Issue 75 | The Australian Wagyu Update, August 2020

Vol. 75 The Wagyu industry’s premier trade magazine produced by the Australian Wagyu Association

www.wagyu.org.au August 2020

GENETICS TO IMPROVE

f u l l bl oods

INSIDE .... HOW ARE WE DOING -2020 SCORECARD | EWS RECORDS STRONG AUTUMN RESULT TRANSFORMING DATA INTO BREEDING DECISIONS | THE CHAMPIONS JOURNEY | WBBC AWARDS IMPROVE YOUR BREEDING DECISIONS | GENETIC DIVERSITY | WAGYU RIDING OUT COVID STORM

Australia’s Leading Wagyu Sires Australia

Arubial

BOND Q007 (AI) (ET) 29KB0009  Wagyu Carcass Combination king  Ranked #2 Marbling, #6 EMA, #2 Marbling Fineness  Q007 emulates his legendary sire, Junior’s semen sold for over $55,000 per dose at the latest Maruya sale.

BOND

Carcass 007 Machine

Itoshigenami (Imp USA)

Mayura Itoshigenami Jnr (AI)

Mayura Itoshigenami Jnr (AI)

Peppermill Grove L0021 (AI) (ET)

Mayura Dai Ni Kinntou 1 (AI) BW

GL

EBV +0.9 +0.6 Acc

200D

400D

600D

+1

+4

-5

MCW

Peppermill Grove G037 (AI) MILK

SS

CWT

EMA

RUMP RBY%

MS

MF

+11 -11 -1.4 +15 +9.0 -0.7 +0.9 +3.3 +0.54

69% 74% 74% 72% 74% 65% 62% 57% 72% 69% 70% 59% 72% 68%

SRI

FTI

F1TI

+$245 +$294 +$248 +$252 EBVS as at July 2020

TOP 10%

MYMFQ007

Arubial

ANTICIPATED Q0014 (AI) (ET) 29KB0010

 Anticipated Q0014 is the maternal brother to Bond Q007 (the best Wagyu carcass combination bull in the breed)  Anticipated Q0014 excels as a top 1% for EMA, Marbling, Marbling Fineness and top 1% of all $ Indexes.

Sumo Cattle Co Itoshigenami C0158 (AI) (ET)

Mayura Itoshigenami Jnr (AI)

Coates Itoshigenami G113

Peppermill Grove L0021 (AI) (ET)

Coates Tani C446 (AI) (ET) GL

BW

200D

EBV +0.8 +0.6 Acc

+5

400D

600D

Peppermill Grove G037 (AI) MCW

+12 +11 +20

MILK

-6

SS

CWT

EMA

RUMP RBY%

MS

MF

-0.2 +32 +6.3 -0.6 +0.8 +2.4 +0.44

59% 65% 67% 67% 68% 57% 52% 47% 65% 58% 60% 49% 63% 55%

SRI

FTI

F1TI

+$220 +$242 +$210 +$205 EBVS as at July 2020

Arubial

TOP 10%

MYMFQ0014

Dam - Peppermill Grove L0021 (AI) (ET)

UNITED P0342 (AI) (ET) 29KB0008 Combination Deluxe  Perhaps the best combination bull in the Wagyu breed  Top 5% for all Growth, Carcass Weight and Marbling EBVs  Marbling top 2%, Marbling Fineness top 1%.

World K’s Michifuku

Macquarie Wagyu Y408 (AI) (ET)

Sumo Cattle Co Michifuku F126 (AI)

Macquarie Wagyu C1624

Sumo Cattle Co Hana C152 (AI) (ET)

Macquarie Wagyu F Z736

BW

GL

200D

400D

600D

MCW

EBV -2.0 +4.2 +21 +40 +57 +56 Acc

MILK

SS

CWT

EMA

RUMP RBY%

MS

MF

+2 +0.2 +57 +2.1 -1.6 +0.2 +1.9 +0.41

63% 71% 71% 71% 73% 63% 60% 63% 68% 60% 62% 53% 65% 58%

SRI

FTI

F1TI

+$306 +$300 +$261 +$227 EBVS as at July 2020

MYMFP0342

Macquarie International Super Sire  Top 5% for Marbling Fineness  Top 2% for Marbling Score  Top 1% for Short Gestation Length, top 10% 400 day Growth  Japanese Full blood Kitateruyasudoi J2810 Hongen (IMP JAP) Macquarie Wagyu Y408 (AI) (ET)

BW

200D

400D

29KB0005

 Tajima 65%  Prelude semen is on 6 continents of the world  Sorted male and female semen available.

World K’s Michifuku Macquarie Wagyu F X358 (AI) (ET)

600D

MCW

EBV +4.1 +1.9 +17 +26 +28 +25 Acc

WAGYU

PRELUDE M0495 (AI) (ET) 29KB0005 PRELUDE

Macquarie Wagyu C1589 (AI) (ET)

TWA F U561 (AI) (ET) GL

TOP 10%

Sire - Sumo Cattle Co Michifuku F126 (AI)

MILK

SS

CWT

EMA

RUMP RBY%

MS

MF

+2 +0.3 +10 -0.8 -1.3 -0.3 +1.4 +0.26

86% 94% 92% 93% 86% 74% 65% 80% 79% 72% 75% 69% 72% 64%

SRI

FTI

+$201 +$201 +$178 +$164 EBVS as at July 2020

CONTACT

F1TI

Bill Cornell Mobile 0428 293 498 Fletch Kelly Mobile 0419 383 341

TOP 10%

MACQUARIE PRELUDE M0495 (AI) (ET)

BDWFM0495

The best and most recently used Wagyu terminal carcass sire  Top 5% for Marbling Fineness  Top 2% for Marbling Score  Top 1% for short gestation length, top 10% 400 day growth  Japanese Full blood  Tajima 65%  Prelude semen quality is outstanding with many high conception results in FTAI and ET  Prelude semen is on 6 continents of the world  Sorted male and female semen available

Kim Sultana Mobile 0438 418 113 Annie Pumpa Mobile 0458 227 277

(B3F-CHSF-CL16F-F11F-F13F) Ident

BDWFM0495

Born

10/10/2016

Grade

Fullblood 100% Wagyu

Colour

Black

Gene Tests: B3 - Free

15 CONTENTS 4

A note from our president : The 2020 score card - how are we going?

6

9

CEO Report : Second quarter 2020 highlights

9

Strong Elite Sale results

10

EWS member profiles

15

Transforming data into breeding

30

decisions with $Indexes 21

Wagyu Branded Beef results

30 The Champion Journeys 33 Genetic diversity and

38

Japaense Black 38 Improve your breeding decisions 44 Wagyu riding out the COVID storm

44 Publisher THE AUSTRALIAN WAGYU ASSOCIATION (AWA) office@wagyu.org.au 02 8880 7700 Consulting Editor DEBORAH ANDRICH deb@wagyu.com.au 0400 855 040 Contributing Writers MIKE BUCHANAN, Dr. MATT McDONAGH and CAREL TESELING Art Direction HEATHER FRAZIER heather@wagyu.org.au 0432 949 764

ON THE COVER

Elite genetics at the Elite Wagyu Sale continues to generate interest around the world, see page 9.

The Australian Wagyu Update magazine is printed by Litho Art on paper stock derived from sustainable forests managed to ensure their renewability and preserve natural eco-systems for generations to come. All content is subject to copyright and may not be reproduced in any form without the written permission from the publisher.

GENERAL ENQUIRIES AWA Chief Executive Officer Dr. MATT McDONAGH office@wagyu.org.au 02 8880 7700

Opinions expressed in The Australian Wagyu Update magazine are not necessarily those of the publishers. Acceptance of an advertisement does not imply endorsement of any product or service by the magazine or the association, nor support any claims by the advertisers.

Every effort is made to ensure information contained in this magazine is correct at the time of publishing.

Wagyu Update advertising enquiries HEATHER FRAZIER heather@wagyu.org.au 0432 949 764

CONNECT WITH US ISSUE 75 - THE AUSTRALIAN WAGYU UPDATE

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president

MIKE BUCHANAN

THE 2020 SCORE CARD HOW ARE WE GOING? Dear Members, in the Australian Wagyu world, from an AWA Board perspective.

GENETIC DIVERSITY MANAGEMENT: PREFECTURAL SCIENCE ADOPTED

This piece is in part a scorecard for the first half of 2020. How do

Another important project commenced last November was

you think we are performing?

unveiled as ‘now operational’ at another AWA webinar in early

It’s again my pleasure to offer you a short review of progress

MEMBER SERVICE PERFORMANCE

July. The objective was the first-time measurement of genetic diversity in the Australian Japanese Black Herdbook. This then

With our annual conference cancelled due to COVID-19,

enables planning to manage diversity, which has been recognised

our planned Member briefing on AWA member services and

as challenged. One new enabling tool is the database integration of

competitive breed society performance went online in June in a

Japanese prefectural values (individual percentage content) for all

members-only Zoom webinar. This delivered the outcomes from

individual registered Black Fullbloods.

a first-ever business review that was conducted from November 2019 through to February 2020. We measured AWA against ‘the rest’, and identified ‘blips and dips’ over a seven year period.

This outcome is a showcase for the diligent efforts of CEO Dr Matt McDonagh and his team, most prominently in turning around a negative MIPs-to-SNPs implementation scenario.

The lesson in project planning was clear. The difficulties created for members in that period are fully recognised. The obstacles have been identified and redressed.

In doing this, we deliberately adopted the unique, differentiated structure of Japanese Black breed population science, as used in Japanese scientific literature for more than 40 years.

Adoption of the prefectural population structure was enabled by the efforts of external consultant Mr Tak Suzuki and AWA Technical Services Manager Carel Teseling, who first created a foundation by resolving numerous deficiencies in the AWA pedigree database, substantially enhancing linkages back to Japanese herd ancestors. Great implementation assistance was

In both competitive member costs and service delivery, AWA is today

also received from ABRI.

a clear leader among Australian breed societies. We will continue

The implementation provides improvements in metrics, including

competitive benchmarking to ensure we retain this position.

the potential for inbreeding measurement right back into the

NEW BREEDER INDEX

Japan Registry Herdbook.

The inexpensive webinar format was again used a fortnight

Now, for the first time, the AWA Herdbook database provides a

later when we introduced the fourth Wagyu profitability Index, named the ‘Wagyu Breeder Index’, which again originates in our November 2019 meetings.

The purpose and functionality of this important addition to our suite of BreedObject $Indexes is well described elsewhere. It is a powerful new tool for breeders in low-input Australian pastoral conditions and is ideal for use in overall herd development in these production systems.

WWW.WAGYU.ORG.AU > WAGYU WEBINAR SERIES

4

THE AUSTRALIAN WAGYU UPDATE - ISSUE 75

‘single narrative’ for the international Japanese Black herd, from the latest animal registrations from members around the world, back to Japanese pedigrees and individual prefectural herd origins. ‘Real Wagyu’, without a doubt.

Accurate pedigrees back to our founder ancestral genetics ensure delivery of a stable, consistent source for prefectural analysis that has been used by many breeders since original exports from Japan.

This implementation is a strongly affirmative response from AWA to consistent requests from AWA members in recent years, captured in formal surveys in 2014 and 2017.

The major benefit is yet to come, as our key scientific partner,

AGBU, applies the new pedigree ‘map’ to prefectural sub-

(not too similar!) precedent we have is the 2008 GFC, from which

population genomics in the international Wagyu herd registered

Australian wagyu rebounded strongly after a couple of tough years.

with the AWA. New measurements and conservation of

However, the one Wagyu market trend that was clear in the first

genetic diversity, management of inbreeding, and productivity

half of 2020 was that high-end Wagyu genetics have lost none

enhancements are all potential outcomes.

of their appeal, especially in the international marketplace. To

EBV REVIEW AND GOVERNANCE UPDATES You will recall that we announced plans for a review of carcase

nurture that demand, AWA has now put in a place a second Elite Wagyu Sale for our southern hemisphere spring. Revised terms and conditions are a response to member, vendor and buyer feedback.

EBVs last November, with hopes of completing this by June.

This should be a great opportunity to showcase, buy and sell an

COVID-19 and related workload got in the way. We are still

increasingly diverse range of top genetics.

working on this review and will communicate further in August 2020. Similarly, we are in the process of upgrading internal Board governance structures, including a new formal contract for directors. The latter initiative should be complete and available on the AWA website by September 2020.

As we passed through 30 June, amongst the best news of all was that AWA corporate financial performance has remained strong through the first four months of COVID. A credit to the Armidale team.

Thanks for your interest. Feedback is always welcome.

