WAGYU WORLD’S LUXURY BEEF | VOL 94 SUMMER 2025/26
SUPPORTING, PROMOTING AND ADVANCING THE WAGYU SECTOR
A NEW ERA
Genetic Evaluation OF
for Wagyu Breeders
WagyuEdge’26: Innovation Shared, Luxury Experienced
AWA Progeny Test Program – What is the data saying
Do some bulls throw better sires, or is it just a numbers game?
Benefits of sexed semen for Australian Beef Producers
62 46 A NEW ERA
Genetic Evaluation OF
for Wagyu Breeders
11 24 Publisher/ Distributor
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CONTENTS President’s report
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CEO update
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WagyuEdge’26: Innovation Shared, Luxury Experienced
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Elite Wagyu Genetics to Shine in Brisbane This April
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From EBVs to WBVs: A New Era of Genetic Evaluation for Wagyu Breeders 24 From Northern Australia to the world: How King River Wagyu Turned Generations of Cattle Knowledge into Global Success
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PTP Sire Nominations
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AWA Progeny Test Program – What is the data saying
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Sire Makers - do some bulls throw better sires?
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Benefits of sexed semen for Australian beef producers: A technical overview
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Wagyouth Enters 2026 with Momentum: Celebrating Three Years of Growth, Connection, and Leadership
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Association. 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 3
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President’s report Global market access and brand integrity underpin Wagyu’s future growth.
Dear Members, It was a pleasure to see many of you at the 36th Annual General Meeting of the Australian Wagyu Association in Brisbane Queensland on the 25th of November, to report on another period of sustained growth, strategic development, and continued delivery of innovative tools and services by the AWA team. The Association reported a year of continued growth, built upon the strong foundations of past Boards and the contributions of our progressive and supportive membership. We are successful because of the combined efforts of the whole. Our expanding international presence, advances in genomic science, progress with new Wagyu-specific traits and genetic knowledge, builds our value delivery for the future as we seek to continually advance the Wagyu breed.
Delivery on AWA’s Strategic Vision: 2025–2030 Plan A year on from the launch of the 2025–2030 Strategic Plan, we are already delivering on the AWA’s objectives of prioritising improved capabilities to support our staff and our services, leading data management and integrity through securing our databases and systems, investing in R&D to deliver innovations that are commercially valuable for our members and implementing new technologies that will drive our future efficiencies and productivity. Every initiative, from database enhancements to conference delivery, is anchored to the Strategic Plan’s purpose: “For our Members, For the Industry.” This strategy strengthens our focus on data-driven innovation, global partnerships, and delivering exceptional value to members. It has already positioned the AWA for its next phase of growth and will guide our decision-making and investment priorities for the years ahead, ensuring that the Australian Wagyu Association continues to lead the global Wagyu sector with integrity and purpose.
Global Collaboration and Expansion The 2025 year has been defined by a deepening of global relationships and international cooperation. It is hard to believe that only eighteen months ago, we officially opened the AWA Fort Worth Office and formalised a partnership with the Texas Wagyu Association. This milestone represented more
than an operational expansion, it marked the beginning of a new chapter built on shared values of integrity, innovation, and scientific advancement in the global Wagyu community. The success of the Fort Worth office has far exceeded expectations. With three dedicated staff members, the office has rapidly become an integral hub for our international members, driving AWA’s global footprint from 400 to over 650 international members across 45 different countries. This collaboration has enabled seamless global data sharing and strengthened relationships across borders, ensuring Wagyu breeders worldwide have access to the same advanced services and standards.
Core Business and Genetic Improvement As reported at the 2025 AGM, AWA’s core business has once again demonstrated strong momentum, with 11.7% growth year-on-year and a moderate increase in retained earnings. Over the past twelve months, we recorded over 100,000 genotypes and approximately 37,000 new Herdbook registrations. Following 42,000 registrations in the 2023– 2024 financial year and 29,000 registrations in 2022–2023, this activity demonstrates a continued long-term increase in registrations, although slightly below last year’s record (which was a 50% increase in a single year). This trend highlights the sustained confidence of members in AWA’s systems, tools, and commitment to genetic progress. At the heart of our success lies our global genetic database, now comprising over 400,000 animals and 50,000 carcase records, underpinned by grassroots member contributions. These datasets form the scientific backbone of AWA’s work, supporting precision breeding decisions through programs such as the Progeny Test Program, MateSel, Fullblood and F1 Terminal Indexes, and the Wagyu Feeder Check. The Wagyu Feeder Check continues to grow in commercial relevance, becoming a crucial decision-making tool for feedlots planning their feeding programs and sire selection. It supports producers in maximising feed efficiency, sustainability, and carcase performance - key drivers of profitability for the Wagyu industry. WAGYU UPDATE 5
from innovative supply chains and producers who demonstrate what’s possible with Wagyu production globally. The conference remains not just an educational forum but a true celebration of Wagyu, bringing together breeders, scientists, and industry leaders from around the world.
A new year and a new Board I would like to acknowledge and thank the AWA Board, executive team, and Committee chairs for their leadership, insight, and ongoing commitment to advancing the Wagyu breed. Special thanks to: • Jeremy Cooper, Senior Vice President and Chair of the Conference and Competitions Committee
The launch of the AWA Genetic Evaluation and WBV’s You can only work with the data you have at any one time. Science advances as data accumulates and data is increasing all the time at the AWA. Therefore, we need to update our genetic models every few years so that the most reliable models are used. Starting in 2021, the AWA Board commenced a systematic program of review to improve AWA’s databases and systems. In late 2024, the AWA undertook an independent review and analysis of AWA’s data to determine the optimal genetic parameters and evaluation systems for producing breeding values for the traits important for Wagyu breeders. This was the culmination of 4 years of work to systematically build AWA’s database and genetic evaluation pipeline. Our transition to a Wagyu-specific genetic evaluation is now complete, with Wagyu Breeding Values (WBV’s) to be published in February 2026. This will enable the AWA to implement new traits such as a Net Feed Intake WBV and a New Marbling Fineness WBV, that better represents fine marbling at high marble scores. Improved parameters for Eye Muscle Area and the Milk trait (200 day growth - Maternal) will deliver WBVs for these traits that more accurately reflect what members see in real life. The office team will be keeping you updated with these improvements as they prepare to go-live in early 2026 and we look forward to having detailed presentations on the new WBVs at WagyuEdge’26 in Brisbane in April.
• Robyn Elphick, Junior Vice President and Chair of the Corporate Affairs Committee •
amish McIntyre, Treasurer and Chair of the Audit and H Finance Committee
•
ean Pollard, Chair of the Genetic Improvement D Committee
•
ina Lincoln, Nathan Roberts, Adam Withers and G Stephen Gibbons
I extend my gratitude to the retiring Directors Dean Pollard and Gina Lincoln for their valued contributions and to the entire AWA team for their professionalism and dedication. Your combined efforts ensure that the Australian Wagyu Association continues to deliver exceptional service, innovation, and value to members worldwide. I welcome Damien Curr and Melinee Leather to the AWA Board. As commencing Board members for 2025/2026, they will bring renewal and valuable new insight to the Board. Their prior professional experience and industry knowledge will add significantly to the Board as we progress the AWA forward. Finally, I thank the Board for their support in nominating me again as President of the AWA for my third year. This is a role that I take very seriously, with the understanding that the AWA is working for the benefit of all members and that the contributions of individual members generates far more value when those contributions are combined for the benefit of the entire industry. I look forward to working with you all to make 2026 our most successful year ever.
WagyuEdge’26 Conference The upcoming WagyuEdge’26 Conference in Brisbane 15-17 April, promises to be one of the largest, most informative and progressive AWA conferences to date. The event will once again feature a diverse lineup of domestic and international speakers, including experts in genetics and reproduction technologies and applying these to Wagyu, along with key presentations 6
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Laird Morgan President | Australian Wagyu Association
CEO update Summer 2025/26
Dear AWA Members,
Launch of AWA’s independent genetic evaluation
It was a pleasure to report the outcomes of the AWA’s 36th year of operation at the Annual General Meeting 25th of November 2025. Once again, the AWA demonstrated continued growth, with 1,567 total members and genomic DNA testing exceeding 100,000 tests for the reporting period.
Following a four-year systematic review and process of planning, investment and development, the AWA is delivering one of the most significant developments in the Association’s history. In February 2026, the AWA will release its own independently run genetic evaluation, designed to produce the next generation of Wagyu Breeding Values (WBVs), including old and new traits, and further supporting AWA’s delivery of breed sustainability and industry success.
These simple metrics demonstrate the use of AWA’s services by an increasing membership that are engaged with AWA as part of their commercial success.
The AWA Board implemented a review of AWA’s genetic evaluation, databasing and tools in late 2021. This was undertaken in an environment of significant change within the marketplace for commercial databasing and genetic evaluation solutions. The commercial marketplace has continued to change over the past four years as technology solutions continue to improve, and computational knowhow applied to livestock genetics and genomics develops.
Timeline of AWA Genetic Evaluation Systems Implementation February
2021 AWA Board review of capabilities across the livestock genetics landscape
September
June
November
November
August
February
2021
2022
2023
2024
2025
2026
Release of AWA genomic inbreeding and genetic diversity tools through AWA’s Helical partnership
AWA genetic evaluation pipeline delivered
Release of AWA WBVs and AWA member training and support
Release of AWA’s Expression of Interest in provision of services
Notification and contracting of successful partner organisations
Release of the BFI AbacusBio selection index
2021
2022
2023
2024
2025
2026
June
February
April
November
June
November
2021
2022
2023
2024
2025
2025
Finalisation of AWA’s program scope for future genetic and databasing requirements
Review of service provider capabilities matrix
Release of Wagyu Feeder Check with CSIRO and Neogen
Release of the FTI and F1I Abacus Bio selection indexes
Release of the AWA Helical member database
Announcement of AWA genetic evaluation pipeline and WBV’s
WAGYU UPDATE 7
CEO UPDATE SUMMER 2025/26
AWA’s updated genetic parameters were estimated in November 2024, with AWA WBV’s calculated soon after. AWA’s Helical database was delivered to AWA members in June 2025, with an automated pipeline for delivering weekly WBVs operational in September 2025. AWA is now running its own complete genetic evaluation weekly, using AWA’s own genetic parameters, all member data, including pedigree records, performance and genomic data. AWA has been running its AWA genetic evaluation to produce WBVs in parallel to BREEDPLAN, to monitor the relationship between each EBVs derived from each analysis over time. To be clear, the AWA owns the results from BREEDPLAN analyses run for the AWA by its service provider ABRI. AWA is able to use these results for its own analyses and publish these results for its’ members as it sees fit. The 2026 release will introduce a modern WBV framework for Wagyu breeders that delivers greater accuracy, deeper insights and a broader range of economically important traits. These enhancements will equip breeders with the most comprehensive tools available to make confident, data driven decisions for herd improvement. This forward-looking approach significantly improves our capability to deliver improvements to Wagyu genetic tools, reflecting advancement in technologies and trait definition that is important for Wagyu breeders as well as preserving the long term integrity of our genetic evaluation.
