Angus Australia April 2015 Bulletin

Bulletin

Autumn 2015

EXPORT ON THE RISE TO CHINA

While China has been a major trading partner to Australia over several years for natural resources and education services, in recent times it has been realised that they are now a major export market for Angus breeding cattle.

During 2014 China became the major market for certified Angus export breeding heifers. They represented 90% of the Angus breeding animals (mainly heifers) certified for live export, totalling 29,258 head. The remaining 10% were certified for the Russian and Kazakhstan markets.

This is in contrast to previous years such as 2013 when Russia and Kazakhstan were the dominant markets taking 33,531 head (79%) of Angus animals certified. In 2013, 8,824 (21%) Angus animals were certified for the China market.

Australian Angus breeder’s commitment to genetic improvement has led to the efficient maternal performance and superior eating quality we see today. When countries, such as China, source live Australian Angus cattle, this provides a solid foundation for establishing and growing productive beef breeding herd.

Looking at 2014 in further detail, of the Angus breeding animals certified, a total of 5,192 (16%) were Category 1 and 26,358 were Category 2 (84%) animals.

45,000 40,000

Angus Australia Export Certifications Russia

Turkey

Kazakhstan

China

35,000 30,000

Category 1 Angus animals have a full 3 generation pedigree and are sourced from pure bred seedstock operations.

Category 2 animals are pure bred Angus heifers sired by known registered Angus bulls and mainly sourced from large scale pure-bred breeding enterprises.

The Chinese market currently requires a defined percentage of each shipment to be Category 1 Angus heifers. This has resulted in the increased demand for Category 1 heifers in 2014 compared to 2013. In 2013, the number of Category 1 heifers certified totalled 4,691 being 11% of the animals certified.

The year-on-year trend for export certification shows that 2014 was the third highest year since export certification commenced in 2007. A spike was observed in 2013 mainly due to two large shipments (>10,000 head) for the Russian market.

Live export continues to provide an important, ongoing and additional market for Angus producers and we look forward to responding to further growth in the years ahead.

25,000 20,000 15,000 10,000 5,000 0

2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014

For further information on Angus Australia export certifications refer to the Angus Australia website (www.angusaustralia.com.au) or contact Christian Duff, Strategic Projects Manager email christian@angusaustralia.com.au or M: 0457 457 141.

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Angus Bulletin Autumn 2015

in this issue Export on the rise to China ................... 1 From The CEO ....................................... 2 Angus hits market specs ....................... 4 Certified Angus Group announces landmark deal for member owned Angus brands ................................................... 5 Angus dominate the interbreed wins at Sydney .................................................. 6 Advertise in the revamped Angus bulletin ................................................. 6 Autumn 2015 Stock & Land Beef Week .............................................................. 7 Benefits of infusing Angus genetics into northern Australian beef herds ............ 8 Angus sires – just the ticket in Queensland .......................................... 9 Management strategies for relocation and adaptation of Angus bulls into northern Australia ............................... 10 Understanding the new Angus selection indexes ................................ 13 Considerations when using Angus selection indexes to assist with selection decisions .............................. 15 Understanding the recalibrated Zoetis HD50K for Angus Product ................... 18 DNA parent verification ...................... 20 Improved genomic technology for Angus Australia members .............................. 21 ASBP – Sire Nominations open Cohort 6 ............................................................. 22 Angus Sire Benchmarking Program update ................................................. 23 Kate Fairlie Tours the United States .... 25 Angus Youth National Roundup wrap up ............................................................. 26 2015 Angus Youth Management Committee .......................................... 28

The Angus Society of Australia Address: 86 Glen Innes Road, Locked Bag 11, Armidale, NSW 2350 AUSTRALIA Ph: 02 6772 3011 Fax: 02 6772 3095 E:office@angusaustralia.com.au W: www.angusaustralia.com.au 2

FROM THE CEO Report from Angus Australia Board meeting conducted on 17th April 2015 The Angus Breeders Dinner, Breed Development Forum and the 86th Annual General Meeting of the Angus Society of Australia were conducted in Armidale on the 15-16th April 2015.

Breed Development Forum The Breed Development Forum included updates on the latest results from the Angus Sire Benchmarking Program (ASBP), developments in MLA’s eating quality research, Angus selection index developments, integration of genomics data into Breedplan, CSIRO research on breeding for resilience, and an overview of industry gains resulting from genetic improvement in the Angus breed. Copies of the Forum Presentations will be available from the Angus Australia website www.angusaustralia.com.au.

Annual General Meeting At the Annual General Meeting, President Mr Michael Gadd tabled the consolidated Financial Statements for the Angus Society of Australia and Controlled Entities, the Director’s Declaration, and the Reports of the Directors and the Auditor for the financial year ended 31 December 2014. These statements and reports are included in the 2014 Annual Report available in the member’s login area of the Angus Australia website.

Mr Gadd acknowledged the contributions of retiring Directors Mr Mark Gubbins (President 2011-2012), Dr Ian Watson, Mr Ben Hill and Mr Stephen Handbury; and, welcomed new Director from Victoria Mr Brad Gilmour.

Members were notified that the following Directors would form the Angus Australia Board during 2015: Hugh Munro (NSW), Peter Trahar (NSW), Michael Gadd (VIC), Brad Gilmour (Vic), Libby Creek (SA), Tony Seymour (Tas), Max Badcock (Tas), Tony Golding (WA), Lindsay Wolrige (WA) and Brett Piraner (Qld).

Following the AGM, CEO Peter Parnell, provided an overview of Angus Australia’s activities during 2014. It was noted that although 2014 was another very challenging year for many members the Angus breed continued along its path of industry leadership and success with positive trends achieved for all relevant business indicators.

Angus Australia Board Meeting At the Angus Australia Board meeting on the 17th April 2015, Directors appointed Mr Hugh Munro as President, and Mrs Libby Creek as Vice-President. The Board

The Board noted the exclusive license agreement negotiated between Certified Angus Group P/L and Thomas Foods International P/L for the future production of Certified Australian Angus Beef and Angus Pure and Natural Beef. It was noted that as a result of this exclusive license, Teys Australia – A Cargill Joint Venture post August 1st 2015 will no longer produce or sell Certified Australian Angus beef, but will continue to market its own proprietary Angus brands.

The following resolutions were passed by the Board: - Amendment to Regulation 5.11 to “Where a female is jointly owned, the Herd Inventory Fee for the female will be charged to the member with recorded possession.

Where possession is not recorded with the Society, each owner will be charged the full Herd Inventory Fee for the female”.

- Inclusion of new Regulation 15.3 “Genomic predictions (MVPs, MBVs etc.) will only be loaded on the Society’s database and used in Angus Breedplan if the associated SNP information is also loaded on the Society’s database.”

The remaining clauses of Regulation 15 will be renumbered accordingly.

- Proposed changes to clauses in Rule 2 and Rule 13 of the Constitution be submitted to State Committees for their approval, and if approved by at least 3 State Committees to be put to members for decision by ballot.

These changes relate to processes for Constitutional change, and the future structure of the Board.

SNAPSHOTS FROM THE BREED DEVELOPMENT FORUM

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also accepted the nomination by the South Australian State Committee of Mr Perry Gunner to join the Angus Australia Board to fill the casual vacancy resulting from the retirement of Dr Ian Watson. Mr Gunner will commence his appointment at the Board meeting to be conducted on the 20th July 2015.

Rob Bulle & Angus Australia Director Mike Gadd

Peter Grieve, Catriona Millen (SBTS) & Angus Australia Director Peter Trahar.

The Board noted the development of the in-house capacity for export certification of breeding animals by Angus Australia and plans to introduce this as an option for use by exporters during the remainder of 2015.

The next meeting of the Angus Australia Board will be conducted in Hahndorf, SA on Monday 20th July.

James and Wesley Trotter

Angus Dominate Interbreed Sydney Royal 2015 - Hordern Trophy - Interbreed Pair - Interbreed Breeders Group - RAS Supreme Interbreed Heifer

- Urquhart Trophy - Supreme Interbreed Bull & Supreme Interbreed Beef Exhibit

Hordern Trophy Urquhart Trophy Breeders Group PC Kodiak 5R H130 Hordern Trophy Breeders Group PC MS Expedition H304 Interbreed Heifer Breeders Group PC Miss E99 Foreman J181

www.angusaustralia.com.au

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AROUND THE PADDOCK

ANGUS HITS MARKET SPECS by Tom Dawkins Even though the mobs of black cattle look very much at home munching on the sea of lucerne at Barn Hill, east of Meningie, SA, their stay on the property is relatively short.

Barn Hill is one of four Coorong district properties owned and managed by Van Den Brink Partners, a local family operation which specialises in backgrounding and agisting cattle for two nearby feedlots and Thomas Foods International’s processing plant at Murray Bridge.

Mark Turner works with four of his uncles and a cousin over a total of 3600 hectares, keeping an eye on as many as 2500 young cattle on the family’s properties at any given time.

“We run all Angus, mostly purchased as forward store calves out the market. They are usually on the place for 45-60 days, gaining better than a kilogram a day and then they are ready to go,” Mark said.

“We’re focused on what we’re good at which is making sure there is quality pasture in the paddock. If you’ve got good feed and good breeding, you don’t have many problems.”

In the first half of the 2014/15 financial year, Van Den Brinks have turned-off 3600 steers and heifers. The larger portion has been finished on pasture and sent direct to Murray Bridge to go into TFI’s grass-fed Angus Pure brand.

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The balance of cattle are spelled prior to entry for two local feedlots – one at Meningie and the other at Tintinara - for 200-day grain feeding to supply the Certified Australian Angus Beef program.

“The feeder cattle we get in are usually at weaner weights, about 320-340kg (liveweight). We might aim to put 2040kg on them over four weeks or so, just to get them up to entry weight,” Mark says.

“With the feeder cattle, we really just try to get them acclimatised and socialised before they go into feedlot.

We’ve got to be flexible to fit in with what the feedlot’s requirements are too. For example, the cattle going to Iranda typically get a pre-feedlot treatment of a ‘5-in-1’ vaccine, plus a B12 and selenium shot.”