MARKETS, SALES & AWA FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE For many commodity beef producers, the COVID-19 era has seen record livestock prices. The outlook for premium product like Wagyu seems rather more uncertain, and the anecdotal information in early July 2020 is confused to say the least. The only

Mike Buchanan AWA President and Chair board@wagyu.org.au

ISSUE 75 - THE AUSTRALIAN WAGYU UPDATE

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ceo update

Dr. MATTHEW McDONAGH

SECOND QUARTER 2020 HIGHLIGHTS IMPLEMENTATION OF PEDIGREE UPDATES FOR ANCESTRAL JAPANESE BLACK FOUNDER ANIMALS

ISSUE 74 page 6-8

As announced in our April 2020 Wagyu Update, the AWA has now completed the purchase of the leading database to complete prefectural analysis for the Japanese Black breed.

For the last three months, AWA Technical Services Manager - Mr Carel Teseling has been working through a review of AWA founder animal pedigree certificates with our service provider to improve linkages to the Japanese registry for the majority of AWA founder animals.

By analysis of certificates through the Japanese Registry, substantial additional pedigree information that resolve historical pedigree discrepancies and provide improved linkage to Japanese Registry Certificate numbers (J numbers) has been completed. The improved linkages demonstrate the unbroken generational linkages between current AWA registered generations of Japanese Black and those of distant founder ancestors in Japan.

IMPLEMENTATION OF PREFECTURAL COMPOSITION VALUES AWA has been working closely with the Animal Genetics Breeding Unit (AGBU), principally with Dr Yuandan Zhang and Professor Rob Banks, to test the AWA Herdbook structure as the basis for imputation of prefectural values for every Fullblood Japanese Black animal registered 6

THE AUSTRALIAN WAGYU UPDATE - ISSUE 75

with the AWA. Prefectural values have subsequently been calculated and published for all registered Japanese Black animals. This will underpin further research into understanding genetic diversity within the AWA Japanese Black population along with genomic analysis to improve management of our critical genetic resources.

Carel has worked with our BREEDPLAN commercialisation partner the Agricultural Business Research Institute (ABRI) to implement the prefectural data analysis within the AWA online database so that members can begin to access this data.

IMPLEMENTATION OF THE WAGYU BREEDER INDEX The Wagyu Breeder $Index was introduced in June 2020 and complements the suite of Wagyu profitability Indexes now in extensive use by the industry to increase profitability.

The new Wagyu Breeder $Index is our second Fullblood self-replacing herd index, designed to support selection for enhanced pastoral-based Fullblood Wagyu production in low-input extensive systems. It is focussed on superior maternal performance to deliver improved calf survivability, 200-600 day growth high carcase weight and breed average marbling

UPDATE OF AWA WEBSITE AND NEW WAGYU PORTAL TO BE COMPLETED For the past 12 months, the AWA has been reviewing the information and structure within the AWA website. The AWA will be updating the current website in the coming months.

As part of this update, a new member access area will be provided to members – the Wagyu Portal. The Wagyu Portal is a member-based service portal where members can view detailed information on their transactions, search their animal and herd data – including viewing information relating to performance data submitted by them. Members will be able to more easily access their information and to query tasks in process using job numbers.

FURTHER PRICE REDUCTIONS FOR GENOMICS TESTING Through the combined efforts of AWA members working together, we have become Neogen Australasia’s largest customer by volume of Wagyu genomics tests. As a result, AWA and Neogen implemented new testing prices for genomic testing for AWA members that includes the provision for re-testing of failed samples at no extra charge.

INCREASING DENSITY FOR GENOMICS TESTING Working with our DNA testing partners, we are pleased to announce that AWA is now able to offer genomics tests at higher density levels for our members.

Zoetis have increased the density of their HD50K platform to 56,000 SNPs. Neogen Australasia will be providing its new 100K testing platform from mid-July 2020.

22 NEW FULL AND ASSOCIATE MEMBERS HAVE JOINED THE AWA As per the Constitution of the AWA, the Board reviews and approves new membership applications for the AWA. 22 new members were accepted at the April

2020 Board meeting, bringing the increase in number of new

We presented data showing that the AWA has gone through

members for the year to date to 68.

rapid change and significant growth during the past seven

MIP TO SNP PROMOTIONS CONTINUING: AWA advised its members in February 2020 that testing services and MiP-based parent verification to all Australian Breed Associations to AWA members would terminate from the 31st of May 2021.

The majority of AWA members have already transitioned their

years, increasing turnover more than 5-fold as the Wagyu sector has accelerated. This has included 20% year on year growth in registrations, with 40% year on year growth in DNA testing.

Compared to other established Breed Associations, the AWA has:

herd to SNP for parent verification. For members that have not yet

» Comparable income to expenditure ratios;

transitioned to SNP testing, it is very important that you consider

» Relatively low retained net assets;

upgrading your herd to SNP as soon as possible.

» Low staff overheads as a proportion of total revenue and expenditure;

For members with valuable stored embryos or semen from MiP registered animals, it is very important to upgrade these parents to SNP now so that progeny can be registered.

Please check your tanks and make sure your stored resources can be registered in the future.

» High once only registration, but low whole of life fees compared to annual inventory fees; » High annual membership fee; » Free BREEDPLAN membership; » Lowest DNA testing prices for 50K genomics.

Transactional activity benchmarks per staff member show consistent improvements following transition of AWA systems and processes from MiP to SNP in 2018.

OFFICE UPDATE: MANAGEMENT OF COVID-19 IMPACT ON SERVICES Since the start of June 2020, the AWA has returned to working

Promotional pricing has been provided by Neogen, Xytovet and Zoetis to enable reduced costs to members who have not yet transferred their herd to SNP testing.

from the office with all normal functionality in place.

We are pleased that we were able to work with our members and our DNA testing laboratories to ensure continuity of service and

HOW DOES YOUR ASSOCIATION STACK UP TO OTHERS?

minimal disruption for members.

The AWA presented its financial and services benchmarking

We will continue to keep you updated if we are required to change

review to members through its member-only webinar on the

office work arrangements again.

4th of June. This work was conducted to compare service delivery, cost of services and the underpinning core business growth of the AWA with other published information on major Breed Associations.

Matt McDonagh

Chief Executive Officer Australian Wagyu Association ISSUE 75 - THE AUSTRALIAN WAGYU UPDATE

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DELIVER YOUR WAGYU

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We have no shortage of customers only a shortage of cattle.

FOR MORE DETAILS, CONTACT DMC JOE PUGLIA Ph 0407 243 689 WAYNE BELL Ph 0427 012 610 or email sales@directmeatcompany.com.au

DIRECT MEAT COMPANY

www.directmeatcompany.com.au

YOU FEED | WE BUY AND PAY | WE PROCESS AND DELIVER ATTRACTIVE GRID PRICES BASED ON HSCW AND MARBLE SCORE | ATTRACTIVE PAYMENT TERMS

8

THE AUSTRALIAN WAGYU UPDATE - ISSUE 75

STRONG SALE RESULTS AUTUMN 2020 ELITE WAGYU SALE

The 2020 Elite Wagyu Sale has provided strong results once again and has rapidly established itself as a leading international Wagyu genetics event.

Delivered 100% online and hosted by Elite Livestock Auctions with auctioneers, GDL, the auction sold 63 of 96 Lots to a total of $1.31 million. Vendors and bidders participated from around the world, with 146 bidders from 11 countries registered for the auction. More than 500 viewed online.

Ten of the 20 female lots sold were to international bidders.

Lot 1, a female bred by Sumo Cattle Company, one of the pioneers of Australian Wagyu, taking out the top bid for the category at $105,000 to a US buyer, Jeremy Freer of Double 8 Cattle Company.

Two polled Wagyu Purebred heifers sold to a Swiss buyer for $65,000 and $62,000, who purchased an additional six lots,

while six lots went to the US, and a further six to the UK. The increased interest in Australian-based genetics is clear indication that our commitment to improving the Wagyu herd is making headway increasing the reputation and availability of high-quality genomics.

The three prominent international buyers (see following pages) from Switzerland, the US and the UK share their plans for Wagyu.

SPRING SALE 29 OCTOBER 2020

SHOWCASING THE TOP 5% OF WAGYU GENETICS OUTSIDE JAPAN The AWA is excited to announce the Elite Wagyu Sale will now be held twice per year. We’ve updated the sale entry criteria to improve Lot offerings by:

FINAL DAY TO ENTER A LOT 24 AUG 2020 Online form available now from the website

 Increasing minimum EBV accuracy  Unparalleled genomics testing and coverage  Improved genetic diversity  Open to entries from around the world  Total lots capped at 70

GET THE LATEST SALE DAY NEWS

wagyu.org.au/ews    ISSUE 75 - THE AUSTRALIAN WAGYU UPDATE

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Strong Sales results - Autumn 2020

MEMBER PROFILE

MARCEL MERZ SWITZERLAND

SOUND JUDGEMENTS USING DATA Marcel Merz is based in Willisau, Switzerland, in a rural region north west of Lucerne.

He is part owner of a farming enterprise specialising in organic Limousin beef and poultry. The farm of 27 hectares, currently, runs 50 head of cattle producing two to three carcasses per month and 2,500 poultry every seven weeks, where the emphasis is on high quality organic, grass-fed meat.

He first became aware of Wagyu beef when working in Kobe, Japan, but had no idea of the complexity in breeding that resulted in such a high price for the beef.

The plan, Marcel says, is to slowly replace the Limousin herd with Fullblood Wagyu recognising that the demand for high quality genetics in Europe is steadily increasing and that European breeders are becoming more aware and interested in, the genetics available from Australia.

“Now, in Europe, Wagyu breeders recognise that the Australian BREEDPLAN system is open and fair, in that you can readily search for an animal’s EBVs,” Mr Merz.

“For me, I want to understand the genomics and the pedigree when looking for genetics to make a sound judgement on what suits my operation the best.”

Traits such as good growth weights, milk, carcase weight, rib eye area and marbling will be the focus of Mr Merz’ operation with a focus on poll Wagyu. Breeders in Europe, says Mr Merz are highly aware of genetic defects and the risks of inbreeding and therefore he is keen to understand the bloodlines of the breed to minimise the risks. The poll gene fits in with the concept of organic and ‘happy cows’ favoured by the Swiss market.

The farm’s current focus on organic will continue as part of the brand strategy along with the development of a Swiss brand label. This in itself has posed a challenge in that the Swiss organic certification process does not allow for embryo transfer, requiring a oneoff, special license to operate under those breeding techniques.

Mr Merz also noted that most Wagyu carcasses are sold privately off-farm, with no real understanding of marbling, which he says will need to change with a lot of marketing and education so that Wagyu beef producers are rewarded accordingly to the production of the carcase.

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THE AUSTRALIAN WAGYU UPDATE - ISSUE 75

MEMBER PROFILE

PHILIP MADDOCKS UK MIDLANDS

GENETICS TO IMPROVE UK FULLBLOODS Philip Maddocks, shares a similar view to Mr Merz, in that understanding of quality Wagyu needs marketing and education in order for European Wagyu beef producers to realise true reward as many British consumers are more likely to be deterred by the appearance of the higher marbling.

A third-generation farmer from the UK Midlands, Philip’s grandfather and later his father, were well respected breeders of British Friesian and Holstein cattle – gaining high reputation throughout the UK and the continent under the Wyndford Herd brand.

To date, he has purchased genetics from the US and Australia and owns cows in the US for the purposes of flushing, but acknowledges it is early days yet. Currently, there are 100 Fullblood cattle on the farm.

For Mr Maddocks, like Mr Merz, the Australian Elite Wagyu Sale and AWA BREEDPLAN gave someone with little knowledge or history with Wagyu a window to what is available and a starting point for quality genomics.

“The UK Wagyu association is still in its infancy, but we are automatically members of Australia. Most of

However, Philip and his brother, chose not to follow that path, and Philip established a salad leaf business, a success in its own right.

us understand that genetics are not the full story;

With the dispersal of his father’s herd of 500 cattle in 2017, Philip knew that his father would miss the world of cattle, so searched for an alternative – and found Wagyu.

I aim to gain more balance across the animals rather

“The original plan was to have 10 animals and keep them in a field, but my father’s interest in genetics was piqued with Wagyu, to learn more about pedigrees and bloodlines. A meeting with a US breeder at a Wagyu sale in Germany ended up with a purchase of embryos using Holstein as recipients – we had to buy more Holsteins,” said Mr Maddocks.

not be the perfect blend here in our colder winters. Time

The principle focus for Mr Maddocks is to establish a Fullblood Wagyu pedigree herd, to sell genetics, but appreciates that producing beef will be the ‘proof in the pudding’ on the quality of those breeding decisions.

phenotypes are part of it.

“Germany and the US tend to focus on SCD scores, but than just focus on one trait. Nutrition will be the other consideration – what works in Japan and Australia may will tell once we finish some cattle.

“Establishing the brand is the other consideration.