Director Election Results At this year’s Annual General Meeting on November 24th 2025, the Association formally announced the newly elected Directors. The Association received five nominations for Director positions. Following the completion of the voting process, the following were elected:
Damien Curr, Pittsworth, Qld
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Melinee Leather, Taramba Qld
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Adam Withers, Scone NSW
WagyuEdge’26 Conference The upcoming WagyuEdge’26 Conference in Brisbane 1517 April, is a long-awaited homecoming for the industry’s big gig. After wandering across all parts of Australia, from coast to coast and from state to state, WagyuEdge is finally happening in Brisbane. We anticipate that WagyuEdge’26 will be the largest AWA conference yet, with high interest in the Wagyu industry locally and from abroad. We are aligning the conference with a post-event tour through some of the major producers, feedlots and processors in Southern Queensland. It may surprise some to know, that Queensland has the highest number of AWA members of any state, at close to 400 in total. The 2026 WagyuEdge conference will feature our Wagyu Branded Beef Competition awards BBQ and ceremony on the opening night (15 April), hosted again by the Hardcore Carnivore herself, Jess Pryles. The Elite Wagyu Sale evening will be on 16 April and feature a reduced number of very high genetic merit lots in live auction. Our final night will be the Industry Gala Dinner, this year celebrating the induction of Peter Gilmour as an AWA Honorary Life Member and some world-class Wagyu from last years Wagyu Branded Beef Competition Grand Champion Stanbroke and Reserve Champion Mayura Station.
BOARD UPDATE
AWA Board Meeting Report: The AWA Board met 26 November 2025 in Brisbane Queensland with the following items considered: 1. The AWA Board undertook nominations and selection of Directors for positions on the AWA Board and sub committees, with the following Director appointments: President and Chair of the AWA Board: Laird Morgan Senior Vice President: Jeremy Cooper Junior Vice President: Robyn Elphick Treasurer: Nathan Roberts. Chair of Corporate Affairs Committee: Robyn Elphick Chair of Genetic Improvement Committee: Adam Withers Chair of Conference and Competitions Committee: Jeremy Cooper Chair of Audit and Finance Committee: Nathan Roberts
2. The meeting reviewed operational performance of the AWA against targets for the end of the first quarter FY2026, noting satisfactory progress against all KPIs and financial targets. Implementation of new human resources and financial reporting systems to deliver improved efficiency within the AWA office and for reporting to the Board were reviewed by the meeting. 3. The meeting undertook a comprehensive review of AWA’s corporate risk register and control plan, noting actions in place to address high risk activities and further controls. The meeting recommended commencement of a cyber-risk review, to further increase AWA’s preparedness and limit risks to new threats since AWA’s prior assessment. 4. Progress with development of a genetic tests for a disorder in the Annexin A10 gene was reviewed. Laboratories have been provided with Annexin A10 positive and negative samples to allow validation of tests for this mutation, which impacts embryo survival, even in carrier animals. Lauch of this test to AWA members is expected immediately upon test sample validation by each laboratory. This test can not be read of a genomic DNA chip and must be conducted as an add-on or stand-alone test.
AWA will be seeking to profile key high-prevalence sires and may be contacting members to ask their support and assistance in allowing the testing of some of their animals to support geneprob assignment of carrier status through pedigrees. 5. Identification of a marker for Hepatocyte Fibrinogen Storage Disorder (HFSD) was reviewed, noting its presence on the Weatherbys 85K chip. The HFSD condition results in the accumulation of the Fibrinogen protein in liver cells, disrupting their normal metabolic processes and leading to poor liver function, ill thrift and sickly phenotype condition. Upon receipt of further population information on this disorder, the Board have approved release of this test to the AWA membership. 6. A proposal for AWA to review its Bylaws regarding cloning and the potential use of gene technologies such as gene editing was approved by the Board. The AWA will commence investigation of the regulatory parameters concerning cloned and gene edited animals, noting the specific regulations as applied in Australia. 7. The WagyuEdge’26 program and budget was finalised and approved by the meeting, noting a 4-day post-conference tour through key Southern Queensland sites. 8. It is a requirement that the AWA Board approve all new membership applications to the Association. The Board approved 47 new applications for membership between 08 August 2025 to 18 November 2025. On behalf of the AWA Board, it is my pleasure to provide this report to you.
Matt McDonagh CEO | Australian Wagyu Association WAGYU UPDATE 9
10 SUMMER 2025/26
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WagyuEdge’26: Innovation Shared, Luxury Experienced Brisbane, Queensland | 15th – 17th April 2026
Innovation Shared: The Future of Wagyu Begins Here
In 2026, Brisbane will become the epicentre of the global Wagyu world as WagyuEdge, Australia’s signature Wagyu conference lands in Queensland’s sunny capital for the first time. After captivating the west in Perth, the industry’s most influential gathering is moving north, ready to bring producers, innovators, chefs and tastemakers together for three immersive days of connection, insight and celebration.
At WagyuEdge’26, innovation is not hidden in labs or locked in proprietary systems, it’s shared openly, generously and with purpose.
WagyuEdge’26 is more than a conference; it is the living story of Australian Wagyu. It’s where tradition meets technology, and where the luxury of Wagyu is experienced at a level only possible when the world’s best gather in one place.
Producers will engage directly with the innovators shaping the future, AI-driven breeding tools, next-generation feed insights, advancements in processing efficiencies, and emerging global market trends.
Brisbane 2026: The New Frontier of Wagyu Excellence Few cities capture momentum like Brisbane. With its thriving food scene, warm hospitality and rapidly expanding ag-innovation sector, it’s the ideal host for a conference that blends world class industry leadership with sensory indulgence. In 2026, the city becomes the beating heart of Wagyu, where big ideas rise, new collaborations form, and the next chapter of the Australian Wagyu story is told.
Expect presentations from global thought leaders on genetics, data integration, sustainability systems, market intelligence and breeding strategies that will define Wagyu production for decades.
This is where technology meets storytelling. Where pioneers talk shoulder to shoulder with the young leaders rising to carry the industry forward. Where world class research becomes real world opportunity.
Luxury Experienced: A Celebration of Wagyu Craft and Culture But WagyuEdge is not just about knowledge, it’s about sensory experience. Australian Wagyu has become a global symbol of indulgence, and the conference will honour that prestige. Expect curated tasting sessions led by Jess Pryles, premium carcase displays, and immersive culinary exepriences showcasing Wagyu’s unrivalled versatility and depth. Attendees will experience the very best of homegrown Wagyu crafted by producers who have spent decades refining their herds and elevating standards across the industry. This is where luxury becomes tangible.
WAGYU UPDATE 11
The latest version of Wagyu Feeder Check is now available Providing genomic insights for more Wagyu cross cattle than ever before The Fastest Way to Better Results for the whole Wagyu supply chain.
+61 (7) 3736 2134 | naa-lab@neogen.com 14 Hume Drive, Bundamba QLD 4304 neogenaustralasia.com.au
The Story of Australian Wagyu: From Pioneers to Emerging Leaders The Australian Wagyu story is one of courage, curiosity and world leading progress. From the first breeders who saw possibility in cattle like no other, to the innovators who transformed Wagyu into a global powerhouse, the conference will spotlight the personalities who shaped the industry, and those now redefining it. WagyuEdge’26 will honour the heritage while celebrating the next generation stepping into leadership roles, armed with new technology, global ambition and a commitment to excellence.
What Awaits at WagyuEdge’26
Tickets to WagyuEdge 2026 are on sale. This is your moment to be part of the industry’s most influential gathering. Join the producers, innovators and leaders who are shaping the future of the world’s most luxurious beef. Secure your place today, experience WagyuEdge’26.
World-Class Speakers Leaders in science, breeding, global beef markets, agtech and premium food culture. Cutting-Edge Innovation Showcases and sessions revealing the newest tools and technologies shaping Wagyu’s future. Market-Shaping Insights Actionable intelligence from global and domestic experts.
Innovation Shared. Luxury Experienced. Brisbane | April 2026
Immersive Wagyu Experiences
World-class speakers.
Premium tastings, chef-led demonstrations, producer stories, interactive displays.
Cutting-edge innovation. Market-shaping insights.
Unmatched Networking A rare opportunity to connect with the highest performers across the Australian and international Wagyu sectors in our Industry Showcase. All wrapped in the overarching theme: Innovation Shared, Luxury Experienced.
Why You Can’t Afford to Miss It WagyuEdge is the one event that defines the pace, ambition and future direction of the Australian Wagyu industry. Missing it means missing the conversations that shape both opportunity and market advantage.
The best of Australian Wagyu—on display, on the plate, and on the world stage.
TICKETS NOW ON SALE. Scan to secure your place at WagyuEdge’26.
If you want to stay ahead, stay informed, stay connected, and stay part of the story, you need to be in Brisbane in 2026.
WAGYU UPDATE 13
The Program Conference – Day 1, Wednesday 15th April
SESSION 3 – State of Origin: Feeding the Future
SESSION 1 – Innovation in action: AWA Technical Highlights
Uncover how some of Australia’s leading Wagyu producers are shaping the future of luxury beef, as they reveal how innovation, feedlot expansion, and production strategy are crafting Australia’s Wagyu production. This session blends technical expertise, strategic insight, and industry leadership, providing attendees with a comprehensive view of Australia’s Wagyu supply, where innovation meets excellence and luxury is experienced at every step from paddock to plate.
Discover the innovations driving genetic progress and shaping the future of Wagyu breeding and production. This flagship session from the AWA brings the latest technical updates to the forefront, including the launch of new EBVs and genetic evaluation, insights into EBV relationships and Index changes, the latest Helical developments, and progress from the AWA Progeny Test Program. This is an unmissable opening session for breeders, producers, and stakeholders looking to stay ahead of the curve and harness the power of innovation in Wagyu. SESSION 2 – The Big Picture: Risks and Realities Get the big picture on the forces shaping the Australian Wagyu sector. Risks and Realities will deliver a comprehensive overview of the challenges and opportunities facing Wagyu today, from government policy and trade to biosecurity, providing the essential perspective needed to navigate the sector confidently. Delegates will leave with the knowledge to understand the broader environment, make informed decisions, and position Australian Wagyu for continued success.
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EVENING EVENT – 2026 Wagyu Branded Beef Competition Awards Celebrate the very best in Australian Wagyu as we crown the champions of the 2026 Wagyu Branded Beef Competition.
Conference – Day 2, Thursday 16th April SESSION 4 – Wagyu Market Intelligence: Trends & Predictions 2 years on from a bold prediction of the doubling of Wagyu prices, where do we sit? Stay ahead of the curve with this session delivering expert insights on the forces shaping premium Wagyu markets across the globe. Delegates will gain a strategic perspective on where the market is heading, learning how innovation, quality, and market intelligence combine to deliver Wagyu crafted with ingenuity and shared in luxury. This session is essential for anyone seeking to understand market forces, future opportunities, and strategies for success in premium Wagyu production and trade. SESSION 5 – Unlocking Peak Performance: Wagyu Health & Nutrition Unlock the science behind premium Wagyu production, focusing on steer growth, herd health, maternal performance and reproduction. Delegates will gain a comprehensive understanding of the health and nutrition factors that drive Wagyu performance, bridging technical knowledge, practical application, and innovation. This session emphasises how precision in care and nutrition delivers Wagyu that is crafted with ingenuity and shared in luxury.
Step into the forefront of Wagyu reproductive science, combining global perspective with local expertise, giving delegates actionable insights to maximise genetic potential, reproductive efficiency, and herd productivity.
SESSION 6 – Precision Breeding: Reproductive technology advances in Wagyu Step into the forefront of Wagyu reproductive science, combining global perspective with local expertise, giving delegates actionable insights to maximise genetic potential, reproductive efficiency, and herd productivity. Attendees will discover how precision breeding produces Wagyu perfected through precision and savoured with distinction. AFTERNOON & EVENING EVENT – 2026 Elite Wagyu Sale & Cocktail Function The AWA Elite Wagyu Sale returns in 2026, bringing together the most coveted genetics in the breed for one unforgettable night of opportunity. Once the final hammer falls, the celebration begins. Following the sale, guests are invited to continue the evening in style with a relaxed cocktail reception and gourmet Wagyu food stations designed for grazing, networking and unwinding.
