Issue 79 | The Australian Wagyu Update, January 2022

Vol. 79 The Wagyu industry’s premier trade magazine produced by the Australian Wagyu Association

www.wagyu.org.au January 2022

Driving Object ivity

WITHIN THE GLOBAL WAGYU SECTOR

INSIDE .... NEW AWA BOARD ANNOUNCED | PTP 2022 SIRE NOMINATIONS | TRICKY TRAITS ANIMAL REGISTRATION CHANGES | MIJ GOES MOBILE | NFI - BE REWARDED FOR YOUR THRIFTINESS SPOTLIGHT ON INTERNATIONAL PARTNERS GWA AND WBA | ET AND AI DRIVES GENETIC GAIN

FOR SUPPORT TO ACHIEVE YOUR GOALS for Australian agriculture Here at Elders, we are supporting the successful future of the Wagyu industry through our professional marketing services and dedicated network of specialists.

Considering your options? Speak to Elders Wagyu today.

James Matts +61 0421 063 501 Wagyu Livestock & Genetics Consultancy James.Matts@elders.com.au Stud Stock | Genetics | Commercial

CONTENTS 6

10

Consolidating on core strengths

8 2021-2022 AWA Board 10 Annual Report highlights 14 Experts share their knowledge at technical workshop 17 AWA-PTP sire nominations

38

20 Bloodlines Vs Pedigrees & EBVs Vs Genomics 27 Tricky traits - back to basics 34 Change of AWA animal registration idents 38 MIJ mobile device 43 Net Feed Intake – Be rewarded for your thriftiness

17

45 German Wagyu Association (GWA) 48 Wagyu Breeders Association (WBA) 51 BREEDPLAN data key for M6 Cattle Co 56 ET and AI drives genetic gain at Absolute Wagyu 59 Lone Mountain Ranch continued commitment to Fullblood stateside

26 - 28 APRIL 2022

MELBOURNE, VICTORIA

Publisher THE AUSTRALIAN WAGYU ASSOCIATION (AWA) office@wagyu.org.au 02 8880 7700 Consulting Editor EMILY RABONE emily@wagyu.org.au 02 8880 7707

59

41

Focussing on our position within the global Wagyu sector, animal health and examining the latest R&D from across the globe, the 2022 WagyuEdge Conference is a must for your 2022 calendar - more page 41.

ON THE COVER

The Australian Wagyu Update magazine is printed by Litho Art Pty Ltd. Materials used to produce the

Contributing Writers CHARLIE PERRY, Dr MATT McDONAGH and AARON VAN DEN HEUVEL.

magazine have been selected to reflect our sensitivity towards the natural environment on which our

Art Direction HEATHER FRAZIER heather@wagyu.org.au 0432 949 764

renewability for generations to come. We encourage you to recycle all paper based products after use.

industry relies. We only use eco-friendly inks made from vegetable oil or soybeans produced using sustainable farming methods and paper stock derived from sustainable forests managed to ensure their All content is subject to copyright and may not be reproduced in any form without the written permission

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

from the publisher. Opinions expressed in The Australian Wagyu Update magazine are not necessarily

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

advertisers. Every effort is made to ensure information contained in this

those of the publishers. Acceptance of an advertisement does not imply endorsement of any product or service by the magazine or the association, nor support any claims by the

CONNECT WITH US

magazine is correct at the time of publishing.

ISSUE 79 - THE AUSTRALIAN WAGYU UPDATE

3

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THE AUSTRALIAN WAGYU UPDATE - ISSUE 79

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ISSUE 79 - THE AUSTRALIAN WAGYU UPDATE

5

president

CHARLIE PERRY

CONSOLIDATING ON CORE STRENGTHS Dear Members, It is with great honour to have been

who attended. Thank you to all those who

I believe our annual conference is a world

re-elected as President of the Australian

presented and specifically Rangers Valley

class industry event, and I hope to see a lot

Wagyu Association for the 2021 – 2022

for their generous donation of meat for

of you there next year. With the changes

period. I’d like to the thank the outgoing

our dinner.

regarding Australia’s border, it seems

board members who have made a

likely that we will also welcome back our

significant contribution to the AWA

PROGENY TEST PROGRAM

during their tenure – Chantal Winter,

The Progeny Test Program is an ambitious

from the staff in the coming months

Peter Cabassi & Sharon Oates. I would

and large project, and I am pleased to

regarding the makeup of the event.

also like to congratulate Dean Pollard on

report that to date, it is tracking on

being re-elected, and welcome the three

schedule. We. The joining’s for the first

new directors, Robyn Elphick, Richard

round are well under way and I look

Puddicombe and Glen Wright.

forward to reporting the progress of the

I sincerely believe that the current

PTP as it continues.

international members; you will be hearing

I would personally like to thank outgoing Director Chantal Winter for her enormous contribution to AWA’s Conference and Competitions strategy. The WagyuEdge Conference and Wagyu Branded Beef

Board of Directors have an excellent

I would sincerely like to thank all those

Competition are two of AWA’s flagship

set of diverse skills and that we are well

that have supported the project in its first

annual events. I am not sure any member

positioned to oversee the company for the

year through the submission of sires and

has contributed more to the development

next 12 months.

contributor herds. Without your support,

of these events, which are now the envy

the project will be unable to deliver

of the red meat Industry. Over the last

the outcomes that we believe will be so

several years, Chantal has overseen

beneficial to the industry.

the delivery of these and AWA’s core

I encourage everyone who is not already

communication and market development

involved, to consider involvement in the

activities. Thank you Chan.

ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING On Tuesday 23rd November the AWA Annual General Meeting was held at the Armidale Bowling Club. Thank you to those that attended in person and those that took the time to join us virtually. I can only hope that next year we will not be constrained by boarder closures and more people will be able to attend.

next round. Next years intake will be early, with sire nominations opening on January 10 and closing March 11. Please start to consider your sire nominations now, for more details jump to PAGE 17.

On the same day, we held a technical

GOVERNANCE REVIEW In a quest for continuous improvement and to operate at the highest standards of governance, the AWA board engaged Mr Philip Pogson to complete a governance

workshop with several speakers on a

WAGYUEDGE CONFERENCE

review of the AWA. Mr Pogson has an

range of topics from Wagyu structure

Block out your Calendar – the 2022

impeccable reputation in this area and has

and nutrition, to genetics and using

Annual WagyuEdge Conference is schedule

also completed well regarded reviews for

crossbred data in Wagyu BREEDPLAN.

to go ahead for the 26 to 28 April in

the Hereford and Angus breed societies.

We received excellent feedback from those

Melbourne VIC.

The review sought to understand our

6

THE AUSTRALIAN WAGYU UPDATE - ISSUE 79

current governance environment and processes

same rate as the company, so that it can continue to

and make recommendations regarding how we can

provide effective strategic oversight and leadership

improve our practices. This report was presented

for its members. These two projects provide a clear

by Mr Pogson to the Board at the November

framework for the Board to continue to improve.

Board meeting. A summary of the findings will be communicated to the membership once the Board has had an opportunity to consider the findings.

The Company has also engaged Ms Christine Hawkins to provide support in finalising our Board Policy manual and framework. A well-defined and articulated board policy framework supports the smooth and

FINAL NOTE As we head into the festive season, I would like to thank you all for your continued membership and support of the AWA. Finally, a most sincere thanks to all the AWA staff for continuing to deliver excellent services through another challenging Covid year.

effective operations of the Board and we appreciate the work she has provided in delivering this.

Charlie Perry

As our company continues its period of rapid and

AWA President

sustained growth, it is absolutely necessary that the capability and skill of the Board matures at the

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ISSUE 79 - THE AUSTRALIAN WAGYU UPDATE

7

2021-2022 AWA BOARD NEW BOARD MEMBERS ANNOUNCED

The Australian Wagyu Association (AWA) is pleased

2021-22 OFFICE BEARERS

to announce that the new board for 2021-2022 was

President CHARLIE PERRY

appointed at the Annual General Meeting held 23 November 2021.

The new board directors represent a diverse range of skill sets and the AWA looks forward to working with

Senior Vice President LAIRD MORGAN Junior Vice President SELWYN MALLER Treasurer SCOTT DE BRUIN

them over the next 12 months.

The AWA Board welcomes newly appointed board directors Robyn Elphick, Richard Puddicombe and Glen Wright, also acknowledging the re-election of Dean Pollard.

AWA Chief Executive, Dr Matt McDonagh would like to extend a sincere welcome to the new Directors on behalf of the organisation.

The Board will carry-on its focus on ensuring the delivery of core business and services for members and consolidating on its projects in progress. We have a highly skilled Board that will continue to add value to the AWA as our Company matures and delivers new innovations that will continue to underpin growth and productivity in the Wagyu Sector.

AWA President, Charlie Perry

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THE AUSTRALIAN WAGYU UPDATE - ISSUE 79

President report

ROBYN ELPHICK Robyn is a third generation beef producer, running Sunnyside Wagyu alongside her partner and parents. Located in Northern NSW, Sunnyside runs a Fullblood herd selling seedstock as well as a F1 and F2 commercial herd.

Robyn has off farm qualifications in law, business and mediation with skills in legal analysis, risk assessment, critical analysis, negotiations and business communications. Robyn is a passionate Wagyu producer and will look to add value to the board by promoting collaborative and constructive governance in the continued development and innovation of the Wagyu sector.

RICHARD PUDDICOMBE Richard has been the Station Manager at Burindi, owned by Paraway Pastoral Co, since 2008. Richard was the driver behind introducing Wagyu bulls into the Paraway programme in 2012, using them over quality Angus heifers.

Richard has significant experience running large scale commercial operations delivering a premium product and is committed to seeing the AWA support and promote the advancement of the Wagyu sector.

GLEN WRIGHT Glen is a grazier, property developer and an investor. His life passion and is building Wright Pastoral to be a leading crossbred and Fullblood Wagyu enterprise. Glen is continuing to breed, background and produce quality, high-marbling Wagyu Beef for consumers across Australia and around the world. Under Geoff Willett’s mentorship, Glen began producing Wagyu in 2013 at Koreelah, on the NSW border and has since added additional properties around Ebor. The company runs 1,500 breeders and is continuing to expand with a goal to build their base to 3,000 breeding females.

ISSUE 79 - THE AUSTRALIAN WAGYU UPDATE

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ceo update

Dr. MATTHEW McDONAGH

ANNUAL REPORT HIGHLIGHTS Dear Members, After another 12 months of on-again/off-again face-to-face

AWA BOARD UPDATE (24 NOVEMBER 2021)

engagement opportunities with members, it has been a pleasure to

The AWA Board met for its first full meeting as a new Board on

be able to meet and speak with members again at the 2021 Annual

the 24 November 2021. The Board reviewed the following items:

General Meeting and Technical Workshop.

Outstanding presentations on structure, nutrition, expansion of Wagyu feedlotting and genetics were provided to 60 people in the

1. A change to the listed definitions in the Bylaws relating to YEAR CODE was approved by the Board. This replaces the prior definition for YEAR LETTER as follows:

room, with an additional 80 attending online.

“YEAR CODE means the combination of two digit number

All presentations will be posted

and letter designated by AWA to denote the year of birth of a

on the AWA website.

WWW.WAGYU.ORG.AU ABOUT US > AGM-WORKSHOP

2021 AGM HIGHLIGHTS

registered animal. (see table below).

YEAR

CODE

YEAR

CODE

satisfying to report significant business growth at the AWA and

2005

A

2023

23U

a small net profit for the year. This was on top of increased core

2006

B

2024

24V

2007

C

2025

25W

Delivery of the FY2021 Australian Wagyu Association Operational

2008

D

2026

26X

Plan has resulted in an increase in turnover of 33.3% from

2009

E

2027

27Y

FY2020 to FY2021, with total revenue of $4.164 million and

2010

F

2028

28Z

2011

G

2029

29A

to FY2021. This includes a 17% increase in Full members from 633

2012

H

2030

30B

to 743 and 3% decrease in Associate members from 129 to 126.

