www.wagyu.org.au
Publisher THE AUSTRALIAN WAGYU ASSOCIATION (AWA) office@wagyu.org.au 02 8880 7700
Consulting Editor DEBORAH ANDRICH deb@wagyu.com.au 0400 855 040
Contributing Writers CHARLIE PERRY, D r. MATT M c DONAGH and CAREL TESELING
Art Direction HEATHER FRAZIER heather@wagyu.org.au 0432 949 764
GENERAL ENQUIRIES
AWA Chief
D r. MATT M c DONAGH office@wagyu.org.au 02 8880 7700
Wagyu Update advertising enquiries
FRAZIER heather@wagyu.org.au 0432 949 764
Dear Members,
It is a great honour to have been elected as the 14th President of the Australian Wagyu Association for the 2020 – 2021 period and I thank the Board for their support. 2021 will mark the 32nd year since the AWA was first constituted as a member-based company.
It is obvious to all that we have seen some vigorous campaigning and diverse opinions put forward leading up to the 2020 AWA Director Election and the Annual General Meeting. Reflecting on the high level of member interest in the future of the AWA, more than 60% of members voted in the Director election– almost four times as many as the previous year. It was humbling to see that two thirds of the votes received were in support of Board Renewal, and it is my pleasure to extend a warm welcome to the newly elected AWA Board members, Laird Morgan and Scott de Bruin. It is now important to get back to focussing on our core business and working together as a unified Association of members. On that note, I would like to thank our outgoing President, Mike Buchanan and Board Director, Lorna Tomkinson for their efforts serving on the AWA Board.
The AWA membership reflects the full diversity of the Wagyu sector and the combined voice of the membership reflects that sentiment. We have a range of small to large breeders and members who participate in large supply chains and vertically integrated companies. We are not a fragmented sector of different parts. The Wagyu sector as a whole, thrives when we all work together. The AWA’s activities need to provide shared benefit to all members.
Working with the new AWA Board, I look forward to ensuring that there is a culture of inclusivity and transparency within the AWA and that we recognise the wide diversity we have within our global membership across the Wagyu Sector.
The 2020 Annual General Meeting was held at Armidale Bowling Club and broadcast live for those who were unable to attend due to COVID-19 restrictions.
The past year has seen the AWA navigate through the uncertainty of COVID-19 and the end of a significant drought period across much of the country. It was greatly satisfying to see that the core business of the AWA was able to grow during this time, with significant increase in membership and registration for the 2020 reporting period.
The Audited Financial Statements reported to the membership show that despite the income lost from the cancellation of our core membership event, the WagyuEdge conference, our business maintained a very slight, but positive financial position for the 2020 financial year. The report demonstrates the sound fundamentals of the company through its core business and decreased reliance on external funding and events for ongoing security.
Looking ahead, the AWA is reviewing the operating environment regarding COVID-19, markets and supply trends. We are lifting our sights again to focus on delivering value across the membership.
In this edition of the Wagyu Update, our staff have delivered outstanding articles that report to members on the genetic and phenotypic trends across the Wagyu Herdbook.
It is pleasing to see the progress we are making as a breed in delivering multi-trait improvement across our wide and varied production base.
As a sector, we grow with the fortunes of our brands and the competitiveness and value of our products within global markets. I am pleased to announce that the 2021 Wagyu Branded Beef Competition is now open for entries from Australian Wagyu beef producers.
Charlie and his family operate Trent Bridge Wagyu, a seedstock operation producing high performance bulls for the Fullblood and F1 market, as well Fullblood and F1 feeders. The family were recognised as the 2019 Beef Farmer of the Year with the Weekly Times.
Charlie has served on the AWA Board as Treasurer for the past three years. Prior to joining the family business, Charlie spent more than six years working in the Corporate Advisory division of Ernst & Young where he specialised in – strategic planning, financial analysis, risk management and corporate governance.
Charlie also had the opportunity to participate in the 2017 Young Breed Leaders Workshop conducted by the Australian Registered Cattle Breeders Association.
This event is a true reflection of what Wagyu is about – working together across supply chains to deliver the #worldsluxurybeef.