We will go under the Wyndford Wagyu brand for beef and genetics as it will strengthen our recognition and reputation, and educate consumers on what Fullblood Wagyu is, compared to some of the cheaper beef on the market that may have false claims about Wagyu content.”

Ultimately Mr Maddocks aims to sell Wagyu genetics throughout Europe and into the Middle East.

ISSUE 73 - THE AUSTRALIAN WAGYU UPDATE

11

Strong Sales results - Autumn 2020 Elite Wagyu Sale

MEMBER PROFILE

JEREMY FREER

UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

STRATEGIC GENETICS TO STRENGTHEN THE FULLBLOOD MARKET The need for education on Crossbred, Purebred and Fullblood for Wagyu beef carries across to the US, leading Jeremy Freer, of Double 8 Cattle to focus on marketing as much as genetic improvement.

Located in central Ohio, USA, Double 8 Cattle Company was established in 2016 after transitioning away from a commercial scale grain farm, to pursue other options.

After eating Wagyu and extensively researching it, Jeremy was ‘blown away by the product and sold on setting ourselves up as one of the few companies in the United States raising Fullblood Wagyu’. The property now runs 400 head of Fullblood Wagyu registered with both the American and Australian Wagyu Associations.

The company’s beef business operates on a direct-to-consumer basis, selling through online sales across the country.

With the COVID-19 pandemic, sales have increased with customers self-isolating and the shortage of meat products due to production downturns.

When purchasing genetics, Jeremy analyses the EBV data and BreedObject $Indexes that will elevate the genetics of the herd and the final product to consumers.

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THE AUSTRALIAN WAGYU UPDATE - ISSUE 75

“For example, in the 2020 Elite Wagyu Sale, we chose to purchase Fuku P526 for her dam’s high marble score, and the Sire, Sumo Michifuku F154 is in the top 1%, while she herself has balanced EBVs and high SRI, FTI and F1 Indexes,” said Jeremy.

The plan for Fuku P526 is to export embryos to the US to improve genetic gain and the quality of the Fullblood Wagyu beef products and genetics to complement the strategic pairings and genetic purchases to improve the overall herd.

Education of the US consumer will also be part of the strategy to ensure that online sales are part of the experience, along with marketing strategies including social media campaigns and a video series featuring wellknown chefs.

“Since opening Double 8 Cattle Company, our journey has involved extensive research, partnering with industry leaders, perseverance, sweat-equity, and drive to raise the bar.

“We appreciate our fellow Wagyu breeders and the associations that have helped us get to this point. Our team continues to be excited about the breed and the industry, both domestically and on a global scale.”

CONTINUING TO WORK FOR YOU SAME TEAM, SAME NAME,

SAME VISION

GROW WITH US IN

2020 Relax when you use OUR TEAM WAGYU SALE DATES FOR 2020

SALE

DATE

DETAILS

Sumo

Thursday 13th August

On Property, Grafton, NSW & Online with elitelivestockauctions.com.au

Premium

Tuesday 15th September

Spring Elite

Thursday 29th October

Online with auctionsplus.com.au Live auction at AGM & online with elitelivestockauctions.com.au

Premium

Tuesday 17th November

Online with auctionsplus.com.au

Private Sales: Export to EU & USA – Semen and Embryos Breeders FB & F1 cows, heifers, in calf or calf at foot

Harvey Weyman-Jones, GDL Stud Stock Manager, Dalby, Queensland is the offical Wagyu Sales Agent for the AWA throughout Australia.

Please call Harvey to discuss your needs.

hweymanjones@gdlrural.com.au | 0414 941 788

www.gdlrural.com.au ISSUE 75 - THE AUSTRALIAN WAGYU UPDATE

13

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14

THE AUSTRALIAN WAGYU UPDATE - ISSUE 75

TRANSFORMING DATA INTO BREEDING DECISIONS WITH $INDEXES THE TOOLS NEEDED TO DEVELOP A HERD The tools needed to develop a herd that meets targeted production outcomes go beyond observation in the paddock and into analysis of data and turning it into information that can be used to improve breeding decisions.

The use of BREEDPLAN is common across many cattle breeds, and Wagyu BREEDPLAN provides data specific to our breed. The Estimated Breeding Values (EBVs) produced for a number of important animal traits allow for the transformation of raw data into genetic merit information for improving breeding decisions.

Taking it another step further, those EBVs can then be analysed to determine which animals have the best potential within a breeding herd to generate a more profitable outcome in targeted production systems. These are the BreedObject $Indexes.

Each Index is targeted to provide a performance outcome within a specific production system – the idea is to compare animals within the same Index, the index most related to your production system.

The value of each Index gives an indication of the likelihood of how profitable the animal performs compared to the average for that Index, based on the underlying EBVs that are best aligned with that production outcome.

Rather than fixate on the actual $Index values, breeders should look at how animals rank in comparison to each other within the $Index that best suits their production system. They should then look at the EBVs that make up the $Index to understand the composition of the total genetics package for that animal.

In 2018, three $Indexes were introduced for Wagyu – Self-replacing (SRI), Fullblood Terminal (FTI) and F1 Terminal $Indexes (F1I), that replaced the existing, temporary Terminal Carcase Index. These three Indexes have been widely accepted and utilised by breeders in making herd and production decisions and feature heavily in buying decisions in sales such as the Elite Wagyu Sale in conjunction with EBV figures.

In June 2020, a fourth Index was introduced the Wagyu Breeder Index – aimed at commercial producers with low-input, grass-based production systems to produce steers with high feedlot entry weight and high growth daughters with larger calves.

FULLBLOOD WAGYU SELF-REPLACING HERD PROFITABILITY $INDEXES The AWA publishes two $Indexes focussed on developing profitability in self-replacing Fullblood herds.

The 2018 released SRI is designed for more temperate Fullblood Wagyu production systems where there are moderate to high levels of highquality supplementary feeding, where females are retained for breeding and high marbling feeder steers are sold for feedlot finishing. The SRI can be used by breeders around the world who have moderate to high input production systems. It places balanced pressure on increasing growth, carcase weight and marble score.

The Wagyu Breeder Index (WBI) is designed for more extensive, low-input pastoral Fullblood Wagyu productions systems, where there is less opportunity to supplement stock with high quality feed. More emphasis is placed on fastISSUE 75 - THE AUSTRALIAN WAGYU UPDATE

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Transforming data into breeding decisions with $Indexes

FIGURE 1

COMPARISON OF INDEX PRESSURE ON EBVS

1.5

1.0

0.5 TRAIT CHANGE

0

-0.5

-1.0

-1.5

CE-d CE-m

GL

BWT 200D 400D 600D MCW MILK

SS

DTC CWT EMA

RIB RUMP RBY MARB NFI-p NFI-f

<<< from page 15

WBI SRI FB TERMINAL F1 TERMINAL Trait change is expressed in genetic standard deviations, with one standard deviation equivalent to approximately 30% of the available genetic gain within the breed.

growing progeny and production of replacement females with improved maternal attributes to support finishing on pasture with low levels of supplementation.

The WBI places higher emphasis on carcase weight for feeder steers whilst maintaining breed average Marble Score.

TERMINAL WAGYU PROFITABILITY $INDEXES The AWA publishes two $Indexes focussed on terminal carcase production.

The 2018 released FTI is a Fullblood terminal $Index designed for moderate to high levels of high-quality supplementary feeding to support production of Fullblood feeder animals where all progeny are slaughtered. The FTI targets increased growth and carcase weight with high marbling.

To support F1 crossbred feeder animals where all progeny are slaughtered, the F1I is a crossbred terminal $Index designed for moderate to high levels of high-quality supplementary feeding. The F1I solely targets improved carcase outcomes with significant pressure on increasing eye muscle area and very high marbling. No pressure is placed on improving live animal growth or maternal traits.

COMPARING WAGYU PROFITABILITY $INDEXES The relative genetic selection pressure placed on EBVs for a range of production and carcase traits by each of the Wagyu $Indexes is shown in Figure 1.

The Terminal $Indexes place the highest emphasis on Marbling (MARB), with the F1I (yellow bars) placing very high pressure on marble score and eye muscle area (EMA), with negligible pressure on other EBVs. Within the F1I, attributes related to growth and maternal support are provided by the non-Wagyu cow.

The FTI (grey bars) also places high pressure on marble score, but because growth and development within a Fullblood terminal system are driven solely 16

THE AUSTRALIAN WAGYU UPDATE - ISSUE 75

SUMMARY OF AWA SELECTION $INDEXES

Used to select Fullblood bulls that will produce females with high genetic merit for growth and breed average slaughter progeny for marbling.

by Wagyu genetics, moderate pressure is placed on growth and carcase weight.

The Self-replacing Fullblood herd $Indexes place greater pressure on growth and live-animal performance traits, as female progeny are retained within the herd for future breeding and herd development. The SRI (red bars) places even greater pressure across growth and carcase traits, although due to relatively high input costs to support early life production, it places no significant pressure on maternal and fertility through Milk or Scrotal Circumference.

The WBI (blue bars) places the greatest pressure on growth, Milk and fertility as it assumes low levels of management inputs to support early life production in more extensive pastoral production systems.

Correlated with high selection pressure for growth, the WBI also places the highest pressure on carcase weight whilst maintaining breed average marble score.

WAGYU BREEDER $INDEX

Suited to commercial producers who rely on low input, grassbased production systems to produce steer progeny for high feedlot entry weight and high growth daughters.

Heifers are retained for breeding and therefore maternal traits are of importance.

Steers are assumed to be slaughtered at 32 months after 550 days of feedlot finishing targeting 460kg carcases with breed average marble score.

SELF-REPLACING $INDEX Used to select Fullblood bulls that will produce females with moderate genetic merit for growth and above breed average slaughter progeny for marbling (targeting marble score higher than 8).

Suited to commercial producers who provide high quality supplementary feeding on grass-based production systems to produce steer progeny of average feedlot entry weight and moderate growth daughters.

A key strategy to using the Index tools in breeding decisions is to recognise that each one is designed to apply to one particular production system.

Heifers are retained for breeding and therefore maternal traits are of importance.

Steers are assumed to be slaughtered at 32 months after 550 days of feedlot finishing targeting 435kg carcases with above average marble scores (above 8).

FULLBLOOD TERMINAL $INDEX Select bulls for the production of profitable slaughter animals where no progeny are retained for breeding.

Suited to commercial producers of Fullblood cattle who provide supplementary feeding to grass-based production system before feedlot entry.

Production of steer and heifer progeny of average feedlot entry weight and marble score significantly higher than 8.

F1 TERMINAL $INDEX Select bulls for with higher marble score EBV for the production of profitable slaughter animals from cross-breeding where no progeny are retained for breeding.

Suited to commercial producers of crossbred slaughter cattle using Fullblood bulls and non-Wagyu females.

Targets average carcase weight for steer progeny of 420kg and 387kg for heifers with above average F1 marble score (significantly higher than 6) based on high marbling genetic merit of the sire.

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Transforming data into breeding decisions with $Indexes

TABLE ONE

INDEX USE

COMPARISON OF WAGYU SELECTION $INDEXES

WAGYU BREEDER INDEX

SELF-REPLACING INDEX

FULLBLOOD TERMINAL INDEX

F1 TERMINAL INDEX

Self-replacing herd Daughters retained for breeding Low-input grass production base Moderate-input grass production base Ave. feedlot entry weight Above breed ave. feedlot entry weight Ave. carcase weight Above breed ave. carcase weight Ave. marble score Above breed ave. marble score

<<< from page 17

If animals rank similarly for an $Index and have similar EBVs in the core areas of interest to a breeder, the animal with the higher EBV accuracy should be considered favourably.

It is important to note that the $Indexes values for animals are based on that animalâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s EBVs for each trait. Members using the $Indexes should use the index that best suits their production system. The relative ranking of animals is important along with understanding of the individual EBVs of a potential sire and their accuracy. If animals rank similarly for an $Index and have similar EBVs in the core areas of interest to a breeder, the animal with the higher EBV accuracy should be considered favourably.

The $Indexes also do not account for the structural and conformation attributes of animals. It is always advisable to visually inspect animals for structural and reproductive soundness along with obtaining semen morphology tests for sires.

Find out more about the new Wagyu Breeder $ Index, watch the free webinar video on the AWA website.

WWW.WAGYU.ORG.AU > WAGYU WEBINAR SERIES

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THE AUSTRALIAN WAGYU UPDATE - ISSUE 75

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ISSUE 75 - THE AUSTRALIAN WAGYU UPDATE

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THE AUSTRALIAN WAGYU UPDATE - ISSUE 75

# WorldsLuxuryBeef

LIVE CELEBRATION OF WAGYU BRANDED BEEF

The 2020 Wagyu Branded Beef Competition continued to build on its eight year history, with more entries than previously, and at a standard that continues to uphold Wagyu beef as the world’s luxury beef.