WAGYU UPDATE 15
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Conference – Day 3, Friday 17th April SESSION 7 – Wagyu on the Rise: Expansion in the North and South Take a journey into Wagyu’s expansion in northern Australia with this session highlighting how innovation, regional expertise, and strategic growth are shaping the next chapter of premium beef production. Delegates will gain insight into the challenges, opportunities, and breakthroughs driving Wagyu’s northern expansion, and see how careful management, innovation, and expertise combine to produce the World’s luxury beef. SESSION 8 – Wagyu’s New Wave: Leaders and Legends Explore the stories of Wagyu’s pioneers, rising stars, and future breed leaders. From a lifetime of learning to fresh perspectives delegates will gain insight into how experience, innovation, and next generation leadership combine to shape the future of premium Wagyu production. This session highlights the talent, expertise, and vision driving Wagyu innovation, showing how the next wave of leaders continues to produce the world’s most coveted beef. SESSION 9 – Next-gen Wagyu: Technology and Discovery
Join us for an
unforgettable finale to WagyuEdge as the industry comes together beyond the conference floor for a night of exceptional Wagyu, great company, philanthropy and dancing into the night
EVENING EVENT – Wagyu Industry Dinner Join us for an unforgettable finale to WagyuEdge as the industry comes together beyond the conference floor for a night of exceptional Wagyu, great company, philanthropy and dancing into the night.
Navigate how cutting-edge technologies are transforming Wagyu breeding and production. Delegates will learn how innovation, data, and precision drive genetic potential, productivity, and quality, with a deep dive into Wagyu genome sequencing and new technologies.
WAGYU UPDATE 17
Speaker Sneak Peek
Dr Samantha Allen CEO Animal Health Australia
Dr Ced Wise Head Veterinarian, Wise Repro
Charlie Mort - Executive Chairman, Director, Mort & Co
Dr Samantha Allan has been part of Animal Health Australia for over seven years, and CEO for the past two years. Dr Allan is a senior veterinarian and leader with extensive experience in managing complex biosecurity programs, and leading animal disease emergency preparedness and response activities across Australia. Prior to her roles at AHA, she worked in government veterinary roles as well as rural clinical practice in New South Wales, and South Yorkshire, England.
Dr Ced Wise has been committed to advancing artificial reproduction technologies in cattle for over 40 years.
Charlie has in excess of 25 years’ experience in the Feedlot Services Industry. Prior to establishing Mort & Co in 1997, he was the Queensland Feedlot Services Manager for Primac.
He is an active member of several prestigious organisations including the Australian Veterinary Association (AVA), Australian Cattle Veterinarians (ACV), Australian Reproductive Veterinarians (ARV), American College of Theriogenology (ACT), International Embryo Transfer Society (IETS) and the Society for Theriogenology. Ced owns and operates several successful biotechnology businesses in Australia, now unified under Wise Repro. This integrated group, unleashes the power of genetics through the delivery of specialised reproductive solutions, supporting producers throughout Australia and abroad through a coordinated, endto-end platform.
Charlie established Mort & Co to address processors’ growing demand for a regular and consistent supply of competitively priced, quality lot fed beef cattle. His early identification of this need positioned the business at the forefront of a growing industry and has resulted in solid growth. Furthermore, the alliances Charlie formed with processors, producers and lot feeders saw Mort & Co grow from an annual managed turnover of approximately $1.7 million in 1998, to in excess of $400 million twenty-two years later.
Innovation Shared.
Luxury Experienced.
Charlie Perry Trent Bridge Wagyu Charlie Perry leads his family-owned business, Trent Bridge Wagyu, based in the New England region of NSW, where he farms alongside his parents, Wal and Jen, and his wife, Georgia. Trent Bridge Wagyu operates both seedstock and F1 production systems and has been selling Wagyu bulls since 2006. After marketing bulls via private treaty for more than 15 years, the business held its first on-property bull sale in 2023, selling 150 bulls. Prior to returning to the family enterprise in 2015, Charlie spent eight years in management consulting, working on large-scale infrastructure advisory projects. He also served six years on the board of the Australian Wagyu Association, including three years as president.
Simon Quilty Global meat trader and analyst, Global AgriTrends Simon Quilty is a global meat trader working in the global protein space spans nearly three decades of traveling the global protein world in capacities as a trader. Simon’s experience includes positions with Louis Dreyfus, ConAgra, DR Johnston and FC Stone. Today, he is an independent meat and livestock analyst and also brokers swaps on behalf of large financial institutions in Australia and brokers physical meat products around the world working exclusively for a large international companies with interests across the global protein spectrum. View the full list of speakers www.wagyu.org.au
Tickets to WagyuEdge 2026 are on sale.
Scan to secure your place at WagyuEdge’26.
WAGYU UPDATE 19
Post Conference Tour Saturday 18 April – Wednesday April, 2026 Following the conference an exclusive four day postconference tour will take delegates behind the farm gate and through the Queensland supply chain, offering an indepth look at Wagyu production from paddock to plate. Tour departs and returns to Brisbane.
KILCOY GLOBAL FOODS ARUBIAL WAGYU & LILLYVALE FEEDLOT MORT & CO GRASSDALE FEEDLOT
Australian Country Choice (ACC) One of the world’s most advanced beef processing operations, Australian Country Choice’s Cannon Hill facility is at the heart of Australia’s largest family-owned, vertically integrated beef supply chain, The site spans 40 hectares and is one of the only sites globally to slaughter, bone, value-add, pack and distribute under one roof. Processing up to 1,400 head per day, ACC pairs scale with precision and craftsmanship. Renowned for premium grain-finished beef and now expanding into Wagyu and Angus programs, this behind the scenes tour reveals true paddock to plate excellence. Wise Repro Discover the future of bovine reproduction at Wise Repro’s state of the art semen processing laboratory on Queensland’s Granite Belt. Strategically located at Glen Aplin, this new purpose built facility elevates Australia’s breeding capability. Led by MOET pioneer Dr Ced Wise, Wise Repro integrates cutting edge R&D, hands on training and industry leading reproductive services, from semen collection and processing to AI programs, bull exams, pregnancy testing and IVF partnerships. This visit offers a rare look at where science, genetics and innovation converge to drive the next generation of herd improvement. Macquarie Wagyu Macquarie Wagyu has mastered long fed Wagyu production across 10,000 hectares of pristine rangelands, from just 23 full blood heifers in 1999 to more than 700 elite breeders today, Every animal is DNA-matched, performance-recorded and fully traceable, producing award-winning beef sought after worldwide. On this tour, see how top-tier genetics, expert feeding and a meticulously managed environment combine to deliver exceptional Wagyu and explore Macquarie’s role as a major supplier of premium females, bulls and contract feeding programs.
Book your seat on the bus www.wagyu.org.au
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MAQUARIE WAGYU
AUSTRALIAN COUNTRY CHOICE
WISE REPRO
Grassdale Feedlot (Mort & Co) Grassdale Feedlot Australia’s largest and a flagship Mort & Co operation is licensed for 70,000 SCU. Grassdale inducts 3,800–4,500 head weekly and delivers 1,000 tonnes of feed daily, supporting everything from short fed cattle to long fed Wagyu. With 377 purpose-built pens, advanced shade and drainage systems, vast grain and silage storage and innovative on-site power and fertiliser production, Grassdale is where scale meets precision. Daily health checks, expert nutrition and cutting edge technology make this an unmissable look inside a world class feedlot. Arubial Wagyu & Lillyvale Feedlot Arubial Wagyu, founded by Laird and Sonia Morgan, now operates across five properties and centres on Lillyvale, a modern 26,000 SCU feedlot integrated with Arubial’s breeding and farming operations. Elite genetics, precision feeding, Great Artesian Basin water and 30,000 tonnes of home grown silage underpin consistent marbling and premium beef quality. Arubial’s 4,000-head Fullblood herd is driven by data, transparency and disciplined selection. This visit reveals a vertically connected Wagyu enterprise crafting some of the nation’s most exciting cattle. Kilcoy Global Foods With 70 years of heritage and nearly 1.5 million head processed annually, Kilcoy Global Foods combines premium cattle sourcing with AI, robotics and cutting-edge technology for exceptional beef consistency. A tour highlight is The Hub, Kilcoy’s immersive innovation centre featuring an R&D kitchen, dry-age rooms, product development labs and a VR paddock to plate experience. For anyone interested in where premium beef and future-focused innovation meet, Kilcoy is an essential tour stop.
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Elite Wagyu Genetics to Shine in Brisbane This April The Australian Wagyu Association’s 2026 Elite Wagyu Sale will take place during the WagyuEdge’26 Conference on Thursday 16 April 2026, in Brisbane, Queensland. As the Association’s flagship annual event, WagyuEdge brings together the global Wagyu community, and the Elite Wagyu Sale is one of its featured program highlights. This sale will run live from the conference venue and be fully interfaced online via StockLive, enabling bidders from around the world to participate in real time. The auction will be professionally facilitated by Ray White Livestock Dalby. Each lot presented will come with verified pedigree, Wagyu Breeding Values (WBVs) and health data, upholding the rigorous standards of quality and integrity that define the Elite Wagyu Sale. The 2026 catalogue will centre on rare genetics and animals ranking in the top 5% of the breed across WBVs and $Indexes, as recorded with the Australian Wagyu Association.
SALE DETAILS: Sale day: Thursday 16 April 2026 Time: 5 pm (AEST) Location: BCEC, Grey St South Brisbane, QLD 4101 SELLING AGENT - RAY WHITE LIVESTOCK DALBY Contact: David Felsch Ph: +61 488 993 931
Scan to stay up to date on the Elite Wagyu Sale
With elite genetics, trusted selling agents and a global bidding platform, the 2026 AWA Elite Wagyu Sale is set to deliver another standout opportunity for breeders and investors during the WagyuEdge’26 Conference. WAGYU UPDATE 23
From EBVs to WBVs: A New Era of Genetic Evaluation for Wagyu Breeders The Wagyu industry has always been at the forefront of innovation. As demand grows domestically and globally for premium Wagyu beef, so too does the need for more precise and effective genetic tools. In 2026, the Australian Wagyu Association (AWA) is taking a major step forward by transitioning from the well-known BREEDPLAN Estimated Breeding Values (EBVs) to a new, Wagyu-tailored system: Wagyu Breeding Values (WBVs). This evolution represents far more than a change in terminology, it is a fundamental upgrade in how Wagyu genetics are understood, compared, and utilised to drive profitability and sustainability for breeders and the entire Wagyu value chain.
Why Change Was Needed BREEDPLAN has served the AWA and Australian beef industry for decades, providing a powerful framework for analysing pedigree, performance, and genomic data. However, Wagyu has always been a unique breed, using genomics as a backbone to their herdbook, distinctive traits, with specialised production systems, and a different economic value structure compared to other beef breeds.
As demand grows domestically and globally for premium Wagyu beef, so too does the need for more precise and effective genetic tools
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Several limitations became increasingly clear: • Better use of Crossbred data, with thousands of F1 to F3 carcase records being added to AWA’s database each year, this required a more inclusive and advanced model that was better able to utilise the value of crossbred data. •
ew and updated traits, with the amount of new data N that AWA is acquiring each year, with Wagyu specific camera and meat quality traits, the Wagyu breed needs a more agile and flexible system to adapt to its members’ needs in a timely manner.
• Rapid increases in genomic testing within the Wagyu industry demanded a system better able to harness high-density SNP data from animals with different levels of Wagyu content that all need to be used within AWA’s genetic evaluation. • Higher frequency and streamlined delivery of results, members are demanding fast turnaround times from data submission to results being generated and published. • Most importantly, Wagyu-specific trait definitions and indexes were needed to reflect the unique attributes of Wagyu and the realities of fullblood, purebred and crossbred Wagyu production systems. WBVs were developed in response to these needs following a 4-year program of system renewal to create AWA’s future operational platform.