The 2020 award ceremony online attracted around 12,000 viewers during and since the broadcast, representing an exceptional opportunity for brand owners and sponsors to showcase their product. The preparation and judging of our 2021 Wagyu Branded Beef Competition judging will be held in March. We are planning for the 2021 Wagyu Branded Beef Competition award ceremony to once again be live streamed. However, pending approval for large events, plans are underway to hold the award ceremony with a 2021 WagyuEdge Conference gala dinner.
Mark the calendar - the 2021 Annual Conference: WagyuEdge is slated to go ahead for the 27 to 29 April.
This will be the week prior to BeefWeek 2021.
Modelled on the conference we were to have in 2020, the 2021 WagyuEdge Conference will be at the Gold Coast. We are planning a three-day tour through southern and central Queensland to finish in Rockhampton in time for BeefWeek 2021, that's being held 2-8 May 2021.
As more information comes to hand, the Association will keep you informed and work with our sponsors to find the best possible partnerships.
These events could not be as successful as they are without the support from our Sponsors. I would like to extend our thanks to those 2020 sponsors for their continued support and look forward to having you onboard again in 2021.
On behalf of the Association, I would like to extend to the family of Simon Coates our deepest sympathies on his passing in early November, 2020. Simon was a pioneer and integral part of the development of the Australian Wagyu industry.
He served on the Board for many years. He was the Association’s second president between 1994 and 1997, and a powerhouse in developing the foundations of the Association that we have today. He will be sorely missed.
In honour of his tireless commitment to the breed, we have announced “The Dr Simon Coates Scholarship for Veterinary and Reproductive Science” as part of the Wagyu Fellowship Program.
I look forward to the next 12 months as the AWA refocuses on its core business and delivering shared benefits for the whole of the Wagyu sector.
Charlie Perry AWA President
The Australian Wagyu Association (AWA) is pleased to announce that the new Board for 20202021 was sworn in at the Annual General Meeting held 4 November, 2020. In a year where industry has risen to the challenges of the pandemic, the AGM for the first time was held principally online, with voting conducted virtually.
Following strong support for Board renewal form the AWA membership, newly appointed Board Directors are Scott de Bruin and Laird Morgan; while Charlie Perry and Selwyn Maller have been re-elected.
Consistent with the member support, the Executive Committee has been empowered through selection of office bearers for the 2020-21 period.
President CHARLES PERRY
Senior Vice President SELWYN MALLER
Junior Vice President LAIRD MORGAN
Treasurer SCOTT DE BRUIN
Association chief executive, Dr Matt McDonagh would like to extend on behalf of the organisation his thanks to outgoing President and Board Members, Mike Buchanan and Lorna Tomkinson for their contributions to the AWA through their service on the Board.
President Charlie Perry said that: “There is no doubt that 2020 has been a difficult year for the industry with environmental conditions and COVID-19. I am looking forward to working with the AWA Board in 2021, with a renewed energy and focus on inclusivity and embracing the diversity within our global membership.”
LAIRD MORGAN
Laird is the owner/operator of Lillyvale Feedlot and Arubial Wagyu. A fourth-generation beef farmer, he is a graduate of Marcus Oldham and will bring to the Board an understanding of Wagyu strengths in comparison to the beef industry.
SCOTT DE BRUIN
Scott is principal of Mayura Station and has served as AWA President and Board member previously in the era of the introduction of the Collaborative Genetic Research Project. Mayura Station, a vertically integrated business has had great success in past Wagyu Branded Beef Competitions.
Dr Simon Coates will forever be recognised as a key figure in establishing the global Wagyu industry outside of Japan. First and foremost, Simon was a family man and it is with sadness and deepest condolences to the family, that the Australian Wagyu industry says goodbye to a well-respected pioneer with the passing of Dr Simon Coates, of Sumo Wagyu.
The co-founder and owner of Sumo Wagyu, Simon was a qualified veterinarian of more than 40 years’ experience, with a vast knowledge of Wagyu genetics and breeding. The Sumo herd is one of the first five AWA memberships that were recorded in 1994.
As one of the early pioneers, Simon’s efforts were pivotal in the export of genetics to Australia. Simon was involved extensively with the importation of Wagyu genetics in the early 1990s. This work enabled establishment of the fledgling F1 trade for live cattle exports to Japan and the subsequent development of the Fullblood breeding industry.