A number of different factors make the Van Den Brinks backgrounding venture work. In the first instance the warm, healthy country of the Coorong and its 450-500mm annual rainfall mean it is suited to putting weight on cattle throughout the year.

But what sets the operation apart is the fact that it is an ‘Angus only’ concern and that cattle are ultimately supplied into the Angus Pure or CAAB programs.

“That’s what makes this all work. It would be hard to imagine this system happening for a breed other than

“The biggest thing we see here with the Angus cattle is the consistency. When two or three B-double loads arrive here and then 99 per cent of them can go out in good time and hit the market requirements, it makes our job a lot easier. We couldn’t ask for much else.”

Mark says one of the highlights of his work has been meeting overseas customers who rave about the quality of Angus beef.

“Working together with an export processor like TFI, supplying beef for a brand that is really going somewhere makes us feel pretty proud to be involved,” Mark says.

CERTIFIED ANGUS GROUP ANNOUNCE LANDMARK DEAL FOR MEMBER OWNED ANGUS BRANDS

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Angus because it is the strength of the Angus brand that has created this opportunity,” Mark says.

“Some Americans came to visit TFI at Murray Bridge recently and we were invited to meet them. It was great to hear how highly they talked about the beef we produce on our farm and how it walks of the shelf in the US. During the tour, Mark was presented with an award from a major US supermarket chain, recognising Van Den Brink Partners as one of the American retail giant’s top beef suppliers.

“That sort of feedback we get from further down the supply chain tells us that the consistency and quality of the Angus cattle is unmatched,” Mark says.

TFI beef livestock manager Peter Bond has great praise for the whole Van Den Brink family.

“Good professional backgrounders like the Van Den Brinks play such a vital part in the continuity of supply for all our Angus programs like CAAB and Angus Pure. It is a wonderful partnership,” Peter says.

About 70 per cent of the cattle TFI processes are Angus and that volume of black cattle throughput will continue to rise. The company is currently processing more than 5000 cattle a week, which will grow to 7500 a week when its new boning room is operational in the coming months.

Furthermore, an optional 3500 head will also be possible via a second shift at the plant by the end of 2015.

Certified Angus Group Pty Ltd announced that from August 1st of 2015 the brands CAAB – Certified Australian Angus Beef® and Angus Pure and Natural Beef® will be produced under exclusive license to Thomas Foods International Pty Ltd. With respect to the new license agreement Angus Australia Director and Certified Angus Group Chairman, Peter Trahar (pictured) said “The Certified Australian Angus Beef (CAAB) brand was established to drive demand for Angus cattle and indirectly Angus breeding stock. We believe the enhanced relationship with Thomas Foods will increase volume of CAAB produced and sold and thus the demand for Angus Cattle.”

‘Providing exclusivity to Thomas secures the future of the brands for the brand owners. Thomas Foods has shown just what they can do with a member owned brand through the launch and growth of Angus Pure®.

To now have exclusivity to CAAB – Certified Australian Angus Beef we are sure that Thomas Foods will take the same enthusiastic and driven approach to further grow Australia’s Most Awarded brand of beef CAAB’ said Certified Angus CEO Kate Brabin.

“That increase in our weekly volume is in line the natural growth of our branded Angus programs,” Peter says.

Angus Australia Chairman, Mike Gadd confirmed Angus Australia’s support for the initiative and agreed that this development will be very beneficial to producers of Angus cattle as a whole.

“We get high performance from Angus cattle and we are seeing how the breed’s genetics are getting better and better every year. That means that we don’t need to HGP treat any of our cattle because, to be honest, the quality of the breeding means hormone treatment isn’t necessary.”

As a result of the exclusive license, Teys Australia – A Cargill Joint Venture post August 1st, 2015 will no longer produce or sell CAAB – Certified Australian Angus Beef® For further enquiries please contact Kate Brabin on 02 9844 5426 or email Kate on kbrabin@caab.com.au 5

AROUND THE PADDOCK

ANGUS DOMINATE ADVERTISE IN THE THE INTERBREED REVAMPED ANGUS WINS AT SYDNEY BULLETIN SHOW

PC Kodiak 5R H130 has continued his stellar run of show performances after taking out the Urquhart Trophy for Supreme Beef Exhibit at this year’s Sydney Royal Easter Show. After beating a quality line up of bulls to be named the Interbreed Champion bull, this two and half year old sire was crowned the overall Champion above the Red Angus cow, by Judges Dawn Wilson, Tim Morrison and John Manchee.

Exhibited by the Fuller Family from Woodstock, NSW PC Kodiak was previously awarded Senior and Grand Champion Bull and Supreme Angus exhibit during Angus judging.

Following on from this judging, PC Angus was also awarded the RAS Supreme Interbreed Heifer, with Judge Neil Watson, selecting PC Miss E99 Foreman J181, the Junior Champion Female from the Angus Judging.

PC Kodiak 5R H130 then teamed up with stablemate PC MS Expedition H304,Senior and Grand Champion female from the Angus judging, to take out arguably the most prestigious interbreed award, the Hordern Trophy. This trophy has now been won a record nines times by the Angus breed.

Earlier in the day the Fuller Family were also awarded the Interbreed Breeders Group by Judge Andrew Bassingthwaite. The breeders group unsurprisingly was made up of PC Kodiak 5R H130, PC Miss E99 Foreman J181 and PC MS Expedition H304.

The interbreed wins capped off an amazing Sydney Royal for the Fuller family, who won all four champions during the Angus judging, also exhibiting the Junior Champion Angus bull.

For several years Angus Australia has offered members the opportunity to advertise on the extremely popular Angus Australia web site and in the Angus eNewsletter (Angus eNews) which has extensive distribution.

To add to our digital advertising offering, we now have advertising opportunities available in our revamped Angus Australia bulletin.

This new expanded Angus Bulletin contains editorial from all programs of Angus Australia including Breed Development, Extension and Youth and Marketing, plus features advertising from our members. Members and others look to Angus Australia for latest developments and cutting edge information on the Angus breed, therefore our communications (whether print or digital) are widely read.

Distributed to over 3,500 members each quarter, the Angus Bulletin gives members the opportunity to schedule your advertising in line with upcoming events including Bull sales and Field days. Budget can also be planned with advertisement sizes from small to full page available.

Angus Australia will be offering a 10% discount on combined web site advertising and Angus Bulletin bundled packages and you can provide your own advertising artwork or we can provide this service to you.

To view Angus Australia’s complete advertising prospectus and publishing schedule visit www.angusaustralia.com.au

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Hordern Trophy winning pair - PC Kodiak 5R H130 & PC MS Expedition H304

For further information contact Sonya Buck email sonya@angusaustralia.com.au or email marketing@angusaustralia.com.au.

In February, Carel Teseling and Lee-Anne Turner attended the last three days of the Autumn 2015 Stock & Land Beef Week in Victoria.

It was a great opportunity to see the animals presented and meet the breeders that participated in Beef Week.

It was also very nice to meet other members and commercial producers that were travelling and visiting the many Angus studs over the three days they visited 18 different Angus studs.

The Angus Australia Member Services Team works with many of these members on a day to day basis, and it was therefore a fantastic opportunity for Lee-Anne to put a face to the name of many of these members.

Many members mentioned the expense and practical management of genetic condition testing as a major concern. The most frequently asked question was probably: “When will the next genetic condition hit us?”

To answer this is very difficult, as we don’t know when we will receive reports from members about a specific genetic condition. It is important for members to know that Angus Australia will investigate reports of deformities in the breed.

So what is the process and what should members do?

AROUND THE PADDOCK

AUTUMN 2015 STOCK & LAND BEEF WEEK

Joy Howley from Alto Angus with Lee-Anne Turner, Angus Australia Member Services Manager

This was the first opportunity Lee-Anne had to visit some of the Victorian members since she started with Angus Australia about 18 months ago. As the Member Services Manager, it was an invaluable experience for her to have the personal contact and listen to member’s feedback and concerns.

Even though the vast majority of the feedback was positive; talking to the members also helped her to better understand some of the frustrations members have and look at ways to address these issues through system improvements and better staff training.

The three day visit to Victoria was very informative and a great opportunity to hear directly from members how Angus Australia can improve its services to its seed stock and commercial members.

• During the initial stage of the investigation it is important to try to ascertain if the reported deformed calves are a result of a genetic mutation or environmental factors. This initial stage of the investigation can take several months or years to complete.

• We also need enough DNA samples (about 8 to 10) of deformed calves before a genetic analysis, to find the possible mutation, can start.

• Reporting an abnormal calf is as easy as taking a couple of photographs, collecting hair or tissue samples of the calf and talking to Angus Australia staff.

• By members being pro-active in reporting abnormal animals the next genetic condition may not have as big an impact on the breed as the previous genetic conditions.

The Member Services Team is responsible for all animal registrations, fates and transfers and the processing of the DNA requests and results.

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BENEFITS OF INFUSING ANGUS GENETICS INTO NORTHERN AUSTRALIAN BEEF HERDS

Angus Australia has surveyed producers in northern Australia to increase the understanding of the benefits of infusing Angus genetics into their beef herds.

This research, conducted in 2013, involved interviews with over 60 commercial or seedstock producers either running or supplying bulls into northern Australia.

Responses from producers interviewed in this research confirm that using Angus genetics in northern beef herds can have many benefits, and that Angus bulls can be run successfully in most areas of northern Australia if some simple management practices are adopted.

Grant Brooks, Marble Bar WA says: “We bought Limestone Station in 1997. The station encircles the town of Marble Bar which has the reputation as being Australia’s hottest town. The temperatures are always in the forties through summer, autumn and spring.

We have cyclonic rains and rivers that flood through the wet season and sometimes drought.

Our Angus cattle thrive in these conditions and we get premium demand for them from our live export buyers”.

The main benefits of incorporating Angus genetics into northern Australian beef herds included improved marketability of calves, hybrid vigour, enhanced female fertility and the introduction of polledness.

Additional benefits were also obtained from the utilisation of complementary attributes with other breeds when Angus were included in structured crossbreeding programs.

The extent to which the benefits from the infusion of Angus were achieved was impacted by the management of bulls prior to and after relocation to the north, as well as the female replacement policy used in these herds.