As with many events in 2020, the Wagyu Branded Beef Competition award ceremony was an online livestreamed event, in the wake of the cancellation of the Association’s annual conference due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Broadcast on 15 May, 2020 the award ceremony announced the Gold, Champion and Grand Champion awards with presentations by our valued sponsors and comments from brand owners on their journey to bring award-winning Wagyu to fruition.

In moving to an online award ceremony format, engagement in the program was significantly lifted, with more than 500 watching live and more than 8,000 watching through social media in the week following.

A key statistic is that more than 40% of those viewing the online ceremony were from outside Australia – which is where approximately 90% of our product reaches its markets. This have given the 2020 Branded Beef Competition and its entrants far greater market exposure and recognition than before.

As a first-time entrant, the Association announced that the Grand Champion for 2020, was Stone Axe Pastoral with their Stone Axe brand.

With a digital marbling level of 39%, fineness graded at 58.4 and eye muscle area of 92 cm2, the entry was based on key Stone Axe foundation sire genetics, plus Stone Axe’s own female herd.

THE AWARDS CELEBRATE THREE CLASSES OF WAGYU » Fullblood Japanese Black, » Crossbred Open Wagyu and » Commercial Wagyu.

Congratulations to all our entries for their awards in this year’s competition.

The pages following contain a full list of the 2020 results.

AWARDS LIVESTREAM BROADCAST KEY FIGURES LIVESTREAM BROADCAST AUDIENCE

POST-EVENT AUDIENCE VIEWS TO DATE

8.7K+

3.8K+

When sampling the entry judges said it was ‘extremely satisfying with a smooth, creamy finish. A silky, finely textured meat, exquisite flavour – a Wagyu masterpiece’.

In response, Scott Richardson, managing director of Stone Axe Pastoral, said that it was a truly amazing day for Stone Axe Pastoral, and that they were humbled and excited to be awarded the Grand Champion for 2020.

“It is great recognition of the blood, sweat and tears that we have put in the last couple of years and I would like to thank our team and investors for all their contributions,” said Scott.

AUDIENCE PROFILE LIVESTREAM BROADCAST

AUSTRALIA OTHER UNITED STATES SOUTH AFRICA

ISSUE 75 - THE AUSTRALIAN WAGYU UPDATE

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CLASS ONE

RESULTS FULLBLOOD JAPANESE BLACK STEAK EXHIBITOR / BRAND

CLASS 1 RESULTS

STONE AXE

SCORE 799

By Stone Axe Pastoral Company

BREEDER Stone Axe Pastoral

Digital Marbling 39% Digital Marbling Fineness 58.4 Eye Muscle Area 92 cm2 Approx. days on feed 450 Approx. age at slaughter 30 months Feed ingredients Barley, Molasses, Cotton Seed, Cereal Straw, Mineral concentrate, Almond Hulls, Corn Silage, Vegetable Oil

Sire AACFH0065 Dam MCPFG1414 Wagyu content Fullblood 100%

Target market % Domestic 30% Export 70% Target carcase wt. range 430 kg Processor John Dee Warwick

INFINITE

SCORE 776

By Rangers Valley

Digital Marbling 44% Digital Marbling Fineness 65.2 Eye Muscle Area 94 cm2 Approx. days on feed 500 Approx. age at slaughter 36 months Feed ingredients Wheat and barley

Breeder Yalandra PTY LTD Sire NA Dam NA Wagyu content Fullblood 100%

MAYURA SIGNATURE SERIES

By Mayura Station

Target market % Domestic 10% Export 90% Target carcase wt. range 440-460 kg Processor John Dee Warwick

Sire ADBFK1142 Dam ADBFL1160 Wagyu content Fullblood 100%

MASTER SELECTION

By Mort & Co

Digital Marbling 41% Digital Marbling Fineness 71.8 Eye Muscle Area 109 cm2

Target market % Domestic 30% Export 70% Target carcase wt. range 430 kg Processor G & K O’connor

Sire WKSFM0164 Dam NA Wagyu content Fullblood 100%

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COMPETITION CHAMPION 2020

FULLBLOOD JAPANESE BLACK

WAGYU BRANDED BEEF COMPETITION

GOLD MEDAL 2020 FULLBLOOD JAPANESE BLACK

Extremely satisfying with a smooth creamy finish.

A silky finely textured meat, exquisite flavour and finish, a Wagyu masterpiece.

WAGYU BRANDED BEEF COMPETITION

GOLD MEDAL 2020 FULLBLOOD JAPANESE BLACK

A spectacular example of Wagyu – buttery, umami, savoury flavour, a beautiful piece of meat.

WAGYU BRANDED BEEF COMPETITION

GOLD MEDAL 2020 FULLBLOOD JAPANESE BLACK

Beautiful juiciness and tenderness with lovely creamy flavour. Wonderfully fine marbling with subtle texture and characteristic Wagyu quality.

SCORE 732 Digital Marbling 39% Digital Marbling Fineness 64.2 Eye Muscle Area 91 cm2 Approx. days on feed 465 Approx. age at slaughter 38 months Feed ingredients Mort & Co specially formulated custom Wagyu ration

Breeder Hamilton Park Wagyu

WAGYU BRANDED BEEF

SCORE 739

Approx. days on feed 270 Approx. age at slaughter 26 months Feed ingredients Mayura Proprietary mix.

Feed includes proprietary chocolate feed Breeder Mayura Station

DIGITAL IMAGE & JUDGES COMMENTS

Target market % Domestic 0% Export 100% Target carcase wt. range 430-460 kg Processor John Dee Warwick

THE AUSTRALIAN WAGYU UPDATE - ISSUE 75

WAGYU BRANDED BEEF COMPETITION

GOLD MEDAL 2020 FULLBLOOD JAPANESE BLACK

Very juicy with great flavour and a rounded buttery finish. Succulent, tender and satisfying.

Wagyu Branded Beef Competition - 2020 results

FULLBLOOD JAPANESE BLACK STEAK EXHIBITOR / BRAND

CLASS 1 RESULTS

KIWAMI

SCORE 730

By Stockyard Beef

Digital Marbling 37% Digital Marbling Fineness 62.4 Eye Muscle Area 95 cm2 Approx. days on feed 448 Approx. age at slaughter 28 months Feed ingredients Cereal based steam flaked grain ration

Breeder Irongate Wagyu Sire IGWFH0013 Dam IGWFE0039 Wagyu content Fullblood 100%

Target market % Domestic 10% Export 90% Target carcase wt. range 420 kg Processor John Dee Warwick

JACK’S CREEK WAGYU

SCORE 715

By Jack’s Creek

Digital Marbling 42% Digital Marbling Fineness 65.8 Eye Muscle Area 103 cm2 Approx. days on feed 500 Approx. age at slaughter 35 months Feed ingredients Total mixed ration

Breeder Jack’s Creek Sire LINFL0476 Dam LINFD8290 Wagyu content Fullblood 100%

Target market % Domestic 13% Export 87% Target carcase wt. range 420 kg Processor Northern Co-Operative Meat Company

FUTARI WAGYU

SCORE 706

By Irongate Wagyu

Digital Marbling 41% Digital Marbling Fineness 74.5 Eye Muscle Area 109 cm2 Approx. days on feed 650 Approx. age at slaughter 39 months Feed ingredients NA

Breeder Irongate Wagyu Sire SMOFF0126 Dam IGWFJ0027 Wagyu content Fullblood 100%

Target market % Domestic 25% Export 75% Target carcase wt. range 440 kg Processor V&V Walsh Est 686

BLACK DIAMOND

SCORE 674

By Direct Meat Company

Digital Marbling 39% Digital Marbling Fineness 55.8 Eye Muscle Area 90 cm2 Approx. days on feed 539 Approx. age at slaughter 31 months Feed ingredients Barley based ration

Breeder Macquarie Downs Sire SMOFF0278 Dam BDWFB1143 Wagyu content Fullblood 100%

Target market % Domestic 10% Export 90% Target carcase wt. range 440 kg Processor Northern Co-Operative Meat Company

CL ASS SPONSOR DIGITAL IMAGE & JUDGES COMMENTS

WAGYU BRANDED BEEF COMPETITION

GOLD MEDAL 2020 FULLBLOOD JAPANESE BLACK

A beautiful steak with lasting juiciness and mild creamy flavour. Enjoyably tender with noticeable fine texture and consistent marbling.

WAGYU BRANDED BEEF COMPETITION

SILVER MEDAL 2020 FULLBLOOD JAPANESE BLACK

Silky texture, tender with lasing juiciness and buttery flavours. Elegant and rich with balanced palate.

WAGYU BRANDED BEEF COMPETITION

SILVER MEDAL 2020 FULLBLOOD JAPANESE BLACK

Mild and creamy with perfect beef flavours. Abundant marbling with tender mouthfeel and delightful finish.

WAGYU BRANDED BEEF COMPETITION

BRONZE MEDAL 2020 FULLBLOOD JAPANESE BLACK

Beautiful fine texture with gentle savoury notes, creamy and delicate flavours.

ISSUE 75 - THE AUSTRALIAN WAGYU UPDATE

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CLASS TWO

RESULTS OPEN CROSSBREED WAGYU STEAK EXHIBITOR / BRAND

CLASS 2 RESULTS

JACK’S CREEK WAGYU X

SCORE 785

By Jack’s Creek

Digital Marbling 34% Digital Marbling Fineness 58.6 Eye Muscle Area 82 cm2 Approx. days on feed 400 Approx. age at slaughter 29 months Feed ingredients Total mixed ration

Breeder Jack’s Creek Sire Fullblood Wagyu Dam Purebred Wagyu Wagyu content Purebred Wagyu

Target market % Domestic 17% Export 83% Target carcase wt. range 420 kg Processor Northern Co-Operative Meat Company

STOCKYARD BLACK

SCORE 769

By Stockyard Beef

Digital Marbling 34% Digital Marbling Fineness 57.5 Eye Muscle Area 95 cm2 Approx. days on feed 448 Approx. age at slaughter 28 months Feed ingredients Cereal based steam flaked grain ration.

Breeder Longford Station Sire LONGFORDE0236 Dam Wagyu cross Wagyu content F1

Target market % Domestic 10% Export 90% Target carcase wt. range 420 kg Processor John Dee Warwick

OKAN WAGYU

SCORE 756

By Pardoo Beef Corporation

Digital Marbling 48% Digital Marbling Fineness 57.5 Eye Muscle Area 82 cm2 Approx. days on feed 450 Approx. age at slaughter 29 months Feed ingredients NA

Breeder GPC Sire NA Dam F2 Wagyu content F2

Target market % Domestic 0% Export 100% Target carcase wt. range 440 kg Processor John Dee Warwick

LEWIS OLIVE FED WAGYU

SCORE 739

By Jac Wagyu

Digital Marbling 35% Digital Marbling Fineness 50.1 Eye Muscle Area 86 cm2

Breeder Jac Wagyu Sire NA Dam Angus Wagyu content F1

24

Approx. days on feed NA Approx. age at slaughter 27 months Feed ingredients NA Target market % Domestic 50% Export 50% Target carcase wt. range 400-450 kg Processor Northern Co-Operative Meat Company

THE AUSTRALIAN WAGYU UPDATE - ISSUE 75

DIGITAL IMAGE & JUDGES COMMENTS WAGYU BRANDED BEEF COMPETITION CHAMPION 2020 OPEN CROSSBRED WAGYU STEAK

WAGYU BRANDED BEEF COMPETITION

GOLD MEDAL 2020 OPEN CROSSBRED WAGYU STEAK

Delightful and juicy with a caramel, nutty flavour. Silky fine marbling texture, a tender and highest quality piece of beef.

WAGYU BRANDED BEEF COMPETITION

GOLD MEDAL 2020 OPEN CROSSBRED WAGYU STEAK

Big beefy flavour balanced with lasting juiciness, soft creamy and consistent marbling throughout – a spectacular steak.

WAGYU BRANDED BEEF COMPETITION

GOLD MEDAL 2020 OPEN CROSSBRED WAGYU STEAK

Wonderfully soft and rich beef with well-rounded flavour. Abundant marbling with classic Wagyu characteristics.

WAGYU BRANDED BEEF COMPETITION

GOLD MEDAL 2020 OPEN CROSSBRED WAGYU STEAK

Unique and juicy mouth feel, tender and well-aged with light savoury flavours and beautiful finish.