2013

J

2031

31C

During FY2021, we have continued to invest in increased skill

2014

K

2032

32D

2015

L

2033

33E

As your CEO, I am extremely pleased with the continued

2016

M

2034

34F

maturation of our systems and the capability within our team to

2017

N

2035

35G

address member queries and complete tasks in a timely manner.

2018

P

2036

36H

2019

Q

2037

37J

2020

R

2038

38K

2021

S

2039

39L

2022

22T

2040

40M

On the back of improving seasonal and market conditions, it was

service delivery, reduced project expenditure and return of the WagyuEdge Conference for the 2021 Financial Year (FY2021).

moderate net surplus of $154,075 reported.

Total membership numbers increased from 762 to 869 from FY2020

development and capability across our staff which provides increased resilience and more efficient service delivery.

10

THE AUSTRALIAN WAGYU UPDATE - ISSUE 79

This means that from 2022 onwards, calves born will be registered with a YEAR CODE eg. ABCF22T001 instead of the prior year letter eg. ABCFT001. This change is discussed in the article on page 34 of this Update edition.

All existing registered animals are not impacted by this 2022 introduction of the YEAR CODE.

2. The AWA Genetic Improvement Committee reviewed project work underway with the Animal Genetics and Breeding Unit (AGBU) to update Wagyu carcase trait genetic parameters and to test use of crossbred Wagyu genomic and phenotypic information within Wagyu BREEDPLAN. These presentations were provided to the AWA members as part of the 2021 Technical workshop and will be posted online.

3. The Board approved the AWA Fellowship Application of Lachy Gilmour from Irongate Wagyu. Lachy has returned to the family farm after some time away and is focusing his fellowship on neonatal calf loss and intervention strategies in Wagyu. Lachy will report on his work at the 2023 WagyuEdge Conference.

8. The AWA Board sub-committee structure and composition was finalised for 2021-2022.

9. Company operational performance against KPIs for the first quarter FY2022 was reviewed, with progress to date satisfactory against all key work areas.

10. First quarter FY2022 financial performance was reviewed, noting satisfactory operation against budget year to date.

11. The Board conducted its annual full review of the AWA corporate risk control plan and proposed actions to mitigate significant risks. Critical and high rated risks are reviewed quarterly.

12. The meeting reviewed the current AWA investment strategy and investment performance with AWA’s Financial Advisor. AWA’s investment strategy includes a low risk profile which targets a return on investment above CPI on an annual basis.

13. The meeting approved the admission to membership of 79 new AWA members.

4. The Board approved development of a stand-alone breed content test for determining the proportion of Wagyu and other breeds in unknown crossbred Wagyu samples with CSIRO. This will enable the AWA to undertake breed content analysis in-house.

5. AWA Board conducted a governance update and induction for the new 2021-2022 AWA Board.

6. A report was provided to the AWA Board by Mr Philip Pogson (The Leading Partnership). The report provided an external review of AWA’s governance systems and adherence to these systems over prior years. Mr Pogson made 16 recommendations in his report to the AWA Board. The report was unanimously accepted in its entirety. The Board has undertaken to respond to each recommendation and provide a summary to members within 2022.

7. A new AWA Board policy manual that condenses and modernises prior AWA Board policies into one document was approved by the meeting. The manual was developed with Ms Christine Hawkins (Directors Australia).

2022 WAGYUEDGE CONFERENCE MELBOURNE VICTORIA The WagyuEdge 2022 Annual Conference is being tentatively arranged for 26 April – 28 April 2022. It will be a condensed 2.5 day Conference with a technical session on the afternoon of the 26 April prior to a Welcome Function that evening. The afternoon start will enable most members to travel down that day and settle in the same evening for a networking and social get-together.

We will have two full days of high-quality research, technical and industry speakers with the Elite Wagyu Sale and Cocktail evening on the 27 April and the Conference concluding with the AWA Gala Dinner and WBBC awards on the evening of the 28 April.

Registration for the event will only open once we have confirmed we can comply with all Government regulations and are satisfied with safety and security of the event considering the changing COVID-19 environment.

ISSUE 79 - THE AUSTRALIAN WAGYU UPDATE

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CEO update

The Board recently approved the AWA Fellowship Application of Lachy Gilmour from Irongate Wagyu.

<<< from page 13

2022 WAGYU FELLOWSHIP AND SIMON COATES SCHOLARSHIP OPEN The Wagyu Fellowship is the AWAs mechanism to provide

Genetics, Meat Science, Human Nutrition, Management

development opportunities for young people within the

and Production, Reproduction and Breeding.

Wagyu Industry and is supported by Member donations

In honouring the late Dr. Simon Coates and his pivotal

through the annual AWA Charity Auction.

role in the development of the Australian Wagyu industry,

The establishment of a Wagyu Fellowship was for the

the Association is proud to announce as part of the Wagyu

advancement of younger people involved in the Wagyu

Fellowship Program, the creation of:

industry, including producers and academics. A Wagyu Fellowship provides funding to undertake travel intrastate, interstate or overseas for a minimum of four and a maximum of about eight weeks to conduct research into a topic that the applicant is passionate about and has experience in. Its objectives are to: 1. Develop younger leaders for the Wagyu industry.

Reproductive Science The ongoing scholarship will be available to students who are studying veterinary science or researching reproduction and breeding related to Wagyu.

Through the Dr Simon Coates Scholarship for Veterinary and Reproductive Science, we can continue to recognise the

2. Increase the education, experience and skills within the Wagyu industry.

great contributions of one of our founding members and

3. Develop lasting friendships across the international Wagyu industry.

FINAL WORD FROM THE OFFICE

4. Advance knowledge and learning in the Wagyu industry.

This year, the AWA will again be awarding a traditional Wagyu Fellowship, along with considering applicants for Wagyu Fellowship – Postgraduate Scholarships in research projects aligned to the Wagyu industry.

The awards will facilitate research and training in areas of practical value to the Australian Wagyu industries in 12

The Dr Simon Coates Scholarship for Veterinary and

THE AUSTRALIAN WAGYU UPDATE - ISSUE 79

honour his passion for the advancement of Wagyu.

It has been a great pleasure to work with the members during 2021. Our staff continue to enjoy the positive and professional interaction with members as we deliver services to you. I wish you all a Merry Christmas and look forward to hopefully seeing you shortly after the new year at WagyuEdge 2022 Conference in Melbourne.

Dr Matt McDonagh

Chief Executive Officer Australian Wagyu Association

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ISSUE 79 - THE AUSTRALIAN WAGYU UPDATE

13

EXPERTS SHARE THEIR KNOWLEDGE AT TECHNICAL WORKSHOP ON STRUCTURE, NUTRITION AND THE EXPANSION OF WAGYU FEEDLOTTING The AWA hosted a technical workshop alongside the AGM on the 23rd November, with great success we welcomed 60 people to the Armidale Bowling Club as well as 80 people online.

We heard from a number of experts in their field on structure, nutrition and the expansion of Wagyu feedlotting

IMPORTANCE OF STRUCTURAL TRAITS IN WAGYU Presented by Lock Rogers, Door Key Wagyu

PRE-FEEDLOT NUTRITION AND OPPORTUNITIES IN WAGYU Presented by Dr Robert Lawrence, IAP Nutrition

Lock Rogers was introduced to the Wagyu breed in 1993,

Dr Rob Lawrence shared his expertise in early life development

when he started production of F1 cattle for local supply

and pre-feedlot nutrition. Ensuring good pre-natal nutrition of

chains. Lock has been a long-time breeder of Angus

the cow and post-natal nutrition of the calf is vital to the success

seedstock and is widely renown as an expert cattleman with

of Wagyu cattle in feedlots in their later life.

keen eye for structure and functional traits.

Getting nutrition right in the early life is incredibly important

Over the years Lock has used the most commercially

to enable to the animal to express its marbling genetics. Dr

relevant blood lines and genetics available, using all the

Lawrence defined a term he refers to as ‘marbling window’ which

tools available including carcase data, EBVs and now

is the period from early weaning to approximately 250 days of

genomically enhanced EBVs. Some of the earliest genetics

age. Nutrient supplementation during the ‘marbling window’

are still very influential in the Door Key herd and of course in the wider Wagyu breed in general.

specifically increases the intramuscular fat cell numbers. AWA has highlighted over the last 2 years, that consistent early life

Lock presented his view on genetics and structural traits

growth rates (0.8kg or higher) are important for marbling

as they relate to Wagyu production, identifying that the

performance later in life (in the feedlot)

typical norms for British Breeds do not translate to Wagyu.

Aspects of Wagyu structure include good feet (claws), lightbones, low organ weights and relatively small mature cow size compared to other breeds. These features of Wagyu translate to high yielding, high efficiency and long-lived animals that do not break down easily.

Lock highlighted that a unique aspect of Wagyu finishing was the long-feeding regimes for slaughter stock. He emphasised the need to focus breeding on correct feet angles to ensure performance of long-fed Wagyu in feedlots and their structural integrity in transport to slaughter at high bodyweights.

Rob also highlighted that being able to determine point of maturity is incredibly important, with marbling expression (filling of marbling cells with fat) predominantly occurring after point of maturity, with maturity being the completion of skeletal and lean growth.

From a nutrition perspective, Dr Lawrence is still a believer of creep feeding calves for both the benefit of the cow and the calf itself. Creep feeding reduces the reliance on the cow to keep producing milk and allowing the cow to increase body condition score. Feeding cows to produce milk to feed calves is an incredibly inefficient process.

If you are nutritionally restricted during the post-calving period, it is far more cost effective to feed the calves than it is to feed the cow to in-turn, feed the calf. With creep feeding, an increase in weaning weight can be anywhere from 15-30kg, with a decrease in stress at weaning because the animals are already adapted to eating dry feed.

14

THE AUSTRALIAN WAGYU UPDATE - ISSUE 79

Mr Keith Howe, Managing Director of Rangers Valley (above) discusses their aggressive plan for growth.

60 people joined us in person at the 2021 Technical Workshop.

Early weaning is another critical factor, as mentioned earlier, the

of cattle across 3 feedlots. The Rangers Valley feedlot at Glen Innes

‘marbling window’ covers the period from weaning to 250 days

was previously a 24,000 head feedlot with the recent upgrade

(8 months).

pushing it to a capacity of 50,000.

If calves are early weaned at 3-5 months, they are better able

All Rangers Valley animals are sold under a structured branded

to grow consistently to realise their genetic potential. Feeding

beef program. In 2021 approximately 22,000 head of F1 Wagyu

starch and fibre to early weaned calves allows for increased rumen

and Purebred Wagyu were fed for a minimum of 360 days and

nutrient absorption capacity and increase in the size of the rumen,

about 700 Fullblood Wagyu were fed for a minimum of 500 days,

setting them up perfectly for entry into feedlot. The rest, is up to

these filling the Infinite Fullblood Wagyu and WX by Rangers

the feedlot.

Valley brands.

Keith highlighted the strong focus in quality and sustainability

CONTINUED DEVELOPMENT OF THE RANGERS VALLEY WAGYU PROGRAM Presented by Keith Howe, Rangers Valley

within all Rangers Valley systems and operations, showing carbon

Rangers Valley is one of the world’s most respected premium

for all cattle. Keith echoed the information presented by Lock

marbled beef producers, specialising in long fed pure Black Angus

Rogers and Rob Lawrence earlier in the day – that breeding,

and Wagyu cross and Fullblood Wagyu. Bringing the consumer, the

structure and backgrounding performance were vital to subsequent

highest quality, best tasting, consistently tender and delicious beef,

performance in the feedlot and that his team monitored

every time through its global export programs.

performance data rigorously.

Mr Keith Howe, Managing Director of Rangers Valley, expressed

Keith finished his presentation with comments on increasing the

that Rangers Valley is aggressive in their growth and is now a

numbers of Wagyu cattle through Rangers Valley in coming years,

company which backgrounds 10,000+ head, feeding 45,000 head

noting the trend for more Wagyu to be on feed as a proportion of

benchmarking data and explaining management practices at Rangers Valley to ensure welfare and optimal animal management

total production.