Market Flexibility Northern producers have reported that the incorporation of Angus genetics has broadened the market options for their stock and provided greater access to processor premiums available for cattle meeting MSA specifications.

The adoption of MSA grading by the major meat processors in Queensland and some specific markets requiring a minimum Bos taurus content was cited as a key driver for the increased use of Angus genetics.

Wendy & Grant Brooks, Marble Bar WA

Dan & Lachlan Lynch, Cloncurry Qld: “I have been very impressed with the success of our Angus cross cattle. We achieved 79% polled cattle at branding time with the rest of the animals being scurred. Absolutely no horn was present.

Another advantage has been when weaned the Angus cross animals averaged 22kg heavier than their Brahman brothers and sisters. The same trend was evident at 400 days with the Angus weighing in 41 kg heavier.

I believe these animals have been handling our harsh northern environment incredibly well and certainly at this stage outperforming the purebred Brahmans.”

The growth in demand for Angus branded product has also been a significant factor driving premiums for Angus cattle. Premiums of up to 20 cents/kg live weight or more have been cited for Angus or Angus cross steers over animals with no Angus content.

Enhanced Fertility Increases in calving rates were widely reported by northern producers following the incorporation of Angus genetics into their breeding herds. Reduced age at puberty allowed heifers to conceive earlier and calve down at a younger 8

Lachlan Lynch, Cloncurry QLD

Hybrid Vigour Incorporating Angus genetics resulted in benefits through hybrid vigour among crossbred calves and replacement females, as well as combining positive attributes of both Bos taurus and Bos indicus genetics.

It was reported that the expression of hybrid vigour decreased the age at which progeny are finished. This enhanced the chances of obtaining premiums associated with MSA grading by ensuring that bullocks were above 500 kilograms live weight with milk or 2 teeth.

Crossbred females with Angus content were reported as being more fertile and having superior milk production compared to Bos indicus derived females.

Polledness One of the benefits associated with the use of Angus bulls is that the majority of their progeny will be polled. While the polled gene is dominant, the African horn gene and scur genes common in Bos indicus breeds are inherited separately. Consequently, it may take several generations of breeding with polled bulls to achieve a fully polled herd. Northern producers reported that breeding polled cattle was highly desirable as it eliminated stress and weight losses associated with dehorning, reduced the risk of work place injury and reduced bruising of cattle during yarding and transportation.

Beef CRC research The Beef Co-operative Research Centre (Beef CRC) conducted a large crossbreeding trial in central Queensland where bulls from eight breeds were joined to Brahman cows. Calves were grown out on grass and in feedlots for different market endpoints.

The results showed that Angus cross calves were lighest at birth and had similar growth performance and carcase weights to European crosses. They were easier to finish, with good muscling, more marbling, better tenderness and highest MSA meat quality scores.

ANGUS SIRES – JUST THE TICKET IN QUEENSLAND Tony and Jacky White from Kerry in Queensland produce Angus cross Brahman cattle and say they wouldn’t change a thing. Kerry is located 20 kilometres south of Beaudesert and has a population of around 450 people.

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age when the seasonal conditions were favourable.

In addition, shorter lactation anoestrus periods were reported in the crossbred cow herd, resulting in shorter calving intervals and heavier weaners at mustering.

Previously utilising Charolais sires saw the Whites herd experience calving difficulties including prolapses and dead calves. They switched to Angus bulls 7 years ago.

“Since moving to Angus bulls we haven’t had one calving issue” says Tony.

Tony and Jacky produce cattle to a target weight of 300 kg live weight or around 8 months of age and the animals are sold either direct to the butcher shop or sold to be backgrounded in preparation for lot feeding. Their calving period is late winter to early spring and there is great demand for the calves they produce.

One of the biggest advantages of introducing Angus bulls has been an improvement in temperament. Tony says “the Angus cross Brahman calves produced are very quiet and the Angus bulls are easy to handle” Many years ago the Whites ran dairy cattle before they switched to running Brahman heifers. Their 350 acre property is in a tick zone and their Angus bulls have no issues running in this environment.

The Whites Angus bulls are sourced from Cochrane Angus in Jimboomba, about half an hours’ drive north of Kerry also inside Queensland’s tick zone.

Just sprayed once or twice a year for ticks and utilising a walk thru backrub for Buffalo fly, the Angus bulls receive no other special treatment and are not given any supplementary feed.

Tony sees the natural polledness of Angus as another major benefit. Since switching to Angus his calves have not had horns and this has both visual and practical appeal.

The Whites run a mixed farming enterprise which also grows over 40,000 capsicums per year. Consequently, Tony says they need easy care cattle which don’t take too much of their time. “This makes the Angus mix of calving ease and good temperament perfect for our operation” says Tony.

Asked if he would change anything he is doing for the future Tony replied “Why would we? We don’t want any problems going forward”.

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IN THE NORTH

MANAGEMENT STRATEGIES FOR RELOCATION AND ADAPTATION OF ANGUS BULLS INTO NORTHERN AUSTRALIA

The infusion of Angus genetics has the potential to improve the productivity of beef operations in northern Australia. However, with the majority of Angus bulls being bred in more temperate areas of Australia, there are a number of important requirements to consider for the successful relocation and adaptation of Angus bulls.

The length of time and management required for adaptation is ultimately determined by the variation in the climate and production environment between the bull’s origin and the destination region and the time of year when re-location occurs. The biggest factor influencing successful adaptation is the management of bulls before and immediately after they reach their new environment.

Areas that require particular attention include the adaptation period post relocation, bull age, nutritional regime pre- and post-relocation, use of controlled joining periods, implementation of vaccination programs prior to re-location, external parasite control and disease management. All of these factors can affect how well bulls will perform in their new environment.

Duration of adaptation Management of the adaptation of bulls to new environments will impact their subsequent mating performance and longevity. A minimum of 3 months adaptation is recommended when relocating Angus bulls into northern Australia. This is required to minimise any reductions in semen quality which may result from transportation and post relocation environmental stressors. Longer periods of adaptation will generally give better results.

Age of bulls when relocated Generally, the younger a bull is when it is relocated the better it will ultimately become adapted to the new environment.

When purchasing bulls of different ages the following general adaptation periods should be considered before putting them to work: • A minimum of 3 months for 18 to 24 month old bulls • A minimum of 6 months for 12 to 18 month old bulls • Bulls 12 months and under will ultimately adapt better to the new environment, but should be allowed 6 to 12 months adaptation period. If used within the first 12 10

The infusion of Angus genetics has the potential to improve the productivity of beef operations in the tropical, sub-tropical and grassland regions of Northern Australia.

months, bulls should only be given a very light load. A minimum joining percentage of 5% is recommended.

Time of year at relocation The climatic conditions that animals are exposed to vary substantially between environments. The main factors to consider when relocating animals include that variation in temperature, humidity and nutrition.

The cooler months are the best time to relocate bulls, with autumn usually providing the least variation in climatic conditions. Where possible animals should be relocated before the end of the northern wet season when pastures are generally still of reasonable quality and temperatures are beginning to drop.

If feed quality and availability after arrival is limited then bulls should be provided with some supplementation until they are placed into the breeding herd.

Nutrition Bulls should be gradually transitioned onto their new diet post relocation to allow rumen micro-organisms time to adapt. A minimum of 14 days is recommended to allow bulls to adapt to pastures in the new environment, with some supplementary feeding offered where necessary.

Post relocation supplements should consist of good quality hay and/or protein and energy supplements.

Where possible, it is best if bulls are provided with minimal grain supplement in their diets prior to relocation. Bulls that have received large amounts of grain

Bulls purchased from an auction will commonly have received supplementation or high quality forage pre-sale.

These bulls should be monitored carefully to ensure that their body condition doesn’t drop too rapidly, and if it does, they should be moved quickly onto supplementary feeding.

In areas where shrubs and trees are an important part of the diet bulls should be carefully managed while they acquire the necessary browsing skills for this process.

Managing ticks Producers in endemic tick areas should treat all Angus bulls on a regular basis. Due to their lower resistance when compared to their Bos indicus counterparts, Angus bulls have a potential to lose weight quickly and possibly die due to high tick burdens if not managed carefully.

Angus bulls should ideally be treated for ticks twice per year, both at the beginning and end of the wet season.

This provides protection during their period of peak work, and uses the natural break in season to interrupt the life cycle of the ticks. Bulls that are removed during the dry season should be treated as required.

In situations where it is impractical to treat bulls for ticks, using Angus influenced composite or cross bred bulls with some Bos indicus content rather than pure bred Angus bulls is recommended.

Buffalo fly control Buffalo flies and mosquitoes affect production through irritation to the animal and as vectors for disease. One or more of the following control methods should be used to reduce these insect burdens: • Buffalo fly traps • Ear tags, which release small amounts of chemical over a long period of time • Sprays and pour-on chemicals • Back rubbers, containing an oil and insecticide mixture

Bulls vaccinated when older than 9 months of age may react to the vaccine and should be monitored for signs of fever. Likewise, all bulls, including those that have been vaccinated, should be monitored for signs of tick fever for the first month after relocation.

If bulls have not been vaccinated prior to relocation into a tick zone they should be vaccinated on arrival and treated with a tickicide that kills nymph ticks. This strategy is inferior to pre-vaccination and should be avoided if possible as bulls can become affected by tick fever prior to the vaccine taking affect.

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supplementation prior to relocation should be let down on a protein and energy supplement for at least a 3 month adaptation period.

3 Day Sickness (Bovine Ephemeral Fever): Bulls should be vaccinated prior to relocation to reduce the risk of contracting Bovine Ephemeral Fever.

Botulism: Producers relocating bulls to areas endemic to Botulism should ensure bulls are vaccinated either before relocation or immediately on arrival.

Transportation The transportation of bulls can have multiple negative effects on the animal if not managed appropriately.

All livestock transportation should be conducted in accordance with the state and federal legislation. A maximum of 48 hours off water for cattle over 6 months of age is recommended, with additional considerations for animals after 36 hours off water.

The use of trucks with air bag suspension systems, and the addition of flooring covering such as rubber matting, wood shavings, rice hulls or carpet can assist in reducing the level of physical stress on animals during transportation.