It was Simon’s unique blend of character, scientific knowledge and passion for Wagyu that opened up the breed as an opportunity for many Australian and international breeders.
Simon was well known for his extensive field days with Elders to promote Wagyu to Australian breeders. His efforts during the formative years of the AWA are applauded by his peers. He is noted as being appointed as a councillor to the Association in 1993 and was the second president of the AWA between 1994-1997.
Simon was a champion of genetic evaluation and performance recording to support breeding decisions. He is world-famous in Wagyu circles for the development of the Sumo herd and for enabling the progress of the breed through his breeding and marketing of outstanding genetics.
As a measure of the scale of Simon’s impact on the global Wagyu community, within the AWA’s registers, Simon has registered more than 5,600 individuals, including 1,494 Fullblood dams and 173 Fullblood sires that have been used to breed more than 21,000 progeny in AWA member herds.
Simon was recognised in 2018 as an Honorary Life Member with the AWA. Simon is noted by past Presidents as a thorough gentleman in business and a great support to the industry worldwide, earning a great deal of respect personally and
through his business, Sumo Cattle Co.
In honouring Simon’s pivotal role in the development of the Australian Wagyu industry, the Association is proud to announce as part of the Wagyu Fellowship program, the creation of the Dr Simon Coates Scholarship for Veterinary and Reproductive Science. The ongoing scholarship will be available to students who are studying veterinary science or researching reproduction and breeding related to Wagyu.
With this scholarship, we can continue to recognise the great contributions of one of our founding members honouring his passion for the advancement of Wagyu.
Dr. MATTHEW McDONAGH
Dear Members,
After 12 months of not being having any face-to-face engagement with members, it was a pleasure to be able to meet and speak with members again at the 2020 Annual General Meeting.
With so much uncertainty this year, it was, it was satisfying to report a small net profit for the year, on top of increased core service delivery, reduced project expenditure and loss of the 2020 WagyuEdge Conference.
Delivery of the FY2020 Australian Wagyu Association Operational Plan has resulted in a decrease in revenue of 11.5% from FY2019 to FY2020 to $3,124,555 and a moderate net surplus of $75,429. The reduction in revenue resulted from cancellation of the 2020 WagyuEdge Conference due to restrictions relating to COVID-19.
Total membership numbers increased from 726 to 762 from FY2019 to FY2020. This includes an 8% increase in Full members from 588 to 633 and 7% decrease in Associate members from 138 to 129.
Reporting of Herdbook Registration and Membership Statistics by the Australian Registered Cattle Breeders Association for calendar year 2019 demonstrated that Wagyu registrations increased 30%, with AWA now the fourth largest breed association by animals registered and fourth largest by number of Full members.
During the 2020 Financial Year, we have benefited from investing in increased skill development across our staff which provides increased resilience and more efficient service delivery. As your CEO, I am extremely pleased with the maturation of our systems and the capability within our team to address member queries and complete tasks in a timely manner.
The AWA Board met for its first full meeting as a new Board on the 5th of November 2020. The Board reviewed the following items:
1. AWA Board Governance Induction including review of the AWA Governance Charter and Code of Conduct.
2. The AWA Board sub-committee structure and composition was finalised.
3. Company operational performance against KPIs for the first quarter FY2021 was reviewed, with progress to date satisfactory against all key work areas.
4. First quarter FY2021 financial performance was reviewed , noting satisfactory operation against budget year to date.
5. 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.
6. The meeting reviewed the current AWA term deposits and low returns from interest bearing accounts. A statement of advice from an engaged financial planner regarding options for diversified investments was considered by the meeting. A recommendation was made to the Audit and Finance Committee to finalise investment strategy options as appropriate with AWA risk appetite guidelines for recommendation to the AWA Board.
7. The meeting reviewed the preliminary budget , project outline and materials for the 2021 – 2031 Wagyu Progeny Test Program. The CEO was authorised to complete the project development for review by the Genetic Improvement Committee prior to final approval and execution in 2021.
8. The meeting approved a variation to the AWA BREEDPLAN agreement with ABRI to strengthen AWA security around data use and access by ABRI - all access is for the purposes of AWA only unless explicit permission is otherwise granted.
