THE MEADOWOOD STORY
Situated amidst
the serene landscapes of South Africa, the Van Jaarsveld family’s
unwavering devotion to the Brahman breed is a testament to their
profound love for nature and animals. In this idyllic setting,
Marinus Van Jaarsveld, raised among livestock and the great
outdoors, developed a lifelong passion for these magnificent
creatures that would eventually shape the destiny of his family.
Marinus embarked on a journey to fulfill his dream in 2002,
enrolling in an Auctioneer course, with a vision to host livestock
auctions that would not only facilitate the exchange of cattle but
also celebrate the timeless bond between humans and animals. Little
did he know that this path would lead the Van Jaarsvelds to become
stalwarts in the Brahman breeding community.
By 2008, after a decade of invaluable experience working with
various cattle breeds, the Van Jaarsveld family ventured into the
world of stud animal breeding. Their vision was clear – to produce
cattle that were not just resilient but seamlessly adapted to their
natural habitat. The cornerstone of their breeding program became
the development of robust animals with unparalleled walking
abilities and maternal instincts, capable of nurturing healthy veld
calves year after year.
What sets Meadowood Brahman apart is the fact that it is a family
affair through and through. The second generation, consisting of
Marnitz, Carla, and Milan, is an integral and passionate part of
this operation. They share the same deep-rooted love for Brahman
cattle, the land, and the heritage established by Marinus.
Every member of the Meadowood Brahman herd undergoes rigorous
screening, with fertility and temperament as non-negotiable
criteria. These cattle graze on the challenging terrain of the
Bushveld near Thabazimbi, known for its harsh conditions, including
the threat of Heart Water, Red Water, and Gall sickness. Yet, these
Brahman cattle thrive on the lush veld, relying solely on its
nourishment. Their ability to traverse great distances daily for
water and sustenance is a testament to their adaptability, while the
Van Jaarsveld family’s dedication ensures that even their youngest
calves grow up with gentle temperaments. Those that do not meet the
exacting standards set by the family are culled, guaranteeing that
only the best genetics are perpetuated.
In a world where cattle are judged by their resilience and
adaptability, the Bushveld Brahman is unrivaled. To symbolize their
commitment to the future, the Van Jaarsvelds rebranded their
enterprise in 2010 as ASM, signifying the continuity of their family
tradition through the initials of Marinus and his second-generation
successors, Marnitz, Carla, and Milan.
With meticulous care, Marinus, along with the second generation,
personally oversees the breeding program, handpicking the bulls and
making AI selections that further enhance the genetic strength of
their herd. Their goal is clear – to create functional,
well-adjusted cattle that can not only survive but thrive on the
bountiful Bushveld grasslands, efficiently converting nature’s gift
into prime meat.
Since 2009, the Van Jaarsveld family has taken the reins of the
Meadowood Brahman Stud, marking a chapter of unwavering dedication
to preserving the Brahman breed’s excellence and a commitment to
raising livestock that exemplify the very best of nature and
nurture. The Meadowood Brahman Stud is not just a cattle farm; it’s
a testament to the enduring love and respect that the Van Jaarsveld
family holds for the Brahman breed, the land, and the timeless
connection between humans and animals. Together, across generations,
they continue to enrich this remarkable legacy.
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