ISSUE 79 - THE AUSTRALIAN WAGYU UPDATE

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SIRE NOMINATIONS OPEN EARLY 2022 - AWA PROGENY TEST PROGRAM

2021 – 2031 AWA PROGENY TEST PROGRAM Nominations for 2022 Sires will open from Monday 10 January 2022 closing Friday 11 March 2022. Sires accepted into the program must be Fullblood Japanese Black Wagyu Sires and will attract the same entry fees as 2021 – AUD $7,500 (+GST) for Standard Sires and AUD $15,000 (+GST) for Link Sires.

The AWA Progeny Test Program has kicked off with joining programs across the eight contributor herds to produce COHORT 1 PROGENY for 40 emerging Fullblood Wagyu sires. Over the course of the program, progeny of nominated sires will be benchmarked

This second intake into the program will call for 27 new Standard

against key industry sires World K’s Michifuku

Sires and five new Link Sires to join the existing Link Sires. The AWA

and Sanjirou, thanks to the generous donation of

encourages nominations from both domestic and international members.

semen from supporting members. A full list of the

NOMINATION CHECKLIST PREPARE NOW DOMESTIC SIRES » UP-TO-DATE VACCINATIONS Pestivirus (BVD), IBR, Vibrio, 7-in-1/5-in-1 + Leptospirosis vaccine » SEMEN COLLECTED/COLLECTION DATE SET NOTE: sires with licensed semen will not require any animal health testing, however any sires that are custom collected/collected on farm will be required to have undergone and passed health testing for Pestivirus, IBR and Vribriosis.

INTERNATIONAL SIRES » QUARANTINE COMPLETE/BOOKED INTO FACILITY » SEMEN COLLECTED/COLLECTION DATE SET » SEMEN SHIPPED TO ARRIVE IN AUSTRALIA by end July 2022

participating sires can be found over page (page 18).

The eight producers that have committed cows to the first two years of the program are; Todd Cranney, Bonyi Grazing Steve and Liz Binnie, Delta Wagyu Selwyn and Jocelyn Maller, Hamilton Park Wagyu Peter Gilmour, Irongate Wagyu Adam Withers, Kuro Kin Wagyu Arthur and Pam Dew, Longford Station Paul and Claire Harris, Sunland Cattle Co Chris and Sue Zahl, Wycheproof Station The AWA would like to sincerely thank its members for the support and positive feedback they have received during this foundational year of the program.

ISSUE 79 - THE AUSTRALIAN WAGYU UPDATE

17

TABLE 1 - A full list of the participating sires in the 2021 – 2031 AWA Progeny Test Program.

<<< from page 17 Animal ID

Animal Name

Sire Owner

Herd

JKCFQ0156

Island Wagyu Q0156

Alex & Keith Hammond

Robins Island Wagyu

DSWFN3709

Tyddewi N3709

Brian Stamps

Grasslands Wagyu

TBRFN346

Trentbridge N346

Charlie Perry

Trentbridge Wagyu

TBRFN185

Trentbridge N185

Charlie Perry

Trentbridge Wagyu

BYWFL0408

Blackmore L408

Dean Pollard

Sahara Park Wagyu

ADBFQ2140

Mayura Q2140

Glen Wright, C/O: Scott McMahon

Wright Pastoral

WRPFQ0014

Wright Pastoral Q0014

Glen Wright, C/O: Scott McMahon

Wright Pastoral

MAXFQ15

Miku Maestro Q15

Hendrik Markram

Miku Wagyu

MAXFQ26

Miku Q26

Hendrik Markram

Miku Wagyu

MAXFQ28

Miku Mojo Q28

Hendrik Markram

Miku Wagyu

WYNFR308H

Wyndford Itoguni 308H

Jess Edwards

Wyndford Wagyu

WYNFR54468

Wyndford Hercules

Jess Edwards

Wyndford Wagyu

KSWFR325

Stud Mr Nami Suzutani 325H R325

Joe Petit

Kentucky Stud Wagyu

KSWFR327

Stud Mr nami 327H R327

Joe Petit

Kentucky Stud Wagyu

TFWFM0248

Takeda Farm Kinuyasu Doi

Ken Kurosawatsu

Wagyu Sekai

MYMFQ0256

Arubial Q0256

Laird Morgan

Aurbial Pty Ltd

MYMFR0010

Arubial R0010

Laird Morgan

Aurbial Pty Ltd

LSRFQ0102

Door Key Q0102

Lock Rogers

Door Key Wagyu

MSMFP0011

Marathon Michifuku P0011

Michael McCosker/Laine Thomson

Marathon Wagyu

OGWFQ038

Olive Grove Wagyu Q038

Mitchell & Loren Ruth

Synergy Wagyu

SYNFQ533

Synergy TF148 Suzutani 533G

Mitchell Ruth

Synergy Wagyu

SYNFQQ87

Synergy Mich Suzutani 87Q

Mitchell Ruth

Synergy Wagyu

KPCFL00095

Kaputar Humdinger L95

Noel Jones

Kia Ora Stud

18

THE AUSTRALIAN WAGYU UPDATE - ISSUE 79

Sire nominations - AWA Progeny Test Program

Animal ID

Animal Name

Sire Owner

Herd

MSMFR0049

Marathon Itoshigenami R0049

Noel, Jo-anne & Jessie Chiconi

Ausgyu Wagyu

SUNFH2241

Sunland Itoshigenami H2241

Paul Harris

Sunland Cattle Co

LTCFQ122

Circle8bulls Q122

Peter Bishop

Quality Genetics International

IGWFM0352

Irongate Michifuku F126 JNR M352

Peter Gilmour

Irongate Wagyu

IGWFP0788

Irongate Michifuku M352 JNR P788

Peter Gilmour

Irongate Wagyu

IGWFP1002

Irongate Michifuku P1002

Peter Gilmour

Irongate Wagyu

PWAFP7298

Putz Wagyu Beef Yasufukustar

Roland Pühringer

Putz Wagyu Beef

HWKFQ0121

Hawkesbury Shigeshigetani Q0121

Ryan Carter

Australian Country Choice

SFWFQ0026

Shadai Farm Q0026

Ryan Carter

Australian Country Choice

ADBFP1033

Mayura Prophet P1033

Scott de Bruin

Mayura Pty Ltd

ADBFP1040

Mayura Prologue P1040

Scott de Bruin

Mayura Pty Ltd

ADBFL0081

Mayura Limestone L0081

Scott de Bruin

Mayura Pty Ltd

HPWFP0031

Hamilton Park Wagyu Shig Tani 0031

Selwyn Maller

Hamilton Park Wagyu

HPWFP0065

Hamilton Park Wagyu 0065

Selwyn Maller

Hamilton Park Wagyu

HPWFP0518

Hamilton Park Wagyu Michifuku 0518

Selwyn Maller

Hamilton Park Wagyu

HPWFR0074

Hamilton Park Wagyu 0074

Selwyn Maller

Hamilton Park Wagyu

OGWFQ038

Olive Grove Wagyu Q038

Steve Taylor

Olive Grove Wagyu

MOYFK00194

Moyhu K00194

Wayne Grimshaw

Moyhu Wagyu

WKSFM0164

World K's Michifuku

Alex & Keith Hammond

Robins Island Wagyu

WKSFM0164

World K's Michifuku

Scott de Bruin

Mayura Pty Ltd

WKSFM0164

World K's Michifuku

Lock Rogers

Door Key Wagyu

WKSFM0164

World K's Michifuku

Peter Krause

Sunnyside Wagyu

WKSFM0164

World K's Michifuku

Darren Hamblin

Strathdale Wagyu

WKSFP0100

World K's Sanjirou

Scott de Bruin

Mayura Pty Ltd

ISSUE 79 - THE AUSTRALIAN WAGYU UPDATE

19

BLOODLINES vs PEDIGREES & EBVs vs GENOMICS WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE?

There is high interest within Wagyu breeders in paying homage to traditional Wagyu bloodlines that trace back to the foundation genetics originating from Japan.

From these genetics, more than 250,000 individuals have been registered with the AWA.

BLOODLINE vs PEDIGREES Bloodlines are defined as an animal’s set of ancestors or pedigree.

In cattle breeding this concept is particularly associated to desirable characteristics attributed to these ancestors.

So, bloodline = pedigree, or components/blocks of a pedigree.

Some breeders like to look at maternal lines, some look at sire lines, some look at both. As there are fewer Bloodlines in the population than individual animals, Bloodline information can be regarded as a simplified version of the pedigree of an animal.

Wagyu breeders analyse bloodlines, sometimes back five or six generations (by looking at the pedigree) in trying to understand the genetic value of their stock based on known or perceived performance of individuals in the pedigree.

Translating this to Wagyu breeding, if you are looking at a five-generation pedigree, there are eight great great grandsires and eight great great granddams. Accounting for their genetic influence and contribution through a pedigree is a significant statistical challenge. The father of Genetics, Gregor Mendel, developed the principles of inheritance that describe the transmission of genetic traits across generations. He did this in 1865 before anybody even knew that genes existed.

These principles of inheritance can be determined statistically through the analysis of pedigrees, so that estimation of genetic merit can be quantified across very long and complex pedigrees spanning multiple generations.

Quantitative Genetics is the field of science that was born in 1865 from Gregor Mendel’s work. It studies the genetic or inherited basis of variation in phenotypes across generations, using analysis of pedigree and trait records. Using quantitative genetics, breeders can determine the inheritance patterns through large and complex pedigree trees to

Vol. 78 The Wagyu industry’s premier trade magazine produced by the Australian Wagyu Association

assist prediction of genetic merit in their herds.

www.wagyu.org.au August 2021

In the Wagyu Update Volume 78, pp 34 – 40, we used an example sire SMOFF0278 to show how carcase records contribute to predicting the WAGYU UPDATE MAGAZINE Issue 78, pages 34-40

genetic merit of an animal across generations.

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20

THE AUSTRALIAN WAGYU UPDATE - ISSUE 79

Using this sire again as our example, his five generation pedigree, with eight great great grandsires and eight great great granddams is shown in Figure 1 (over page).

Each one of these 16 great great ancestors (theoretically) provides 6.25% of the genetic makeup of the current animal.

PEDFAJ6109 SHIGEKANENAMI J6109 PEDFA10632 SHIGESHIGENAMI J10632 PEDFAJ774695 SHIGEMITSU J774695 (FB4751) IMUFQTF148 ITOSHIGENAMI (IMP USA) PEDFAJ10756 FUKUMASA J10756 PEDFA661 FUKUYUKI PEDFAJ456691 YUKIZAKURA J456691

SUMFX0081 SUMO ITOSHIGENAMI X0081 (AI) (ET) PEDFA201 MONJIRO J11550 WKSFM0164 WORLD K'S MICHIFUKU

100%

25%

50%

genetic contribution

genetic contribution

genetic contribution

12.5%

6.25%

genetic contribution

genetic contribution

PEDFA215 MICHIKO J655635 (AI) SUMFT0250 SUMO FUKU T250 (AI) (ET) IMUFN2294 TF ITOHANA 2 (IMP USA) IMUFR3254 TF CHIYOTAKE 22/4 (IMP USA) (ET) PEDFM2443 TF CHIYOTAKE 9

SMOFF0278 SUMO CATTLE CO ITOSHIGENAMI F278 PEDFAJ10787 KIKUTERU DOI J10787 IMUFJTF40 TERUTANI J2494 TF40 (IMP JAP) PEDFA538 TANIFUKU 2 J601115 IMUFR3258 TF TERUTANI 40/1 (IMP USA) (AI) (ET)

FIGURE 1 Five generation pedigree of the SMOFF0278 showing relative genetic contribution of each generation.

PEDFA500 ITOMICHI J1158 PEDFA2453 TF DAI 2 KINNTOU 3 PEDFA464 DAI 2 KINTOU J337756

CCOFC0418 COATES TANI C418 (AI) (ET) PEDFA301 KIKUYASU DOI 575 IMUFM2100 KIKUYASU 400 (IMP JAP) PEDFA302 FUKUYOSHI J703223 SUMFU2179 SUMO YASU U2179 (AI) (ET) IMUFN2127 TF KIKUHANA (IMP USA) IMUFR3259 TF DAI 2 KINNTOU 35/3 (IMP USA) (ET) PEDFA2453 TF DAI 2 KINNTOU 3

ISSUE 79 - THE AUSTRALIAN WAGYU UPDATE

21

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THE AUSTRALIAN WAGYU UPDATE - ISSUE 79

Bloodlines vs Pedigrees & EBVs vs Genomics

PEDFAJ6109 SHIGEKANENAMI J6109 PEDFA10632 SHIGESHIGENAMI J10632 PEDFAJ774695 SHIGEMITSU J774695 (FB4751)

404 IMUFQTF148 ITOSHIGENAMI (IMP USA) PEDFAJ10756 FUKUMASA J10756 PEDFA661 FUKUYUKI PEDFAJ456691 YUKIZAKURA J456691

FIGURE 2 Five generation pedigree of the SMOFF0278 showing the 1,295 carcase data records across the generations within his pedigree.