9. A change to the listed definitions in the Bylaws relating to Herd Prefix was approved. This replaces the prior definition for STUD PREFIX as follows: “HERD PREFIX means a word or words or code recorded by the AWA to identify any herd. It can consist of a minimum of two alphanumeric
characters and maximum of 20 alphanumeric characters which may include spaces between the word/s and/ or code/s.”
10. A new Bylaw was approved to recognise that the legal jurisdiction for any dispute between the AWA and its members is to be NSW Australia as follows:
“ 1.6 Members recognise the place of business of the AWA is Armidale, NSW Australia and that the exclusive jurisdiction for all disputes relating to the AWA and its agents and representatives is that of NSW Australia and shall be governed in accordance with Australian law.”
11. A new Bylaw was approved to clarify the right of access to DNA test results of samples of ‘sold’ animals for the purposes of parent verification and registration of sold animals or their progeny as follows:
“ 3.2.10 Upon sale of an animal or genetic material (embryos or semen) by a member to another person, the member provides right of access to all DNA test information for the sold animal or genetic material and access to any remaining DNA or sample materials for purposes of genetic testing for parent verification by the AWA and this testing will be made available to both members.”
12. New Bylaws were approved to clarify the testing and phenotype status of Polled animals as follows:
“ 5.2.2 Any Purebred animal registered as Polled or Scurred must be DNA tested to determine if it is Homozygous polled or Heterozygous polled using a test to be specified by AWA.
“ 5.2.3 Any Polled or Scurred animal registered in a grade other than Purebred and not DNA tested to determine if it is Homozygous polled or Heterozygous polled will be assigned a phenotype of Polled Untested”
13. The meeting approved the admission to Full membership of 55 new members, including 41 Australian and 14 new international members.
The WagyuEdge 2021 Annual Conference is being tentatively arranged for 27 April – 29 April 2021. Following on from the successful format for 2019 in Adelaide, it will be another high-quality three-day Conference and will follow the format previously advertised for the 2020 Conference. Registration for the event will only open once we have confirmed we can comply with all regulations and are satisfied with safety and security of the event.
The Wagyu Fellowship is the AWA's mechanism to provide development opportunities for young people within the Wagyu Industry and is supported by Member donations through the annual AWA Charity Auction. The establishment of a Wagyu Fellowship was for the advancement of younger people involved in the Wagyu 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:
» Develop younger leaders for the Wagyu industry
» Increase the education, experience and skills within the Wagyu industry
» Develop lasting friendships across the international Wagyu industry
» 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 Genetics, Meat Science, Human Nutrition, Management and Production, Reproduction and Breeding.
In honouring the late Dr. Simon Coates and his pivotal role in the development of the Australian Wagyu industry, the Association is proud to announce as part of the Wagyu Fellowship Program, the creation of:
The Dr Simon Coates Scholarship for Veterinary and 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 great contributions of one of our founding members and honour his passion for the advancement of Wagyu.
It has been a great pleasure to work with the members during 2020. Our staff continue to enjoy the positivity 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 the WagyuEdge 2021 conference on the Gold Coast.
Dr Matt McDonagh AWA CEO
Sale report from Harvey Weyman-Jones
The Spring Elite Wagyu Sale met with a weaker demand from international and Australian breeders due to the economic uncertainty from the virus throughout the world and the US elections.
Several Lots were sold after the sale as sellers tried to meet the market. The strongest demand was for embryos from all Australian buyers.
A quieter Sale this year, with fewer bidders and vendors than in previous sales. The Sale held on November 4th, 2020 was again held online via the Elite Livestock Auctions platform and overseen by Harvey Weyman-Jones and the team at GDL. 8/18 Females
The next Elite Wagyu Sale will be held in April, 2021
Demand from Canada and USA was best in the semen sales with three international buyers buying four Lots. It was certainly a buyer`s market due to the disruptions in the world on the day.
Top price female $32,000 Lot 13 from Irongate Wagyu, Albany, WA. 10month heifer bought by Frank Prainito, The Gurdies, VIC. A regular buyer of top quality stock this year.
Top price bull $25,000 Lot 22 from Sumo Wagyu, Grafton, NSW bought by Peter and Shari Knudsen, Chinchilla, QLD.