Wagyu Branded Beef Competition - 2020 results

OPEN CROSSBREED WAGYU STEAK EXHIBITOR / BRAND

CLASS 2 RESULTS

POLL WAGYU

SCORE 733

By Poll Wagyu

Digital Marbling 30% Digital Marbling Fineness 49.9 Eye Muscle Area 87 cm2 Approx. days on feed 430 Approx. age at slaughter 36 months Feed ingredients Grain ration Target market % Domestic 20% Export 80% Target carcase wt. range 400-500 kg Processor Greenhams Tasmania

Breeder Poll Wagyu Sire BRCPG0052 Dam Fullblood Wagyu content F4

MASTER SELECTION

SCORE 729

By Mort & Co

Digital Marbling 31% Digital Marbling Fineness 51.8 Eye Muscle Area 80 cm2 Approx. days on feed 422 Approx. age at slaughter 38 months Feed ingredients Mort & Co specially formulated custom Wagyu ration.

Breeder Beard Livestock Sire NA Dam F3 Wagyu content F4

MARGARET RIVER WAGYU BEEF By Stone Axe Pastoral

e

f

w

ag

yu be

Breeder Margaret River Premium Meat Exports Sire NA Dam F3 Wagyu content F4

STOCKYARD BEEF DOUBLE BLACK By Stockyard Beef

Target market % Domestic 0% Export 100% Target carcase wt. range 430-460 kg Processor John Dee Warwick

Sire Fullblood Wagyu Dam Purebred Wagyu Wagyu content F4

DIGITAL IMAGE & JUDGES COMMENTS

WAGYU BRANDED BEEF COMPETITION

GOLD MEDAL 2020 OPEN CROSSBRED WAGYU STEAK

Long-lasting nutty and sweet flavours with consistent marbling and tender bite.

WAGYU BRANDED BEEF COMPETITION

GOLD MEDAL 2020 OPEN CROSSBRED WAGYU STEAK

Noticeably tender and juicy, with good umami and buttery mouthfeel.

Balance of marbling and flavour.

SCORE 720 Digital Marbling 37% Digital Marbling Fineness 55.2 Eye Muscle Area 92 cm2 Approx. days on feed 400 Approx. age at slaughter 24-28 months Feed ingredients Wheat, Barley, Canola Meal, Cereal Hay, Mineral Supplement Target market % Domestic 15% Export 85% Target carcase wt. range 380 kg Processor Harvey Beef

WAGYU BRANDED BEEF COMPETITION

SILVER MEDAL 2020 OPEN CROSSBRED WAGYU STEAK

Well-balanced allrounder, hints of sweetness and soft creamy bites with abundant marbling.

SCORE 677 Digital Marbling 33% Digital Marbling Fineness 49.7 Eye Muscle Area 98 cm2 Approx. days on feed 428 Approx. age at slaughter 28 months Feed ingredients Cereal based steam flaked grain ration.

Breeder Crown Cattle Co

CL ASS SPONSOR

Target market % Domestic 10% Export 90% Target carcase wt. range 420 kg Processor John Dee Warwick

WAGYU BRANDED BEEF COMPETITION

BRONZE MEDAL 2020 OPEN CROSSBRED WAGYU STEAK

Lasting explosion of juiciness, beef, savoury and umami flavours â&#x20AC;&#x201C; delicious.

ISSUE 75 - THE AUSTRALIAN WAGYU UPDATE

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CLASS TWO

RESULTS OPEN CROSSBREED WAGYU STEAK EXHIBITOR / BRAND

CLASS 2 RESULTS

CARRARA 640

SCORE 675

By Kilcoy Global Foods

Digital Marbling 31% Digital Marbling Fineness 62.1 Eye Muscle Area 94 cm2 Approx. days on feed 350 Approx. age at slaughter 30-36 months Feed ingredients Specialty Wagyu mix

Breeder G Morgan and Co Sire NA Dam NA Wagyu content F1/F2

WX9 By Rangers Valley

Target market % Domestic 5% Export 95% Target carcase wt. range 450 kg Processor Kilcoy Global Foods

Approx. days on feed 360 Approx. age at slaughter 27 months Feed ingredients Wheat and Barley

Sire KBAFK00042 Dam Angus X Wagyu Wagyu content F2

Target market % Domestic 20% Export 80% Target carcase wt. range 450-480 kg Processor John Dee Warwick

THE PHOENIX

SCORE 652

By Mort & Co

Digital Marbling 39% Digital Marbling Fineness 57.6 Eye Muscle Area 92 cm2

phoenixbeef.com.au

Breeder Beard Livestock Sire NA Dam NA Wagyu content F4

Approx. days on feed 422 Approx. age at slaughter 38 months Feed ingredients Mort & Co specially formulated custom Wagyu ration.

Target market % Domestic 10% Export 90% Target carcase wt. range 430-460 kg Processor John Dee Warwick

TAJIMA WAGYU

SCORE 646

By Andrews Meat Industries

Digital Marbling 31% Digital Marbling Fineness 58.5 Eye Muscle Area 104 cm2 Approx. days on feed 380 Approx. age at slaughter NA Feed ingredients Wheat, barley

Breeder Andrews Meat Industries Sire NA Dam Angus Wagyu content F1

26

WAGYU BRANDED BEEF COMPETITION

BRONZE MEDAL 2020 OPEN CROSSBRED WAGYU STEAK

A great steak that caramelised well with delicate beef flavour and even fine marbling throughout.

SCORE 668 Digital Marbling 39% Digital Marbling Fineness 55.8 Eye Muscle Area 97 cm2

Breeder Australian Country Choice

DIGITAL IMAGE & JUDGES COMMENTS

Target market % Domestic 20% Export 80% Target carcase wt. range 420 kg Processor JBS Riverina

THE AUSTRALIAN WAGYU UPDATE - ISSUE 75

WAGYU BRANDED BEEF COMPETITION

BRONZE MEDAL 2020 OPEN CROSSBRED WAGYU STEAK

Well-rounded richness with visible abundant marbling.

WAGYU BRANDED BEEF COMPETITION

BRONZE MEDAL 2020 OPEN CROSSBRED WAGYU STEAK

Lasting juiciness with noticeable marbling and soft beef flavour.

WAGYU BRANDED BEEF COMPETITION

BRONZE MEDAL 2020 OPEN CROSSBRED WAGYU STEAK

Tender and soft, juicy with butter and nutty caramel flavours.

Wagyu Branded Beef Competition - 2020 results

CLASS THREE

RESULTS Hughes Pastoral Georgina Pastoral

COMMERCIAL WAGYU STEAK MS 5-7 EXHIBITOR / BRAND

CLASS 3 RESULTS

OKAN WAGYU

SCORE 773

By Pardoo Beef Corporation

Digital Marbling 32% Digital Marbling Fineness 46.4 Eye Muscle Area 80 cm2 Approx. days on feed 450 Approx. age at slaughter 29 months Feed ingredients NA

Breeder GPC Sire NA Dam F2 Wagyu content F2

Target market % Domestic 0% Export 100% Target carcase wt. range 440 kg Processor John Dee Warwick

SCORE 757

By Mort & Co

Digital Marbling 26% Digital Marbling Fineness 52.5 Eye Muscle Area 94 cm2 Approx. days on feed 479 Approx. age at slaughter 38 months Feed ingredients NA

Sire NA Dam F3 Wagyu content F4

Target market % Domestic 0% Export 100% Target carcase wt. range 430-460 kg Processor John Dee Warwick

STOCKYARD SILVER

SCORE 706

By Stockyard Beef

Digital Marbling 29% Digital Marbling Fineness 45.7 Eye Muscle Area 94 cm2 Approx. days on feed 448 Approx. age at slaughter 28 months Feed ingredients Cereal based steam flaked grain ration.

Breeder Irongate Wagyu Sire IGWFH0013 Dam Fullblood Wagyu content Fullblood

Target market % Domestic 10% Export 90% Target carcase wt. range 420 kg Processor John Dee Warwick

WESTHOLME

SCORE 652

By A A Company Limited

Digital Marbling 31% Digital Marbling Fineness 52.9 Eye Muscle Area 98 cm2 Approx. days on feed 300 Approx. age at slaughter 36 months Feed ingredients NA

Breeder A A Company Limited Sire NA Dam AACo composite Wagyu content F1

DIGITAL IMAGE & JUDGES COMMENTS WAGYU BRANDED BEEF COMPETITION CHAMPION 2020 COMMERCIAL WAGYU MS 5-7

WAGYU BRANDED BEEF COMPETITION

GOLD MEDAL 2020 COMMERCIAL WAGYU MS 5-7

MASTER SELECTION

Breeder Fucheng Woodlands

CL ASS SPONSOR

Target market % Domestic NA Export NA Target carcase wt. range NA Processor Beef City

Wonderfully tender and rich with lasting juiciness and balanced delicate creamy flavours.

WAGYU BRANDED BEEF COMPETITION

GOLD MEDAL 2020 COMMERCIAL WAGYU MS 5-7

Delightfully tender with rich earthy flavours, soft texture and light balance of delicate marbling.

WAGYU BRANDED BEEF COMPETITION

GOLD MEDAL 2020 COMMERCIAL WAGYU MS 5-7

Lovely burst of juiciness with creamy caramel flavour. Bold marbling and soft tender mouthfeel.

WAGYU BRANDED BEEF COMPETITION

SILVER MEDAL 2020 COMMERCIAL WAGYU MS 5-7

Initial juiciness with balance of creamy marbling and tender beef flavours.

ISSUE 75 - THE AUSTRALIAN WAGYU UPDATE

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CLASS THREE

RESULTS COMMERCIAL WAGYU STEAK MS 5-7 EXHIBITOR / BRAND

CLASS 3 RESULTS

CARRARA 640

SCORE 631

By Kilcoy Global Foods

Digital Marbling 31% Digital Marbling Fineness 65.2 Eye Muscle Area 110 cm2 Approx. days on feed 350 Approx. age at slaughter 30-36 months Feed ingredients Specialty Wagyu mix

Breeder G Morgan and Co Sire NA Dam NA Wagyu content F1/F2

Target market % Domestic 5% Export 95% Target carcase wt. range 450 kg Processor Kilcoy Global Foods

JACK’S CREEK WAGYU

SCORE 617

By Jack’s Wagyu

Digital Marbling 27% Digital Marbling Fineness 45.7 Eye Muscle Area 82 cm2 Approx. days on feed 500 Approx. age at slaughter 35 months Feed ingredients Total mixed ration

Breeder Jack’s Creek Sire Fullblood Wagyu Dam Purebred Wagyu Wagyu content Purebred Wagyu

Target market % Domestic 13% Export 87% Target carcase wt. range 420 kg Processor Northern Co-Operative Meat Company

LEWIS OLIVE FED WAGYU

SCORE 616

By Jac Wagyu

Digital Marbling 24% Digital Marbling Fineness 40.2 Eye Muscle Area 89 cm2 Approx. days on feed NA Approx. age at slaughter 27 months Feed ingredients NA

Breeder Jac Wagyu Sire NA Dam Angus Wagyu content F1

Target market % Domestic 50% Export 50% Target carcase wt. range 400-450 kg Processor Northern Co-Operative Meat Company

THE PHOENIX

SCORE 587

By Mort & Co

Digital Marbling 28% Digital Marbling Fineness 58.4 Eye Muscle Area 89 cm2

phoenixbeef.com.au

Breeder Beard Livestock Sire NA Dam F4 Wagyu content F3

28

Approx. days on feed 422 Approx. age at slaughter 38 months Feed ingredients Mort & Co specially formulated custom Wagyu ration.

Target market % Domestic 10% Export 90% Target carcase wt. range 430-460 kg Processor John Dee Warwick

THE AUSTRALIAN WAGYU UPDATE - ISSUE 75

DIGITAL IMAGE & JUDGES COMMENTS

WAGYU BRANDED BEEF COMPETITION

BRONZE MEDAL 2020 COMMERCIAL WAGYU MS 5-7

Enjoyable tenderness with consistent fine marbling and pleasant beefy flavour.

WAGYU BRANDED BEEF COMPETITION

BRONZE MEDAL 2020 COMMERCIAL WAGYU MS 5-7

Firm initial feel followed by tender and juicy clean finish, with savoury notes and well-rounded flavour.

WAGYU BRANDED BEEF COMPETITION

BRONZE MEDAL 2020 COMMERCIAL WAGYU MS 5-7

Flavourful beef experience with cereal and light mushroom notes, tender and consistent finish.

WAGYU BRANDED BEEF COMPETITION

BRONZE MEDAL 2020 COMMERCIAL WAGYU MS 5-7

Strong beef flavour with pleasant texture and juiciness.