9

SUMFX0081 SUMO ITOSHIGENAMI X0081 (AI) (ET) 530

PEDFA201 MONJIRO J11550 WKSFM0164 WORLD K'S MICHIFUKU PEDFA215 MICHIKO J655635 (AI)

SUMFT0250 SUMO FUKU T250 (AI) (ET) IMUFN2294 TF ITOHANA 2 (IMP USA)

carcase data records

IMUFR3254 TF CHIYOTAKE 22/4 (IMP USA) (ET) PEDFM2443 TF CHIYOTAKE 9

143 SMOFF0278 SUMO CATTLE CO ITOSHIGENAMI F278 42

PEDFAJ10787 KIKUTERU DOI J10787 IMUFJTF40 TERUTANI J2494 TF40 (IMP JAP) PEDFA538 TANIFUKU 2 J601115

162 IMUFR3258 TF TERUTANI 40/1 (IMP USA) (AI) (ET) <<< from page 21

PEDFA500 ITOMICHI J1158 PEDFA2453 TF DAI 2 KINNTOU 3

If we overlay SMOFF0278’s pedigree with his carcase progeny record numbers and those of

PEDFA464 DAI 2 KINTOU J337756

CCOFC0418 COATES TANI C418 (AI) (ET)

animals in his pedigree (Figure 2), we can see that using quantitative genetics, we can obtain far greater information on how SMOFF0278’s performance as a carcase sire compares and relates to other animals in his pedigree.

In using the phenotypic carcase data from animals sired by SMOFF0278 and those from across the

5

PEDFA301 KIKUYASU DOI 575 IMUFM2100 KIKUYASU 400 (IMP JAP) PEDFA302 FUKUYOSHI J703223

SUMFU2179 SUMO YASU U2179 (AI) (ET) IMUFN2127 TF KIKUHANA (IMP USA) IMUFR3259 TF DAI 2 KINNTOU 35/3 (IMP USA) (ET) PEDFA2453 TF DAI 2 KINNTOU 3

generations of pedigree for SMOFF0278, we can accurately determine the relative genetic merit of SMOFF278 and calculate the merit of ancestors in his pedigree for those traits.

AWA BREEDPLAN does this job by calculating the Estimate Breeding Values (EBVs) considering all available pedigree and phenotypic data provided by all AWA members. EBVs account for pedigree (bloodline) and performance data.

EBVS vs GENOMICS After Gregor Mendel discovered inheritance, the first DNA sequences were obtained over 100 years later in the late 1970’s. The first full mammalian genome sequence (the mouse) was not completed until 2002.

In the 20 years since this achievement, our modern understanding of the complexity of the mammalian genome has grown immensely.

The bovine genome was first completed in 2004. This enabled a new ability to look for genetic differences (different mutations) across the whole genome, by comparing the DNA sequence of different individuals and determining where there was DNA sequence variation.

Genomics is the field of science that studies the genes, gene sequences, their inheritance and function. In quantitative genetics, our use of genomics now includes studying the variation in genes between individual animals and determining how these variations relate to performance differences (phenotype differences) between animals.

ISSUE 79 - THE AUSTRALIAN WAGYU UPDATE

23

<<< from page 23 These genetic variations occur naturally

inherited by an animal and how these are

These are reported as the AWA published

through mutations in DNA that accumulate

estimated to affect trait performance, in

EBVs for registered animals.

over time. You can compare the phenotypes

addition to using all pedigree and trait

Single-Step EBVs are not genomic EBVs,

information that is recorded.

they use genomics, pedigree and trait

of animals with a mutation, to those without a mutation and see if there is any

performance information in one calculation

statistical difference. You can do this with a

Combining genomic information with

single mutation, or thousands of mutations

pedigree and performance data is what we

best estimate of genetic merit that can be

across the whole genome.

call the generation of Single-Step EBVs.

determined.

to estimate genetic merit. This gives the

Genomic SNP chips are tools that allow us to screen an individual animal’s DNA for differences between many thousands

1

of genetic mutations that occur naturally

0.9

across the whole genome of an animal.

0.8

We currently use ‘high-density’ chips

0.7

that contain between 50,000 to 100,000 different mutations (SNPs) spanning the whole genome.

Using genomics (the data from the SNP chips), we can determine which SNPs are

0.6 0.5 0.4 0.3

positively or negatively associated with

0.2

different traits across the whole Wagyu

0.1

population. We can then determine if those SNP are present in the DNA of an individual and use this information to improve the genetic prediction (the EBV) for that animal.

So, for AWA members doing genomic testing (50K or 100K SNPs), that information allows BREEDPLAN to account for the individual mutations 24

THE AUSTRALIAN WAGYU UPDATE - ISSUE 79

IMPACT OF ACCOUNTING FOR DIFFERENT GENETIC AND NON-GENETIC INFORMATION IN DETERMINING EBVs

0 RAW PHENOTYPE

ACCOUNTING FOR MANAGEMENT EFFECTS

FIGURE 3 The impact of accounting for different genetic and non-genetic information in determining EBVs using genomic information, parent information, or all information (BREEDPLAN EBVs) for the 400 Day weight trait (yearling weight).

Courtesy Dr Yuandan Zhang (AGBU)

BREEDPLAN EBVs GEBV PEBV SINGLE-STEP EBVs NO GENOMICS

Bloodlines vs Pedigrees & EBVs vs Genomics

Genomic EBVs are estimates of genetic merit that only use genomic information and its relationship to a set of trait performance data.

Figure 3 shows the relationship between 400 Day Weight measurements (yearling weight) and EBVs calculated using different levels of information.

Within Figure 3, the strength of the relationship is shown on the Y axis, with a strength of 0 equal to no relationship and a strength of 1 equal to a 100% relationship- i.e., they are the same.

SIMPLE DEFINITIONS BLOODLINE ANALYSIS Looking at a pedigree information

Looking at the bars on the left-hand side of the graph (raw phenotype), we can see that the relationship between raw phenotype data and predicted EBVs from genomics alone (GEBV) or from using the mid-parent value

QUANTITATIVE GENETICS

alone (PEBV) are both quite low (less than 30%).

Analysing trait data with

The middle bars on the graph show the relationship between the GEBVs

pedigree information to

and mid-parent PEBV with the phenotype data once management factors

quantify genetic merit

including management group, birth date, sex, the cow, the season etc., are taken into account. We can see that the ability of genomics and pedigree to

GENOMICS

predict the phenotype are much better.

Analysing trait data with

The bars on the right-hand side of the graph are the BREEDPLAN EBVs

genome data to quantify

using genomics, pedigree and trait data (light blue = Single-Step EBVs), vs

genetic merit

pedigree and trait data alone (no genomics: teal). You can see that both EBVs have a very strong relationship with the phenotype data, but the addition of genomic information in the light blue Single-Step EBV calculation improves the prediction.

SUMMARY

SINGLE-STEP Analysing trait data with pedigree data and genomic data to quantify genetic merit

The pedigree of Wagyu animals can span many generations. Mining these pedigrees for useful information is very complex and is the reason why the scientific field of Quantitative Genetics exists. Through AWA BREEDPLAN, we publish EBVs for a large number of traits. These EBVs include pedigree, trait performance data and genomic information to derive the most reliable genetic estimate for individual animals.

ISSUE 79 - THE AUSTRALIAN WAGYU UPDATE

25

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THE AUSTRALIAN WAGYU UPDATE - ISSUE 79

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TRICKY TRAITS BACK TO BASICS ADDRESSING COMMON TRAIT RECORDING ISSUES TO MAXIMISE YOUR DATA VALUE

Over the last 3 years, the number of Wagyu Breeders who record trait performance data on their herds has increased significantly.

Many members record and then submit this to the AWA for inclusion in the BREEDPLAN genetic analysis.

As discussed in the article Bloodline vs Pedigrees …. page 20 of this Wagyu Update edition, trait performance data is a critical component for generating AWA BREEDPLAN EBVs. Trait data is vital to our genetic analysis. AWA members are increasingly submitting their performance data for a wide range of birth, fertility, growth and carcase traits to improve the analysis and the accuracy of EBVs for the animals in their herds.

Figure 1. below shows the trends in the number of performance records submitted each year for a selection of Wagyu traits over the past decade.

The number of AWA members that are enrolled as BREEPLAN data contributors has increased by 70% over the last two years, to over 150 active data contributors. Although the trends for performance recording and data submission to Wagyu BREEDPLAN continue to increase over recent years, it is important that the data provided by members is able to be used

FIGURE 1 Performance recording trends for key growth and carcase traits over the ten years to 2019.

No. BREEDPLAN records submitted each year 12,000

in BREEDPLAN so that they obtain the maximum benefit from their efforts.

Wagyu BREEDPLAN data submission by year of data entry

BW 200

9000

600 MS

6000

CWt 3000

0

‘10

‘11

‘12

‘13

‘14

‘15

‘16

‘17

‘18

‘19

‘20

ISSUE 79 - THE AUSTRALIAN WAGYU UPDATE

27

<<< from page 27 Some AWA members report that although collecting data might be easy or routine within their cattle operations, understanding the requirements for that data to be useful within the AWA BREEDPLAN analysis is not as straight forward.

RECORDING DATA IN MANAGEMENT GROUPS An overriding requirement for members seeking to get the most out of their data by submitting it to AWA BREEDPLAN, is to record

TIPS ON TRICKY TRAITS The following information is taken from excellent resources developed

by Southern Beef Technology Services (SBTS) and was provided by Ms Catriona Millen. The source information can be found in the BREEDPLAN Help Centre – Recording Performance page.

WWW.BREEDPLAN.UNE.EDU.AU > HELP-CENTRE

as many animals as possible in a management group at the same time. It is also important to keep animals in the management group together for as long as possible, so that your data is as useful as possible.

RECORDING BIRTH WEIGHTS

A fundamental aspect of genetic analyses is the comparison

Birth Weight EBVs are estimates of genetic differences between

of animals within management groups to determine genetic

animals in calf birth weight. Birth Weight EBVs are expressed in

differences between animals. Only animals that have had an

kilograms (kg) and are calculated from the birth weight of calves.

equal opportunity to perform are directly compared together within BREEDPLAN. There are two different forms of breeder defined management groups: 1. The “Birth Management Group” allows breeders to describe different treatments of the cows prior to the birth of the calf.

For example, where one group of cows have had different feed availability that may affect the birth weight and/or calving ease and/or gestation length when the calf is born.

2. The “Post Birth Management Group” allows breeders to identify animals that have received different treatment or management following birth that has influenced their performance. This treatment may be deliberate (eg when some of your young bulls are castrated or receive supplementary feeding and others do not) or accidental (eg if a calf is sick).

WHY IS MANAGEMENT GROUP IMPORTANT?

WHY SHOULD BIRTH WEIGHTS BE RECORDED? Firstly, if you are recording birth weight, you are obtaining an accurate date of birth on the calf. Accurate birth dates are essential within BREEDPLAN as they provide the basis for calculating 200, 400 and 600 day weight accurately and birth date is used for comparing animals of similar ages within management groups.

Birth Weight is also an important component of calving ease.

If birth weights of calves are too high, this can start to result in calving difficulty. Calving difficulty has an obvious negative impact on the profitability of a herd through increased calf and heifer mortality, slower re-breeding performance and considerable additional labour and veterinary expense.