Top price embryos $2,100 per embryo Lot 38 from Amberoo Wagyu, Toowoomba, Qld bought by Mayura Wagyu, Millicent, SA.
Top price semen $3200 per straw Lot 55 from Macquarie Wagyu, Leyburn, Qld and bought by Mayura Wagyu, Millicent, SA.
A total of 29/56 Elite Wagyu Sale lots sold - gross $271,550 with an average of $9,364.
December heralds the commencement for the call for entries into the industry highlight for the red meat industry of the AWA’s Wagyu Branded Beef Competition for 2021 to celebrate the #worlds luxury beef.
The only branded beef competition supported by a breed association, the Wagyu Branded Beef Competition is an opportunity to benchmark your product against your peers. The event, which despite the challenges of COVID-19 attracted more attention than ever before, where the award ceremony, held as an online event, attracted more than 12,000 views from around the world.
Entries in Fullblood, Crossbred and Commercial Classes seek to promote excellence in Wagyu beef production for producers and brand owners. The categories are: Fullblood Japanese Black Steak, Open Crossbred Wagyu Steak and Commercial Wagyu Steak marble score 5-7
In addition to Gold, Silver and Bronze medals for each category, Category Champion awards will be awarded to the highest scoring entry in each category. The highest scoring Category Champion will be awarded the Grand Champion Award. Competition Terms & Conditions can be found on the AWA website.
Judging of the Wagyu beef is based on five criteria: visual appeal (raw and cooked), juiciness, flavour, aroma and the physical sensation in your mouth.
Corporate Executive Chef, John Alexander will once again preside at the judging, which this year will take place at Cha Cha Char Wine Bar & Grill, Brisbane on March 17, 2021.
Entries close 12 February, 2021 . If you have any queries please do not hesitate to be in touch with Ron Fitzgerald 0428 456 293 ENTER ONLINE
From breeder to consumer, the WagyuEdge annual conference and tour is one of the most anticipated events on the Australian red meat industry calendar. It brings together noted speakers, industry partners and delegates from around the world to build on the vision to advance the world’s luxury beef - Wagyu. The conference includes the presentation of the awards for the Wagyu Branded Beef Competition, Gala Dinner and Charity Auction and the Elite Wagyu Sale – the pinnacle of Australian Wagyu genetics.
The announcement in late November that BeefWeek 2021 will go ahead, means that we are delighted to announce that the WagyuEdge 2021 annual conference will be held 27-29 April 2021 on the Gold Coast, Queensland with the Tour 20 April – 2 May in time for delegates to attend BeefWeek in Rockhampton.
Partnership with the AWA gives our corporate partners and sponsors a unique opportunity to reach a global Wagyu audience through our media channels and events.
With increasing interest in Wagyu genetics and beef, there has never been a better time to cement a place as a trusted affiliate.
For more information please contact
Deb 0400 855 040 deb@wagyu.org.au
Bradley 0412 461 392 bradley@wagyu.org.au
A cut above for Wagyu
The 2021 Wagyu Branded Beef Competition is into gear once more, and with Cha Cha Char Wine Bar & Grill hosting the judging day, and Prime Cut Meats looking after us for preparation, things are well and truly in train.
To have that connection between the producer and the customer, it is an amazing opportunity I never thought I would have as a butcher, I love what I do.
A company started in 2007 to provide food service in Brisbane and the Gold Coast with the very best possible meat that can be sourced, it is owned and operated by Laurie Marguglio and Neil Hughes.
Both Laurie and Neil would describe themselves as ‘just butchers’ and indeed, their background is as a butcher – Laurie did his apprenticeship in Melbourne, while Neil did his in Brisbane.
Laurie is a fourth-generation butcher and operated shops with his family in the south eastern suburbs of Melbourne before making the move to Brisbane 20 years ago where he opened a shop in Carina. Neil, has principally been a butcher for food service operations such as the casino.
Laurie started Prime Cut Meats with a business partner, who later retired, selling his share to Neil. The two butchers knew that Brisbane needed a gourmet wholesale butchery for food service that understood what chefs need in terms of portion-controlled cuts and excellent quality. The business now supplies high profile hospitality locations such as Moo Moo’s and Cha Cha Char Wine Bar & Grill. In addition, a monthly market day offers hospitality grade product to the general public.
