Angus Sire Benchmarking Summer Update
The last of the Cohort 12 steers were processed during October. The carcases are MSA graded, and we collect meat samples to take back to the lab for IMF testing to provide direct measurement and phenotypes to inform the carcase intramuscular fat EBV (IMF%). The average MSA index of the Cohort 12 steers was 66.21. If we look at the average grade data across all the Cohort 12 mobs, the average steer had a 446kg carcase, MSA Marble of 610, ossification of 155, EMA 92cm2, rib fat 18mm and P8 fat 28mm. Back at the lab, the steers averaged 11.3% IMF with the highest sampled steer coming in at 25.9%. By the time this is published, the data will have been added to the database and run through TACE, and the Cohort 12 Progeny Performance Report updated and published.
Most of the Cohort 13 steers are now on trial at the UNE Tullimba Research feedlot. They are currently undergoing methane testing and net feed intake testing. These steers were on display at the upcoming UNE Efficient Beef Updates on the 27th of November. Meanwhile, their sisters are undergoing natural joining back on-farm in their respective cooperator herds. Scanning, structure, weights and coat data will start coming in over the coming months.
Lastly, the Cohort 15 sires were announced back in September. More than 50 nominations were received, with the final lineup consisting of 20 Australian sires, 3 New Zealand sires and 2 American sires. The sires were selected based on their merits in various areas, including genetic diversity, their current and future impact on the Angus seedstock and commercial industry, and their performance for the ASBP cooperator cow herds and commercial supply chain partners. The two US sires are also being used in the American Angus progeny performance program.
If you have any ASBP or research related questions, please contact liam.mowbray@angusaustralia.com.au.
– Dr Liam Mowbray, R&D Specialist