Removal of bulls from the breeding herd Management during the first 12 to 18 months after relocation will affect a bull’s fertility and health for the duration of its working life. The removal of new bulls from the cow herd after the wet season and during the first winter post relocation is particularly important as the bulls will be still adapting to the environment.

Where possible bulls should be removed between musters and supplementary fed to increase their body condition.

Vaccinations requirements All bulls should be vaccinated in accordance with standard protocols against the Clostridial diseases (5 in 1, or 7 in 1), Pestivirus and Vibriosis.

Additionally, bulls should be vaccinated for: Tick Fever: Producers purchasing bulls for relocation into the ticky areas of northern Australia should ensure that all bulls have been pre-vaccinated. The ideal time for bulls to be vaccinated for tick fever is between 6 to 12 months of age, with a second shot ideally prior to relocation or as soon as possible post-relocation.

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from page 11

IN THE NORTH

The type and amount of supplementation required will vary depending on the season and availability.

In situations where it is not practical to remove all bulls, and/or where sourcing supplementary feed is either difficult or too costly, an alternative approach may be to only remove bulls for supplementary feeding that are in poor condition.

Mixing bulls Injuries to younger bulls due to fighting with older herd bulls can cause losses. The success of younger bulls in their first breeding season can be substantially increased by only running bulls of similar ages together.

In cases where young bulls have been put into areas with high numbers of feral bulls their survivability can be negatively affected. It is recommended that feral bulls should be removed from the property. If feral bulls cannot be controlled, it is recommended that only well adapted bulls over 2 years of age should be used.

Further Information These recommendations are the result of a research study conducted by Angus Australia aimed at understanding the management requirements for the successful relocation and adaptation of Angus bulls into northern Australia. The research study involved interviews with 60 seedstock and commercial producers across Australia who were selling or purchasing Angus bulls into northern Australia.

If you have any questions regarding the successful relocation and adaptation of Angus bulls, please contact either Angus Australia’s Breed Development & Innovation Manager, Carel Teseling on (02) 6773 4602, email carel@angusaustralia.com.au; or Angus Australia’s Education, Extension & Youth Manager, Andrew Byrne on (02) 6773 4618, email andrew@angusaustralia.com.au.

Mustering During periods of extremely hot weather it may be preferable to minimise mustering of bulls.

If spear traps are in use then bulls will need to be inducted and trained to use this equipment prior to setting the traps.

THE SCIENCE OF SELECTION The advanced genomic selection tool available for Australian Angus breeders

Zoetis Australia Pty Ltd. ABN 94 156 476 425. Level 6, 5 Rider Boulevard, Rhodes NSW 2138. ©2015 Zoetis Inc. All rights reserved.

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Zoetis HD 50K Angus_192x135_FINAL.indd 1

9/04/2015 1:48 pm

Angus Selection Indexes reflect both the short term profit generated by an animal through the sale of their progeny, and the longer term profit generated by their daughters in a self replacing cow herd.

The selection indexes that are calculated for animals within Angus BREEDPLAN were updated in December 2014 with the introduction of four new selection indexes, being the Angus Breeding Index, Domestic Index, Heavy Grain Index and Heavy Grass Index The Angus Breeding Index is a general purpose selection index that is suitable for use in the majority of commercial beef operations, whereas the Domestic, Heavy Grain and Heavy Grass selection indexes are specific to beef operations targeting a defined production system and market endpoint.

markets, or to seedstock producers supplying bulls to commercial clients who produce for a range of different production systems and market end points.

Domestic Index - estimates the genetic differences between animals in net profitability per cow joined in a commercial self replacing herd targeting the domestic supermarket trade.

Angus Breeding Index - estimates the genetic differences between animals in net profitability per cow joined in a typical commercial self replacing herd using Angus bulls.

Steers are assumed to be finished using either grass, grass supplemented by grain or grain (eg. 50 – 70 days) with steers slaughtered at 490 kg live weight (270 kg carcase weight with 12 mm P8 fat depth) at 16 months of age. Daughters are retained for breeding and therefore maternal traits are of importance. Emphasis has been placed on eating quality and tenderness to favour animals that are suited to MSA requirements.

This selection index is not specific to a particular production system or market end-point, but identifies animals that will improve overall profitability in the majority of commercial grass and grain finishing beef production systems.

Heavy Grain Index - estimates the genetic differences between animals in net profitability per cow joined in a commercial self replacing herd targeting pasture grown steers with a 200 day feedlot finishing period for the grain fed high quality, highly marbled markets.

The Angus Breeding Index is particularly suited to commercial producers who sell progeny into different

Steers are assumed to be slaughtered at 760 kg live weight (420 kg carcase weight with 30 mm P8 fat depth)

TECHNICAL INNOVATION

UNDERSTANDING THE NEW ANGUS SELECTION INDEXES

Table 1: Selection Index Descriptions Angus Breeding Index

Domestic Index

Heavy Grain Index

Heavy Grass Index

• Self replacing herd • Daughters are retained for breeding • Identifies animals that will improve overall profitability in the majority of commercial grass and grain finishing production systems

• Self replacing herd • Daughters are retained for breeding • Steer progeny finished on either pasture, pasture supplemented with grain, or grain targeting the domestic supermarket trade • Steer progeny slaughtered at a carcase weight of 270kg at 16 months of age • Eating quality traits important to suit MSA program

• Self replacing herd • Daughters are retained for breeding • Steer progeny pasture grown witha 200 day feedlot finishing period • Steer progeny slaughtered at a carcase weight of 420kg at 24 months of age • Target high quality, highly marbled markets with a significant premium for superior marbling

• Self replacing herd • Daughters are retained for breeding • Steer progeny finished pasture • Steer progeny slaughtered at a carcase weight of 340kg at 22 months of age • Eating quality traits important to suit MSA program

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from page 13

at 24 months of age. Daughters are retained for breeding and therefore maternal traits are of importance. There is a significant premium for steers that exhibit superior marbling.

TECHNICAL INNOVATION

Heavy Grass Index - estimates the genetic differences between animals in net profitability per cow joined in a commercial self replacing herd targeting pasture finished steers.

Steers are assumed to be slaughtered at 620 kg live weight (340 kg carcase weight with 12 mm P8 fat depth) at 22 months of age. Daughters are retained for breeding and therefore maternal traits are of importance. Emphasis has been placed on eating quality and tenderness to favour animals that are suited to MSA requirements.

Breeding Objective Table 2 below shows the key objective traits that are important in the four selection indexes, reflecting the underlying profit drivers in a typical commercial self replacing operation targeting each respective selection scenario.

Selection Traits Considering the genetic relationship between the breeding objective and the selection traits that are available, Table 3 shows the emphasis that has been placed on each EBV. The sign indicates the direction of the emphasis. For example, in all selection indexes, greater Intramuscular Fat and shorter Days to Calving EBVs are favoured.

Indicative Response to Selection Table 4 shows the indicative change in traits after one generation if producers select animals using each of the four selection indexes.

The indicative response reflects the change if the Angus Published Sires (at the November 2014 Angus GROUP BREEDPLAN analysis) were ranked on this selection index and the Top 10% selected for use within a breeding program.

Sale Liveweight Dir.

Angus Breeding Index

Domestic Index

Heavy Grain Index

Heavy Grass Index

15%

14%

16%

17%

Sale Liveweight Mat.

4%

5%

3%

4%

Dressing%

10%

11%

9%

11%

Saleable Meat%

12%

13%

11%

13%

Fat Depth (Rump)

4%

2%

0%

7%

Cow Weaning Rate

20%

14%

23%

14%

Marbling Score

11%

7%

18%

6%

Cow Survival Rate

9%

13%

8%

11%

Cow Weight

-3%

-5%

-3%

-4%

Calving Ease Dir.

9%

11%

8%

10%

Calving Ease Mat.

3%

4%

3%

3%

Table 3: EBV Weightings Angus Breeding Index

Domestic Index

Heavy Grain Index

Heavy Grass Index

Calving Ease Dir.

10%

15%

9%

12%

Calving Ease Mat.

5%

7%

5%

6%

Birth Weight

-1%

-1%

0%

-2%

Milk

-3%

-3%

-3%

-3%

200 Day Growth

-4%

-2%

-6%

-3%

400 Day Weight

3%

19%

3%

3%

600 Day Weight

19%

1%

18%

21%

Intramuscular Fat

11%

9%

16%

7%

Days to Calving

-19%

-12%

-20%

-14%

Scrotal Size

0%

0%

0%

-1%

P8 Fat Depth

6%

6%

3%

8%

Eye Muscle Area

2%

2%

1%

3%

Retail Beef Yield

12%

17%

13%

12%

Mature Cow Weight

-4%

-6%

-2%

-7%

Table 4: Indicative Response to Selection Angus Breeding Index

Domestic Index

Heavy Grain Index

Heavy Grass Index

Calving Ease Direct

+0.9%

+1.1%

+0.7%

+0.9%

Calving Ease Dtrs

+1.1%

+1.3%

+0.9%

+1.2%

Birth Weight

-0.2 kg

-0.4 kg

-0.1 kg

-0.1 kg

The response will differ if a different group of animals was available for selection and/or a different selection intensity was applied.

Gestation Length

-0.8 days

-0.8 days

-0.6 days

-0.9 days

200 Day Growth

+3 kg

+3 kg

+2 kg

+4 kg

400 Day Weight

+6 kg

+6 kg

+5 kg

+7 kg

Calculation of Selection Indexes The selection index values calculated within Angus BREEDPLAN are derived using BreedObject technology, as developed by the Animal Genetics & Breeding Unit (AGBU) in Armidale, NSW.

600 Day Weight

+8 kg

+6 kg

+6 kg

+9 kg

Mature Cow Weight

+5 kg

+1 kg

+4 kg

+5 kg

Selection index values are reported as an EBV, in units of net profit per cow joined ($) for the given selection scenario. Each selection index reflects both the short term profit generated by an animal through the sale of their progeny, and the longer term profit generated by their daughters in a self replacing cow herd.

