breed playing a central role throughout her life and career. Barnett holds a bachelor’s of agriculture from Lincoln University and also studied abroad at Wageningen University and Research in the Netherlands. She now works as a rural relationship manager with ASB Bank in Southland, New Zealand, where she provides capital and financial services to farmers. Her long-standing involvement with Herefords has deepened her knowledge of stud stock and genetics while helping her build connections with breeders and enthusiasts worldwide. A highlight of her journey so far was competing in the 2020 Young Breeders Competition in New Zealand, and she is excited to once again represent her country at the 2025 World Hereford Conference in the United States.

Gisborne

Ella McWilliam

Ella McWilliam, Gisborne, has worked as a shepherd on Pihitia Station on the East Coast of New Zealand, for the past year and a half. The farm is a sheep and beef breeding and finishing operation. Prior to this role, she completed the Growing Future Farmers cadetship, which placed her at Wairere Station, a prominent sheep stud in the Wairarapa. McWilliam grew up on her family’s sheep and beef breeding property, which includes Te Taumata Genetics, their multi-generational polled Hereford stud. She has always had a strong passion for farming and the Hereford breed, and she is proud to continue her family’s legacy. Excited to represent NZ Herefords at the World Hereford Conference Young Breeders Competition, McWilliam sees the event as both an incredible learning opportunity and a chance to connect with breeders from around the world.

Feilding, Manawatu

Georgia Moody

Georgia Moody, Feilding, Manawatu, grew up in the Manawatu region where her passion for agriculture, beef breeding and genetics was shaped by her family’s strong farming background and her involvement in youth competitions throughout school. She graduated in 2024 from Lincoln University with a bachelor’s of agricultural science and has since relocated to regional New South Wales, Australia, where she works as a broadacre agronomist. In this role, she supports farmers in making informed decisions to improve crop performance while balancing both financial and environmental sustainability. Moody has been actively involved with Herefords for several years, with youth competitions across New Zealand and Australia playing a key role in building her skills and industry connections. She is excited to expand her knowledge of commercial and stud cattle, gain further insight into crop production in the United States and connect with young breeders from around the world to strengthen breed societies and contribute to the global future of the Hereford breed.

Taranaki

Joel Steele

Joel Steele, Taranaki, was born and raised on the west coast of New Zealand where his family breeds Hereford cattle under the stud prefix Otoki Herefords. Over the years, he has worked for several cattle studs and now serves as a shepherd at Matapiro Station in Hawke’s Bay, an operation focused on lamb finishing and cattle feedlotting. Passionate about the Hereford breed, Steele has been an active member of NZ Hereford Youth since 2017, a program that has allowed him to compete in shows, develop his judging skills and exhibit both his own cattle and those of other breeders. In 2023, he represented New Zealand at the Hereford Youth Expo in Australia, and he is now looking forward to competing at the World Hereford Conference Young Breeders Competition in the United States.