During the initial upgrading process the coat colour of the Mandalong Specials did not vary greatly and today is described as Light Gold, Gold or Dark Gold.

A predominantly horned breed, there are strong poll bloodlines in the RAPALONG STUD herd, producing poll calves out of dominant horned cows.

Although a relatively small breed in numbers, Mandalong Specials can be found in Japan, Russia, North America, Mexico, Philippines and New Zealand. Equally in Australia, RAPALONG clientele are using Mandalong Specials in diverse climatic conditions from the snowfields to the tropics and harsh interiors. The hardiness and foraging ability of the Mandalong Specials has enhanced its adaptability under almost any condition.

Mature RAPALONG Mandalong Specials bulls exceed 1000kg demonstrating the breed’s outstanding growth rate, as calves are born weighing an average of 30kg.

Meat buyers concur that RAPALONG Mandalong Specials are high meat yielding and make no discrimination between male or female carcasses.

At RAPALONG Mandalong Specials females must display feminine attributes whilst also exhibiting good muscle pattern and easy doing ability. Good temperament, high fertility and longevity are all highly valued attributes of the Mandalong Specials breed.

RAPALONG matrons in their 20th year have been recorded as still producing quality calves while RAPALONG sires continue producing progeny well into their teenage years.

With the added benefit of hybrid vigour with each cross, RAPALONG clientele are reaping the advantages of using RAPALONG Mandalong Specials bulls over their pure and crossbred Shorthorn, Brahman, Angus, Charolais, Limousin, Santa Gertrudis and Murray Gray cow herds.