Conversely, if birth weight of calves is too low, this can lead to weak calves with poor resilience and ultimately, calf survival issues.

management groups, genetic analyses do not compare individuals

WHAT CONSIDERATIONS SHOULD BE MADE WHEN RECORDING BIRTH WEIGHTS?

between different groups on different dates. For example, if you

Birth weight should be recorded for the whole calf crop. Without

weigh a paddock of steers on one day, BREEDPLAN can compare

comparisons to the other calves, "occasional" measurements are of

the weights of those steers to determine genetic merit if they are in

no value and can actually be misleading.

one management group.

There are significant fluctuations in the weight of a calf over its

If you also weigh a paddock of heifers on the same day, BREEPLAN

first week of life. Therefore, it is important to weigh calves as close

can compare the weights of the heifers to determine their genetic

to birth as possible. Ideally, measure birth weight within 24 hours

merit. However, BREEDPLAN will not compare the steer weights

of birth. Do not guess birth weight or use girth/chest size to estimate

to the heifer weights directly, but it will use the information from

birth weight. Either weigh the calves or don't record birth weight.

both the steer and heifer groups in calculating EBVs.

A birth management group should be recorded if there are different

The point here is that if possible, keep your management groups

treatments of the females prior to calving that may affect birth

as large as possible for as long as possible, so that the comparative

weight. For example, where one group of cows have had different

information within your management group data is most effective

feed availability. A separate birth management group should also be

within BREEDPLAN.

assigned if the weight of the calf has been affected by special

Put simply, if you weigh animals on separate days in separate

28

THE AUSTRALIAN WAGYU UPDATE - ISSUE 79

Tricky traits: back to basics

circumstances (e.g. premature calves, the dam was sick etc.)

Be wary of protective cows while weighing calves. It is important to take due care when collecting this information.

RECORDING INFORMATION FOR GROWTH TRAIT WEIGHTS 200, 400 AND 600 DAY WEIGHTS The Weight EBVs are calculated from the live weight performance of

200 200-DAY GROWTH Valid age range can be recorded between

animals when they are between 80 and 900 days of age.

Within this age range, BREEDPLAN will use the age of the animal at weighing to determine whether the particular weight is used in

80 - 300 days

the calculation of the 200 Day Growth, 400 Day Weight or 600 Day

400

Weight EBV using the following age splits.

If a 200 day weight for a calf was taken at 280 days of age, BREEDPLAN will consider the age of the calf at weighing and adjust the weight accordingly.

WHAT CONSIDERATIONS SHOULD BE MADE WHEN RECORDING GROWTH TRAIT WEIGHTS?

400-DAY GROWTH Valid age range can be recorded between

301 - 500 days

Weights should be recorded to the nearest kilogram using accurate scales that have been calibrated and tared to zero.

Breeders should choose weighing dates that fit in with their management and are also reasonably close to when the average age

600 600-DAY GROWTH Valid age range can be recorded between

of the group of calves is approximately 200, 400 or 600 days old (depending on the respective weight being taken).

Do not submit weights for heifers that are more than 3 to 4 months

501 - 900 days

pregnant at weighing, unless they are at a similar stage of pregnancy and have been pregnancy tested. This is most relevant when submitting 600 Day Weights for heifers that are being calved down at 2 years of age.

ISSUE 79 - THE AUSTRALIAN WAGYU UPDATE

29

<<< from page 29 BREEDPLAN can analyse up to two weights in each age range (i.e. 2 x 200 day weights, 2 x 400 day weights and 2 x 600 day weights). While there is no requirement to collect multiple weights in each age range, a second weight can help to increase EBV accuracy.

A management group should be entered for any calf or group of calves that have either been treated differently or exposed to significant non-genetic influences since the previous weighing. For example, calves given a supplement should be recorded in a different group to those without a supplement.

Management group consideration should also be given to variations in pasture quality, stocking rates, water quality, etc. Calves that have been sick should also be placed into a separate management group to their peers.

To ensure the maximum number of calves are analysed in the same management group, you should try to weigh all the animals from one management group on the same day. BREEDPLAN will automatically split your management groups if you weigh on different days. Ideally, calves should be weighed when they are in as large a group as possible. Consequently, try to weigh calves before any of the calves in the management group are treated differently. For example, weigh before you castrate some of your bull calves.

FEMALE WAGYU AUCTION 30

THE AUSTRALIAN WAGYU UPDATE - ISSUE 79

APRIL 2022 QUE HORNERY 0428 789 009

Tricky traits: back to basics

Mature Cow Weight EBVs are an estimate of the genetic difference in cow weight at five years of age ...

RECORDING MATURE COW WEIGHTS

cow is older than 2.4 years of age (870 days)

the BREEDPLAN analysis will use the

at the time of weighing.

management groups submitted with the

BREEDPLAN will only analyse the weight

200 day weights of their calves to sub-

of a mature cow if the cow has a calf with

group the weights of the cows.

a valid 200 day weight recorded at the

Therefore, if you have correctly recorded

same time (i.e. calf aged between 80 – 330

the management group information with

days of age), and this 200 day weight was

the 200 day weight performance for your

recorded within two weeks of when the

calves, then you only need to assign a

mature weight of the cow was taken.

different management group to a cow that

In practice, it is recommended that you

has experienced an issue that would have

collect the mature weight for a cow at the

an effect on her weight that is different to

same time you are recording the 200 day

that experienced by her calf. For example,

WHY SHOULD MATURE COW WEIGHT BE RECORDED?

weight of her calf. Mature cow weights

if the cow was injured/sick or has been

should be recorded to the nearest kilogram

supplementary fed.

The weight of mature cows in a commercial

using accurate scales that have been

If both the mature cow weights and

beef enterprise has a considerable influence

calibrated and tared to zero.

the 200 day weights for their calves are

on profitability. In particular, mature cow

BREEDPLAN can analyse up to four

submitted without management group

weight will have a major effect on:

mature cow weights for each cow. Over

information, the BREEDPLAN analysis

Cow Feed Requirements – in general,

time, this will give an average mature cow

will assume all cows and calves have been

lighter cows will tend to eat less and

weight for your animal. It is recommended

run under similar management conditions.

consequently have lower feed requirements

that you weigh all cows when taking 200

and be less expensive to maintain.

day weights on their calves, every year.

Cull Cow Values – the major determinant

BREEDPLAN will only analyse the mature

in the value of cull cows in a commercial

cow weight performance of a cow if her first

herd will be live weight. Consequently,

valid mature cow weight has been taken

heavier cows may provide higher returns

before she is six years of age (2200 days).

from the sale of cull cows.

If she is older than this, then none of her

Mature Cow Weight EBVs are calculated from the live weight performance of mature cows. Mature Cow Weight EBVs are an estimate of the genetic difference in cow weight at five years of age and are based on the weights recorded for cows at the same time as the 200 day weights are recorded for their calves. This is necessary so that all cows are evaluated at a common production point.

WHAT CONSIDERATIONS SHOULD BE MADE WHEN RECORDING MATURE COW WEIGHTS? For Mature Cow Weight, BREEDPLAN will only analyse a mature cow weight if the

mature weights will be analysed.

Management groups work slightly differently for mature cow weights. If no management group information is defined for a set of mature cow weights,

ISSUE 79 - THE AUSTRALIAN WAGYU UPDATE

31

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THE AUSTRALIAN WAGYU UPDATE - ISSUE 79

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ISSUE 79 - THE AUSTRALIAN WAGYU UPDATE

33

CHANGE OF AWA ANIMAL REGISTRATION IDENTS YEAR CODE INSTEAD OF YEAR LETTER FOR 2022 REGISTRATIONS

The AWA has used a year letter system for registration of animals, to denote the year of birth of all animals in the AWA Herdbook. There are only 24 letters in the alphabet, but time is infinite. So, what happens when we run out of letters?

The AWA Bylaws define how the AWA constructs Animal ID’s for the registration of animals as follows IDENTIFICATION in relation to an animal means the unique series of the following information on that animal; its Herd Code, Grade Code, Year Letter and Calf‑Drop Number.

Using the English alphabet as the base of the 24 year letters, we do not use the letter “O” or the letter “I” due to

HERD CODE is a unique identification approved by AWA for

the potential for confusion as numerical integers within an

each herd for the purposes of registration. It comprises a three

Animal ID. This leaves us with only 22 year letters that have

character code. The code may be made up of three letters,

been used to create an animal’s unique identification.

or three numbers or a combination of letters and numbers.

As communicated at the 2021 WagyuEdge Conference

The herd code is part of the identification with which an animal

and throughout 2021, each animal registered in the

must be identified

AWA Herdbook is required to have a unique registration identifier. This is the “Animal ID”.

GRADE CODE means the number or letter denoting the grade

With the First Wagyu genetics arriving in Australia more

of an animal or the section of the register in which the animal is

than 30 years ago, we are in the predicament of the risk

registered.

of Animal ID duplications becoming increasing greater as larger numbers of animals are being born in herds that have

YEAR LETTER means the letter designated by the Association

been registering animals for 22 years or longer.

to denote the year of birth of a registered animal.

CALF-DROP NUMBER means the unique identification, consisting of a maximum of 5 alphabetic letters and/or numbers, allotted by the herd owner to each calf born in his herd for that year. (This excludes the Herd Code, the Grade Code and Year letter)

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THE AUSTRALIAN WAGYU UPDATE - ISSUE 79

Change of AWA animal registration idents

Using the above components to build an animal’s

However, the proportion of recently born animals exposed to

Identification, ensures that every animal registered with

the risk of having a duplicated ID will escalate as the number

the AWA has a unique Animal ID which is critical for the

of calves registered 22 years ago is increasing every year.

registration, DNA testing and BREEDPLAN systems to operate accurately.

We now have several herds that have been registering calves for more than 22 years. There is a risk that IDs of calves from the most recent birth year could be duplicating IDs of animals born 22 years prior.

In 2020 the first animal ID duplication occurred in one of foundation Wagyu herds, the well know JKC herd – Island Wagyu. A polled 52Y sired 2019 born calf was requested for registration with the same animal ID as a 1995 born calf.

So what happened? The duplication of Animal ID was detected, but the duplication enabled testing of the impacts of Animal ID duplication through the AWA systems as follows:

To manage this risk, the AWA Board approved the use of a Year Code instead of a Year Letter, along with changes to the AWA Bylaws that note the use of a “Year Code” instead of a “Year Letter” as follows:

YEAR CODE means the combination of two-digit number and letter designated by AWA to denote the year of birth of a registered animal.

YEAR

CODE

YEAR

CODE

2005

A

2023

23U

2006

B

2024

24V

2007

C

2025

25W

2008

D

2026

26X

which could cause the incorrect sample to be tested if

2009

E

2027

27Y

DNA testing was requested for animal JKCPQ0004;

2010

F

2028

28Z

2011

G

2029

29A

the parentage verification system identified that

2012

H

2030

30B

JKCPQ0004 was already registered and didn’t rerun

2013

J

2031

31C

2014

K

2032

32D

2015

L

2033

33E

2016

M

2034

34F

2017

N

2035

35G

2018

P

2036

36H

animal was different to the genomic parentage of the

2019

Q

2037

37J

2019 born animal submitted.

2020

R

2038

38K

In the case of JKCPQ0004, the prior registered animal

2021

S

2039

39L

registration was able to be changed so that JKCPQ0004

2022

22T

2040

40M

a) When the DNA test request was submitted for JKCPQ0004 (2019 born) our registration system recognized the Animal ID as an animal which is already registered and assigned the test request to the 1995 born animal; b) The DNA lab recorded the Animal ID in their system

c) Within the AWA Parent Verification process,

the parent verification; d) When the 2019 born JKCPQ0004 DNA result was loaded into AWA genetic analysis system it was linked to the 1995 born animal; and e) The next BREEDPLAN analysis rejected the DNA result as the registered parentage of the 1995 born

could be registered.

ISSUE 79 - THE AUSTRALIAN WAGYU UPDATE

35

Change of AWA animal registration idents

<<< from page 35 Within the table on page 35 for 2022, the corresponding Year Code is 22T. The annotation of Year Code being the combination of the last two-digits of the Calendar Year, along with the traditional year letter. Each subsequent year then reflects the same two-digit and year letter code.

WHAT DOES THIS MEAN FOR WAGYU REGISTRATIONS OF CALVES BORN IN 2022?