What Stays the Same?
What Are WBVs? Wagyu Breeding Values (WBVs) are AWA’s new genetic evaluation outputs, designed specifically for animals in the Wagyu herdbook and for Wagyu commercial production systems. They are developed in-house with state-of-the-art software by a team of experienced geneticists, using Wagyu data and parameters, Wagyu-specific models, and economic weights tailored for the premium beef supply chain. Key features include: 1. A Wagyu specific genetic evaluation
Although WBVs represent a major improvement, many familiar elements remain: • The scale and interpretation of values are still based on genetic differences between animals, not absolute trait measurements. • Accuracies, publication rules, and percentile tables remain important. • Raw data collection, dates, weights, carcase records continues unchanged. Breeders will still be able to compare animals the same way as they did with EBVs. The difference is that these comparisons will be more meaningful for Wagyu animal than ever before.
What’s Different for Breeders? The shift to WBVs brings several practical implications: More meaningful variation
WBVs are generated from the largest Wagyu dataset in the world with half a million genotypes, and more than 50,000 carcase records. This allows:
Because WBVs use Wagyu specific genetic parameters, the range of breeding values better reflects real-world performance differences within the breed.
• More accurate predictions for high value carcase traits
Improved ranking of sires and dams
• Better modelling of breed-specific growth curves • Enhanced utilisation of high-density genomic data 2. Expanded and improved carcase trait modelling Carcase traits, including Marbling Score, Marbling Fineness, Eye Muscle Area, Rib Fat, and Carcase Weight benefit from improved genetic parameters derived solely from Wagyu phenotypes run in a full multi-trait model. 3. Greater accuracy through genomics WBVs incorporate genomic information more efficiently, utilizing genotypes from all animals with Wagyu content into the genetic evaluation. This means that all data generated from Crossbred animals can be utilized more effectively within the AWA genetic evaluation. 4. Updated selection indexes Current indexes have been updated to accommodate WBVs. • Breeder Feeder Index • Fullblood Terminal Index • F1 Terminal Index These indexes will continue to link directly to profitability within the Wagyu supply chain.
Animals known for strong marbling, maternal traits or balanced growth will be more accurately ranked based on this new Wagyu-specific evaluation and data. Enhanced use of genomic testing DNA-based prediction becomes more powerful and more valuable, giving breeders confidence earlier in an animal’s life. New Traits Feed efficiency traits can now be made available for breeders to use in their breeding decisions, carcase traits will be modelled in a more precise way making the WBVs a better tool for those intending to produce more profitable carcases. AWA will also be switching the Marbling Fineness WBV to use the New Fineness Index calculation as generated by Meat Image Japan. The New Fineness Index does a much better job of capturing marbling fineness at modern high marbling levels. The trait range for Marbling Fineness is roughly between 1 and 10, so the WBV values for Marbling Fineness will be expressed as a proportion of this range.
How do the WBVs and EBVs line up? In order to compare between the current EBVs vs the WBVs that will be available in February 2026, we ran comparable analyses and correlate the results for (1) all animals in the evaluation and (2) for a group of 245 influential sires. These sires have the highest overall EBV accuracies and highest numbers of progeny recorded. The results for Milk, Carcase Weight and Marble Score are reported in this article:
WAGYU UPDATE 25
Maternal Weaning Weight WBV vs Milk EBV The prior EBV trait reported as Milk, was not actually an estimate of milk production. It was a combined trait that captured the maternal contribution to 200-day weight in the calf. This can be impacted by milk production, but also the cow’s temperament, behaviour and maternal instincts (mothering ability). This trait is now called Maternal Weaning Weight, with WBVs for this trait representing the maternal attributes of the female to assist the calf up to weaning, measured as growth of the calf separate to the calf’s own genetic drive for growth or environmental influences. The prior genetic analysis model used to generate EBVs for Milk, had 0 relationship with almost all traits except birthweight measures and gestation length. The AWA genetic evaluation model used to generate WBVs for Maternal Weaning Weight has positive statistical relationships with growth and fertility traits (including gestation length), and slight negative relationships with marbling traits.
relationship between both breeding values. However, we expect that some animals will re-rank significantly given that the genetic parameters used to calculate WBVs and those used to calculate EBVs are different. The following is a graphical representation of how the two breeding values distribute across the population (bar graphs on the X and Y axis) and how correlated they are. In general, animals that were high for the Milk trait, are also high for the Maternal Weaning Weight trait. Animals with low EBVs also tend to have low WBVs. Anecdotally, Wagyu breeders have reported that the prior Milk EBVs were not a good reflection of the actual performance of individuals for the trait they were seeing in the paddock. If you look at the WBV vs EBV graph, you can see that around the centre blue line, that individual animals can re-rank by up to 10 units in the new WBVs.
Maternal Weaning Weight – Influential Sires
WBVs
Maternal Weaning Weight
WBVs
The AWA’s new WBVs for Maternal Weaning Weight are now specific to Wagyu. They are correlated with the prior EBVs for Milk at a 0.8 level, which means that there is a strong positive
If we only plotted the 245 most influential sires in the breed based on progeny numbers, then the correlation is even stronger (r = 0.85), indicating that the differences between WBVs and EBVs are less evident in animals with higher accuracy.
r = 0.8 r = 0.85
EBVs
EBVs
A subset of individual sires is highlighted to show the relative reranking of highly used Foundation and “modern” sires. Well know “maternal” sires like TF147 – Itoshigefuji and Westholme Hiramichi Tsuru have increased WBVs relative to EBVs. Less regarded sires for maternal traits like Michifuku and Itoshigenami have decreased WBVs relative to EBVs.
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Eye Muscle Area WBVs vs EBVs Eye Muscle Area can be measured directly and AWA has significant data to enable determination of its relationship to other traits. The prior genetic evaluation model for Eye Muscle Area included negative relationships with growth traits and a very slight positive relationship with carcase weight and marble score. The AWA genetic evaluation model used to generate WBVs for Eye Muscle Area has stronger positive relationships with growth traits, carcase weight and marble score.
Again, anecdotally, we have received feedback that Eye Muscle Area EBVs had under-represented some animals previously. Looking at the EBV to WBV relationship for influential sires, we can see that growth sires like G113 and Westholme Hiramichi Tsuru have significantly higher Eye Muscle Area WBVs compared to EBVs. Despite being a growth sire, TF147 Itoshigefuji remains as a low Eye Muscle Area WBV animal, consistent with his progeny trait data.
A significant change in the statistical model used to calculate Eye Muscle Area WBVs results in significant change in the genetic estimate for this trait in some animals. The WBVs for Eye Muscle Area are positively correlated with EBVs, with high EBV animals tending to be high WBV animals. However, there is significant re-ranking due to the updated Wagyuspecific parameters used in calculating WBVs.
WBVs
Eye Muscle Area – Influential Sires
WBVs
Eye Muscle Area
A significant change in the statistical model used to calculate Eye Muscle Area WBVs results in significant change in the genetic estimate for this trait in some animals.
r = 0.73 r = 0.77
EBVs
EBVs
WAGYU UPDATE 27
Carcase Weight WBVs vs EBVs
Marble Score WBVs vs EBVs
The WBVs and EBVs for Carcase Weight are strongly correlated at a 0.91 level, which means that there is a very strong positive relationship between both breeding values. When we only compare the breeding values for the 245 influential sires, then the correlation is even stronger at a 0.96 level.
A very similar scenario to carcase weight occurs with Marble Score WBVs and EBVs, where a very strong correlation of 0.91 across the entire population and a 0.95 for those influential sires mean that we don’t expect to see major re-rankings of high accuracy individuals and the changes expected to be seen across the entire population are minimal.
This indicates that there will be some changes in breeding values and re-rankings for some animals, however in general, the alignment between WBVs and EBVs is very strong.
WBVs
Carcase Weight - Influential Sires
WBVs
Carcase Weight
r = 0.91 r = 0.96 EBVs
EBVs
... we don’t expect to see major re-rankings of high accuracy individuals and the changes expected to be seen across the entire population are minimal.
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Marble Score
WBVs
Marble Score – Influential Sires
r = 0.91
EBVs
WBVs
r = 0.95
EBVs
What this means for the future of Wagyu breeding The adoption of WBVs marks a historic moment for the Australian Wagyu industry. It positions breeders at the cutting edge of beef genetics and ensures the Wagyu breed remains globally competitive, scientifically robust, and aligned with market demands. Because of changes to the statistical model for calculation of WBVs to include Wagyu-specific trait relationships for the first time, we expect to see significant re-ranking of some animals for the Maternal Weaning Weight and Eye Muscle Area traits.
Other traits show less variation between WBVs and EBVs, particularly for growth traits, Carcase Weight and Marble Score. As a result, we expect significantly less change in these traits and minimal re-ranking of animals. Ultimately, WBVs give breeders a clearer, more accurate, and more powerful toolset to drive genetic gain within their herds and to keep producing the best beef in the world. EBVs will be turned off in early February 2026 and only WBVs will be published by the AWA. The AWA’s selection indexes will use the WBV data for each animal, with no changes to the models used to calculate the Breeder Feeder Index, Fullblood Terminal Index and F1 Terminal Index.
WAGYU UPDATE 29
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28–30 MAY 2026 | BILLY BOB’S TEXAS, FORT WORTH Join leading Wagyu producers, industry partners and stakeholders for a premier international gathering focused on strengthening the global Wagyu sector. Wagyu leaders from Texas, Australia and across the globe will unite for three days of education, collaboration and high-powered industry networking. Hosted at the iconic Billy Bob’s Texas in Fort Worth, this exclusive event will feature: arket insights and future forecasts M Innovation and best practice in Wagyu production High-level agribusiness networking Strategic planning and relationship building
Together, the TWA and AuWA are committed to a partnership delivering world leading technology solutions driving luxury, opportunity and long-term success for members across the Wagyu supply chain. Program and registration details coming soon. Lock in the dates and get ready for Texas-sized hospitality, Wagyu style.
WAGYU UPDATE 31
From Northern Australia to the world How King River Wagyu Turned Generations of Cattle Knowledge into Global Success Three years into exporting, King River Wagyu achieved what many businesses spend decades chasing, recognition as Queensland Regional Exporter of the Year. From the outside, it looks like a meteoric rise. Inside the business, however, the achievement feels far more measured, the product of generations of groundwork, disciplined systems, and a willingness to adapt early when the global market demanded it. King River is the result of one third generation and one fifth-generation cattle families, the Kemp and Rich families, joining their knowledge, experience and deep love for the land to create a vertically integrated Wagyu operation in northern Australia. Together, they set out to deliver high quality, trusted Australian Wagyu to the world, and to do so with integrity at every step.
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Fifth generation foundations, modern global reach Based in northern Queensland, King River operates across hundreds of hectares of pristine grazing land, supported by backgrounding, finishing, cropping and exporting operations that form a true paddock to plate system. From decades of science-backed breeding decisions to carefully managed farming land that both raises Wagyu and grows their feed, and through to a highly experienced domestic and international exporting team, every step of the supply chain is controlled. This vertical integration provides something increasingly rare in global beef trade, confidence in quality, traceability and consistency. “Our families value honour, respect and strive for the best,” says director Harry Kemp. “That commitment runs through everything we do, from breeding right through to the carton landing in a restaurant overseas.”
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Built on values, not volume alone While the export accolade has put King River firmly in the spotlight, Harry is quick to point out the business was never built around chasing awards or rapid scale. Instead, it is guided by five core pillars that underpin every decision: Quality, Trust, Challenge, Family and Value.
bull to seeing reliable carcase data on its progeny. Harry describes it as periods of “no man’s land”, waiting to learn whether a genetic decision will pay off. “You don’t get instant feedback,” he says. “So, you have to be disciplined and prepared to correct course when something doesn’t perform.”