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Table 2: Profit Drivers

Milk

+2 kg

+2 kg

+2 kg

+2 kg

Scrotal Size

+0.4 cm

+0.3 cm

+0.3 cm

+0.3 cm

Days to Calving

-1.0 days

-0.8 days

-0.9 days

-0.8 days

Carcase Weight

+3 kg

+4 kg

+2 kg

+5 kg

Eye Muscle Area

+1.0 cm2

+1.4 cm2

+1.0 cm2

+1.1 cm2

Rib Fat

+0.1 mm

+0.1 mm

+0.1 mm

+0.2 mm

Rump Fat

+0.1 mm

+0.1 mm

+0.0 mm

+0.2 mm

Retail Beef Yield

+0.1%

+0.2%

+0.0%

+0.2%

Intramuscular Fat

+0.5%

+0.4%

+0.7%

+0.3%

When using selection indexes, it is also important to consider each animal’s individual EBVs. Utilising selection index information to assist with the selection of animals for use within a breeding program should be an important consideration for all seedstock and commercial beef producers.

There are however a number of important considerations that need to be made to ensure that selection index information is utilised in the correct manner and the most appropriate animals selected.

1. Establish a Breeding Objective Selection indexes do not change the key elements of the success in any breeding program, being careful planning, the use of good information to assist in decision making, and, above all, consistency and patience in the pursuit of desired breeding goals.

Before considering selection index information, it is important that producers develop a clearly defined plan of what they are attempting to achieve from their breeding program. This may be described as setting a breeding objective or breeding goals.

There are many aspects that can be considered when establishing a breeding objective. For example, considerations should be given to the relative economic importance of different traits, future customer requirements, future herd production targets and current herd performance.

In considering which of these four selection indexes is of most relevance, producers should: • consider the description of the selection index.

• evaluate the relevance of the production system (where applicable) • review the main traits that are important within the breeding objective described by the selection index.

This is often referred to as the key profit drivers.

• evaluate the weightings that are being put on each EBV within the selection index.

• consider the predicted response to selection in each individual trait if animals are selected based on the selection index.

TECHNICAL INNOVATION

CONSIDERATIONS WHEN USING ANGUS SELECTION INDEXES TO ASSIST WITH SELECTION DECISIONS

If following review of the selection indexes calculated within Angus BREEDPLAN, beef producers deem that none are relevant to their operation, the development of a customised index using herd-specific production information and marketing goals can be considered.

Further information regarding the development of customised indexes can be found on the BreedObject website (www.breedobject.com) or by contacting staff at Angus Australia.

Identifying the selection index of most relevance to the production system that the animals will be used in is of utmost importance. Using the wrong selection index will potentially compromise any subsequent selection decisions that are made. continues page 16

2. Identify the Selection Index of Most Relevance It is of utmost importance that selection index information is only considered if it is consistent with the breeding objective or breeding goals of the individual breeding program for which the animals are being selected.

There are four selection indexes currently calculated for animals within the Angus BREEDPLAN analysis.

• Angus Breeding Index • Domestic Index • Heavy Grain Index • Heavy Grass Index

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from page 15

3. Consider Individual EBVs of Importance One common misconception when using selection indexes to assist with the selection of animals for use within a breeding program is that animals can simply be ranked on the selection index of relevance and no consideration needs to be given to the animals’ genetic merit for individual traits and/or additional selection criteria of importance.

TECHNICAL INNOVATION

In reality, this is far from the truth and it is important that each animal’s EBVs for traits of particular importance to the individual breeding program are considered.

For example, producers may pay attention to: • Calving Ease EBVs if they are planning to use the bull over heifers • Mature Cow Weight EBVs if monitoring the weight of mature cows is of particular importance • Fat EBVs if they require more or less fat on their steers at slaughter • EMA EBVs if they want to specifically improve the muscling in their herd One simple way of considering an animal’s individual EBVs, is to set acceptable ranges for the individual EBVs of particular importance. In this scenario, animals would firstly be ranked on the selection index of relevance but then any animal whose individual EBVs fall outside of the acceptable range be excluded from selection.

It is also important to note that not all EBVs are currently included in the calculation of the selection index values.

For example, Net Feed Intake, Docility and Structural Soundness EBVs are currently excluded. In a similar vein to that outlined above, if these EBVs are of importance then animals should firstly be ranked on the selection index of relevance but then any animal whose EBV falls outside of an acceptable range for these traits be excluded from selection.

TIPS WHEN USING SELECTION INDEXES • Establish a clearly defined breeding objective • Identify the selection index of relevance to your breeding objective • Rank animals available for selection on the selection index • Consider individual EBVs of particular importance within your breeding program and disregard any animals with EBVs in undesirable ranges • Consider other selection criteria and disregard any animals that do not meet acceptable standards • Contact staff at Angus Australia should you require any assistance

16

4. Consider Other Selection Criteria In a similar manner to the consideration of individual EBVs, it is also important to consider other selection criteria that may not be accounted for in the calculation of the index.

For example, this may include such things as assessment of an animal’s temperament, structural soundness, phenotype, fertility status, carrier status for any relevant genetic disorders, pedigree and DNA results for qualitative traits like coat colour.

One strategy that can be used to incorporate selection for these other traits of economic and functional importance with the animal’s EBV and selection index information is to firstly rank animals on the selection index of relevance, exclude any animals whose individual EBVs fall outside of an acceptable range and then assess the animals for these other traits of importance, excluding any animals from selection who are not acceptable in each area.

Strategy for Using Selection Indexes Developing a selection strategy that takes these considerations into account will go a long way towards ensuring that the selection index information available on animals is utilised in the correct manner and the most appropriate animals selected for use within a breeding program.

One possible strategy of utilising selection index information that takes these considerations into account is to: 1. Establish the breeding objective 2. Identify the selection index of most relevance 3. Rank animals on the selection index 4. Consider the individual EBVs of importance 5. Consider other selection criteria Further Information If you have any questions regarding the use of selection index information, please contact either Angus Australia’s Breed Development & Innovation Manager, Carel Teseling on (02) 6773 4602 or via email carel@angusaustralia.com. au, or Angus Australia’s Education, Extension & Youth Manager, Andrew Byrne on (02) 6773 4618 or via email andrew@angusaustralia.com.au.

Case Study : Effect of Considering Individual EBVs When Using Selection Indexes

One limitation of selection indexes however is that animals who have extremely favourable genetics for a trait of high economic importance may have a relatively high selection index value despite possessing what many may consider to be unacceptable genetics for another trait.

For example, an animal with extremely high growth genetics at 400 or 600 days of age may have a high selection index value despite possessing what many may consider to be unfavourable genetics for mature weight.

Importantly, this limitation can be easily overcome by also considering an animal’s individual EBVs for traits of particular importance when making selection decisions.

In this scenario, animals may firstly be ranked on the selection index of relevance but then any animal whose individual EBVs fall outside of an acceptable range for an individual trait of importance be excluded from selection.

The benefit of considering individual EBVs of importance is demonstrated in the example below. In a scenario similar to the example described above, a breeder has identified the Angus Breeding Index as the selection index of relevance to their breeding program but is concerned that basing selection decisions on the Angus Breeding

Index alone may increase the mature cow weight of the females in his breeding herd.

To accommodate this, the breeder has decided to use the Angus Breeding Index as the basis for his selection decision, but has excluded any animals from selection with a high Mature Cow Weight EBV. Table 1 shows the indicative change in traits that would be expected within the breeder’s herd after one generation based on several different selection criteria.

• The first column provides the indicative change in traits if the candidate animals were ranked on the Angus Breeding Index alone • The second column provides the indicative change in traits if candidate animals were ranked on the Angus Breeding Index but animals with a Mature Cow Weight EBV in the heaviest 1% of the breed excluded from selection • The third scenario is similar to the second but excludes animals with a Mature Cow Weight EBV in the heaviest 20% of the breed

TECHNICAL INNOVATION

Selection indexes assist beef producers in making “balanced” selection decisions, taking into account the relevant growth, carcase & fertility attributes of each animal to identify animals that are most suitable for use within their particular commercial enterprise.

As is evident in the table, simply excluding animal’s with extremely high EBVs for Mature Cow Weight (ie. in the heaviest 1% of the breed) considerably moderates the indicative increase in mature cow weight. Conversely, excluding animal’s in the heaviest 20% of the breed may be considered to place too much additional emphasis on the individual EBV and compromise the indicative response in other important traits, especially growth to 400 or 600 days of age.

Table 1: Indicative Response to Selection Using Angus Breeding Index No Individual EBV Criteria

Sires Excluded with MCW in Heaviest 1% of Angus Breed

Sires Excluded with MCW in Heaviest 20% of Angus Breed

Calving Ease Direct

+0.9%

+1.0%

+1.1%

Calving Ease Dtrs

+1.0%

+0.9%

+0.9%

Birth Weight

-0.1 kg

-0.3 kg

-0.5 kg

Gestation Length

-0.7 days

-0.7 days

-0.5 days

200 Day Growth

+3 kg

+2 kg

+1 kg

400 Day Weight

+6 kg

+5 kg

+2 kg

600 Day Weight

+9 kg

+6 kg

+2 kg

Mature Cow Weight

+6 kg

+1 kg

-6 kg

Milk

+2 kg

+2 kg

+2 kg

Scrotal Size

+0.4 cm

+0.3 cm

+0.2 cm

Days to Calving

-1.0 days

-0.9 days

-0.8 days

Carcase Weight

+4 kg

+3 kg

+0 kg

Eye Muscle Area

+1.0 cm2

+1.1 cm2

+1.3 cm2

Rib Fat

+0.1 mm

+0.2 mm

+0.3 mm

Rump Fat

+0.2 mm

+0.2 mm

+0.2 mm

Retail Beef Yield

+0.1%

+0.0%

+0.0%

Intramuscular Fat

+0.4%

+0.5%

+0.5%

* The indicative response reflects the change if the Angus Published Sires (at the April 2015 Angus BREEDPLAN analysis) were ranked on each selection criteria and the Top 10% selected for use within the breeding program. The response will differ if a different group of animals was available for selection and/or a different selection intensity was applied.

17

UDNERSTANDING THE SCIENCE

UNDERSTANDING THE RECALIBRATED ZOETIS HD50K FOR ANGUS PRODUCT A recalibrated version of the HD50K for Angus product (HD50K) that is commercially available from Zoetis was launched in early March 2015.

