By Linda Mantova
Daniel “Boon” Pryor has a big future in the Brahman industry.
At just 16 years old, he has been around Brahmans for half of his life, having his first Brahman bull gifted to him on his 8th birthday.
Today Daniel runs his small stud, BNB Brahmans at Fernmount, near Coffs Harbour, in New South Wales, and that first bull, Mountana Bandit – his foundation sire – is now eight and continues to play an active role in his breeding program.
After finishing school last year, he transitioned into a role on his family farm along side his older brother Riley, as well as working with various Brahman breeders.
“I’ve been involved in the cattle industry my whole life, with a specific focus on Brahmans since I was eight years old,” Daniel said.
“Working on the family farm has provided me with hands-on experience and exposure to cattle over the years,” he said.
“My family actually runs a dairy farm, but I developed a passion for Brahmans at a young age.
“My interest really took off when my parents gifted me my first bull, which they purchased from Grant and Jo Bulmer of Mountana Brahmans at Kyogle.
“I vividly remember visiting Primex with my family and meeting Jo, who recommended the Bos Indicus camp in Casino. I attended the camp that year, and it was there that my parents surprised me with the bull, which I named Bandit.”
Daniel established his stud when he was nine, and named it after his nickname “Boon”, and Bandit (BNB).
“My stud name reflects the strong bond I have with the breed and my own journey in the industry,” he said.
“I love the Brahman breed for its hardiness, heat tolerance, and resistance to ticks and flies.
“Their intelligence, and versatility make them a joy to work with.”
“I’m also impressed by their impressive growth rates, fertility, and ability to thrive in diverse environments.”
Daniel has been attending the Bos Indicus Youth Roundup in Casino since he was eight, and last year had the opportunity to give back as a mentor for the PeeWee section, which he found very rewarding.
“I also attend the annual ABBA Junior Beef Show in Rockhampton,” he said.
“Last year, I achieved some great successes, winning the Overall Champion in my age group and receiving a Herdsman Award.
“I also went to Beef 24 with Bizzy Brahmans. It was the first time I have been and it was a great experience for me, placing fifth in my age group in Paraders.”
Daniel has also competed with his Brahman cattle and shown for other studs at local shows including Kempsey and Macksville, as well as larger shows like Casino, Lismore, Kyogle, and Dorrigo.
He won Champion Parader at this year’s Grafton Show, and BNB Brahmans exhibited both the Champion Bos Indicus bull and female at the Kempsey Show.
“I also attend Primex annually, where I showcase some of my animals on display, while actively promoting the Brahman breed in my region,” he said.
As his prize for the Overall Champion 14 and Under 16 years at the 2024 Junior Beef Show, Daniel won the prestigious Beef Breeding Services AI Award, and gained valuable hands-on experience and in-depth knowledge of AI techniques when he attended a course run by the Rockhampton-based business.
“Beef Breeding Services provided an excellent opportunity to learn from industry experts and further develop my skills in cattle breeding and management,” he said.
Daniel has some very admirable goals, which include continuing to develop and showcase high-quality Brahmans through his stud.
“My main focus remains on cattle, particularly Brahmans and developing my stud,” he said.
“I also want to expand my knowledge and expertise in cattle breeding, genetics, and management, along with building strong relationships within the industry and networking with other breeders.
“Contributing to the advancement of the Brahman breed and the beef industry is very important to me.”