Those values shape how cattle are bred and cared for, how customers are treated, and how the business responds when things don’t go to plan.
From the moment calves are born, management is focused on reducing stress and supporting calm behaviour. Calves are gradually prepared for weaning, ensuring the process is measured rather than abrupt.
“When you buy King River, you don’t just buy the meat,” Harry says. “You buy a commitment from the two families. Our reputations are at stake with every carton.”
That emphasis on calmness carries through the animal’s entire life.
Breeding excellence: where great Wagyu begins At the heart of King River’s success is a breeding program refined over decades, one that balances genetics, animal welfare and commercial performance. The program prioritises high fertility, calm temperament, strong carcase weight and exceptional eating quality, with the famous Wagyu marbling as a natural outcome rather than the sole objective. Rather than chasing marbling in isolation, King River carefully analyses pedigree and phenotype, to achieve optimal intramuscular fat while maintaining efficiency and robustness. Breeding decisions are long term by nature. In northern Australia, it can take close to four years from selecting a
“A relaxed animal is a healthier animal,” Harry says. “And that shows up in growth, temperament and ultimately in eating quality.”
This philosophy also provides flexibility in the supply chain. King River sees demand not only for top end marbling scores, but also for mid-range Wagyu (4–7) across global markets. That spread allows genetics and costs to be managed sensibly while still delivering premium outcomes.
KING RIVER WAGYU: FROM NORTHERN AUSTRALIA TO THE WORLD
From grass to grain: finishing at Lotus Park The King River feedlot at Lotus Park is a central part of the Wagyu’s journey. Operating for the lasy three decades, the 6,000-head feedlot is where the majority of King River cattle are finished. Crossbred Wagyu typically spend around 365 days on feed, while purebred Wagyu can spend up to 450 days, receiving carefully managed, high quality nutrition designed to support steady growth and marbling development. The feedlot is fully shaded, allowing cattle to eat without heat stress or dehydration, an important consideration in northern Queensland conditions. Visitors often comment on how clean the operation is, a result of careful management and the use of steam flaked grain prepared on site. A professional nutritionist oversees a graduated feeding program, ensuring rations are adjusted methodically as cattle progress through the feeding cycle. “Nutrition, stress, water and environment all work together,” Harry explains. “You can’t shortcut marbling.”
Feeding from home-grown crops Al lot of the feed used in finishing is grown on King River’s own farms, with 2,800 hectares under production across dryland and irrigated systems. The cropping program includes: •
Corn/sorghum silage
•
Cotton(when silage production permits)
•
Wheat
•
Sorghum
•
Chickpeas
•
Mung beans
This integrated system provides a balanced and nutritious diet, while reinforcing traceability and sustainability across the supply chain. A well-fed, content Wagyu produces larger cuts with more consistent marbling, benefiting both eating quality and whole of carcase utilisation.
Care, calmness and dignity at every stage As a family-run Australian business, King River places animal welfare at the core of production. These cattle have supported the business for generations, and Harry says that responsibility is never taken lightly.
Low-stress practices are embedded throughout the system, including: •
Breeding for calm temperaments
•
Intentional, low-stress weaning
•
Calm mustering and handling
•
Plentiful access to water, shade and quality feed
•
Gradual feeding overseen by a professional nutritionist
•
Strategic preparation for transport
•
Sawdust lined transport trucks to improve comfort and safety
“Our Wagyu are respected and cared for at every stage of life,” Harry says. “That’s about values, but it also produces better beef.”
Entering China and learning early Like many emerging exporters, King River’s first major offshore market was China, where strong demand for full set and semi set carcases provided an accessible entry point into export. China valued secondary cuts that are often underutilised domestically, making it a natural market for a young exporter finding its feet. However, post-COVID volatility, shifting political relations and processing plant delistings exposed the risks of relying too heavily on a single destination, particularly one dominated by frozen inventory. “The frozen market is the hardest one to read,” Harry explains. “Product can sit in cold storage for 18 to 20 months, so oversupply isn’t always obvious until it’s too late.” As payment timelines slowed and kill space became more expensive, King River made a deliberate decision to de-risk early. “We realised we were exposed,” Harry says. “So, we ran two programs in parallel, China, and everywhere else.” That early decision proved pivotal. King River invested in building relationships across Taiwan, South Korea and Singapore, focusing on longterm partnerships rather than opportunistic sales. Those relationships were built on transparency, consistency and mutual respect, and they paid dividends when market conditions tightened. When access to China became more difficult, King River was able to pivot smoothly, expanding volumes into markets where trust was already established. Today, the business exports to more than 20 different distributors with a presence on fourty plus countries, with strong growth across Europe and the middle east, and a strategic focus on the Americas as the next frontier.
WAGYU UPDATE 35
KING RIVER WAGYU: FROM NORTHERN AUSTRALIA TO THE WORLD
Real time exporting, real relationships
Sustainability and growing together
One of the defining features of King River’s export model is how closely it stays connected to customers.
King River’s approach to sustainability is practical and grounded in production realities. Feedlots are viewed as upcycling systems, converting by-products such as cottonseed and molasses into high-quality protein, particularly important in a country where less than 10% of land is arable.
Marbling results often arrive in the early hours of the morning. From there, allocations must be adjusted across multiple markets, sometimes within just a few hours to ensure product is packed exactly to specification. “You might have four hours to reshuffle a production run across ten countries,” Harry says. “That only works if you have strong relationships and open communication.” Rather than producing first and selling later, King River works to order, maximising shelf life and delivering product exactly as customers require.
A branded house, not a house of brands King River operates as a branded house, not a house of brands, one name, one standard, backed by two families. That approach demands accountability. It means being present at processing, owning feedback, and ensuring specifications are met consistently across markets. “We want people to know where their beef comes from,” Harry says. “We want them to feel like part of the family.”
Equally important is transparency. King River recognises that modern consumers and customers want to understand how beef is produced, and the business makes a conscious effort to keep its supply chain open and visible.
“Our emphasis with all our clients is that we grow in strength together,” Harry says. “Transparency builds trust and trust builds long-term partnerships.”
Inside the business, it is grounded in fundamentals: family values, disciplined systems, animal care, and the courage to adapt early. From northern Queensland pastures to fine dining tables around the world, King River Wagyu is proving that when quality and trust come first, success tends to follow.
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WAGYU
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PTP Sire Nominations Cohort 6 Sire Nominations Now Open The Australian Wagyu Association (AWA) is calling for nominations for sires to be considered for the next round of the AWA Progeny Test Program (AWA-PTP) to produce Cohort 6 progeny. Nominating a sire enables you to benchmark your sire/s within industry for live animals growth, net feed intake, carcase, eating quality and female reproduction data
Why Nominate a Sire? •
Prove Young Sires with Limited Risk
Fast-track the validation of emerging sires without the cost and management burden of running your own large-scale progeny test.
•
Effective, Independent Data Collection
All animals are measured under consistent conditions, ensuring reliable, industry-standard data across growth, carcase and reproductive traits.
•
Increase EBV Accuracy
High-quality phenotypes feed directly into BREEDPLAN & WBV’s, lifting accuracy and boosting confidence in your sire’s breeding predictions.
•
Access to Visualisation & Benchmarking Tools
Track your sires’ performance in real time and compare against industry cohorts using clear, data-driven dashboards.
•
Support New Trait Development
Your nomination helps drive research that expands the trait portfolio—improving long-term genetic progress for the whole sector.
•
Additional Data Collection and Advertising Through the PTP Semen Sale
The semen sale increases industry visibility and generates extra, independent data points from multiple herds, strengthening EBVs and improving market interest.
•
Exclusive Access to Partnership Companies
Benefit from collaboration with leading industry organisations contributing technology, expertise and additional data streams. The AWA is focused on testing sires form various genetics and in particular sires with high genetic diversity. If you have two sires that have a genetic diversity score of 80 and above, you may be eligible for the $10,000 Genetic diversity grant. For more information, scan the code. NOMINATIONS CLOSE 24TH APRIL 2026 For more information contact us: Australian Wagyu Association Ph: 02 8880 7700 E: office@wagyu.org.au
NOMINATE YOUR SIRE NOW! PROGENY TEST PROGRAM: DOMESTIC NOMINATION FORM
INTERNATIONAL NOMINATION FORM
WAGYU UPDATE 39
PTP SIRE NOMINATIONS
AWA Progeny Test Program – What is the data saying Five years into the Australian Wagyu Association’s Progeny Test Program (PTP), with more than 2,500 calves registered, over 6,000 AI joining’s completed, and the first 390 carcases from Cohort 1 now processed, the program is beginning to deliver the deep genetic insights it was designed for. What makes this dataset so powerful is that it reflects performance under real-world commercial conditions. Each cohort is raised, fed and processed consistently, creating a unique opportunity to directly compare the performance of the nominated sires across eating quality, carcase, growth and feed efficiency traits. The results directly show how EBVs and their accuracy and responding to good quality data and is shaping how breeders evaluate young and proven sires alike. Early carcase results have revealed clear variation in marbling outcomes between sires, shifts in marble score EBVs, and meaningful trends in eating quality performance. These insights aren’t emerging from isolated animals; they’re grounded in structured groups that ensure each sire is assessed fairly and thoroughly. And this is where the backbone of the PTP becomes most important: the contemporary groups. These carefully designed groups allow sires to be compared on a level playing field, ensuring that differences in management, environment or nutrition are taken into account when analysing genetic performance.
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... insights aren’t emerging from isolated animals; they’re grounded in structured groups that ensure each sire is assessed fairly and thoroughly.
PURCHASING
QUALITY BRED WAGYU
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Sinclair George sinclairg@stanbroke.com +61 0477 606 249 Richard Sheriff richards@stanbroke.com +61 042 8557 258 Russel Handley russelh@stanbroke.com +61 041 812 0605
AWA PROGENY TEST PROGRAM
Figure 1 Contemporary group marble percent ranges - Highlighting sire LSRFQ0102
Contemporary Group Marble Percentage Ranges − AWA PTP
43.9
42.8 39.9
30.1
LSRFQ0102
25.9
20.1
19.8
9
10 p Gr ou
p
8
Gr ou
Gr ou
p
7 p Gr ou
5
6 p Gr ou
p Gr ou
4 p Gr ou
2
3 p Gr ou
p
1 p
19.4
17.7
11
19.6
21.8
p
19.9
33.9
LSRFQ0102 32.1
24.3
16.4
Gr ou
32.3
31.7
30.5
22.7
21.2
20
31.9 26.5
LSRFQ0102
LSRFQ0102
34.3
Current MS +4.2
13
29.1
LSRFQ0102
35.5
Gr ou
29.7
LSRFQ0102 LSRFQ0102 31.4 29.5
12
LSRFQ0102 LSRFQ0102
40.6 LSRFQ0102
Average = 38.25%
p
37.7
30
41.1 LSRFQ0102
p
41.7
40
47.4
46.7
Gr ou
46.9
46.7
Gr ou
50
Gr ou
CAMERA MARBLE PERCENTAGE
LSRFQ0102 52.1 47.6 LSRFQ0102 LSRFQ0102
CONTEMPORARY GROUP
One of the most interesting things emerging from the Cohort 1 carcase dataset is the variation in Camera Marble Percentage observed across the 13 contemporary groups. As shown in figure 1, each group displays a distinct marble percentage range, highlighting the natural spread in performance of sire progeny. This variation is essential as it demonstrates that while each animal within the contemporary group is exposed to the same environment, nutrition and management, genetic differences are still clearly expressed. The Progeny Test Program is providing clear evidence that Marble Score EBVs are strong predictors of realworld marbling performance, and sire LSRFQ0102 offers an excellent demonstration of this relationship. With 14 carcases collected across six different herds, his progeny have recorded Camera Marble Percentages ranging from 25.89% to 52.08%, consistently clustering toward the upper end of the contemporary groups. Despite being raised and managed in varied environments, the underlying genetic potential for marbling has remained high, reinforcing the strength of EBVs as a tool for predicting Marbling performance.