Wagyu Branded Beef Competition - 2020 results

WINNER

2020 GRAND CHAMPION

GRAND CHAMPION SPONSOR

WAGYU BRANDED BEEF

WAGYU BRANDED BEEF

WAGYU BRANDED BEEF

CHAMPION

CHAMPION

GOLD MEDAL

2020 GRAND CHAMPION WAGYU

2020

2020

FULLBLOOD JAPANESE BLACK

FULLBLOOD JAPANESE BLACK

COMPETITION

COMPETITION

COMPETITION

AWARDED TO THE HIGHEST SCORING ENTRY ACROSS ALL THREE CLASSES

STONE AXE

BY STONE AXE PASTORAL COMPANY Sire AACFH0065 Dam MCPFG1414 Wagyu content Fullblood 100%

SCORE 799

Breeder Stone Axe Pastoral

Extremely satisfying with a smooth creamy finish. A silky finely textured meat, exquisite flavour and finish, a Wagyu masterpiece.

Digital Marbling 39% Digital Marbling Fineness 58.4 Eye Muscle Area 92 cm2 Days on feed (approx) 450 Feed ingredients Barley, Molasses, Cotton Seed, Cereal Straw, Mineral concentrate, Almond Hulls, Corn Silage, Vegetable Oil Approx. age at slaughter 30 months Target carcase wt. range 430 kg Processor John Dee Warwick

ISSUE 75 - THE AUSTRALIAN WAGYU UPDATE

29

THE CHAMPION JOURNEYS

We are truly humbled and excited to be judged Grand Champion for this year’s competition ...

STONE AXE PASTORAL Stone Axe was formed in 2016. The company is a relative newcomer, however the experience of managing director Scott Richardson, and business partner Mat Walker, have paved the way for the successful development of the Stone Axe herd. Expanding the herd has been ‘organic’ through embryo transfer, starting in 2017 with around 2,500 recipient cows, to a herd numbering 30,000 head, spread across the eastern seaboard and Western Australia.

The philosophy of the company is to establish a Fullblood herd, commercial herd and a corrected mating herd, where genetics play an integral role to find the best combination of high marbling, high carcase weight and excellent maternal traits. However, the company recognises that whole of life management of the cow and calf in terms of nutrition and animal welfare is a major component of Wagyu production.

Scott Richardson, managing director, Stone Axe Pastoral

WAGYU BRANDED BEEF COMPETITION CHAMPION 2019 GRAND CHAMPION WAGYU BRAND

The first year of processing Fullblood Wagyu, Stone Axe Pastoral had 12 carcases to choose from to select an entry into the 2020 competition.

“We chose this carcase based on its visual appearance, the marbling and fineness,” said Scott Richardson, managing director of Stone Axe Pastoral.

“The carcase had good conformation and we were pretty fortunate that all the carcases in that batch graded with marble score of 9+.”

Further batches from separate cohorts shows that more than 95% are grading at MS9+, indicating that the approach to genetics and whole of life management is producing consistent results.

“The award and promotion of the competition has meant that we have seen an increase in inquiries for our product in domestic and international markets. It has come at the right time and a great achievement for everybody concerned and has put our brand well and truly on the map.”

“We are truly humbled and excited to be judged Grand Champion for this year’s competition. I can honestly say it was not anywhere near our priority list last year when we going through the drought and fires. We are committed to producing happy healthy cattle that go onto reward us with what we see as a beautiful piece of meat and eating experience for everyone to enjoy.”

WAGYU BRANDED BEEF COMPETITION

GOLD MEDAL 2019 FULLBLOOD WAGYU 100 %

GRAND CHAMPION BOARD award commenced in 2014

2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020

Andrews Meat Industries AACo Pardoo Beef Corporation Andrews Meat Industries Mort & Co Mayura Station Stone Axe Pastoral Company

GOLD MEDAL WINNERS 2012 - 2020 mulitple wins across steak classes Stockyard Beef .............................. 12 golds AACo ................................................ 7 golds Jack’s Creek ................................... 7 golds Mayura Station............................... 7 golds Mort & Co........................................ 7 golds Rangers Valley............................... 6 golds Andrews Meat Industries............. 4 golds Hamblin Strathdale....................... 4 golds Pardoo Beef Corporation............. 4 golds Direct Meat Company ................... 2 golds

Wagyu Branded Beef Competition - 2020 results Branded Beef Competition have been drawn from their own bred animals, but for 2020 made the decision to support and promote, the suppliers of the company supply chain.

“Realistically, Jack’s Creek has supply chain partners extending across the country, from west of Mackay through to Tasmania,” said Patrick Warmoll, managing director of Jack’s Creek.

“This particular entry was bred by the Hughes family at their Lake Nash property, grown at Caldervale, backgrounded at Glengowrie and fed out at Lemon Tree with the McNamee family. It is a big effort by all our supply chain members to bring this result to fruition.”

JACK'S CREEK Jack’s Creek and David Warmoll have been synonymous with Australian Wagyu since the pioneering days of the industry. Now under the stewardship of Patrick Warmoll, the family business specialises in grain-fed Wagyu and Angus through a vertically integrated structure that includes broadacre fibre and cereal farming. The Jack’s Creek brand is well recognised and has won a number of awards internationally, and reflects the commitment by the family to produce two Wagyu beef programs into the luxury beef market – Fullblood and Wagyu cross.

In previous years, entries from Jack’s Creek into the Wagyu

The award from this year’s Wagyu Branded Beef Competition strengthens the brand proposition in that it provides greater recognition to the consumer that the beef will be a consistent eating experience, explained Patrick.

“All Wagyu brand owners are trying to supply the world with an affordable luxury beef, that sits somewhere between US Prime and Japanese produced Wagyu, so while we are competing, we are also peers and the Wagyu Branded Beef Competition enables us to benchmark against each other.”

Looking forward, Jack’s Creek aims to work to responding to what the consumer demands – whether it be higher marble score, a different Wagyu content or different cuts. The brand is now established in the market which will allow for greater energy to be focused on production and supply chains, particularly post COVID-19.

markets and diversification from live cattle exports.

Pardoo Beef Company is celebrating another champion win, the first back in 2016 with other gold awards in 2017, 2018 and 2019. This year’s success provides further endorsement by the Wagyu industry of the quality and authenticity of the company’s production systems. For domestic and international consumers, it brings a seal of approval and recognition of the supply chain.

In accepting the award, Pardoo Beef Corporation chairman, Bruce Cheung, said that, “I am truly humbled and honoured to accept the award for the Champion of the commercial steak category at this year’s competition for Okan brand.

PARDOO BEEF CORPORATION Pardoo Beef Corporation is leading a shared investment in the Pilbara region of to develop a world-class sustainable West Australian Wagyu beef industry. The company has grown from a 3,500 mixed herd in 2015 to what will be a production of 7,000 premium Wagyu cattle per annum by 2025. With a goal of establishing a regional breeding herd of purebred Wagyu animals, and an extensive Wagyu Crossbred operation, Pardoo Beef Corporation’s vision is to create an extremely high quality and safe beef product ready to meet growing demand, whilst providing Pilbara pastoralists and indigenous communities with access to new

“It is not only a successful outcome for Pardoo Beef, but I would like to acknowledge all the assistance we have received along the way. I would like to particularly highlight the following: the Pardoo team in WA, AWA past and present leaders; the Hughes family, Takeda-san my mentor and Peter Gilmour of Irongate Wagyu.

“As an industry we are still endeavouring to get to the high standards of Japanese Wagyu. We will get there because of our willingness to innovate, collaborate and share.”

Pardoo are developing a range of brand categories to satisfy customer needs in international markets that are seeking high-end Wagyu with a high marble score. A more personalised and proactive strategy will be used to target consumers who are more demanding on health and provenance, particularly in the Asian markets.

ISSUE 75 - THE AUSTRALIAN WAGYU UPDATE

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ACHIEVE THE WAGYU HERD YOU WANT SOONER. ONE SAMPLE. ONE SIMPLE, COMPREHENSIVE SOLUTION. NEOGEN® Australasia is Australia’s largest animal genomics testing facility. We provide the industry’s widest range of testing solutions and customise packages for specific breeds.

Test today with the GGP Bovine 100K. To get started, contact the AWA or your local NEOGEN genomicsterritory manager.

Hannah Bourke (NSW) 0447 299 096 hbourke@NEOGEN.com

Rodney Parker (Vic & Tas) 0427 167 148 rparker@NEOGEN.com

Dan Roe (SA & WA) 0447 639 552 droe@NEOGEN.com

NEOGEN Australasia Building 8126, Hall Rd, UQ Gatton Campus, Gatton, QLD 4343 (07) 3736 2134 • naa@neogen.com • genomics.neogen.com/au

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THE AUSTRALIAN WAGYU UPDATE - ISSUE 75

Mel Strasburg (Office, QLD) 0447 014 133 mstrasburg@NEOGEN.com

GENETIC DIVERSITY AND JAPANESE BLACK PREFECTURAL VALUES

The Australian Wagyu Association’s (AWA) prefectural origin analysis enables members to better understand the linkage of their herds to the Japanese ancestral breeding regions from which the international Fullblood Black Wagyu herd (outside of Japan) was developed.

Mr. Takao Suzuki

UPDATING ANCESTRAL PEDIGREES IMPROVED LINKAGE TO JAPANESE REGISTRY

Japanese analysis of genetic diversity within the breed, published in leading animal science journals worldwide, has embraced the prefectural structure for more than 40 years. Understanding prefectural structure within the Australian registered population enables alignment of local work with the established international analysis of the breed. This will support a consistent ‘single narrative’ and understanding that reaches from regional Japanese origins to the subsequent global expansion of the Japanese Black.

Working with Mr Suzuki to interrogate records within the Japanese Registry, additional ancestral Japanese Black records were identified for 149 founder sires and 73 founder dams. This work included the accurate recording of additional pedigree ancestors and identification of the correct name and Japanese Certificate Registration numbers (J numbers) for many ancestral animals.

Completing this work confirms the integrity of the AWA pedigrees and their linkage to the Japanese registry.

The prefectural origin analysis was completed between February 2019 – June 2020 involving purchase of the leading global database for animal prefectural values from Mr. Takao Suzuki and in-depth analysis of the pedigree records of all founder Japanese Black animals.

Below is an example of a three-generation pedigree for the founder sire TF36 Itomichi 1/2 (IMUFP0036) which was imported to the USA from Japan. The pedigree tree for this founder animal links back completely to identified animals within the Japanese Registry with J-numbers for all Japanese Great-Grandsires and Grandams.

J8994 J65 J668635

J1158 J10427 J116450 J61576 J10798 J632 J12657

J837756 J8805 J11691

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Genetic diversity and Japanese Black - prefectural values

FIGURE 2 The Australian Wagyu Association animal details page for IMUFP0036 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; TF Itomichi 1/2 showing complete calculation of Prefectural Values (Prefecture %) for all identified prefectures/bloodlines.

PREFECTURES Taj = TAJIMA Ked = KEDAKA Tot = TOTTORI Ito = ITOZAKURA Shi = SHIMANE Oka = OKAYAMA Hir = HIROSHIMA Oth = OTHERS

<<< from page 33

CALCULATING PREFECTURAL VALUES FOR ALL FULLBLOOD JAPANESE BLACK Using the updated pedigree information from the Japanese Registry for the ancestral Japanese Black animals related to the international exported population, prefectural origin data was calculated for all founder animals. The calculation of prefectural values through the AWA Herdbook from the founder animals was tested

by Dr Yuandan Zhang and Professor Rob Banks researchers at the Animal Genetics and Breeding Unit (AGBU).

Based on the successful ability to accurately impute prefectural values for all registered progeny from these ancestral individuals by AGBU, the Agricultural Business Research Institute (ABRI) have subsequently calculated prefectural values for all Fullblood Japanese Black animals which are now publicly displayed through the AWA webpage.

The prefectural origin analysis has enabled the AWA to publish Prefectural Values for each registered Japanese Black Fullblood animal in the AWA Herdbook. Figure 2 is an example, again for IMUFP0036 TF Itomichi 1/2, highlighting the calculation of Prefectural Values (Prefecture %) for all identified prefecture/bloodlines.

34

THE AUSTRALIAN WAGYU UPDATE - ISSUE 75

UNDERSTANDING GENETIC DIVERSITY AND PREFECTURAL VALUES In Japan, guidelines for sire selection within National Japanese Black breeding programs have included retention of founder genes from specific lines.

The international Japanese Black population outside of Japan, is founded on a limited number of animals and genetic material exported legally from the Japanese herd in the 1980s to 1990s. Significant numbers of registered Fullblood animals have been propagated from these founder genetics, which represented a sub-sample of the genetic diversity available within Japan at the time of export.

Whilst it is not possible to ascertain the extent to which the founder genetics represent the range of available genetics in Japan at the time of export, it is important for the international Japanese Black breeding community to understand the genetic diversity within the population we now have and to manage this for the future benefit of the Breed.

The Japanese Black prefectural origin analysis provides breeders an understanding of the origins of founder genetics represented in their herds. Used with pedigree and progeny numbers data within their herd and the AWA Herdbook, breeders may be able to identify less represented genetics that may add diversity to their breeding program.