Understanding the New Zoetis HD50K for Angus Product The HD50K product assesses the genetic makeup of black Angus cattle at more than 50,000 locations across the animal’s genome (known as SNPs or single nucleotide polymorphisms) to provide a genomic prediction of an animal’s genetic merit.

The new version of the HD50K product calculates genomic predictions for 22 traits, including: Calving Ease Direct Calving Ease Daughters Birth Weight Gestation Length Weaning Weight Yearling Weight Final Weight Mature Cow Weight Milk Scrotal Size Days to Calving

Carcase Weight Eye Muscle Area Rib Fat Rump Fat Retail Beef Yield Intramuscular Fat NFI (Feedlot) NFI (Post Weaning) Dry Matter Intake Feedlot Daily Gain Tenderness

By comparison to previous versions of the HD50K product: • The equations used to calculate the genomic predictions for all existing traits have been recalibrated.

• Genomic predictions have been calculated for an additional 6 traits, being rump fat, retail beef yield, 600-day weight, gestation length, days to calving and net feed intake (post weaning).

Incorporation of Zoetis HD50K for Angus Product within Angus BREEDPLAN As with previous versions, the new HD50K genomic predictions are best utilised by incorporation into Angus BREEDPLAN, whereby an estimate of an animal’s 18

breeding value can be calculated by combining the genomic prediction with any pedigree and performance information that has been collected on the animal and its relatives.

To facilitate the incorporation of the new HD50K genomic predictions into Angus BREEDPLAN, the Animal Genetics and Breeding Unit (AGBU) in Armidale has undertaken research to determine the appropriate emphasis that should be placed on the genomic information in the calculation of the BREEDPLAN EBVs. The research examined the relationship (or genetic correlation) between the genomic prediction for 2,820 animals and the performance (or phenotypic) information that has been recorded with BREEDPLAN for each respective trait.

To ensure the results were not biased, any performance information for animals that were utilised by Zoetis when developing the genomic predictions, plus the performance for their contemporaries, their progeny’s performance, and the performance of their progeny’s contemporaries was removed from the research analysis.

Traits to be Incorporated into Angus BREEDPLAN Based on the results of the research and the subsequent recommendations provided by AGBU, genomic predictions for 14 traits are now incorporated into Angus BREEDPLAN, including: Calving Ease Direct Gestation Length Yearling Weight Mature Cow Weight Scrotal Size Eye Muscle Area Rump Fat

Birth Weight Weaning Weight Final Weight Milk Carcase Weight Rib Fat Intramuscular Fat

For traits that will not be incorporated into BREEDPLAN, there was either an insufficient relationship between the genomic prediction and the available performance information, considerable variation in the relationship between the genomic prediction and the available performance information, and/or insufficient performance information available on which to examine the relationship with the genomic prediction.

subject to the accuracy of the animal’s existing EBV. The additional accuracy provided by the incorporation of the HD50K genomic predictions at differing levels of existing EBV accuracy is outlined in Table 2.

Table 2: Additional Accuracy of BREEDPLAN EBV when HD50K Genomic Prediction is Incorporated Trait

Initial EBV Accuracy 20%

40%

60%

80%

+6%

+2%

Emphasis Given to Zoetis HD50K for Angus Genomic Predictions When Incorporating in BREEDPLAN The emphasis given to the HD50K genomic predictions within Angus BREEDPLAN can be described as the accuracy of the EBV that would be generated if the EBV was calculated from only the genomic prediction (ie. there was no other information recorded with BREEDPLAN).

Calving Ease Dir.

+24%

+13%

Birth Weight

+29%

+26%

+7%

+2%

Gestation Length

+38%

+23%

+11%

+3%

200 Day Growth

+26%

+14%

+6%

+2%

400 Day Weight

+32%

+19%

+9%

+2%

600 Day Weight

+38%

+23%

+11%

+3%

Mature Cow Weight

+40%

+25%

+12%

+4%

The accuracy of the EBV that would be generated for each trait from the genomic prediction alone is as shown in Table 1. For comparison purposes, the accuracy of the EBV generated from the previous HD50K product is also provided.

Milk

+30%

+17%

+8%

+2%

Scrotal Size

+43%

+27%

+14%

+4%

Carcase Weight

+25%

+14%

+6%

+2%

Eye Muscle Area

+18%

+9%

+4%

+1%

Rib Fat

+26%

+14%

+6%

+2%

Rump Fat

+19%

+10%

+4%

+1%

Intramuscular Fat

+13%

+6%

+3%

+1%

Table 1: Accuracy of BREEDPLAN EBV Calculated from Genomic Prediction Alone HD50K (new)

HD50K (previous)

Calving Ease Dir.

41%

30%

Birth Weight

46%

38%

Gestation Length

46%

N/A

200 Day Growth

43%

38%

400 Day Weight

50%

41%

600 Day Weight

56%

N/A

Mature Cow Weight

59%

29%

Milk

47%

40%

Scrotal Size

62%

41%

Carcase Weight

42%

36%

Eye Muscle Area

33%

37%

Rib Fat

42%

42%

Rump Fat

35%

N/A

Intramuscular Fat

27%

20%

Trait

Additional Accuracy Provided by Inclusion of Zoetis HD50K for Angus in BREEDPLAN Table 1 provides the accuracy of the BREEDPLAN EBV that would be generated from the genomic prediction alone.

In practice, the HD50K genomic prediction is incorporated with the pedigree and performance information recorded with BREEDPLAN, with the additional accuracy provided by the incorporation of the genomic prediction differing

* For example, if an animal had a 200 day growth EBV with an accuracy of 60%, incorporation of the HD50K genomic prediction would increase the accuracy of the EBV to 66%.

The most additional accuracy is provided in situations where an animal’s existing EBV has low accuracy, such as: • When an animal is very young • For traits that are hard to measure, or traits that can not be measured prior to an animal entering the breeding herd • For traits that have a low heritability • In situations where collecting effective performance information is problematic, such as in small herds, or when an animal has been removed from its contemporary group.

UNDERSTANDING THE SCIENCE

Genomic predictions were previously incorporated into Angus BREEDPLAN for 12 traits.

The incorporation of HD50K genomic predictions will add minimal accuracy to the EBVs for animals whose existing EBV has high accuracy.

Further Information To further discuss the Zoetis HD50K for Angus product, please contact either Angus Australia’s Breed Development & Innovation Manager, Carel Teseling on (02) 6773 4602 or via email carel@angusaustralia.com. au, or Angus Australia’s Education, Extension & Youth Manager, Andrew Byrne on (02) 6773 4618 or via email andrew@angusaustralia.com.au. Information is also available by contacting staff at Zoetis.

19

DNA PARENT VERIFICATION

UNDERSTANDING THE SCIENCE

Angus Australia introduced DNA fingerprinting and paternity verification in 2002, as a way to increase the accuracy and quality of pedigree information for animals registered in the various Angus Australia registers. This DNA fingerprinting utilised microsatellite technology (MIPs) as it was the only accurate and cost effective parent verification technology available at the time.

Between 2002 and 2012, microsatellite parent verification technology was successfully used throughout seed stock Angus herds in Australia.

Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms (SNPs) in conjunction with Genomic Technology have recently emerged as the dominant DNA technology of the future. As a result, it was decided at the November 2011 Angus Board meeting that Angus Australia would start the migration process from MIPs to SNPs for all Angus DNA testing and parent verification.

One of the main issues faced during this progression, is in order to parent verify progeny, the animal and its parent/s must be tested using the same DNA technology. Angus Australia, in conjunction with various semen suppliers hit the ground running and obtained SNP profiles for numerous prominent sires to assist members during this transition period. Although large cross sections of prominent sires in the Angus population were tested there are still animals that require an upgrade (change from MIPs to SNPs). Therefore; members may have some bulls and ET donor dams that have to be retested on SNPs to allow future progeny to be parent verified if these progeny have a DNA profile on the SNPs technology.

Please see below figure.

MIPs + MIPs P SNPs + SNPs P SNPs + MIPs O Parent Verification comparison Once DNA results are returned to Angus Australia, we now have the capability to run SNP parent verifications in house. The SNP parentage verification algorithm makes it much easier to verify or exclude parent/progeny combinations and investigate potential concerns.

20

A calf should receive one SNP from its sire and one SNP from its dam. The first example in the table below shows a case where the calf did not receive an “A” from the nominated sire. In the second example the calf received a “B” from the nominated sire and dam.

Please see below figure.

SNP NAME

DAM

SIRE

CALF

RESULT

ARS-USMARCPARENT-EF042090NO-RS

BB

AA

BB

EXCLUDE

ARS-USMARCPARENT-EF042091RS29014974

AB

BB

BB

QUALIFY

If the calf is for example “BB” and the sire is “AA”, then the calf has not received an “A” from that particular sire and it is deemed incompatible and the parentage gets excluded on that particular SNP marker. If there are enough unique SNPs that have excluded, the calf will not qualify to the provided sire. When that occurs we will request further possible sires to be provided to Angus Australia in order to find the correct sire of the calf.

In order to increase the accuracy and quality of pedigree information, Angus Australia implemented the following DNA regulations for the registration of animals in the HBR, RAR, APR & MBR registers.

6.41 - It shall be a requirement for the registration of all HBR, RAR, APR & MBR calves that the sire has a DNA profile recorded with the society. If HBR, RAR, APR and born after 31/12/2002, the sire shall be DNA paternity verified. If MBR and born after 31/12/2014 the sire shall be DNA paternity verified.

6.42 – All donor dams shall have a DNA profile recorded with the society before their embryo transfer calves can be registered.

6.44 – An application for registration of an imported overseas animal must include a sample (semen or hair) for DNA testing at a Society approved laboratory.

6.45 – Sire and dams of imported embryos will need a DNA parentage profile issued by the overseas registering authority.

If you have any queries in regards to any of the content of this article, please feel free to contact the Member Services Team at Angus Australia or email regos@angusaustralia.com.au

Angus Australia members will have access to a more comprehensive range of genomic based tests for use within their breeding programs with the introduction of several improvements to the genomic technology that is available for Angus animals during the first half of 2015.

