James Salerno, the visionary founder of Ringers Western, has taken his deep-rooted passion for Brahman cattle to the next level by establishing Rosegum Salerno Pastoral (SP), a Brahman stud and commercial cattle enterprise. Raised in the Kimberley region of Western Australia, where his family bred Brahmans, Salerno has embraced his heritage by creating a high-quality breeding operation in Beaudesert, Queensland.
From Ringers Western to Rosegum SP: James Salerno’s Journey
Well-known for his success in Ringers Western, an iconic Australian clothing brand, James Salerno has always had a strong connection to the land. Partnering with Professor Richard Drew, a globally recognized fruit fly researcher and geneticist, Salerno launched Rosegum SP in 2019. The stud is situated on 60 hectares of prime cattle country in Beaudesert, with additional operations at Salerno’s 607-hectare property in Esk, known as Eskalate.
Elite Brahman Genetics and Commercial Focus
James Salerno and Professor Drew have meticulously developed Rosegum SP’s bloodlines, incorporating elite US genetics from legendary Brahman herds such as JD Hudgins’ Manso and V8. Their aim is to produce functional, fertile, and mobile Brahman cattle capable of thriving in Australia’s diverse landscapes.
With a herd comprising 50 stud females and 100 commercial females, Salerno emphasizes breeding cattle with exceptional temperament, fertility, and resilience. “Our background is in cattle stations, so we’re very commercially focused. We want cattle that hold condition well, are fertile, and can get the job done,” Salerno explains.
Beaudesert and Esk Operations: A Commitment to Quality
The properties in Beaudesert and Esk offer distinct advantages. The fully irrigated Beaudesert land is renowned for its high productivity, while the undulating terrain of Esk presents a challenge that their Brahmans are bred to overcome. “They need to be able to walk and perform well in all conditions,” says Salerno.
Salerno and his team market their cattle primarily through Hayes and Co’s Silverdale selling complex, targeting the feeder market with steers averaging 350kg. The Brahman breed’s natural appeal and strong marketability make it a sought-after choice among buyers, with several repeat customers returning year after year.
Balancing Business Ventures: Ringers Western and Rosegum SP
Despite his full schedule managing Rosegum SP, James Salerno remains deeply involved in Ringers Western, the clothing brand he co-founded in 2012 with a group of mates. What began as a passion project in the Kimberleys has evolved into a thriving apparel empire, employing over 100 staff and operating nationwide, with international clients in the UK, US, and New Zealand.
“I love both businesses,” Salerno says. “Ringers Western keeps me busy, but cattle breeding is something that’s been in my blood since childhood. Brahmans are a passion I’ll always come back to.”
The Future of Rosegum SP
Looking ahead, James Salerno is committed to growing Rosegum SP’s reputation as a premier Brahman stud. With a focus on genetic excellence, sustainable farming practices, and commercial viability, he continues to build on a lifelong legacy of cattle breeding.
Whether in the fashion industry or the cattle yards, James Salerno’s entrepreneurial drive and deep connection to the land remain at the heart of everything he does.