The Australian Wagyu Association holds the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s largest and most complete record of international Japanese Black pedigrees within its Fullblood Herdbook.

Based on analysis of the entire Herdbook by AGBU, the current average prefectural composition of the whole Australian Wagyu Association database, considering approximately 100,000 individual Japanese Black Fullblood animals registered by breeders within 20 different countries is shown below in Figure 3.

Representative of the breeding trends in Japan at the time of export, approximately 53% of the ancestral origins of the international Japanese black population trace back to Tajima bloodlines from the Hyogo Prefecture.

Approximately 16% of the genetic contribution to the international Japanese Black population can be traced to the prominent Japanese sire Dai 7 Itozakura and his influence in exported foundation animals.

Okayama, Shimane, Tottori and Hiroshima origins represent around 10% combined of the lesser prefectural influences.

Like Itozakura, Kedaka is identified as a dominant sire bloodline. Kedaka and Tottori influences added together represent the significant contribution of Tottori prefecture.

PERCENTAGE COMPOSITION

AVERAGE JAPANESE BLACK PREFECTURAL ORIGIN

60

53.6% 50

40

30

FIGURE 3 Average Prefecture Values for the entire Australian Wagyu Association Japanese Black Herdbook.

Data provided by AGBU

20

10

0

16.2% 7.6%

6.8%

5.1%

TAJIMA ITOZAKURA KEDAKA OKAYAMA SHIMANE

3.3%

2%

5.4%

TOTTORI HIROSHIMA OTHERS

PREFECTURE

ISSUE 75 - THE AUSTRALIAN WAGYU UPDATE

35

FULL BLOOD BULLS FOR SALE SIRED BY

MICHIFUKU TWAFR0007 SHIKIKAN HIRASHIGETAYASU (WES001) KITATERUYASUDOI (WES003)

TF147 ITOSHIGEFUJI TF148 ITOSHIGENAMI TF YUKIHARUNAMI 4 WORLD CLASS GENETICS WORLD CLASS CARCASSES

Proof is in the carcass Half of our carcasses grade MBS 9 and 9+ with a herd average MBS of 8.4 for steers and heifers.

36

THE AUSTRALIAN WAGYU UPDATE - ISSUE 75

Genetic diversity and Japanese Black - prefectural values <<< from page 35

PREFECTURAL COMPOSITION (%)

TAJIMA ITOZAKURA KEDAKA OKAYAMA SHIMANE TOTTORI HIROSHIMA OTHERS

AVERAGE JAPANESE BLACK PREFECTURAL ORIGIN

70

60

TAJIMA 53.6%

50

40

30

EVOLUTION OF THE INTERNATIONAL JAPNESE BLACK HERD The exports of Wagyu genetics that created the international Wagyu herds occurred for less than 20 years in the 1980s and 1990s before the export market was closed and the Japanese Government declared Wagyu ‘a national living treasure’.

The predominant prefectural influence within Australian Japanese Black breeding programs prior to 2000, was that of Tajima genetics from the Hyogo prefecture. As shown in Figure 4, as the international Japanese Black herd developed to the year 2000, we see a corresponding high proportionate contribution of Tajima genetics (approximately 50%: top light blue line).

This contribution has increased slightly since 2000 with calves born since this period tending to have higher Tajima levels.

The second most prominent prefectural influence post 2000, is the modern Itozakura bloodline, which has remained constant since 2000. The ‘modern’ descriptor for the Itozakura line is necessary because this line is not linked to a single prefecture, but to the national influence of a single dominant sire, Dai 7 Itozakura.

Because Dai 7 Itozakura is the founding animal for his line, his composition has been set at 100% Itozakura.

The minor influences from other prefectures have fluctuated, but have largely been maintained within the international Japanese black herd, with slight reductions

ITOZAKURA 16.2%

20

10

0 1958

1990

1995

2000

2005

2010

2015

2020

FIGURE 4 Changes in Japanese Black Prefectural Composition since 1989.

Graph provided by AGBU

in Tottori (grey) and Shimane (dark blue).

The Kedaka line also originates in Tottori prefecture, being another dominant sire line but with a specific prefectural origin. The sire Kedaka J7212 is the founding animal for this line, his composition has been set at 100% Kedaka.

here provide benefit to AWA members

In summarising these results, Professor Banks stated that “the global Wagyu industry has sampled genetics from at least seven prefectural regions based on the data provided to AGBU from AWA. All seven prefectures represented in these foundation genetics are still represented within the AWA Herdbook, nothing has gone to zero.”

information available to all breeders.

FUTURE WORK

Professor Banks stated, “because we have

Until now, information relating to the prefectural origins of the international Japanese Black population has been used by some breeders within the Wagyu industry, but this information has not been accessible to the AWA for evaluation.

a good genomics sample across the AWA

The results of the research work published

Values within breeding programs.

through use in understanding genetic diversity in their Japanese Black breeding programs. Prefectural origin values are now published within the AWA website for registered Japanese Black animals within the Animal Details section, making this Following this initial step, research work is now underway with AGBU to determine the relationship between the prefectural origin data used within this analysis and the genetic structure of the total AWA Japanese Black population using our extensive genomics records.

Herdbook, we are now in a position to also test if there are effects of prefectural origins on performance trends”. Through this research, we will be able to determine the additional benefit provided by Prefectural

ISSUE 74 - THE AUSTRALIAN WAGYU UPDATE

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IMPROVE YOUR BREEDING DECISIONS WITH MATESEL

WHAT IS MATESEL? MateSel is short for Mate Selection and is software developed by Professor Brian Kinghorn at the University of New England. It is used in breeding programs of many species around the world including fish, prawns, poultry, pigs, sheep and is finding increased application in cattle, including Wagyu. It considers the simultaneous choice of available parents to select for breeding and then use the breeding objectives specified by the breeder to generate a suggested mating list as well as backup matings.

THE BASICS OF A BREEDING PROGRAM In its most simplistic form, the key objective of a well-structured breeding program is to balance the relative emphasis on genetic gain and inbreeding of current and future generations. There are several methods described in scientific literature which achieve this objective.

Most commonly, it is done by including a negative weighting on animal relatedness whilst optimising animal contributions to genetic gain. The limitation of using such a simplified method is that it canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t accommodate the complexity of many modern breeding programs.

MATESEL HANDLES THE COMPLEXITY

The decision of which bull to mate with which cow impacts the rate of genetic improvement, inbreeding levels and overall profitability of a herd. MateSel is software which use pedigree, $Index and EBV information to create suggested mating lists based on nominated candidate sires and dams to increase the genetic merit of the progeny while containing inbreeding in the herd.

AWA licences MateSel software and can provide this service to members whose herd is registered with the Australian Wagyu Association on a fee-for-service basis.

In addition to increasing genetic gain and containing inbreeding, progressive breeding programs are required to address many other issues including linkage between herds, management of genetic conditions, multistage selection, various types of costs, and various logistical constraints.

MateSel can accommodate these complexities by allowing the user to nominate the number of matings, available parents lists, available number of paddocks, number of straws of semen available for AI sires, IDs of natural service sires available for backup matings and the levels of use of embryo transplanting.

Through use of the MateSel program, far greater numbers of iterations and more production and breeding factors can be used in designing a breeding program using all available data, rather than what you can manage just with your spreadsheeting capabilities.

Comprehensive use of MateSel involves decision making at various stages of the life cycle, including selection/culling at various juvenile and adult stages, selections for main round matings and selection of sires for backup matings.

MateSel can accommodate all animals in the population, across different groups, including embryos in-utero, calves at foot, first calf heifers and pregnant females, as well as candidates for active matings. This helps to

38

THE AUSTRALIAN WAGYU UPDATE - ISSUE 75

STEP BY STEP BREEDING WITH MATESEL MateSel creates a list of optimal matings for a group of candidate animals based on information and trait parameters set by the breeder. The breeder still makes the decisions about what they want to achieve in their breeding program. MateSel delivers the optimal outcome for the breeder based on the parameters they chose. To do a MateSel analysis the breeder needs to: 1. Indicate the breeding objective

(eg. select a targeted $Index) 2. Nominate the breeding strategy being

targeted i.e. “Low Inbreeding”, “Balanced Genetic Gain and Inbreeding” or “High Genetic Gain”.

3. Indicate EBVs or genetic conditions

accommodate overlapping generations, and to account for matings already made as reflected by calves and pregnancies in the analysis – sires that have already been used extensively will be somewhat inhibited from further use.

which are of special interest to increase, decrease or maintain in the matings.

4. Supply a list of candidate sires for the

breeding program. This can be a specific list of sires within your herd or a broad list of potential animals that may be available for the breeding program. It is good practice to include all semen sires listed in the AWA’s web semen catalogues, this can show you the potential of what is available compared with the potential of what you have.

Jac Wagyu are looking for supply partners needing a custom feeding service.

Opportunities are available to join our supply network. We currently supply Australian supermarkets as well as key overseas buyers wanting our Jac Wagyu and Lewis Olive Wagyu beef brands.

5. Supply a list of candidate females

available for mating based on cows in the herd, age groups, last calving and registration status.

6. Specify mating groups to suit the joining

program including such things as heifer versus mature cow matings, and natural versus AI matings.

7. Set maximum usages for sires and min.

cow mob sizes for natural matings.

Once the MateSel analysis is completed based on the breeder specified parameters, a MateSel report and suggested mating allocation list is generated and supplied to the member.

The member will also be able to see the available herd progress at different levels of management for inbreeding or genetic gain.

Our family-run operation has expanded to include: • “Clevecourt Feedlot” Registered for 1000 head based at Bingara NSW, 2404.

• “Clevecourt Feedlot” consists of space for 500 head EU accredited and 500 head non-EU cattle.

• Ten oversized pens, with ample shade and water to cater for large wagyu.

• 1000 head back grounding for EU and non-EU cattle – all shaded and well-watered paddocks designed to hold 100 hd per paddock.

• Award winning brands.

• Custom Feeding Opportunities.

• Exclusive “Olive” feeding program available.

• Over 20 years of feeding experience working with some of the leading Feedlot Nutritionists and Animal Health companies in Australia.

• A proven track record for performance and animal health standards.

• Joint processing and buy backs offered. We are currently sourcing further wagyu trim 85cl and wagyu loins for long term production agreements.

Enquiries: Att. Jason Lewis M. 0428 672 941 T. 02 67294158 E. info@jacwagyu.com.au

ISSUE 75 - THE AUSTRALIAN WAGYU UPDATE

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Improve your breeding with MateSel

<<< from page 39 The outcome of the MateSel analysis is aimed at achieving a balance across a range of objectives, including direction, magnitude and pattern of genetic change for different traits over time, avoidance of genetic defects, avoidance of progeny inbreeding, use of reproductive boosting (i.e. embryo transplanting), and a range of logistical constraints (i.e. number of available mating paddocks) on what is practical to implement.

WHAT IS COANCESTRY AND WHY IS IT THE BEST INDICATOR OF CURRENT AND FUTURE INBREEDING? MateSel manages relatedness by focussing on coancestry (true relatedness) rather than inbreeding.

This is an important distinction and the following example should help to explain the reason: You may choose to use a bull that has moderate inbreeding, but if that bull is totally unrelated to your whole herd and you use that bull over all your cows, you will have zero inbreeding in the resultant progeny.

However; because you used the same bull over all your cows, all the progeny will now be at least 50% related. This will dramatically reduce your options of bulls for use in the future.

PROGENY INDEX

Coancestry is therefore a very important indicator of relatedness in the herd and is the only practical way to effectively manage long term inbreeding in the herd.

The MateSel interface consists of the several components to help visualise and manage aspects of the analysis.

The Frontier of genetic improvement is the black line displayed on the graph in Figure 1 and shows the most extreme selection response possible when all emphasis is shared by just the two major objectives i.e. genetic merit (expressed as Progeny Index – Y axis) and future inbreeding (expressed as Parental Coancestry or relatedness – X axis). The frontier line shows the balance between the $Index outcome at different coancestry levels given the $Index values and pedigree information of the nominated available parents.

The blue crosshair in Figure 1 gives a visual indication of how well the MateSel solution for this test herd can optimise genetic gain by balancing the available genetic merit, inbreeding and individual trait thresholds for the currently nominated parents.

The red trail on the graph shows the pathway the analysis followed while optimising the matings before settling on the current “best” solution (the blue crosshair).

In most cases the most favourable direction is to have the crosshair pointing towards the top left, that is, the spot between Zone A and Zone B. Zone A represents potential solutions where very little increase in future inbreeding results in a relatively large increase in progeny genetic merit. Zone B represents potential solutions where a large increase in future inbreeding results in relatively little further increase in progeny genetic merit.

230

205

180

FIGURE 1

155

The frontier shows the highest selection response possible if different levels of genetic merit (Progeny Index) and future inbreeding (Parental Coancestry) drive the breeding objective.