What makes this example particularly valuable is the sire’s clear EBV trajectory. As his own data and that from relatives accumulated, his EBV steadily increased, reaching +3.5 with 71% accuracy in 2023. Following the addition of PTP-derived carcase data in 2025, his EBV has now increased further to +4.2 with 86% accuracy, and the alignment between prediction and realised performance is evident. This example highlights the critical value of submitting highquality performance data. Each additional phenotype not only reinforces the original genomic and pedigree-based estimates but also strengthens the genomic reference population used for future predictions. In doing so, it enhances the accuracy of EBVs across the breed and supports more confident selection decisions for the next generation of Wagyu genetics.
WAGYU UPDATE 43
An additional perspective is provided looking at the Progeny Test Program benchmark sire WKSFM0164 (Michifuku), whose progeny performance across the same 13 contemporary groups is illustrated in Figure 2. Unlike the strong progeny performance observed for LSRFQ0102, WKSFM0164 progeny generally align more closely with contemporary group average. While individual progeny from WKSFM0164 do exceed group averages in several groups, the overall pattern indicates a moderate marbling expression across contemporary groups.. .
From an EBV perspective, WKSFM0164 provides an important contrast within the PTP dataset. With a +1.7 Marble Score EBV at 99% accuracy, his EBV has limited scope for further movement, and the carcase data now emerging largely serves to confirm, rather than materially shift, his genetic ranking. The close alignment between predicted EBV and realised marbling outcomes across contemporary groups reinforces the reliability of highaccuracy EBVs, while also illustrating their inherent stability once a sire is well proven. Together with the LSRFQ0102 example, this highlights the dual value of the Progeny Test Program: accelerating EBV movement and confidence for younger or less-proven sires, while validating and benchmarking established sires whose genetic potential is already well defined.
Figure 2 Contemporary group marble percentage ranges - highlighting Michfuku (WKSFM0164) Contemporary Group Marble Percentage Ranges − AWA PTP 52.1
43.9
WKSFM0164 39.9
37.7
12 p
11 p
10 Gr ou p
9 Gr ou
p
8 p Gr ou
7 p Gr ou
6 p Gr ou
5 p
13
19.4
17.7
Gr ou
4 p Gr ou
3 p
2 Gr ou
p
1 p
21.8
WKSFM0164
16.4
Gr ou
33.9
p
20.1
19.8
32.1
24.3
22.7 19.6
32.3
WKSFM0164
Gr ou
20
31.7
Gr ou
WKSFM0164 19.9
40.6
34.3
31.9 WKSFM0164 31.4 WKSFM0164 30.1 30.5 29.5 29.7 WKSFM0164 29.1 WKSFM0164 WKSFM0164 26.5 25.9 21.2
41.1 WKSFM0164
35.5
30
47.4
46.7
42.8
41.7
40
47.6
46.9
Gr ou
46.7
Gr ou
CAMERA MARBLE PERCENTAGE
50
CONTEMPORARY GROUP
Animals that were fed longer did not consistently achieve higher marbling, and the overlap in results across DOF brackets highlights that the genetic merit outweighed feeding duration in determining the marble percentage.
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In addition to the contemporary group analysis, early findings from the Cohort 1 dataset provide useful insight into the relationship between Days on Feed (DOF) and camera marbling percentage. Although longer feeding is often assumed to significantly boost marbling, the Cohort 1 data suggests otherwise. Figure 3 shows a broad spread in marbling % among animals fed for similar periods, indicating that while a slight increase with extended feeding can occur, the variation within each DOF range is far greater than the change between them. This clearly reinforces the dominant role of genetics in driving marbling outcomes. The DOF data further demonstrates that extending feeding periods is not delivering meaningful improvements in marble percentage, particularly not at a level that justifies additional time, cost or feed inputs. Animals that were fed longer did not consistently achieve higher marbling, and the overlap in results across DOF brackets highlights that the genetic merit outweighed feeding duration in determining the marble percentage.
AWA PROGENY TEST PROGRAM
This pattern also explains why longer feeding does not influence Marble Score EBVs. Even if DOF results in a small lift in raw marble percentage, EBVs are calculated comparatively within contemporary groups, where all animals are managed under the same conditions. What matters is how an animal performs relative to its peers, not its absolute marble percentage. If all animals are fed longer, their ranking within the group remains unchanged. The sire represented, Michifuku, the PTP benchmark sire, has progeny spread across three of the four DOF groups. In the 400–450-day group, his four-progeny cluster around
the group average, and the same pattern is seen in the 550+ day group, where their marbling remains close to average with only minor variation above or below. Even with extended feeding, his progeny maintains a consistent position relative to their peers. This reinforces the point that EBV evaluations consider relative ranking within the contemporary group, meaning additional days on feed do not alter genetic merit unless performance exceeds that of comparable animals.
Figure 3 Comparison between DOF and the Camera Marble Percentage - Initial findings cohort 1 AWA-PTP DOF vs Camera Marble Percentage − AWA PTP 47.6
47.4
46.7
WKSFM0164 40
WKSFM0164 29.8 WKSFM0164 WKSFM0164 WKSFM0164 WKSFM0164
32.8 WKSFM0164 WKSFM0164
20.2
19.8
20
32.1
30.8
WKSFM0164 17.7
0
+
50
DOF GROUP
55
−5
40 1
−4
50
16.4
50 1
30
WKSFM0164
45 1− 50 0
CAMERA MARBLE PERCENTAGE
50
52.1
Cohort 2 Processing Timeline
Table 1: Anticipated processing timeline
With the completion of Cohort 1, the program now moves into its next major phase with the upcoming processing of Cohort 2 steers. In total, 480 Cohort 2 steers are currently on feed, representing the next significant wave of data that will further strengthen sire comparisons, EBV accuracy and trait insights across the program.
Herd
Feedlot Expected month of Processing
Longford
Stockyard
Jan 26
Kuro Kin
Tallawanta
Apr 26
Marathon
Lillyvale
May 26
Bonyi Grazing
Lillyvale
Jun 26
Sunland Cattle Co
Lillyvale
Aug 26
Hamilton Park Wagyu
Stockyard
Dec 26
Table 1 outlines the anticipated processing timeline for these animals, providing contributors and breeders with a clear view of when the next set of carcase results will begin to flow through the system.
WAGYU UPDATE 45
Sire makers – do some bulls throw better sires, or is it just a numbers game? Traditional vs Modern The original Wagyu genetics exported from Japan covered a range of bulls and females with different attributes. These are referred to as the Foundation genetics, because together, they form the foundation of the gene pool that we have today.
Modern-day breeding programs allow for the input of quantitative genetics to provide statistical estimates of genetic merit for economically important traits. This doesn’t replace the need for considered breeding programs, but it adds quantified trait information to more accurately guide breeding decisions.
There was great variation in the Foundation genetics, with some being high marbling and lower growth, some were higher growth and lower marbling, and some were more balanced with positive maternal attributes. This provided the global Wagyu industry with wide genetic variance in most of the traits of economic importance for Wagyu production to allow selection for positive attributes in balanced genetic selection programs.
As we have covered many times, that each sire and dam within a mating only passes on 50% of their genetic material. If you are undertaking a mating to balance the progeny of a low marbling female with a high marbling sire, you have no way of telling if the ‘good genes” from the high marbling sire have been passed on to the progeny, unless you DNA test for it. Successive matings of the same sire and dam can produce highly varied results in the offspring. Think about the variation seen within your family or between brothers and sisters or see; A story of 48 full siblings; Wagyu Update 85 pp22-26.
Looking at traditional Wagyu breeding practices, it was common to rotate through different foundation genetics to attempt to accumulate the positive attributes of each sire. Mr Shogo Takeda himself promoted a rotational breeding plan, a four step system through which a breeder could rotate sires with different frame score, maternal and carcase attributes to obtain balanced breeding.
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Scan to read: ‘A story of 48 full siblings’ Wagyu Update 85
100
IMUFQTF147 dam average MS EBV= 0.8
80 60 40
(1.9, 2.1]
(1.7, 1.9]
(1.5, 1.7]
(1.3, 1.5]
(1.1, 1.3]
(0.9, 1.1]
(0.7, 0.9]
(0.5, 0.7]
(0.3, 0.5]
(0.1, 0.3]
(-0.1, 0.1]
(-0.3,-0.1]
(-0.7,-0.5]
(-0.5,-0.3]
(-0.9,-0.7]
(-1.3,-1.1]
(-1.1,-0.9]
[-2.1,-1.9]
0
(-1.5,-1.3]
20 (-1.9,-1.7]
male calf MS EBVs
IMUFQTF147 MS EBV = -0.6
120
(-1.7,-1.5]
IMUFQTF147
NUMBER OF MALE PROGENY
140
Distribution of
SIRE MAKERS
IMUFQTF147 progeny average MS EBV= 0
MARBLE SCORE EBV IMUFQTF148 progeny average IMUFQTF148 MS EBV= +1.5 dam average MS EBV= +0.7
ADBFA0139 MS EBV = 3.2
250 200 150 100
(3.4, 3.6]
(3.2, 3.4]
(3, 3.2]
(2.8, 3]
(2.6, 2.8]
(2.4, 2.6]
(2.2, 2.4]
(2, 2.2]
(1.8, 2]
(1.6, 1.8]
(1.4, 1.6]
(1, 1.2]
(1.2, 1.4]
(0.8, 1]
(0.6, 0.8]
(0.4, 0.6]
(0, 0.2]
Are there sires that tend to throw better sires?
(0.2, 0.4]
0
(-0.2, 0]
50 (-0.4,-0.2]
male calf MS EBVs
IMUFQTF148 MS EBV = 2.4
300
(-0.6,-0.4]
IMUFQTF148
350
[-0.8,-0.6]
Distribution of
NUMBER OF MALE PROJENY
400
NUMBER OF MALE PROGENY
The analysis of male progeny from IMUFQTF147 show that the majority of his SCORE progeny have higher MS EBVs that MARBLE EBV There has been significant interest in understanding how IMUFQTF147 himself. His MS EBV is significantly lower than the progeny of a sire or a sire and dam mating, can have that of the female population to which he was mated. His higher EBVs that their parent or both parents combined. progeny range from -2.1 to +2.1, a range of 4 marble score This is due to the random sampling of genes from both units. IMUFQTF147 is a highMale growth and maternal Distribution of ADBFA0139 calf MS EBVs attribute parents and improved combinations of genes within sire, not typically used for carcase production as a terminal 60 progeny (also covered in A story of 48 full siblings; Wagyu cross. IMUFQTF147 was commonly used to reintroduce Update 85 pp22-26). 50 growth and maternal attributes to smaller and higher marbling females (average of +0.8 MS units). Even though Using some of the Foundation sires that have large numbers his MS EBV is in the bottom 1% of the breed based on 40 of male progeny, we can investigate the relationships today’s EBVs, 10% of his progeny have MS EBVs lower than between a sires EBV and that of their progeny. The first two IMUFQTF147 himself. This demonstrates the occurrence of 30 examples are two of Mr Takeda’s original bulls IMUFQTF147 extremes for genetic merit across large numbers of matings, (Itoshigefuji) and IMUFQTF148 (Itoshigenami). These two with his lowest MS EBV progeny being 1.5 marble score units 20 sires have very different Marble Score EBVs (-0.6 and +2.4) lower than IMUFQTF147 himself. and the distribution of their male progeny reflects this. 10
Conversely, the analysis of male progeny of IMUFQTF148 shows that the majority of his progeny have EBVs that are lower than IMUFQTF148 himself. His MS EBV is significantly higher than the average of the female population to which he was mated (+0.7 MS units). His progeny range from -0.8 MARBLE SCORE EBV to + 3.6, a range of 4.2 marble score units. IMUFQTF148 is a high marbling bull with low growth and was used widely for the production of sires to generate carcase progeny as terminal crosses. Even though the breed has progressed
[0. 2, 0.4 ] (0. 4, 0.6 ] (0. 6, 0.8 ] (0. 8, 1] (1, 1.2 ] (1. 2, 1.4 ] (1. 4, 1.6 ] (1. 6, 1.8 ] (1. 8, 2] (2, 2.2 ] (2. 2, 2.4 ] (2. 4, 2.6 ] (2. 6, 2.8 ] (2. 8, 3] (3, 3.2 ] (3. 2, 3.4 ] (3. 4, 3.6 ] (3. 6, 3.8 ] (3. 8, 4] (4, 4.2 ] (4. 2, 4.4 ] (4. 4, 4.6 ]
Above: Distribution of Marble Score (MS) EBVs for the male 0 progeny of the two Foundation sires IMUFQTF147 (n=737) and IMUFQTF148 (n=1853) showing the sire’s EBVs, dam average EBVs and the progeny average EBVs.
