About Us

The history of Bonzo Bonsmaras began in 1998 when Mark McIntyre purchased his first commercial Bonsmara cows. In 1999, he took a significant step by buying two SP bulls from Arthur de Villiers of AG Bonsmaras. With the assistance of Hennie Snyman, the stud was officially registered in 2001. That same year, Mark expanded the genetic pool by acquiring female animals from Wesson van Rensburg (RCO). Over time, he also incorporated genetics from Zinabos Bonsmaras (CEF) and Ashley Whitfield (LDW).

Initially grazing in the Parys district, the herd relocated to the Vrede district, then to Vaal Marina, and finally settled in the Ventersburg district by 2020.

The name “Bonzo Bonsmaras” and the herd mark hold special significance. Mark’s father, Bobby, had a childhood pet named Bonzo, and he affectionately referred to Mark by the same name. In honour of his father, Mark named the stud “Bonzo Bonsmaras.” The herd mark, RMC, combines the initial letters of his father’s name (Robert), his own (Mark), and his brother’s (Claude), who both played pivotal roles in the early years of the stud.

Dr. Izak Hattingh from Wilgepoort Veterinary Services in Villiers served as the herd’s vet for many years. In 2020, Dr. Jan Blignaut from Senekal assumed this role. These veterinarians are vital in maintaining the herd’s health. They conduct annual examinations on the bulls intended for auction to ensure their fertility and health, allowing each bull to be sold with a veterinary certificate.

Mark’s wife, Therine, and their children, Esteèn and Alec, are deeply involved in the stud operations, particularly during auction periods. The annual auction takes place on the first Thursday of September in the Vaal Marina district.

At Bonzo Bonsmaras, their commitment to quality genetics, animal welfare, and family legacy fuels their success and commitment to excellence in the Bonsmara breed.