Genomic technology assesses the DNA makeup of an animal at thousands of locations across the animal’s genome (known as SNPs or single nucleotide polymorphisms) to provide a genomic prediction of the animal’s genetic merit. The genomic predictions are then included in Angus BREEDPLAN to calculate Estimated Breeding Values (EBVs) of higher accuracy.

Broadly, the improvements to the genomic technology available to Angus Australia members falls into three categories: • Launch of a recalibrated Zoetis HD50K for Angus product • Modifications to Angus BREEDPLAN to accommodate the recalibrated Zoetis HD50K for Angus product • Modifications to Angus BREEDPLAN to accommodate genomic information from multiple service providers 1. Launch of a Recalibrated Zoetis HD50K Product for Angus The Zoetis HD50K for Angus (HD50K) product has been recalibrated with an improved product launched by Zoetis in early March 2015.

• The latest version of the HD50K product includes: Recalibrated genomic predictions for all existing traits. The recalibration has resulted in an increase in the accuracy of the genomic predictions for the majority of traits.

• Genomic predictions being calculated for an additional six traits, being rump fat, retail beef yield, final weight, gestation length, days to calving and net feed intake (post weaning).

2. Inclusion of Improved Zoetis HD50K into Angus BREEDPLAN With the availability of an improved Zoetis HD50K product, a number of modifications were implemented into the March 2015 Angus BREEDPLAN evaluation.

• The genomic predictions for all animals previously tested with the HD50K product (approx. 8,500 animals) were recalculated by Zoetis, with the updated genomic predictions replacing those included in previous Angus BREEDPLAN analyses.

• The relative emphasis that is used when incorporating the HD50K genomic predictions into the Angus BREEDPLAN analysis was updated to reflect the “new” accuracy of the genomic predictions. The updated emphasis assigned to each genomic prediction is based on research conducted by the Animal Genetics & Breeding Unit (AGBU) in Armidale.

• The traits for which HD50K genomic predictions are incorporated into the Angus BREEDPLAN evaluation was expanded from 12 to 14.

• The analytical process by which genomic predictions are incorporated into the Angus BREEDPLAN analysis was simplified to ensure that it is appropriate for the genomic information that is now available.

UNDERSTANDING THE SCIENCE

IMPROVED GENOMIC TECHNOLOGY FOR ANGUS AUSTRALIA MEMBERS

3. Inclusion of Genomic Information from Multiple Service Providers into Angus BREEDPLAN Work is nearing completion to enable the inclusion of genomic information into the Angus BREEDPLAN analysis from multiple service providers. At present, only genomic information from the Zoetis HD50K product is included in Angus BREEDPLAN. Initial efforts are centred on the inclusion of the results from the genomic tests developed by the Beef Cooperative Research Centre (Beef CRC) and the GeneSeek Genomic Profiler (GGP) products.

21

The introduction of this functionality will enable Angus Australia members to utilise additional genomic products, and select the product that offers the most additional accuracy when predicting the genetic merit for the traits of particular importance to their breeding program.

ASBP – SIRE NOMINATIONS OPEN FOR COHORT 6

The timing of the implementation of this functionality into the Angus BREEDPLAN evaluation is still to be determined, however it is currently scheduled for inclusion in the June 2015 BREEDPLAN analysis. Additional information will be circulated once available.

SIRE BENCHMARKING

UNDERSTANDING THE SCIENCE

Further Information To further discuss the improvements to the genomic technology that is available to Angus Australia members, please contact either Angus Australia’s Breed Development & Innovation Manager, Carel Teseling on (02) 6773 4602 or via email carel@angusaustralia.com. au, or Angus Australia’s Education, Extension & Youth Manager, Andrew Byrne on (02) 6773 4618 or via email andrew@angusaustralia.com.au.

FAST FACTS • A more comprehensive range of genomic based tests will be available with the introduction of several improvements to the genomic technology that is available for Angus animals during the first half of 2015.

• Broadly, the improvements to the genomic technology available falls into three categories: – Launch of a recalibrated Zoetis HD50K for Angus product – Modifications to Angus BREEDPLAN to accommodate the recalibrated Zoetis HD50K for Angus product – Modifications to Angus BREEDPLAN to accommodate genomic information from multiple service providers

Nominations are currently open for the next joining round of the Angus Sire Benchmarking program (ASBP) to produce the cohort 6 progeny. This joining program will take place in October to December of 2015.

Nominations have been open since early March 2015 with a great early response of 24 entries. The 24 bulls nominated average in the top 5% for both the Angus Breeding and Heavy Grain selection indexes.

Approximately 40 bulls will be selected for the 2015 joining program with the aim to join each bull to at least 50 Angus cows by fixed time AI. The bull selection criteria will be based on genetic diversity, breeding values, selection indexes and their relationship to sires already used in the ASBP. Preference will also be given to early nominations.

Benefits of Bulls Entering the ASBP: • Involvement in Australia’s largest beef cattle progeny test program including large contemporary groups.

• Receive high accuracy EBVs, particularly for hard to measure traits such as net feed intake, abattoir carcase data and female reproduction.

• High density DNA profiles (GGP HD with 80,000 SNPs) will be stored for current use (e.g. sire verifications, genomic predictions) and future research.

• Closer genetic linkage to the ASBP ensures research outcomes, particularly in the genomics area, will have more relevance to your herd.

For further details on the ASBP and sire nominations for cohort 6 visit the Angus Australia website www. angusaustralia.com.au For all questions in relation to the nomination process or the ASBP in general please contact Christian Duff, Angus Australia Strategic Projects Manager M: 0457 457 141 or email christian@angusaustralia.com.au

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ANGUS SIRE BENCHMARKING PROGRAM UPDATE The Angus Sire Benchmarking Program (ASBP) is a major initiative of Angus Australia with support from Meat & Livestock Australia (MLA) and industry partners such as Bayer Australia, Rangers Valley Feedlot and John Dee Abattoir.

To meet the project objectives Angus Australia aims to join an average of 40 sires a year to approximately 2,000 Angus cows to achieve a minimum of 25 progeny (50:50 steers and heifers) per sire using the Bayer BosynchTM 3 fixed time AI program. The Angus cows are located across several commercial co-operator herds located in New South Wales and Victoria.

The Angus sires that enter the ASBP are nominated by Angus Australia members. Before entering the program the sires are assessed for a range of factors such as genetic diversity, genetic condition status, BREEDPLAN EBVs and Selection Index values. A list of all 189 bulls that have been used across the first 5 cohorts of the ASBP can be viewed in the catalogues listing page on the Angus Australia website (www.angusaustralia.com.au).

Once the progeny are born they are comprehensively performance recorded for calving ease, growth, temperament, heifer reproduction, structure, feed efficiency, abattoir carcase and beef quality attributes.

The first joining of the ASBP occurred in the spring of 2010 (known as Cohort 1) with the project now planning for the joining of Cohort 6 in the spring of 2015.

Program Update Following is an update on each cohort of the ASBP. Cohort 1 • Joining occurred in 2010 involving 35 Angus sires to 1,640 Angus cows across 5 co-operator herds and produced approximately 900 progeny from fixed time AI. • The data collection phase for this cohort was completed in early 2014. The main results are currently reflected in Angus BREEDPLAN EBVs. Further results are also available from the ASBP section on the Angus Australia website by way of a Cohort 1 Progeny Performance report summary.

Cohort 2 • Joining occurred in 2011 involving 47 Angus sires to 2,336 Angus cows across 5 co-operator herds and produced approximately 1,250 progeny from fixed time AI. • The processing and grading of all steers from Cohort 2 (n=532) has recently been completed. A summary of their performance is tabled below. The direct abattoir carcase data will be included in the June 2015 BREEDPLAN analysis (i.e. end May) with an updated Progeny Performance Reports available soon after • The heifer reproduction and calving data for Cohort 2 bred heifers is being collated and will also be included in the June 2015 BREEDPLAN analysis

SIRE BENCHMARKING

Program Overview The major objectives of the ASBP include: 1. Generate progeny test data on modern Angus bulls, particularly for hard to measure traits such as feed efficiency, abattoir carcase measurement, meat quality attributes & female reproduction.

2. Generate data for the validation & refinement of Angus BREEDPLAN. 3. Build a comprehensive phenotype and genotype database on Australian Angus for genomic technology validation, research and development.

continues page 24

Summary of the grade performance of the ASBP Cohort 2 steers (n=532) Dressing %

P8 Fat (mm)

AUSMEAT Marbling Score

Ossification

MSA Marbling Score

Rib Fat (mm)

EMA (cm2)

MSA Index

471

56.6%

23.2

3.02

160.6

518.7

17.5

88.8

65.0

1016

568.6

60.8%

43

7

280

1030

34

116

70.48

644

362

52.2%

10

2

110

160

7

67

59.33

Live Weight (kg)

HSCW (kg)

Average

832

Max. Min.

23

from page 23

Cohort 3 • Joining occurred in 2012 involving 40 Angus sires to 2,306 Angus cows across 5 co-operator herds and produced approximately 1,200 progeny from fixed time AI. • All steers from Cohort 3 have entered Tullimba Research Feedlot to undertake their net feed intake testing (100 days). The first 3 mobs have been relocated to Rangers Valley feedlot to complete their feeding period (170+ days) before processing at John Dee abattoir later in 2015. The schedule for each mob of steers in Cohort 3 is tabled below.

• The heifer progeny from Cohort 3 have been joined and pregnancy tested. Their calving outcomes will be recorded across spring 2015.

Feedlot and processing schedule for the Cohort 3 Angus steers Co-operator Herd

# Steers

Date Inducted Tullimba Feedlot

Date to Rangers Valley Feedlot

Estimated Kill Date John Dee Abattoir

MBH - Myola

117

29/9/2014

15/1/2015

26/6/2015*

GIL - Gilmour

57

3/12/2014

30/3/2015

31/8/2015*

GBH - Glenroy

76

15/12/2014

13/4/2015

11/8/2015*

ARD - Ardrossan

253

10/2/2015

21/5/2015*

7/11/2015*

YBH - Yarralee

97

18/2/2015

16/6/2015*

15/11/2015*

Total

600

* Estimated dates

Cohort 4 • Joining occurred in 2013 involving 21 Angus sires to 1,209 Angus cows across 3 co-operator herds and produced approximately 600 progeny from fixed time AI. • All Cohort 4 calves have been weaned and the relevant data collected including weights, docility scores and a vial of blood (10mm) for high volume and quality DNA. • The weaning and docility data was included in the March 2015 BREEDPLAN analysis.