WHAT DOES THIS MEAN FOR PAST WAGYU REGISTRATIONS?

From the 01 January 2022, all registrations of new

NOTHING. Past Wagyu registrations will not

calves born in 2022 will reflect the following registration identifier (Animal ID) structure example: ABC HERD CODE

change. They are all unique and can be searched using the Animal ID that already exists for that

F

22T

0001

animal. Existing Animal ID’s will not change.

GRADE CODE

YEAR CODE

DROP NUMBER

DO I NEED TO CHANGE ANYTHING IN MY REGISTRATION FORMS FOR 2022?

This animals ID would be ABCF22T0001

NO, the AWA system for animal registration will automatically apply the year number (22) to the Year Letter (T) for 2022 born calves to create the Year Code (22T). As a member, you can continue to fill out the AWA Registration form as per normal. AWA will apply the Year Number to create the Animal ID for you. In the case of animals which were born before 2022, the registration system will automatically determine that the birth date is before 2022 and will only apply the Year Letter even though the animals are registered in 2022

HOW DO I SEARCH ANIMALS ON THE AWA WEBSITE OR IN BREEDPLAN? When you are searching for 2022 born calves, you will need to remember to use the year code (22T) in the animal ID search.

HOW DO I BRAND OR TAG MY CALVES? You can still use your normal on farm branding or tagging system. For example, you can brand or tag with T0001 as your management tag number, using the same system you have always used. When the animal is registered with the AWA, the Year Code will be added, i.e. ABCF22T0001

36

THE AUSTRALIAN WAGYU UPDATE - ISSUE 79

ISSUE 79 - THE AUSTRALIAN WAGYU UPDATE

37

MIJ MOBILE DEVICE THE NEW MIJ MOBILE PHONE OBJECTIVE GRADING CAMERA HAS ARRIVED

Following on from AUS-MEAT accreditation of the MIJ-30 camera for Marble Score 0-9+, Meat Image Japan (MIJ labo Inc.) have tested and released their new mobile device for the Australian market. The MIJ mobile objective grading camera will make MIJ quality imaging available to more customers - the new addition to the already well known and respected technologies released by MIJ labo Inc. This new device follows similar principles of development and refinement displayed by the MIJ-30 camera, but in a smaller and more available package.

Professor Keigo Kuchida first demonstrated the MIJ mobile phone technology to AWA members during the 2017 Japan Tour. MIJ Labo Inc. has been scientifically testing and

hour, under Australian conditions.

KEY FEATURES OF MIJ MOBILE PHONE OBJECTIVE GRADING TECHNOLOGY

The MIJ-30, MIJ mobile, MIJ mobile with BEAK (Australian configuration) are all

» Optimised configuration for carcase grading

validating MIJ mobile phone configurations several years. The new MIJ mobile objective grading camera has been developed for Australian processing conditions with a unique Australian configuration including a specific imaging BEAK. Like the MIJ-30, the new MIJ mobile technology is capable of rapid and accurate throughput, imaging more than 200 carcases in the chiller or at a grading stations every

INPUT devices for collecting carcase ribeye images. A lot of time and research has been spent on camera development for each unit.

» Can grade all recognized grading site locations » Over 200 carcases graded per hour

All MIJ models have access to the same "MIJ carcase database" and perform automatic

» External LED lighting has been added to

analysis. The contents of the analysis include the research results and patented

accurately capture carcase ribeye images » Easy to use interface for tailoring the device

technology of Professor Kuchida for more than 30 years and cannot be imitated elsewhere. The AWA have extensively tested the MIJ mobile side by side with the MIJ-

to individual users

30. The MIJ mobile uploads carcase images to the same cloud-based digital analysis

» Image captured review

platform as the MIJ-30. This means that image analysis on the MIJ mobile provides the

» Overall, the whole device is only about 1.2kg total

same data output fields as the established MIJ-30 commercial grading camera.

» Standard carcase trait reports as for MIJ-30 data

The technology also allows for image capture review, allowing the user to review the image just taken and if required, they can elect to retake the image before saving the

MIJ mobile units will sold and supported

image for upload. This paired with a simple Bluetooth barcode pairing of carcases tags

through the AWA and will be available for order

to image ID’s means that a full recovery and comparison of carcases traits and data

very soon.

can easily be done. If WiFi or adequate Mobile roaming data signal is available, then automatic image upload to the online database can occur. This means that

FOR MORE INFORMATION, CONTACT

the captured ribeye image can be automatically uploaded and analysis calculated

AARON VAN DEN HEUVEL aaron@wagyu.org.au

within 5 to 10 seconds, giving real time feedback data for the user.

38

THE AUSTRALIAN WAGYU UPDATE - ISSUE 79

ISSUE 79 - THE AUSTRALIAN WAGYU UPDATE

39

STANBROKE IS PURCHASING WAGYU F1S AND FULLBLOODS Stanbroke’s Diamantina Wagyu brand has proudly won back-to-back titles at the 2021 Darling Downs Beef Battle competition.

Stanbroke is purchasing quality bred Fullblood and Wagyu F1 steers and heifers by AWA registered Wagyu Fullblood bulls following Stanbroke genetic values.

Stanbroke supply chain vendors receive full feedback information on feeder cattle processed for our award-winning Diamantina brand.

FOR ALL LIVESTOCK ENQUIRIES DUANE WOODHAM duanew@stanbroke.com | 0438 298 080 RUSSELL HANDLEY russellh@stanbroke.com | 0418 120 605 RICHARD SHERIFF richards@stanbroke.com | 0428 557 258

stanbroke.com 40

THE AUSTRALIAN WAGYU UPDATE - ISSUE 79

MELBOURNE, VICTORIA - 28half APRIL 2022of workshops Two26and days and inspiring speakers

SAVE THE DATE

The conference is an opportunity to bring together all components of the

26 - 28 APRIL 2022

Wagyu sector in a forum of learning and networking to help our industry to advance Wagyu – the World’s Luxury Beef.

LOCATION Pullman and Mecure Melbourne Albert Park TICKETS Early bird tickets available now. Book today

CONFERENCE HIGHLIGHTS Wagyu Branded Beef Competition Awards Presentation, Gala Dinner and the annual Elite Wagyu Sale. Day one of the conference will focus on our position within the global Wagyu sector, animal health and information from some of our Australian breeders. Day two will examine the latest in research and development from across the globe.

Keen to be a Sponsor?

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Partnership with the AWA gives you a unique opportunity to reach a global Wagyu audience through our media channels and events. For more information please contact Emily Rabone

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ISSUE 79 - THE AUSTRALIAN WAGYU UPDATE

41

UNLOCK YOUR MOST PROFITABLE GE NETICS JOIN STOCKYARD’S NET FEED INTAKE TRIAL

In conjunction with MLA and the AWA we are offering you the chance to gain unprecedented access to data on the feed efficiency of your cattle.

COHORT DATES

Our program arms you with individual animal data, and the analytic tools and support you’ll need to maximise profits and enable selection for feed efficiency, without jeopardising marbling performance or other desirable traits. With upgraded analytical software and added in-pen weighing cells, joining the trial now will give you improved granularity and accuracy of data.

Limited placements available in trial

CONTACT US FOR MORE INFORMATION GEORGE LUBBE General Manager Feedlot Operations george@stockyardbeef.com.au 0408 502 787 PHOEBE JENKINS Genetic Improvement Officer phoebe@stockyardbeef.com.au 0439 221 469

42

THE AUSTRALIAN WAGYU UPDATE - ISSUE 79

23 March, 2022 6 July, 2022 19 October, 2022

NET FEED INTAKE – BE REWARDED FOR YOUR THRIFTINESS FEEDER STEER NOMINATIONS FOR THE NFI PROJECT ARE OPEN NOW, WITH LIMITED INTAKE GROUPS REMAINING.

Working with Meat and Livestock Australian

total of 180 animals can be fed under NFI test

and Stockyard Kerwee Feedlot, AWA

conditions in a single test intake.

members have a limited opportunity to have

The induction and NFI testing period

Fullblood progeny of their sires tested for Net

currently totals 100 days, so the pens have

Feed Intake (NFI)

the capacity to run three feed test intakes

So far, approximately 1,000 progeny from

each year totaling 540 animals, providing

58 different sires have been tested. We

significant capability for Wagyu sire testing

anticipate that these numbers will double by

over the next 2 years. Seven full cohorts have

the end of the project – presenting a limited

been completed so far. There are 6 cohorts

opportunity for AWA members to have their

remaining in the project with animals now

sires tested for NFI.

being accepted for 2022 intakes.

Using the data on progeny from the anticipated

If you have groups of Fullblood feeder steers

~120 sires, the AWA will be looking to test NFI

available for feedlot entry now, or becoming

EBVs for Wagyu production and understand

available during 2022, please contact Carel

the opportunity for Wagyu supply chains to

Teseling (carel@wagyu.org.au) or George

benefit from using more efficient genetics.

Lubbe (george@stockyardbeef.com.au) to find

The AWA has been conducting NFI studies

out about the requirements for the NFI project

since 2018, at Kerwee Feedlot near Jondaryn

and having your progeny tested through

Queensland using the Growsafe (now

feedlot finishing in the Stockyard program.

Vytelle) Feeders. The Wagyu NFI project is

Analysis conducted by Kirsty Moore from

necessary to understand opportunities to

the Animal Genetics Breeding Unit (AGBU)

FOR MORE INFORMATION, CONTACT

cost-effectively feed long-fed Wagyu cattle

on the data collected in the NFI project to

in the future. It is also vital information to

date, shows that there is a potential variance

contribute to our understanding surrounding

of 0.8kg/day NFI across sires. That means,

CAREL TESELING carel@wagyu.org.au

genetic variability in methane production in

there are sires whose progeny consume 0.8kg

future Wagyu research.

less feed per day for the same growth rate –

Stockyard Kerwee Feedlot has two production

presenting an opportunity to significantly

pens fitted with GrowSafe feeders with each

reduce feed costs over long feeding periods.

GEORGE LUBBE george@stockyardbeef.com.au

pen capable of feeding 90 head. Meaning a

ISSUE 79 - THE AUSTRALIAN WAGYU UPDATE

43

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THE AUSTRALIAN WAGYU UPDATE - ISSUE 79

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17/11/21 3:17 pm

GERMAN WAGYU ASSOCIATION (GWA) PARTNERSHIP WITH THE AUSTRALIAN WAGYU ASSOCIATION

The German Wagyu Association (GWA) was founded in 2008. A small group of only seven breeders were the founding members.

Until today the number of members has grown to nearly 200. It is a mixture of smaller and medium sized farms/operations and some larger producers.

The structure of the involved organisations

For this purpose, we participated as an

as such is quite different from the

exhibitor in the ANUGA, the worlds biggest

Australian Wagyu Associaton. We have

fair for nutritional products. Just to show

several public breeding organisations,

that there is Wagyu beef from Germany

which are registering the animals/genetics

and the quality is good. Up to now, most

– based on official herdbooks, which are acknowledged by our authorities. This has to be done under the regulations of the European Union. It sounds quite complicated, but this ensures that the registration is officially done and the

of the breeders are selling the beef more regionally. Especially this regionality has become very important for the consumer in Germany. In the future we will have more producers in Germany, which are looking for additional market opportunities. We performed our third national Wagyu Beef

animals/genetics can be traded within the

Contest and published the results to the

EU with a pedigree. In the near future we

chefs and consumers. Furthermore, we

will have two separate herdbooks. One is a

are in the process of establishing a Wagyu

closed herdbook for fullblood Wagyu only

seal – one for Fullblood and the other one

and the second one is an open herdbook

for Wagyu Cross, to achieve a higher level of

for purebred Wagyu, where breeders are

transparency for our consumers.

allowed to add other genetics in order to

In order to produce Wagyu beef on a

breed polled Wagyu for instance.

constant good level for the German market,

The GWA is focused on the development

we have to start with the breed and its

of the breed as such and to support its members with different services. We are three honorary board members and have a steering committee of three additional members. One year ago we launched a business plan, which is focused on our

special requirements. So far breeders mostly use only some genetic test results as “quality indicators”, like SCD and Tenderness.