WAGYU UPDATE 47
Distribu IMUFQT Male ca
greatly with genetic progress for marble score, his MS EBV is still in the top 20% of the breed based on today’s EBVs. Approximately 6% of his progeny have MS EBVs higher than himself, with his highest MS EBV progeny being 1.2 marble score units higher than IMUFQTF148. The Helical summaries for IMUFQTF147 and IMUFQTF148 are shown to allow full comparison of these two sires genetic merit across the different reported traits.
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One of IMUFQTF148’s high performing male progeny with a significant number of male progeny himself is ADBFA0139 (Itoshigenami Jnr). His MS EBV is shown in the prior distribution graph is +3.2. The distribution of the MS EBVs for his 360 registered male progeny show that the majority of his progeny have EBVs that are lower than ADBFA0139 himself. His MS EBV is significantly higher than the average of the female population to which he was mated (+1.2 MS units). His progeny range from +0.2 to + 4.5, a range of 4.3 marble score units. ADBFA0139’s MS EBV is still in the top 3% of the breed based on todays EBVs. Approximately 8% of his progeny have MS EBVs higher than himself, with his highest MS EBV progeny being 1.3 marble score units higher than ADBFA0139.
(3.4, 3.6
(3, 3.2]
(3.2, 3.4
(2.8, 3]
(2.6, 2.8
(2.4, 2.6
(2, 2.2]
(2.2, 2.4
(1.8, 2]
(1.6, 1.8
(1.4, 1.6
(1.2, 1.4
(1, 1.2]
(0.8, 1]
(0.6, 0.8
(0.4, 0.6
(0.2, 0.4
(0, 0.2]
(-0.2, 0]
(-0.4,-0.2]
(-0.6,-0.4]
[-0.8,-0.6]
0
SIRE MAKERS
MARBLE SCORE EBV
Distribution of ADBFA0139 Male calf MS EBVs ADBFA0139 progeny average MS EBV= +2.2
Distribution of
ADBFA0139
Male calf MS EBVs
NUMBER OF MALE PROGENY
60 50
40
ADBFA0139 dam average MS EBV= +1.2
30
ADBFA0139 MS EBV= +3.2
20
10
] 1.2 ] (1. 2, 1.4 ] (1. 4, 1.6 ] (1. 6, 1.8 ] (1. 8, 2] (2, 2.2 ] (2. 2, 2.4 ] (2. 4, 2.6 ] (2. 6, 2.8 ] (2. 8, 3] (3, 3.2 ] (3. 2, 3.4 ] (3. 4, 3.6 ] (3. 6, 3.8 ] (3. 8, 4] (4, 4.2 ] (4. 2, 4.4 ] (4. 4, 4.6 ] (1,
,1
(0. 8
.8]
(0. 6
,0
] 0.4
,0
2,
(0. 4
[0.
.6]
0
MARBLE SCORE EBV
Implications What we can learn from studying the genetic merit outcomes for the progeny of high use sires, is that there can be a large distribution of EBVs in the progeny from any sire, particularly when they are used across a broad population of females. We have used the MS EBV as the example here, but the concept is the same for any trait. There is a bell-shaped curve to the progeny distribution, as we would expect in the study of a normal biological sample set. For example, although the MS EBV average for Itoshegenami’ s progeny is +1.5, with most of his male progeny having MS EBVs between +1 and +2, there can be extreme variance of up to ±2 MS units in some progeny. Likewise for Itoshigenami Jnr. Although the MS EBV average for his progeny had increased to +2.2, with most of his male progeny having MS EBVs between 1.8 and 2.8, his progeny also demonstrate extreme variance of up to ±2 MS units.
Conversely, if you are trying to lift performance in a herd by using a high-ranking sires as a corrective mating over females at the lower limit of a trait, you can expect significant gains in the majority of the progeny, with only a small percentage not surpassing the original females.
So it appears, that it is a numbers game, but it depends on the number (EBV) that you start with and the quality of the females you are using in breeding up high-ranking sires.
The impact of the dam is 50% of the progeny’s genetic merit estimate. As we have shown here for the marble score trait, we would expect a range of up to 4 MS EBV units in the progeny from large group breeding’s. Comparing different carcase results from the same sire without understanding the genetic merit of the female can lead to false assumptions. The distribution graphs for the 3 sires investigated here show that although the average MS EBV of the progeny can be increased (from 0, to +1.5 and then +2.2), the range from high to low stays roughly the same as the MS EBV average increases. Noting this consistent range, if you are breeding replacement sires and trying to increase your herds’ genetic merit for any trait at the upper limits of a trait, you can expect that only a small proportion of progeny may surpass the original sire you are using.
WAGYU UPDATE 49
Annexin A10
Annexin A10: A New Genetic Defect in Wagyu Cattle – What It Means for the Industry Introduction Genetic defects or disorders, are inherited conditions where mutations in genes or regulatory regions of DNA impact the normal function or development of the body. In Wagyu, we have tests available for 6 prior known disorders and these tests are used to manage the potential impact of the disorders by minimising their impact through structured breeding programs. Importantly, additional undescribed genetic defects exist in the breeding population and these result in production losses from your system. Identifying these genetic defects and being able to test for and manage them in your herd, allows breeders to increase their productivity and reduce losses in animal performance, fertility and survival.
Developing the Annexin A10 genetic test In 2026, a new genetic test will be available to AWA members that could significantly improve calving rates and increase the performance of high-value embryo programs. Testing for the Annexin A10 genetic defect, has the potential to affect the way Wagyu breeders select animals for breeding and manage their embryo programs. Professor John Beever at the University of Tennessee Genomics Centre for the Advancement of Agriculture, has been working with around 300 DNA samples from Wagyu calves as part of the AWA Dead Calf Project. These samples have been provided by AWA members from all around the world to help us identify genetic defects that are causing loss of calves from the production system. Professor Beever identified the occurrence of a known mutation in Annexin A10 (Sasaki et al., 2016) in a cohort of these samples and established a validation panel of positive and negative samples for DNA testing laboratories to use to prove their testing conditions for the AWA. Annexin A10 mutations in other species can be associated with a range of problems, from immune system dysfunctions to fertility and specifically, embryonic mortality.
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Preliminary estimates of the frequency of Annexin A10 mutation in the AWA recorded Wagyu population are around 6% (ie, 6% of animals are carriers or heterozygous for the mutation) This is consistent with the results of Sasaki from his 2016 paper which showed an estimated frequency of around 4-5% in the Japanese Black cattle population. In this disorder, being a female carrier impacts on embryonic mortality. It appears that having 2 copies of the mutation is lethal, with no homozygous progeny surviving. Discussion with Wagyu breeders over many years has indicated that levels of embryonic mortality and pregnancy loss in Wagyu are higher than they should be. Testing for the Annexin A10 mutation in Wagyu may significantly improve calving rate and profitability, particularly for high value embryo programs.
What is Annexin A10? Annexins are a family of proteins that play critical roles in cellular processes such as inflammation, immune response, cellular growth, and cell death. Annexin A10 is an essential component of this family, and it is involved in regulating the function and stability of immune cells and tissues.
Mutations or defects in the Annexin A10 gene can result in disruptions of these necessary cellular processes.
The 2016 study by Sasaki et al. identified a link between Annexin A10 mutations and embryonic mortality in cattle, particularly affecting early-stage pregnancies. This study suggested that Annexin A10 is a maternal genetic factor for embryonic mortality resulting in a higher rate of embryonic death, ultimately reducing reproductive efficiency in affected herds.
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ANNEXIN A10
Annexin A10
Impact on Wagyu Cattle Health and Productivity
Availability of the Genetic Test in 2026
The Annexin A10 mutation in Wagyu cattle may impact animal health, reproductive success, and overall productivity:
The new genetic test for the Annexin A10 defect will be available to AWA members early in 2026. This test will allow Wagyu producers to screen individual animals for the mutation before making critical breeding decisions. This new test will be available only as a standalone test or as an addon to other genotyping due to the nature of the test.
•
•
•
mbryonic Mortality and Reproductive Challenges: E As noted in Sasaki’s 2016 study, the Annexin A10 mutation is linked to embryonic mortality, which could manifest as early-stage pregnancy loss or reduced embryo viability. This would significantly impact calving rates and, ultimately, the genetic progress of breeding programs. I mmune System Weakness: With Annexins having primary roles in immune system functioning, Wagyu cattle with this defect may have an impaired immune system, making them more susceptible to diseases, particularly during times of stress. This is unproven in Wagyu cattle. o effect on economically important carcase traits: N Sasaki’s results suggested no effects on economically important carcase traits in Japanese black cattle.
Implications for Wagyu Breeding Programs For Wagyu breeders, the arrival of genetic testing for the Annexin A10 mutation in 2026 is a major step toward managing and improving fertility and calving rate. With the ability to screen for this mutation, breeders can: •
ake Informed Breeding Decisions: By testing for M this mutation, breeders can avoid passing on the genetic defect to future generations, helping maintain the health and productivity of their herds.
•
anaging the Risk: For commercial breeders looking M to source bulls to join with their cows, selecting those that are free from carrying the Annexin A10 mutation, will minimize the risks associated with the mutation in their herds.
Given the dominant maternal effect of this mutation, we recommend breeders test their youngest and highest value females, particularly those intended for use in embryo programs where multiple progeny are expected. Likewise, bulls being used in high-value embryo programs should be screened so that they do not pass on the mutation to female progeny.
Seeding the database AWA will be conducting a project to accumulate Annexin A10 results for high use, current and foundation sires, to assist with imputing the likelihood of carrier status across the population. We ask that you be prepared to provide additional DNA samples for key animals to allow testing of Annexin A10 if this is requested from you.
Reference Sasaki, Y., et al. (2016). "Identification and characterization of Annexin A10 mutations in cattle: Implications for immune response, growth, and embryonic mortality." Journal of Animal Genetics, 45(3), 345-357. DOI: 10.xxxx/janimalgenetics.2016
WAGYU UPDATE 53
Benefits of sexed semen for Australian beef producers: A technical overview Sexed semen is rapidly becoming one of the most influential reproductive tools available to Australia’s beef sector. Recent advancements in sperm-sorting technology, semen processing protocols and synchronisation program design have improved performance and given both stud and commercial breeders the confidence to adopt the technology at scale. When applied strategically, it can accelerate genetic gain, sharpen market alignment and significantly enhance enterprise profitability.