• The steers are scheduled to enter Tullimba Research Feedlot from late 2015, with the heifers to be joined in spring 2015.

SIRE BENCHMARKING

Cohort 5 • Joining occurred in 2014 involving 46 Angus sires to 2,634 Angus cows across 7 co-operator herds.

• The recently completed pregnancy testing revealed a 51.1% conception rate to the fixed time AI program with 27 successful conceptions on average per sire. This will produce approximately 1,300 progeny from a calving starting in early July 2015.

Cohort 6 • Sire nominations for Cohort 6 are currently open.

• 24 early nominations have been received with the group of bulls averaging in the top 5% for both the Angus Breeding Index and Heavy Grain Index.

• See page 22 for additional information on sire nominations for Cohort 6.

Further Information For further details on the ASBP visit the Angus Australia website www.angusaustralia.com.au For all ASBP related questions please contact Christian Duff, Angus Australia Strategic Projects Manager M: 0457 457 141 or email christian@angusaustralia.com.au

Progression Summary of the ASBP (as at 30th April 2015) Sire Nominations Joining (FTAI) Birth (BWt, GL, CE Score) Weaning (Wt, Docility, DNA) Ultrasound scan (steers into & out of Tullimba, heifers) Net Feed Intake Abattoir Carcase (kill & Grade data - MSA) Meat science (Shear force, IMF) Heifer Fertility

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Structure, Muscle & Coat scores

1

2

3

4

5

6

P P P P P P P P P P

P P P P P P P

P P P P

P P P P

P P

In progress

In progress In progress In progress

In progress

In progress

P P

In progress In progress

KATE FAIRLIE TOURS THE UNITED STATES

‘I have obtained so much growing up through Angus Youth and I’m extremely grateful for this opportunity to attend the University of Illinois’.

Kate Fairlie, from Mount Gambier in South Australia, is currently studying at the University of Illinois as part of the scholarship she received as the winner of the Angus Youth National Judging Competition in 2014.

The National Judging Competition has been run annually

by Angus Australia since 1980, with entrants required to judge a series of live cattle classes along with a meat cuts section, attend an interview and demonstrate their knowledge of the beef industry during a question and answer session. Past winners have become respected and successful members of the Australian beef industry.

Since Kate arrived at the University of Illinois in early January this year, she has experienced a whirlwind of events, from university classes, judging competitions and sightseeing the country whenever she can.

Kate was invited to join the University of Illinois Livestock Judging Team, which has seen her travel from one end of America to the other every weekend attending a variety of livestock judging competitions.

While Kate is in America, she has been keeping a blog.

To read more about her travels, visit http://katefairlie. wordpress.com Angus Youth members who are interested in competing in the 2015 National Judging Competition should contact the Angus Youth Development Officer, Alice Lodge on (02) 6773 4608 or via email youth@angusaustralia.com.au.

Further information about either the University of Illinois scholarship, or other scholarships offered by Angus Australia is available from the Angus Youth website www.angusyouth.org

ANGUS YOUTH

Kate has been able to choose multiple pathways of study

to specialise in from the wide range of subjects that are offered by the University of Illinois. Kate has chosen to observe a variety of classes including; advanced meat science, livestock and carcase evaluation and for something different sheep production. She has also been fortunate enough to be invited as a guest lecturer in her sheep production class, discussing the prime lamb business in South Australia and will give another presentation soon about the Australian sheep industry.

The University of Illinois campus in UrbanaChampaign, after experiencing some heavy snow falls.

Kate Fairlie (far left) is pictured with her University of Illinois Livestock Judging Team, outside of the Alamo in San Antonio Texas.

To win a trip to the University of Illinois, visit www.angusyouth.org for more information.

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2015 Angus Youth National Roundup Participants

ANGUS YOUTH NATIONAL ROUNDUP WRAP UP Over 150 Angus Youth members and their families, accompanied by over 160 head of cattle, descended on Wodonga for the 2015 Angus Youth National Roundup.

The Angus Youth National Roundup is the largest single breed youth event in Australia. Over the last 30 years it has developed a strong reputation for being one of the premier educational events for young beef cattle enthusiasts from across the country.

Over the four days, Angus Youth members aged between 8 and 25 participated in a range of activities, including a series of educational sessions, cattle classes and junior judging competitions, along with many fun activities. A huge range of prizes and scholarships were also awarded across the event.

The 2015 event was hailed as an outstanding success with all participants returning home with a wealth of new knowledge, newly acquired skills and new friendships.

The next Angus Youth National Roundup will be held in Armidale on January 14th – 17th, 2016.

ANGUS YOUTH

Angus Australia gratefully acknowledges the generous support received from the sponsors of the 2015 Angus Youth National Roundup and the many volunteers who helped make the event such a success.

Charlie Ireland during the heifer judging.

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2015 Roundup Committee: Back Row: Carol Grylls, Bronwyn Halliday, Corey Ireland, Mark Fairlie, Melissa Neal, Lynn Fairlie, Angus McGregor, Kristen Fredericksen, Zac McInerney & Coordinator Trent Walker. Front Row: Dee Branson, Dee George, Laura Grubb, Kate Fairlie, Vice-Coordinator Murk Schoen & AYDO Alice Lodge. Absent: Brianna Barron

SCHOLARSHIP & MAJOR AWARD RECIPIENTS Trans-Tasman Exchange Kristen Fredericksen

Te Mania Most Potential Breeder Award Henry Cartwright

Bulliac Angus Studmaster Award Damon Englund

Merridale Aspiring Breeder Award Rebecca Bennett

Ben Hill in the Barnyard Olympics, Golden Oldies Race

Lanark Angus SA Junior Heifer Expo Award Damon Englund

Outwest Angus National All Breeds Heifer Show Award Angus McGregor

Matthew George Citizenship Award Cameron Robertson

EJ Angus Encouragement Award Sarah Nesbitt & Ryan Brady

Angus Youth Ambassadors Emily Hurst, Kaiti McGregor & Lucy Bernasconi

Pictured (from L to R): Champion Pee Wee Herdsman Clare Amor, Sue Powe (Judge), Nicole Skipper (Judge) and Reserve Champion Pee Wee Herdsman Will Ireland

Champion Team Rodwells & Co

Best Presented Animal Caitlin Berecry

Best Maintained Stall Merribrook Angus St Paul’s College

ANGUS YOUTH

Champion School Team Senior Judging Competition participants Emily Hurst and Jess Fairlie

Junior Judging, Parader’s & Herdsman Results Pee Wee Junior Judging

Parader’s

Herdsman

Champion Reserve Champion Champion Reserve Champion Grand Champion Champion Reserve Champion Grand Champion

Casey Halliday William Ireland Clare Amor Eliza Llewellyn Lachlan Collins Clare Amor William Ireland Lachlan Ware

Junior Edward Roe Ryan Ballentine Olivia Bolton Angus Llewellyn

Sub-Inter

Inter

Senior

Emma Costello Michael McLaren Stephanie Hennings Ruby Canning

Chelsea Rayner Rhys Branson Claudia Nielsen Aimee Bolton

Caitlin Berecry Zac McInerney Lachlan Collins Emily Hurst

Jack Griffiths Aimee Bolton

Pat MacKey Helen de Costa

Tiffanay McLauchlan Ryan Brady Sophie Halliday Emme Costello

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2015 ANGUS YOUTH MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE The Angus Youth Management Committee for 2015 has now been appointed.

The Angus Youth Management Committee assists the Angus Youth Development Officer in enhancing the skills and involvement of Angus Youth members through the conduct of an industry leading youth education and extension program.

The Committee members in 2015 and their positions are as follows:

2015 COMMITTEE Chairperson

Caitlin Berecry

Vice-Chairperson

Hannah Powe

2016 RU Coordinator

Sam Martin

Ambassador Program

Angus McGregor

Education & Activities (North & South) Alice Hall & Aimee Bolton Communcations & Promotions

Kristen Fredericksen

Sponsorship

Lauren Berecry

Pictured (L to R): Lauren Berecry, Kristen Fredericksen, Angus McGregor, Caitlin Berecry, Sam Martin, Alice Hall and Hannah Powe. Absent: Aimee Bolton.

Angus Australia is very pleased to have such a strong Committee, who are a competent and passionate group dedicated to providing a wide range of high quality services to the broader membership.

Angus Australia members can keep up to date with Angus Youth activities and initiatives through Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and the Angus Youth Website (www. angusyouth.org).

Members under 25 years of age who are interested in becoming involved in the Angus Youth program, should contact the Angus Youth Development Officer, Alice Lodge on (02) 6773 4608 or email youth@angusaustralia.com. au. 2015 promises to be a productive year for Angus Youth so get involved at every opportunity!

Semex Angus Youth Kansas State University Scholarship The Semex Angus Youth Kansas State University Scholarship allows a young beef cattle enthusiast the chance to study at one of the best agricultural universities in the country.

ANGUS YOUTH

Beef cattle are a key focus of study and research at Kansas State University. With their own seed stock and commercial herd, feedlot, feed mill, brilliant teaching facilities and staff, the university offers an exceptional learning environment.

Sponsored by Semex Pty Ltd and Angus Australia, the Semex Angus Youth Kansas State University Scholarship provides each year an Angus Youth member with the opportunity to study at Kansas State University for one semester (US Spring Semester, January through to April/May). The scholarship is open to any young beef cattle enthusiast who is a member of Angus Australia wanting to increase their knowledge of nthe beef industry.

This scholarship represents a once in a lifetime opportunity for the recipient. Whilst at the University they also get the chance to become fully involved with campus activities and be able to visit local beef producers and agribusinesses, including Certified Angus Beef.

To apply for this scholarship applicants must be aged between 21 and 30 years (age at 1st January), and be a current Angus Australia member. Previous university study is not a requirement to apply.

Applications will be open on Monday 15th June and will close Tuesday 30th June, 2015.

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For more information contact Angus Youth Ph: 02 6773 4608 M: 0429 917 556 E: youth@angusaustralia.com.au

www.angusyouth.org

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