Page 10 - Hooked On Herefords Magazine October 2018

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Use bull EBVs to make Being exact

more money makes you money.

The first crop of calves from Beef + Lamb New Zealand (B+LNZ) across New Zealand – is very clear in its findings. EBVs do
Genetics’ Beef Progeny Test have all been processed and the work,” says Mr Tweedie. Being a Hereford
results are out. “If we drill down into specific traits, you see that some are
B+LNZ Genetics National Beef Manager Max Tweedie said the strongly reliable. For instance, the growth EBVs – 200, 400 and Association member
resounding conclusion is that estimated breeding values (EBVs) 600 Day Weight – are very strong, with calves delivering close to
work. what their sires’ EBVs predicted.
“Averaged across all of the traits we measured, bulls’ EBVs “By the time you’re looking at the 600 Day Weight performance, saves you money too.
delivered 73% of the performance they predicted. the heaviest EBV sire’s calves weigh 66kg more than the lightest
“Put simply, that means using bulls with better EBVs gives you sire’s calves. At $3/kg, that’s worth an extra $198 per calf.”
reliably better calves – that is, on average, calves perform in line Other traits that perform reliably close to their EBV predictions
with what their sires’ figures predicted. And, the consequence were fertility – “Days to calving” EBV – and Rib Fat.
of that is better returns.” When it came to carcase performance, there was a “satisfactory”
The test’s first mating was in 2014 and has involved about 2200 – i.e. actual calf performance was less than half that predicted
cows and heifers on five large commercial properties each year by the EBV – for Intra Muscular Fat (IMF) and Carcase Weight
since. A mix of both internationally-sourced and New Zealand EBVs. Exclusive deal for our NZ Hereford members
semen has been used, covering a wide range of breeds. Some “So, yes, some EBVs are predicting calf performance better Tru-Test’s next generation weighing and EID systems not and catch animal health issues early. Combined with
sires had highly accurate EBVs, while others were low accuracy. than others. While this project isn’t all about EBVs, the early only give you more control and features than ever before, Tru-Test’s MiHub Livestock Management software, you
Regardless, the sire’s EBVs predictions lined up with actual calf and clear message is that EBVs do a good job of producing the they’re also faster and easier to use. Track and monitor the can easily turn your weighing data into clear and valuable
performance. progeny they predict they will. performance of each sire against individual growth targets insights. It’s never been easier to track the performance of
The progeny have been monitored for key performance traits. “The principal stands: EBVs work.” and compare with the rest of the herd. Quickly identify your sires and make better informed decisions, which will
Steers are assessed on their finishing and carcase traits, while To view the full report visit www.blnzgenetics.com/progeny-tests/ poor performers, optimise your breeding programme make you more money.
replacement heifers are tracked for their maternal characteristics.
“These results relate to the steers from that very first mating For more information, contact:
and the heifer progeny’s own first matings. Not everyone is Max Tweedie
convinced that EBVs are all they’re cracked up to be. But this B+LNZ Genetics National Beef Manager GET AN EXTRA
large-scale test – carried out under real commercial conditions, Mob: 027 404 5205, Email: max.tweedie@blnzgenetics.com XRS2 EID STICK READER $
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HEREFORD CLUBS Talk to your local rep
Please advise the Hereford Office of any changes to committees following your AGM’s.
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Find out more at tru-test.com 0800 TRU-TEST (878 837)
10 NZ HEREFORD ASSOCIATION NEWSLETTER