High in the rolling hills of the Great Dividing Range, two hours north west of Brisbane, a bold vision took root in 2009—one that blended environmental regeneration with sustainable agriculture. Ann Vandeleur and Chris Simpson, driven by a shared passion for the land and a deep respect for rural heritage, set out to create a learning experience for them both! On a stretch of rugged country, they planted 4,400 native hardwood trees and brought in pregnant cows from the renowned Kuraby Brangus line, laying the foundations of what would become Vandeleur Simpson Pastoral (VSP).

The respected breeder of Kuraby Brangus, Gavin Klibbe is known for breeding well-tempered, structurally correct cattle adapted to Queensland’s climate. Alongside these foundation females came a key figure in the genetic story of Vandeleur Simpson Pastoral’s herd: Bungo Kristopher, a registered Brangus bull with impressive Bimbadeen and Greendale bloodlines. Kristopher became the cornerstone sire of Chris’s initial learnings with their early breeding program, stamping his progeny with consistent muscling, growth, and good-natured calves. Chris and Ann also acknowledge the guidance and assistance provided by neighbours in their initial steps with cattle management.