THE HEAVYWEIGHT CHAMPION
and their progeny have to thrive in. In the past, it was generally thought that the European breeds such as Simmental were “softer” and required easier farming conditions than their traditional Angus and Hereford counterparts. However, there are more breeders challenging this conception and breeding Simmental cattle that can do well on hill country.
Pound for pound, Simmentals are unbeatable. 8.5% to 23.3% extra live weight gain at weaning. 10% extra live weight gain at finishing. 3% extra return on finished carcass weight.
Cows have to calve unassisted out on the farm and therefore calves have to be good at getting up and having feed straight after birth. Cows need to have good mothering ability.
BEAUTY IS IN THE EYE OF YOUR ACCOUNTANT
The Society currently has a contract with ABRI Australia to provide registration services and performance recording. Simmental NZ also works on contract with PBBNZ (Performance Beef Breeders NZ) which provides and combines services for the main breeds in New Zealand. All contracts and day to day running are provided by PBBNZ.
Here are an example of just some of the commercial straplines and selling points that that Simmental NZ are using to market and promote the breed in New Zealand
Beef + Lamb NZ Genetics progeny test results prove that a Simmental sire over your cow herd produces the heaviest progeny, and they’re getting some of the highest prices per kg.
HERE FOR A GOOD TIME, NOT A LONG TIME Reach optimum carcass weight before the second winter – less feed, less cost, less fuss. Nothing finishes faster than a Simmental.
COOL, CALM AND MONEY COLLECTED Simmental were the first breed to produce an EBV for docility to allow breeders to actively select for quiet temperament. The misconception that Simmentals are temperamental has been laid to rest. They just get the job done, no drama. The majority of stock in New Zealand are fed grass only, outside in all weathers. Supplements may be some hay or silage. Most New Zealand Simmental tend to be a little smaller and more athletic than their British counterparts because of the environment that they
Simmental NZ are currently working on getting EBVs (Estimated Breeding Values) to include genomic evaluations. Sires have to be DNA profiled to verify parentage. Breeders are encouraged to take advantage of the increasing genetic information available. For example, whether stock is horned or polled. Important because of increasing animal welfare restrictions on dehorning. Another example is the colour issue. Genomic testing is available to identify the dilution gene which will give grey coat colour over black cows – can be important for farmers crossing Simmental over Angus and Angus cross cattle. For the last five years, Simmental NZ has been financially involved in supporting a Beef Progeny Test evaluating EBV’s. It has been a worthwhile investment as Simmental has done well in most areas. There are just over 4,000 cows registered at present with Simmental NZ. More information and stories of New Zealand Simmental can be found on www.simmental.co.nz
The Review 2020
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