Simmental is a breed of cattle originating from the Simme Valley in Switzerland whose history dates back to the Middle Ages when the first Simmental Cattle were produced. Initial popularity was due to the breeds suitability as a dairy, beef and draught animal and in different continents it is still used for those purposes today. In Germany and Austria the Simmental is known as the Fleckvieh and in France as the Pie Rouge. Today the breed is the second most numerous in the world (following Bos Indicus) with estimates ranging from 40 to 60 million worldwide on all inhabited continents.

In Africa, North and South America, Australia and Australasia the breed is used predominantly for beef production while its popularity in Europe is as a dual purpose breed. The adaptability of this breed along with the genetic decisions made over many years by Simmental Breeders in Australia shows when comparing the breeds sale averages and clearance rates to other Bos Taurus breeds.

Aside from the Traditional Simmental, Black and Red Simmentals have been bred selectively for different attributes. Although the Queensland Simmental Bull Sale consists of roughly 85% Traditional Simmentals, the sale is also an opportunity to purchase these other derivatives. Breeders of these derivatives include arguably the the most well known Black Simmental Breeder in the Country (Bonnydale Black Simmentals- with large scale operations in both Queensland and Western Australia) and a number of other studs with a “Red” offering.