The auction sale was held at River Valley in Heidelberg, Gauteng, on 28 August in collaboration with Karoo-Ochse Vryburg. The eight-month-old in-calf cow was sold to Kameeldrift via the online SwiftVEE platform.
According to River Valley Simmentalers, Orchid’s value lies in her proven genetics and the exceptional progeny she has already produced. She is the dam of River Valley Rocco (AB 20 55) and River Valley Starbuck (AB 21 51), two “outstanding” herd sires that have made their mark in the River Valley stud and breeding programme.
Orchid AB 15 88 is also in calf to River Valley Albert (AB 23 04), who was named the Grand Champion at the 2024 Simmentaler Nationals.
“The calf that is coming from this mating is certainly one to watch,” said Pieter Abrahamse, owner of River Valley Simmentalers.
According to Nelius van Schalkwyk, team lead accounts manager at SwiftVEE, an online livestock and game trading platform, the sale of Orchid AB 15 88 for such a high price showed that the demand for top-quality Simmentaler genetics was growing.
“We are proud to be part of this new Simmentaler record, which demonstrates the success of the breed and the role of digital marketing and online auction platforms in raising exposure and awareness. Congratulations to all stakeholders involved!” Van Schalkwyk said.
