“The decisions I make today? They won’t hit a plate for four years" with Charlie Perry, Trent Bridge Wagyu

Charlie Perry reckons he might know more intricate details of the health of his Wagyu bulls than he does of his kids!

He's fascinated by the genomic data behind every calf he breeds, which allows him to make incremental genetic gains for the betterment of the supply chains he services.

And he'd have to be pretty patient too, with the results of the careful breeding decisions he makes today taking four years to show up on the consumer's plate.

With the 2025 Trent Bridge Wagyu bull sale around the corner, Charlie explains what it takes to produce an animal he believes in, the vulnerability of opening your farm gate to auction his year's efforts, and how his family transitioned from super fine merinos to producing some of the highest quality wagyu genetics in the industry.

takeaways

• Beyond commercial metrics, the consumer eating experience is paramount
• Genetic advancements have transformed Wagyu breeding practices
• Sale day is an exciting but sometimes daunting event, with so much blood, sweat and tears going into the whole affair
• Building relationships with clients is essential for long-term success
• A clear vision and execution are vital for navigating market fluctuations

chapters

02:41 Wagyu Cattle: Breeding and Business Insights

05:48 Transition from Sheep to Cattle: A Family Journey

08:48 The Importance of Consumer Experience in Beef Production

11:26 Genetic Advancements in Wagyu Breeding

17:30 The Pressure of Sale Day: Expectations and Reality

26:20 Future of the Business: Vision and Legacy

Located at Aberfoyle on the Northern Tablelands NSW, Trent Bridge Wagyu is a family owned and operated stud producing high performing bulls for the Fullblood and F1 market since 2005.

There is so much to love about what Charlie is building. Learn more about the Trent Bridge Wagyu story and the 2025 Bull Sale on September 4th, on farm and online via AuctionsPlus.

Last year's sale was an absolute cracker and this year's is set to be even bigger. Register for your sale catalogue here.

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RAS Rural Achiever
Applications are now open for the Royal Agricultural Society of NSW’s 2026 Rural Achiever Award. If you’re in your 20s, making an impact in Aussie ag and your community, this is a HUGE opportunity. Eight finalists will head to the Sydney Royal Easter Show for a jam packed eight days — from Professional Development and Government House, to networking with the movers and shakers in agriculture, plus a share in $17,000 prize money. Entries close Friday 29th August and this is an opportunity you don’t want to miss out on — head to RASNSW.com.au and throw your hat in the ring