Furthermore, the public breeding organisations are doing a classification on skeleton - musculature – breed character for the breeding animals. Some bits and

development over the next three years.

pieces, which are not really supporting the

One main point is the development of the

development of the breed. As the ancient

breed, the other focus is to support the

philosopher Aristotle said, the whole is

marketing of the beef.

greater than the sum of its parts.

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Partnership with the Australian Wagyu Association

<<< from page 45 The Australian Wagyu Association, as the oldest Wagyu breeding organisation outside Japan, has a much broader and more detailed view developed over the past decades, which is much more related to the

We hope that it is possible to come with a group of German breeders (next year) to Australia to participate personally in your conference and tour.

special properties of this breed.

The AWA’s BREEDPLAN genetic analysis

as well. Based on this partnership, we offer

our breed as a global resource.

has a very high transparency and provides

the German Wagyu breeder the access to

We hope that it is possible to come with

data on a broad range of traits important

the AWA, supporting the registration of the

a group of German breeders (next year)

for Wagyu breeding. It is the only reliable

members and the animals. This helps us

global analysis and provides information

to Australia to participate personally in

bridge the language barrier and gives us the

relevant to the entire registered

your conference and tour. This would be

opportunity to develop the breed on a more

really great for us to share in the global

professional base. On the other hand the

Wagyu community.

Wagyu population.

Furthermore the AWA has established

AWA can broaden its worldwide data base

itself as a globally renown and professional

and the network, which should be beneficial

organisation, performing many different activities, which can inspire the German breeders on an individual basis. Bottom

to its breeders and maximising the available genetic diversity in Australia.

line, the AWA offers a lot of opportunities

I had the opportunity to visit the AWA office

and tools, which are acknowledged by

and meet with the highly professional people

Wagyu breeders from all over the world.

– in 2019, before the pandemic started. This

Therefore, more and more breeders are

convinced me, as the Chairman of the GWA,

joining the AWA, as the GWA is doing

to cooperate with the AWA for the good of

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THE AUSTRALIAN WAGYU UPDATE - ISSUE 79

I would like to thank the board and the staff members of the AWA for the support so far and look forward to a continued good cooperation.

Uwe Jerathe

Chairman of the Board For the German Wagyu Association

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ISSUE 79 - THE AUSTRALIAN WAGYU UPDATE

47

WAGYU BREEDERS ASSOCIATION (WBA) PARTNERSHIP WITH THE AUSTRALIAN WAGYU ASSOCIATION

Thanks to the tremendous efforts of its Members and Directors, working in tandem with our partners throughout the supply chain, the Wagyu Breeders Association (WBA) in the UK & Ireland is making great strides not just in terms of the numbers of cattle being registered but the overall influence the breed is having on beef production, its marketing as well as consumer demand. WBA aims are to work with all our partners to deliver a great product to the consumer reflecting the unique properties of Wagyu and furthering its reputation as the world’s finest beef!

MIJ CAMERA TECHNOLOGY

WAGYU BIRTHS UP BY +65%

MIJ (Meat Imaging Japan) technology has now

Figures released by the British Cattle Movement

reached the UK and is being used in both the

Service (BCMS) for 2020 show that British Wagyu,

Fullblood and crossbred sectors including at a major

known for its highly marbled premium beef, has

abattoir where several thousand scans are anticipated

increased its numbers by 65% on the year. The

in the first year. The potential benefit for British

figures, for beef cattle born in England, Wales &

Wagyu is huge.

Scotland reveal almost 10,000 Wagyu-sired calves

Comments WBA Director Philip Maddocks

were born in 2020. Of these, 8388 were crossbred

“Not only will the MIJ camera technology give us a

(sired by a Wagyu bull) and 1047 purebred or

way to differentiate on price as well as quality, but

Fullblood - totalling 9,435 head of Wagyu animals

the carcase data we collect will help us improve our

when compared to 5,699 in 2019. Wagyu now

genetics as well as our efficiency of production to

represents around 1.5% of beef-sired calves born in

maximise return. As Wagyu breeders and producers,

GB. The current growth predicts a 5% market share

we can use this tool to change the beef industry as we

within 3 years.

know it.”

WBA Director Chris Dickinson says “This is a real sign that Wagyu is well on its way to becoming a crucial part of the UK beef industry.

British Wagyu is now on far more restaurant menus across the UK as customers are drawn to its high marbling and fantastic taste.”

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THE AUSTRALIAN WAGYU UPDATE - ISSUE 79

Partnership with the Australian Wagyu Association

Wagyu calves with their British Wagyu-branded DNA tissue eartags from Caisley

BRITISH WAGYU ASSURANCE SCHEME

48hrs. This data gives our dairy farmers a better chance of getting

WBA-Approved British Wagyu - Fully WBA Assured British Wagyu

cows back in calf quickly and getting up to peak milk quicker.”

In July 2020, the WBA established a British Wagyu Assurance

Genus also conducts the WBA’s sire verification programme for

Scheme which included a published set of rules for Members to

commercial calves entering the British Wagyu quality assurance

adhere to in order to be able sell under its auspices. Members fulfilling

scheme.

the criteria may display the WBA Approved British Wagyu / Fully WBA Assured British Wagyu logo (pictured above) at their premises, on their marketing materials, product packaging, and will have their animals listed publicly on the British Wagyu website. They will also receive a certificate confirming their membership of the scheme for the year in question. The scheme will: » Lead the industry in terms of traceability, animal welfare and consumer trust » Enhance the integrity and value of premium Wagyu beef » Be at the forefront of data collection for meat quality, performance efficiency and climate change » Increase the profile and demand for British Wagyu

FULLBLOOD REGISTRATIONS Full members of WBA are automatically paid-up overseas members of our partner the Australian Wagyu Association (AWA) allowing them to register Fullblood calves and be part of the ABRIBREEDPLAN performance recording evaluation. Comments BWBA Secretary, Richard Saunders: “We’ve been working with Australia since we started in 2014. This partnership is crucial in accessing high-quality member, registration and technical services to help the breed flourish further here.”

WORLD WAGYU COUNCIL The UK is one of the founder members of the newly created World Wagyu Council (WWC) whose

GENUS VALIDATIONS

objectives are to:

WBA is partnering with Genus to provide genetic evaluations for

» Facilitate the development of the Wagyu breed

crossbred Wagyu calves. Data is collected throughout the animal’s life from birth (calving ease, birthweight, gestation length) through to slaughter (daily liveweight gain, deadweight, marble score).

Several thousand marble score records have already been collected at a number of plants with the aim of producing validations such as deadweight vs marbling score and age at slaughter vs marbling score and feed conversion rate (FCR) – ultimately relating these back to the sire. Over time, accuracy and predictability of these tools will increase as more and more animals come through the system. On the maternal side, Genus has recently released results of the first calving survey on three bulls.

Colin Lucas, Regional Business Manager for Genus Breeding

and product internationally with goodwill and integrity » To foster good relations between member associations » To promote the Wagyu breed and especially the product throughout the world » To exchange scientific and technical information amongst its members » To provide a forum for establishing the next country to host World Wagyu Conference (2023 USA; 2026 South Africa; 2029 UK/Germany) » Establish protocols for the exchange of Wagyu genetic information between World Council members

Ltd, comments

» Help facilitate business opportunities between member countries

“We asked our dairy farmers to fill in a survey which includes data

To find out more visit www.britishwagyu.co.uk or follow us on

on calving difficulty, calf vigour, calf size and calf survivability at

Facebook ‘Wagyu Breeders Association’; Twitter @BritishWagyu ISSUE 79 - THE AUSTRALIAN WAGYU UPDATE

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THE AUSTRALIAN WAGYU UPDATE - ISSUE 79

SPOTLIGHT FROM TEXAS, USA

BREEDPLAN DATA KEY FOR M6 CATTLE CO Kevin and Jessica Moore are the sole owners and operators of M6 Cattle Co. LLC, and have been married for 29 years and have a 22 year old daughter, Emily, who recently graduated from university with a Bachelor of Science degree.

Alvarado, Texas USA

The Moore family has been in the cattle business for generations and the seed stock business since 1971. Kevin grew up on the inside of the business and partnered with his dad, Jack Moore, in his early adult life.

As a boy and after graduation from Texas A&M University where he got a Bachelor of Science degree and National Champion livestock judging experience, Kevin has worked every job needed in order for the M6 Ranch to survive and thrive…cow/calf duties, beef delivers, herd health, cattle evaluations, DNA, registrations, data records, construction, feed programs, grass management, farming, AI and ET responsibilities, show cattle, genetics, marketing, customer service, accounting, etc.

Jessica has been involved every step of the way, helping where needed and loving the agriculture life style. Jessica and Kevin besides their faith in Jesus Christ have depended on beef to meet their financial needs. There was a slogan painted on a wall at the “old” M6 Ranch sale pavilion that stated “When You Depend On Beef For Your Bottomline” M6 Ranch.

Jessica and Kevin are living examples of their cattle business providing a wonderful way of life.

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BREEDPLAN data - key for M6 Cattle Co <<< from page 45 The M6 Ranch is a smaller operation since

double lung transplant to stay alive. She

the passing of Kevin’s parents, however, the

tried a variety of different diets in order to

M6 Ranch can still operate approximately

have an edge in survival. Jessica stopped

200 cows plus, replacement heifers, bull

eating ”choice” beef fattened the traditional

development and feeding slaughter cattle.

American way. Kevin did not enjoy the

The M6 Ranch started transitioning

grass-fed beef and started bringing

to fullblood Wagyu in 2014 from an

home Wagyu beef while pointing out the

internationally known Charolais program.

health benefits.

Our goal is to breed the best of the best and without a comprehensive measuring stick to separate young cattle was near impossible. Cow/calf artisans with production agriculture values ingrained can separate cattle based on efficiency, production traits and cow‑man common sense but we needed genetic tools based on science and less opinions to make these cattle better.

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THE AUSTRALIAN WAGYU UPDATE - ISSUE 79

Both Jessica and Kevin were happy with their new found beef and M6 Ranch started its Wagyu breeding adventure. The days of “more pounds of choice beef in fewer days and less feed” were over. The Moore’s sold their famous Charolais herd. The new pursuit for Kevin and Jessica/M6 Ranch was producing the “best tasting and healthiest beef in the world”.

Kevin and Jessica’s Wagyu beginnings were not without extreme frustration. Kevin says

From 2001 to 2016 (15 years in a row), the

“Our goal is to breed the best of the best and

M6 Ranch earned the highest averaging

without a comprehensive measuring stick to

Annual Charolais production sale in the

separate young cattle was near impossible.

United States while marketing about 300

Cow/calf artisans with production

bulls a year.

agriculture values ingrained can separate

The catalyst for switching breeds from

cattle based on efficiency, production traits

Charolais to Wagyu was the potential

and cow-man common sense but we needed

health benefits in Wagyu beef. Jessica

genetic tools based on science and less

was extremely sick in 2013! She needed a

opinions to make these cattle better”.

Ultrasound work

It might not be the American thing to do but we have to do it. It will either break us or make us but we are going to DNA test every animal in the Australian Wagyu Association in order to get Genomic enhanced EBVs. We have to embrace the most accurate science available in order to make better and more profitable decisions.

It did not take long for the Moore’s to find the Australia Wagyu Association data base with tens of thousands of records backing up their science. An added benefit is the foundation genetics used in Australia and American are the same which creates genetic evaluation linkage.

At the time Australian EBVs and now Genomic enhanced EBVs were not conventionally accepted by American Wagyu breeders but the Moore’s could not ignore this tool of EBVs to try and breed better cattle.

Kevin explained “It might not be the American thing to do but we have to do it. It will either break us or make us but we are going to DNA test every animal in the Australian Wagyu Association in order to get Genomic enhanced EBVs. We have to embrace the most accurate science available in order to make better and more profitable decisions”.

No doubt the Moore’s had been researching the data for the better individuals and more profitable cow-families in addition to putting selection pressure on their herd for years prior to their 100% commitment to EBVs because the M6 Ranch produces genetics that rank at the top of the breed in BREEDPLAN. The Moore’s are grateful and thankful that the more progressive Wagyu breeders in America have recently embraced Genomic enhanced EBVs from BREEDPLAN.