Accelerating genetic gain in stud and seedstock programs For seedstock breeders, sexed semen enables rapid, targeted multiplication of elite genetics, whether the goal is expanding female numbers or producing additional sale bulls.
Female (X) and Male (Y) sorted semen Ability to sort both X and Y bearing sperm from the same ejaculate optimises production of high-value progeny for stud, seedstock or premium breeding markets.
Sexed semen delivers precision control, allowing producers to generate the highvalue calves targeted for stud, seedstock or premium markets while maximising the value of every mating decision.
Female-sorted semen • More elite heifers from your highest-value cows • Greater selection intensity thanks to a larger pool of replacement females • Faster genetic progress through quicker generational turnover Male-sorted semen • Extra sale bulls on the ground for upcoming marketing windows • Increased sire numbers without oversupplying replacement heifers • Stronger alignment with terminal or feeder-focused programs
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Commercial profitability: a strong case for steerbiased production For commercial operations, particularly those supplying feedlots or producing Wagyu F1’s, male-sorted sexed semen is delivering clear and measurable economic benefits. Steers consistently outperform heifers across key production indicators, offering higher weaning weights, superior feed efficiency, improved marbling, especially in F1 Wagyu programs, stronger grid pricing and higher carcase weights and dressing percentages. These performance advantages translate directly into more substantial market returns, making male-sorted semen a compelling option for terminal and feeder-focused systems. Recent market trends highlight these advantages: feeder steers averaging around $4.90/kg liveweight, while heifers trade at a $0.50/kg discount (~$4.40/kg lwt)*. A 400 kg
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A FEEDLOT WHERE FLIES AND ODOUR are no longer your daily battle, where pens stay fresher, cattle are calmer, and productivity improves naturally.
Visitors always notice — no flies, no odour. We’ve stopped using chemicals and tapes altogether. – Sturrock’s Feedlot, QLD
BECAUSE Because Bio-Defender® Animal Husbandry (BDAH) works with biology, not against it. By enhancing digestion of organic residues and neutralising odour compounds, BDAH reduces flies, controls harmful pathogens (salmonella, faecal coliforms, fungal disease), and minimises hydrogen sulfide and nitrogen losses — all without chemicals!
WHAT IF You could replace chemical sprays, tapes and other biological control measures with a safe, natural, and easy-to-apply solution?
THE RESULT
Reduced flies, footrot, and odour Calmer cattle, better disposition
Cleaner, comfortable environment NIL withholding periods
Ready to see Bio-Defender ® in action on your operation? Chat with Jon for commercial enquiries
0423 008 495 | jon@4sight.bio
Talk to Dave for technical support
0439 423 333 | dave@4sight.bio
embryo multiplication NOW E L B A L I A AV
...ask us how Lewis Frost 0447 583 124 Rebecca Arnott 0427 900 021
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BENEFITS OF SEXED SEMEN
feeder steer that is 30 kg heavier and sells at a $0.50 premium over the female of the same age, delivers an additional $332 per head, a compelling argument for using male-sorted semen in terminal and feeder-focused systems. * Data from (MLA Feeder Indicators – November 2025).
Precision breeding to match your herd objectives Sexed semen gives producers the power to nominate specific breeding outcomes with absolute precision, aligning genetics with business goals instead of leaving outcomes to chance. Whether the priority is rebuilding females, tightening replacement numbers or lifting the performance of future sale animals, sexed semen provides a level of control that conventional semen and natural mating can’t match. The technology supports: • Faster and targeted herd rebuilding after a drought without slowing genetic progress. • Select for Steer-dominant production for terminal programs, eliminating the need to spay heifers. • Tight control of replacement numbers to match longterm herd strategy. • Increased uniformity for feedlot or grass-finished markets. • Maximise use of elite donor cows in IVF or MOET programs to multiply top genetics faster. This level of precision cannot be achieved with conventional semen or natural mating. It allows producers to align breeding decisions with market targets, production goals and future herd direction.
Improved technology = Improved conception reliability Advances in flow cytometry, sorting efficiency, extender formulation and production workflows have significantly improved the performance of sexed semen. Mr Ponneelan Ganesan, Australian Laboratory Operations Manager at STgenetics, notes:
“Well-managed FTAI programs typically achieve conception rates around 10–15% lower than programs using conventional semen.”
A herd achieving 65% conception rates with conventional semen can generally expect to reach 55 – 58% with sexed semen. Ponneelan emphasises the importance of working with reproduction technicians experienced in sexed semen protocols to ensure correct timing and handling procedures.
Operational requirements and processing realities Sexed semen production is a highly time-critical process. Ejaculates must reach the sorting laboratory and begin processing with minimal time delay. Sires selected for sexed semen production are typically housed in specialised bull centres situated adjacent to sorting laboratories. This proximity allows for immediate evaluation of ejaculates, tighter process control, and rapid delivery to the sorting facility. STgenetics currently operates sex-sorting laboratories in Rockhampton, Queensland and Camperdown, Victoria, with a third facility opening in January 2026 at Ced Wise AB Services, Glen Aplin. The new southern Queensland laboratory will significantly expand capacity for beef producers across eastern Australia. Before commencing sexed semen processing, sires typically undergo a two to three week “clean-out” period where they are collected multiple times to improve sperm quality and remove aged or defective sperm. This is due to the sexsorting process imposing greater physiological demands on the sperm compared with conventional production. For this reason, ejaculates prepared for sex-sorting must meet higher quality standards. Conventional semen may still be processed during this period if quality thresholds are met. Sex-sorting is slower and more resource-intensive than conventional semen production. The number of active sorting heads ultimately determines sorting capacity at the sorting laboratory. STgenetics at the Glen Aplin, Queensland, sorting lab typically produces a maximum of 150 male-sexed straws during an eight-hour sorting period. Female sorts typically yield 10-20% more straws than male sorts.
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We would like to thank our new and repeat buyers for your support in 2025. We wish you all of the success that we are experiencing with our poll genetics.
BENEFITS OF SEXED SEMEN
Processing cost Primary-sex processing generally costs around $35 per straw, whilst if the producer also elects to process the secondary sex, the cost for the secondary sex is approximately 50% of the primary. Additional fees for semen collection, agistment and laboratory handling apply.
Sex options and purity levels Sexed semen is available in multiple sort types and purity levels, giving producers the flexibility to match the semen choice with their preferred breeding strategies and program objectives. Select either the female sexed or male sexed as the primary sort and choose whether to process the secondary sex or discard. Fine-tune semen selection with far greater accuracy, ensuring each straw aligns with your program timing, donor value and commercial objectives. Sexed semen purity refers to the percentage of the primary sex sperm cells in a straw. STgenetics offers several purity options:
Continued improvements in sorting accuracy, post-thaw viability, and extender formulations are supporting stronger results across both multiple-embryo production systems and FTAI programs. In IVF and MOET settings, the performance difference between sexed and conventional semen has become far smaller than it was even a few years ago. Marcelo Stiaque (IGT IVF, Brisbane) reports. “IVF embryo production from sexed semen is typically around 5% lower than from conventional semen, although this gap is narrowing as technology improves.” This slight reduction in embryo yield is now widely considered manageable given the benefits of predetermined calf sex, particularly for high-value donor cows and strategic herd rebuilding programs. To achieve a successful outcome from FTAI using sexed semen, producers need to ensure they are using a synchronisation program specifically designed for this type of product. Megan Brown (Minitube Australia) explains .
• High Purity (~95%) • Standard Purity (~90%) • 4M Super Conventional (≥80%) The 4M Super Conventional option allows semen from up to three sires to be combined into a single straw, which may enhance fertility by combining complementary motility profiles, reduce the risk of single-sire subfertility, and support sperm longevity and timing alignment with ovulation.
Performance in MOET/IVF embryo production & FTAI Sexed semen is now performing more consistently across advanced reproductive programs, with researchers and industry laboratories reporting a narrowing gap between sexed and conventional semen outcomes.
“Generally, insemination time is delayed by at least 6 hours due to the “capacitation-like” effect that the sexing process can have on the acrosome of the sperm. However, over time, the technology has improved, and the quality of the semen has improved alongside it, so we are seeing better outcomes with modern sexed semen products in these programs.”
Photo: Marcelo Stiaque
Photo: Megan Brown WAGYU UPDATE 59
BENEFITS OF SEXED SEMEN
Accurate timing is key. Technicians trained specifically in sexed-semen protocols continue to deliver the most consistent conception outcomes. Accurate timing is key. Technicians trained specifically in sexed-semen protocols continue to deliver the most consistent conception outcomes. Collectively, these advances are contributing to stronger performance across all major reproductive programs and increasing producers’ confidence in using sexed semen in both elite stud and large-scale commercial breeding systems.
Sexed semen has matured into a consistent, highperformance reproductive technology with demonstrated impacts on genetic gain, herd structure, and system efficiency. For both seedstock and commercial producers, it offers clear advantages: • Faster genetic gain • Improved profitability
Single AI Use Provision
• Enhanced carcase outcomes
Due to the proprietary nature of sorting technology, STgenetics applies a Single AI Use Provision. This means that one straw may be used for only one insemination event in a naturally cycling or synchronised female. Exemptions apply to MOET and IVF when using an STgenetics-Authorised Embryo Producer, which is typically accompanied by an additional fee of approximately US$5 per embryo created.
• Greater herd uniformity • Strategic control of replacement rates • Precision alignment with market demands With continued technological innovation and expanded laboratory capacity including the new 2026 facility in Southern Queensland, sexed semen is positioned to play an even greater role in driving productivity, efficiency and genetic advancement across the Australian cattle industry. Article by Aaron Wise, Chief Financial Officer
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Wagyouth Enters 2026 with Momentum: Celebrating Three Years of Growth, Connection, and Leadership As we enter 2026, we celebrate the third year of Wagyouth. Since 2024, our founding committee has continued to grow and refine its mission supporting the next generation of Wagyu breed leaders in leadership, business, and production.
Recap In September 2024, we set a strong foundation with our first tour, visiting Macquarie Wagyu and Grassdale Feedlot. Across two days, attendees also heard from Matt George of Bovine Dynamics and Steve Martin of Martin Wagyu, an invaluable introduction to the platforms Wagyouth provides to future industry leaders.
In March 2025, we toured Central Queensland, visiting Warren Hunter of Cattle King, Darren Hamblin of Strathdale Wagyu, and Reid and Julie Muirhead of Weetalaba Wagyu, where we were also presented to by Joe Grose from 3D Genetics. We were extremely grateful to later in the year receive further funding from 3DG at their inaugural sale in August. Our September 2025 tour focused on supply chain and marketing, with visits to ACC’s Cannon Hill, Paradigm Foods, and Stockyard Beef. We heard from AACo and Aaron van den Heuvel from the AWA, followed by delicious sessions with chefs and restaurant managers at Moo Moo’s and SK Steak & Oyster in Brisbane.
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Alongside these tours, we hosted field days at ACC’s Brindley Park with Ryan Carter, webinars with Matt McDonagh (AWA) and Jeremy Cooper (Circle 8), and had committee members representing Wagyouth at numerous industry events. We’re proud of our progress and excited for what comes next.
Coming up In 2026, Wagyouth will continue building on this momentum. Our main event, a multi-day tour, will be held in August. We will also host additional webinars and maintain strong representation at industry events, including the Wagyu Edge 2026 Conference. Join us there or follow us on social media for updates.
CONTACT: Anthony Winter 0400 337 472 office@macquariewagyu.com