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0.08

40

0.11

0.14 0.17 PARENTAL COANCESTRY

THE AUSTRALIAN WAGYU UPDATE - ISSUE 75

0.2

TRAIT MANAGEMENT The Trait Management feature of MateSel, shown in Figure 2, can be used to direct the analysis to put emphasis on individual traits (eg, genetic conditions or performance traits).

Within MateSel, breeders can select a range of options to increase or decrease the mean genetic merit for traits or manage the genetic variation within a herd. Figure 2 shows an example of genetic progress that can be made by placing weighting on individual traits. The Black tab on each bar graph shows the average genetic merit of the parents in the herd. The Red tab on each bar graph shows the achieved progeny values from the optimised mating solution.

FIGURE 2

In the example MateSel run shown in Figure 2, the scenario for the herd was to increase the Self-replacing $Index as the primary driver (blue cross hairs shown earlier in Figure 1), with minimum limit set on Carcase Weight (middle bar graph in Figure 2) and no increase in genetic conditions. Figure 2 shows the progeny outcomes of the optimised breeding program design for the member.

50

22

b3

bw

35

16

chs

ww

50

19

cl16

yw

50

15

Individual trait management can be done by implementing Trait Management strategies.

The black tab on each bar graph is the average mid-parent value for the herd, the red tab is the optimised progeny outcome for the herd.

f11

fw

50

19

gl

mcw

18

milk

16

scrotal

21

cw

16

ema

29

rumpfat

19

rby

18

ms

17

mf

31

fti

28

f1ti

ISSUE 75 - THE AUSTRALIAN WAGYU UPDATE

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Improve your breeding with MateSel FIGURE 3 The minimum Carcase Weight EBVs value has been set at 15 and therefore the analysis only nominates matings where the progeny will be expected to have EBVs higher than 15kgs.

23

<<< from page 41

cw

In Figure 3, an example strategy has been implemented to set a minimum Carcase Weight EBV value of 15 kg on the mating outcomes. Once the strategy is implemented the analysis ensured none of the matings will have a Carcase Weight EBV outcome of less than 15kgs.

Figure 3. The minimum Carcase Weight EBV value has been set at 15 and therefore the analysis only nominates matings where the progeny will be expected to have EBVs higher than 15kgs.

This herd example demonstrates the enormous power available to members to design their breeding programs controlling as many as 20 variables, in addition to optimising a primary $Index and inbreeding outcome.

This is far greater control than can be achieved through manual planning and spreadsheet methods and there is no limit to the scale of breeding program that MateSel can be used for. It can be used by small herds and herds with over 10,000 matings.

SUMMARY BENEFITS OF USING MATESEL » It allows you to specify your desired breeding direction (eg. by nominating the $Index that reflect your production system and controlling inbreeding across the whole herd). » It maximises the rate of genetic gain in your herd while managing inbreeding. » It objectively uses all pedigree and genetic evaluation trait information (EBVs) to improve your mating decisions. » It saves significant time previously spent compiling mating lists. » It can help you to make informed decisions about semen purchases (which bulls and number of straws), which backup bulls to use, selection or culling of cows/heifers and optimising backup mating group formation. » The breeder controls the breeding objective whilst the program delivers the optimum outcome to meet the breeding objective.

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CAN I ACCESS THE MATESEL SERVICE? As MateSel optimises the genetic merit of the mating based on nominated $Index, EBV and pedigree information, MateSel can only be utilised by a herd that is currently an Australian Wagyu Association member and has EBVs and $Index values for registered animals of interest.

MateSel is licensed to AWA and AWA provides MateSel analysis as a cost recovery service to its members. As the results of MateSel are directly of benefit to the individual breeder, licence costs and the time it takes to optimise MateSel to the member’s breeding objectives are charged to the individual member.

FOR MORE INFORMATION To discuss the optimal parameters for MateSel for your herd, please contact Carel Teseling on: 02 8880 7703 or carel@wagyu.org.au For the latest price schedule on MateSel services website.

WWW.WAGYU.ORG.AU

> FEE SCHEDULE - CONSULTANCY SERVICES

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WAGYU RIDING OUT THE COVID STORM PROMISING NEGOTIATIONS BODE WELL TO NEW DISCERNING CONSUMER MARKETS

In mid-March, Australia went into lockdown to slow down the spread of the coronavirus, COVID-19. With it went closure of export channels and food service, with the potential to be detrimental to luxury food products such as Wagyu.

Mr Andrew Cox Meat and Livestock Australia

In the first few weeks since lockdown, the industry felt the impact of reduced foodservice, particularly for more expensive cuts such as loins, but equally rallied to work to minimise the risk of a COVID-19 outbreaks within processing plants so that closures such as those seen in the US could be circumvented.

Across the board for the meat industry, domestic and international suppliers saw reduced orders, resulting in some tough decisions, particularly around high value loin cuts. Estimates

by Rabobank at the time suggested that for every 10% drop in foodservice sales, only 3% would be re-couped by diverting to retail, with many meat and poultry companies cutting back production. Scenes of panic buying and concerns on food security were appeased by the federal Department of Agriculture, Water and Environment, that showed that 76% of beef and veal is exported – great for domestic markets, but a headache for those whose business is primarily export.

For many beef exporters, what to do with the loin cuts, particularly tenderloins, that would go into export foodservice, posed a forecasting enigma, particularly with Wagyu.

Production cannot be switched on and off – Wagyu beef is a long-fed program – shortening that program risks compromises on beef quality. Indeed, there are anecdotal stories of pushing loin cuts through domestic retail at heavily reduced prices, holding back on production, or freezing in the hope of a market rebound.

The increase of imports into China during April, is in large part due to the ongoing impact that African Swine Fever is having on local pork production. Equally, demand for

AUSTRALIAN BEEF EXPORTS (in tonnes swt)

Source: DAWR

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THE AUSTRALIAN WAGYU UPDATE - ISSUE 75

SHARE OF BEEF LOIN EXPORTS

Source: DAWR

Reports provided by MLA for June, show that year to May loin export markets are back on track, within 0.3% of May 2019 figures totalling 33,000 tonnes shipped weight (swt).

Grassfed loins declined by 8% for the same period while grainfed increased by 12%, due largely to elevated number of cattle on feed.

China’s protein shortage is certainly a factor, says Andrew, but not one that Australian Wagyu is likely to fill. At present (as at early July), the US does not have a protocol to export to China as the Chinese government does not accept hormone treated beef. With production issues in the US, Australian beef into China has had a ‘tremendous opportunity given the trust in our production systems’.

According to Andrew Cox, MLA’s general manager for International Markets, the first downturn in loins into Asia in particular can be seen between December and January. Lockdown in March for Australia is also clearly visible.

Andrew adds that Australian Wagyu in China is the ‘jewel in the crown’ as a flagship product of high-end quality and features prominently on many ecommerce sites. High marble score Wagyu is a sought-after luxury product.

The Japanese locally produced Wagyu has taken a hard hit as a consequence of foodservice closures, resulting in an oversupply.

To compensate, the Japanese government has been subsidising locally produced Wagyu, creating a wholesale price that may be difficult to compete with for Australian Wagyu.

The current negotiations between Australia, the EU and UK bode well for premium beef such as Wagyu, as there are more discerning consumers in Europe that will be looking to eat smaller quantities of higher quality.

Analysis by MLA shows that there are more people in Europe earning more than AUD$70,000 than any other part of the world.

beef for Ramadan festivals buoyed beef levels for that month.

“Most Japanese Wagyu is at the high-end, which goes into foodservice, so Australian Wagyu will be competing on that footing,” said Andrew. “However, there is still opportunity for established brands to continue to move product in Japan through the major distributors who will have a portfolio of beef products, that will include premium Australian beef – and Wagyu would sit within that.

“In Korea, you can see that in May, there was an upswing in loin exports, and it may occur again in July. Retailers and online sales in Korea have been quick to promote Australian loin cuts, even tenderloin.”

We have seen in other crises such as the GFC that people gravitate toward belt tightening and budget options, but discretionary spending on treats, and small luxuries still occur... I see Wagyu as a small luxury.

Mr. Andrew Cox General Manager for International Markets, MLA

“It is hard to see how things will progress with COVID-19,” said Andrew. “Many parts of Asia are discussing winding back restrictions and opening travel bubbles and getting commerce moving again. The days of large scale events may not happen in the near future.

“We have seen in other crises such as the GFC that people gravitate toward belt tightening and budget options, but discretionary spending on treats, and small luxuries still occur, while big spends such as a European holiday may not. I see Wagyu as a small luxury, a treat, and is therefore likely to ride out the storm.”

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Wagyu riding out the COVID storm

export markets such as the EU and US. With the shutdown of foodservice, Blackmore Wagyu opted to not process in April, preferring to hold onto stock.

“We left some cattle on feed for an extra 30-45 days, as it is the only real cost to our business,” said David Blackmore. “We believe that the gain in carcase weight is likely to cancel any additional feed costs.”

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THE IMPACT SPECIFICALLY FOR WAGYU Exact statistics for Wagyu exports are not recorded through MLA or the Department of Agriculture, Water and Environment (DAWE), but indications from some of Australia’s top brand owners, indicate that while the March-April period did create a setback for many, Wagyu is seeing a resurgence in domestic demand. For most, the early warning signs were visible in January, when China began the process of lockdown.

Stockyard Beef initially sought to leverage in-country capabilities through online channels to continue to move product, particularly in Asian markets, and to work with local representatives in other regions to adopt similar strategies.

“We looked at doing online direct from Australia, but found we were better to develop capabilities in-market,” said Stockyard Beef, CEO, Lachie Hart. “By building that capability in countries like China and South Korea, we can produce it today, date it and deliver fresh tomorrow to provide the consumer with a first-class product such as the loin cuts.”

Blackmore Wagyu found that March production was normal, but needed to find alternative methods of shipping into some

In May, David reports that processing was at about 80% normal, with a smaller domestic order, while international customers increased the size of orders. June, he said, was forecast to be larger than normal. In fact, results show that June production was 20% above normal, with an increase in export demand, and future orders in place for domestic supply in July as foodservice comes back on board. This also means that the cattle left on feed for 30-45 days back in April, will find a market.

Stockyard Beef, saw the worst trading figures for May, but since then has seen an increase in domestic demand, indicating that the local market still has an appetite and willingness to pay for higher value loin cuts.

“We have been able to find a home for chilled loin cuts from each production, but not at our normal pricing – the retail market can only handle so much volume of more expensive cuts," said Lachie.

Sher Wagyu first felt the early warning signs around Australia Day long weekend in January, but assumed it would remain a relatively local issue for China markets and worked quickly to move product to other markets. It wasn’t long before the ripple became more significant across more regions.

In the week before Australia’s lockdown in mid-March, Sher Wagyu were still shipping product to food service customers right across the country, only to have the industry close.

“Our experience is that we needed to work hard with our distributors to find alternative customers on an individual basis for our product,” said Nick Sher.

“We had challenges with airfreight pricing

quadrupling, seafreight hold ups, and clearance through the ports.

“To counter some of the effect, we worked with our international distributors to better utilise online sales, and established our own ordering platform in Victoria. To protect our office staff, we put all our systems in the cloud so they could work from home, moved our cold storage facility to a more convenient location and worked directly with our butcher and retail network to help us move product. As a result, we did not need to reduce production.”

Nick and Vicki Sher believe it is the strength of their brand and relationship with customers and international distributors that got them over the line. It is a credit to Vicki, whose strength is in marketing that the company has ridden out the storm.

“Given the hard work we have done, and the flexibility we have developed in our team, should a second wave occur, we are confident we can work through it again, and come out ok. Without the support of all our markets, it would have been significantly harder.”

AWA CEO Dr Matt McDonagh commented that the herd and production volumes for the Australian Wagyu sector had grown significantly year on year with increasing global demand.

“We have seen substantial growth in production during the past five years and with that, our global brands have significantly diversified export into more than 20 countries. This provides good resilience in our export industry to different market pressures, but closing 100% of the global restaurant trade overnight had a significant impact on our local supply chains.

“The response that the Wagyu sector has made to further diversify markets and management of supply is a credit to our brand owners, many of whom would have experienced the market fluctuations through the global financial crisis and recent drought.

The additional benefit of enhanced exposure of domestic consumers to higher quality Wagyu product will also help to grow our domestic footprint."

Outstanding fullblood Wagyu genetics • Semen • Embryos • Bulls • Females Export and domestic outcomes Contact: Mitch Braithwaite +61 (0)427 702 311 generalmanager@irongatewagyu.com

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ISSUE 75 - THE AUSTRALIAN WAGYU UPDATE Domestic and International boxed beef sales Chris Gilmour +61 (0)429 472 047 sales@futariwagyu.com

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