ISSUE 79 - THE AUSTRALIAN WAGYU UPDATE

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BREEDPLAN data - key for M6 Cattle Co

<<< from page 51 Kevin says “EBVs have been good to make the M6 Ranch cattle better and good for the breed”. The M6 Ranch had it’s first Wagyu production sale in 2017 and it’s first sale with Genomic enhanced EBVs in 2021. The M6 Ranch 2021 sale set a record as the highest grossing sale in American Wagyu history ($2.7 million and averaged over $12,000 per head). The high sellers had top 1% genetics based on BREEDPLAN EBVs. Now Jessica and Kevin are preparing for the 2022 M6 Ranch Bull Sale on April 9th, including 80 fullblood Wagyu bulls and featuring the current #1 Wagyu Breeder Index bull in ALL of BREEDPLAN and the #1 Self Replacement Index bull in North America. In fact, 5 of the top 10 Self Replacement Index bulls in North America will be offered at the 2022 M6 Ranch Bull Sale on April 9th.

Kevin is very excited about, M6 RANCH ITOSHIGENAMI R073H. Kevin says “073H has top 1% genetics for 6 traits in addition to every $Profit Index. He is also FREE of all recessive genetic conditions. This bull makes Multiple Trait Selection look easy”.

Kevin says “At M6, we are using our years of experience in our goal to make Wagyu cattle even better, in our pastures and on the plate. What has worked for us is stacking pedigrees with Trait Leading sire through our extensive E.T. and A.I. program.

We measure everything on the hoof, in the lab and on the rail in order to identify elite individual genetic differences.

Australian Wagyu Association Single-Step EBVs are a huge source of information for cattle evaluations. After we have identified curve bender, elite individuals, we mass produce the good ones. Mating cattle for progress is our passion so that each Kevin and Jessica Moore sole owners and operators of M6 Cattle Co. LLC with daughter, Emily,

calf crop is better than the previous one. Our aim is to supply our customers with a consistently excellent product. Whether you are buying Beef, Breeding Bulls or Females or Frozen Genetics, M6 is providing dependable quality!

At M6, we have embraced the ultimate challenge in breeding Wagyu cattle. We are selecting for more carcass quality, more performance, more phenotypic eye-appeal while keeping heifersafe calving ease. The M6 Ranch is home to top 1% Wagyu genetics and Jessica and I plan to provide the industry with more top 1% Wagyu genetics in the years ahead.”

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THE AUSTRALIAN WAGYU UPDATE - ISSUE 79

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SPOTLIGHT FROM BLOEMFONTEIN, SOUTH AFRICA Namibia

Botswana

Bloemfontein

South Africa

ET AND AI DRIVES GENETIC GAIN AT ABSOLUTE WAGYU Absolute Wagyu (Pty) Ltd is the culmination of a shared passion and vision for the Wagyu breed in South Africa. The company consists of five shareholders, four of which are in the veterinary industry, with the fifth as a director of one of the major grain companies in South Africa. These shareholders are experts in their fields and bring together an exceptional skill set, which allows for a wide understanding when it comes to making informed breeding and selection decisions.

Three of the four veterinarians are specialists in reproduction of large and small stock (cattle, sheep, and goat),Giving Absolute Wagyu the opportunity to utilize assisted reproductive technologies to further advance their Wagyu herd.

The Absolute vision is to produce world class Wagyu genetics for the Southern African Wagyu market, by working together with all role players in the value chain – from seed stock producers right through to the final product on the shelf.

To ensure long term success, they only make use of proven Wagyu genetics. In the local context, they already have high marbling carcase data for several of their top breeding bulls. All genetics that they import are carefully selected on the individual performance and Single-Step genomic breeding values of each animal.

Artificial Insemination (AI) is used to produce terminal crosses from proven genetic bulls for the feedlot and slaughtering market.

Embryo Flushing and In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) is used to multiply the top genetics in their herd and supply superior genetic animals to local stud breeders.

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THE AUSTRALIAN WAGYU UPDATE - ISSUE 79

Their sister company, Absolute Genetics Inc., specializes in providing these reproductive services to all cattle breeders in South Africa and now also offer semen sexing services, together with Ramsem (Pty) Ltd and the world-renowned company Sexing Technologies.

Absolute are the first in Africa to offer this technology, giving stud breeders the ability to plan how many heifer- or bull calves they would like to produce in a breeding season. Specifically focusing on which superior genetic bulls or cows to produce top replacement animals. For example, by using AWA index values and EBV’s, they determine the genetic rank of each animal in their herd. Then selecting the top 1% bulls from the Absolute herd to produce male and female sexed semen and selecting

The Absolute vision is to produce world class Wagyu genetics for the Southern African Wagyu market, by working together with all role players in the value chain – from seed stock producers right through to the final product on the shelf.

the top 5% cows to produce sexed IVF embryos.

The female sexed semen is then used to AI the top 50-75% herd females. The bottom 25% of the females are either used as embryo recipients or artificially inseminated with male sexed semen for terminal cross production.

In terms of Wagyu, there is the unique benefit of producing only male animals for feedlot production, thereby ensuring higher carcass weights. This is Absolute Wagyu’s newest production objective, practiced on all the crossbred and commercial females in their herd.

Absolute Wagyu believe it is a privilege to work with breeders from around the world through their participation as a member of the Australian Wagyu Association.

Given the limited genetic diversity in Japanese Black genetics and the coverage of the global herd by the AWA Herdbook, all breeders can maximize their genetic gain and manage their diversity using the AWA’s resources. Absolute Wagyu recognize the global leadership position of the AWA in providing data driven, high accuracy EBVS and profit $Indexes across the largest global registry of Wagyu genetics.

ISSUE 79 - THE AUSTRALIAN WAGYU UPDATE

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TM

BRANDED WAGYU BEEF #WORLD’S

LUXURY BEEF

CALL FOR ENTRIES INTO THE 2022 COMPETITION COMPETING ACROSS FULLBLOOD, CROSSBRED AND COMMERCIAL CLASSES Entries close 11 February, 2022

MORE DETAILS wagyu.org.au/wbbc

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THE AUSTRALIAN WAGYU UPDATE - ISSUE 79

Santa Fe, New Mexico USA

SPOTLIGHT FROM NEW MEXICO, USA

LONE MOUNTAIN RANCH CONTINUED COMMITMENT TO FULLBLOOD STATESIDE Lone Mountain Ranch, one of the largest undeveloped tracts of land in between Santa Fe and Alberqueque, is proud of its commitment to producing Fullblood Wagyu beef.

A family-run operation, Lone Mountain Ranch was established in 1965 by Marion and Glen Lloyd, running traditional ranch straight backed animals that were evenly balanced from nose to tail.

Well respected in the industry, Bob Estrin took on management of Lone Mountain Ranch with his wife Mary, daughter of Marion and Glenn in 1995.

A self-confessed city boy, Bob’s background was in film editing in Hollywood, which he says, taught him about attention to detail, where ‘one frame adjustment could make a world of difference’.

Soon after taking on management, Bob could see that the farm’s traditional approach of 30 years was creating problems for the farm’s bottom line. A new approach was needed. A chance restaurant visit eating Wagyu sashimi was Bob’s turning point.

Sourcing two bulls in Washington State, Bob started out with an F1 program, where

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HOW IS YOUR LIVESTOCK DATA MAKING YOU MORE PROFITABLE?

TO LEARN MORE, VISIT WWW.PRACTICALSYSTEMS.COM.AU

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THE AUSTRALIAN WAGYU UPDATE - ISSUE 79

Lone Mountain Ranch continued commitment to Fullblood stateside

In recent years we have seen a tremendous increase in knowledge from our customers around different kinds of Wagyu, with many familiar with Wagyu from Japan, Australia and locally ...

<<< from page 59 the first batch through the feedlot achieved a grading of 95% USDA Prime, in a time where Prime was averaging 6-9% IMF – and only 3% of the national herd achieved Prime.

Encouraged by the results, further Wagyu cows were sourced, and the first Fullblood calf was born in 2005 and by 2010 Lone Mountain Ranch was producing enough Fullblood Wagyu beef to supply a direct line into restaurants around the country.

“I was a voracious reader of all things Wagyu in those days,” said Bob Estrin, during the recent WagyuEdge 2021 Conference. “I savoured every issue of the Australian Wagyu Association’s website and magazines and made two trips to Australia for conferences and a trip to Japan for Zenkyo to learn as much as I could”.

“My passion for technology allowed me to work with Wagyu utilising BREEDPLAN EBVs, as well as imaging carcases with a camera we bought from Mr Shogo Takeda”.

“We did find that our data differed from that of BREEDPLAN in the beginning, for example Kitaguni and Yasufuku had low marble score EBVs, even though our results showed the progeny were outstanding. By adding our data to BREEDPLAN, the EBVs increased by substantial margins. The results were striking.”

Bob has also been impressed with the new Australian genetics, especially the influence of Itoshignami Jnr, who he believes is Australia’s ‘next big thing’, and is looking to infuse the Lone Mountain herd crossing back across some of the foundation bulls ISSUE 79 - THE AUSTRALIAN WAGYU UPDATE

61

Lone Mountain Ranch continued commitment to Fullblood stateside

<<< from page 61 of Yasufuku, Kitaguni, Michifuku and Shigeshigetani.

“In recent years we have seen a tremendous increase in

With a belief that the Wagyu market is robust globally,

knowledge from our customers around different kinds

Bob expressed the view that Associations around the world

of Wagyu, with many familiar with Wagyu from Japan,

take Australia’s view of reciprocal recognition of Wagyu

Australia and locally,” said Reid.

genetics to build a stronger future. The level of Fullblood

Nebraska, with grading done to USDA criteria, making it

They are learning about the different attributes of brands and how it relates to the breeding behind the beef and Australia has played a large part in that growing interest and it has resulted in a new higher standard for F1 and percentage Wagyu.

even more vital to use their own camera and to submit data

Reid also echoes Bob’s sentiments saying that there is

to BREEDPLAN to improve the breed and genetics.

plenty of market for the industry to produce different types

From chief operating officer, Reid Martin’s point of view,

of Wagyu to improve the eating and product experience

the biggest challenge for Lone Mountain Ranch is to

through better practices and genetics.

Wagyu beef operations in the US is still quite small, and it is hard to determine the size of the overall market, as there is no segmented data at this point. The ratio of F1-F3 to Fullblood that is processed in the US would be 90% and only a few thousand head per year. There are indications that in the coming years that ratio will change as more Fullblood operations come to maturity.

In terms of processing capabilities for Wagyu, there is few options available to Lone Mountain Ranch, but Mr Reid Martin said that they worked with one abattoir in

continually differentiate the product from F1 beef citing that pricing and quality are ‘all over the place’ and confusion about what Wagyu is, abounds.

Lone Mountain Wagyu, Chief Operating Officer, Reid Martin presenting remotely during the 2021 WagyuEdge Conference.

If you missed the presentation from Lone Mountain, it is available to stream now.

vimeo.com/ondemand/wagyuedge2021

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THE AUSTRALIAN WAGYU UPDATE - ISSUE 79

P e r f e c t i n g t h e p r o d u c t i o n o f q u a l i t y Wa g y u Exciting News, Australian Crossbred Carcase data will soon be considered for inclusion with Wagyu BREEDPLAN analysis.

This inclusion will help fast track the accuracy and relevance of Wagyu Carcase EBVs. Please contact us to help submit your crossbred data.

PETE AND PIP BISHOP Owners of Bishop Wagyu | Director of Quality Genetics International

contact @bishopwagyu.com 0429 454 189 0427 454 189

2014

FEEDLOT OF THE

YEAR

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CONTACT ANTHONY WINTER FOR DETAILS

OF THE LONG FED LOT FEEDING OF WAGYU

Macquarie Wagyu A feedlot devoted to product excellence.

Our dedicated team of experts measure and manage every aspect of the breeding and feeding process maximising Wagyu’s breeding traits.

BROAD WATER DOWNS PTY LTD

+61 400 337 472 (Anthony) office@macquariewagyu.com www.macquariewagyu.com

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