Starburst Ranch History

We started the Canadian operation as one of the first and largest breeders of Miniature Hereford cattle in 1994, importing our foundation stock from the originator of this particular line of breeding, Roy and Rust Largent of Point of Rocks Ranch, in Fort Davis, Texas. We rapidly became the leading exporter of quality Miniature Hereford genetics to several countries around the world operating two separate breeding programs under Starburst Ranch and Pioneer Miniature Herefords. In 2003 the two programs were merged into one under the name Starburst Ranch and we still maintain a small core herd in Alberta, Canada managed by Spruce Hill Ranch, used to supply a diversity of genetics to our constantly expanding world market.

Yearling mini Hereford bull - Starburst Hurricane 46T C02896007

In 2008 we started to lay the foundation for bringing Miniature Hereford genetics to the UK. In 2010 we also decided to showcase the wide diversity that Hereford genetics can offer, where we sourced a modest start up herd of standard sized Polled Herefords and had our first calf crop at Newton of Millfield Farm, in Aberdeenshire, Scotland. Needless to say, we are Hereford enthusiasts excited to continue applying our breeding expertise on these two very distinct breeding programs here in the UK. The contrast in size can be as great as 15 inches in height on a mature animal. Both ends of the spectrum still contain all the desirable traits that Hereford cattle the world over have been known and respected for such as feed efficiency, adaptability, versatility, excellent mothering, great disposition, fertility, longevity, all packaged in a lovely easily recognizable distinct red and white color pattern. These very separate breeding programs supply the needs of two extremely diverse markets, highlighting how adequately the Hereford can do it all. All our cattle regardless of size are registered with the Hereford Society in the UK, and the Canadian Hereford Association in Canada.

Newton of Millfield Farm, is organic, raising a commercial herd of suckler cows, with a Pedigree Shorthorn bull as herd sire, with the intent of using our home bred Hereford bulls on his daughters. Organic oats, barley, award winning silage, hay and straw, are sold as well as used in the raising of the cattle.

It is our vision to raise functionally efficient Polled Hereford bulls for the commercial markets as well as for our own suckler herd, where we can demonstrate the qualities that the market place desires. We also hope to introduce smaller holdings to the possibilities of raising the highly efficient Miniature Hereford for pleasure, safe activities with children and even backyard beef, where their many benefits have been proven and enjoyed in North America, Australia, New Zealand, Europe and beyond. Feel free to contact us if you are interested in any of our breeding programs, or just want to chat about our favorite topic HEREFORDS.