The effectiveness of genomics in delivering value hinges upon the support of a well-recorded genomic reference population – particularly for hard-to-measure and lowly heritable traits. The genomic reference population refers toContinue reading “Making the most of Genomics”
Author Archives: anguspro
AngusPRO Education Module — 1 August
It’s that time again — we have calves on the ground! The most exciting part about this time of year is that these calves are now the latest and oftenContinue reading “AngusPRO Education Module — 1 August”
RECIPE — Angus Beef Eye Fillet Steaks
With Garlic & Herb Butter, Mushrooms, Roast Potatoes and Sweet Carrots
Talking Genomics
Genomic selection in seedstock animals most commonly involves the inclusion of genomic profiles in existing industry genetic evaluations, such as the TransTasman Angus Cattle Evaluation, to calculate genomically enhanced breeding values.
Genomically enhanced breeding values enable more accurate selection decisions, earlier in an animal’s life, and for additional traits and animals, and ultimately, greater genetic improvement.
B+LNZ Beef Programmes on Track
As the seven-year Informing New Zealand Beef programme reaches the halfway mark, its focus is shifting to extension, education and the development of genetic evaluation tools.
Dan Brier, Beef + Lamb New Zealand’s (B+LNZ) General Manager Farming Excellence, says Informing New Zealand Beef (INZB) is well on track to deliver on its overall purpose of breeding great-tasting beef underpinned by a strong environmental and welfare story.
New Meat Quality RBVs
Research Breeding Values (RBVs) have emerged as pivotal tools in the TransTasman Angus Cattle Evaluation (TACE), offering Angus breeders invaluable insights into the genetic makeup of their cattle. The recent introduction of two new RBVs, MSA (Meat Standards Australia) Marbling Score and Shear Force, marks a significant stride towards empowering breeders with the ability to make informed selection decisions aimed at enhancing the quality of beef products for the end consumer.
AngusPRO Education Module — 12 June
Farming is bloody tough at the moment, nobody can deny that. Looking forward at how your future farming system looks allows you to make the right decisions now. Buying aContinue reading “AngusPRO Education Module — 12 June”
Building on a Legacy
It’s been a bumper season at Shenley Station, a sheep and beef hill country property near Albury in South Canterbury. So good in fact that Kate and John Hughes have just finished making and carting hay — the first time it’s been done on the farm in 20 years.
Redefining what’s Possible
When Tom Sanson and Dr Andrew Cribb took on the lease at Whangara in 2021, they knew they had to make rapid changes to bring the objectives of the stud back to fruition.
Three generations of Lane brothers have farmed Whangara, most recently the late Patrick Lane. Patrick had a big focus on using high-growth American Angus genetics that had carcass quality to boot. However, in more recent years, rightly or wrongly, the reputation of their structure had come into question and change was needed.
Cow Herd Efficiency
When you’re looking at efficiency in cattle there are two main aspects. There is profitability — maximum output from minimum input — and there’s environmental — every kilo of input produces methane so reducing input ultimately reduces the total methane emissions.
Neither of these concepts is anything new, however, the addition of the Net Feed Intake EBV on animals registered with Angus Australia has brought efficiency into the spotlight here in New Zealand.