Suppliers to Prime Cut Meats include Greenham’s and Direct Meat Company – the company was one of the first agents for Cape Grim to Brisbane, which later gave access to Robbins Island Wagyu. Laurie credits much of his knowledge of Wagyu to Joseph Puglia at Direct Meat Company who has been a supplier of Macquarie Wagyu for many years.
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“I’ve worked with Joe since the early days when Neil and I started Prime Cut Meats,” said Laurie.
“Everything I know about Wagyu has come from Joe – I can tell our chefs what the difference is between F1 and Fullblood, and what they can expect from the different marble scores.
“A lot of chefs still don’t quite understand what that means in terms of flavour and mouthfeel, so having that knowledge and the relationship with Joe – and the Hammonds has been invaluable to provide that next level of customer relationship to food service.”
Prime Cut Meats also supply A5 Japanese Wagyu – but it is not the mainstay of the Wagyu supplied to food service, but as a menu special for restaurants like Moo Moo’s; Laurie agrees that the market for A5 is a different market to Australian produced Wagyu.
For the 2020 Wagyu Branded Beef Competition, Laurie and Neil cleared the decks for the Association to prepare the 31 samples for judging the following day. The buzz from the butchers was evident, keen to see what the very best in the industry can produce.
Preparation involves preparing two sirloin portions per entry to the same thickness, labelling each one with a unique code and storing in exactly the same fashion to ensure maximum freshness and consistency for the cooking and judging the following day.
The ability to use a facility that is designed for portion control slicing made the day run smoothly.
I can tell our chefs what the difference is between F1 and Fullblood, and what they can expect from the different marble scores.
Prime Cut Meats - a cut above for Wagyu branded Beef Competition
“The team at Prime Cut Meats were great to work with for the 2020 Competition,” said Association CEO, Matt McDonagh.
“The equipment, the bench space and storage of the entries made it far more efficient for us, and it was great to have Laurie’s butchers available for assistance if we needed it. We are looking forward to working with Laurie and Neil again in 2021.”
For Laurie, participating in the Wagyu Branded Beef Competition is an honour. Providing a preparation space and then participating as a judge, Laurie says is a humbling experience.
“I feel so privileged to be part of the Wagyu industry and to work with some of the pioneers. Never in my wildest dreams would I imagine that I could be a part of the Wagyu story. I am very grateful and blessed to be a Wagyu judge and to have people like the Hammonds and Joseph guiding me on their product and what the different levels of Wagyu are and what the customer can expect.
“To have that connection between the producer and the customer, it is an amazing opportunity I never thought I would have as a butcher, I love what I do.”
Wagyu breeders are set to stay ahead of the curve with a DNA test now available for the genetic condition, IARS, which has been released by Australia’s largest and leading providing of genomic testing of cattle, NEOGEN.
DNA testing to identify the presence of the IARS condition in Wagyu breeders has been developed by NEOGEN Australasia as a customised solution for the Australian Wagyu Association (AWA), after the AWA identified perinatal deaths as a priority issue facing its members.
According to an IARS fact sheet distributed by the AWA earlier this year, the condition contributes to death of calves in affected herds and to the loss of productivity in those herds. This is seen in a high frequency of death in affected calves within the last few weeks of gestation or first few days of life.
NEOGEN Australasia head of Sales and Marketing Sarah Buttsworth said it was for this reason that NEOGEN worked with the AWA to develop a DNA solution that would support Wagyu breeders and their customers in addressing the problem.
“NEOGEN has a strong, 30-year-long relationship with the AWA, and as result of this partnership we were able to work together to quickly address this need for Wagyu breeders,” Ms Buttsworth said.
“Members are now able to use the AWA’s Standard Bundle (powered by the GGP 100K) to identify IARS – a service that no other genomics company currently offers.”
Japanese researchers first determined the impact of the disorder on the breed in 2013. A scientific article published by Japanese authors in 2013 Hirano et al., PlosOne, 5: e64036 indicated that of 538,111 Japanese Black calves born in 2010, the number of calves that died before three months was 22,020 (4.1%). The incidence of perinatal mortality was slightly higher at 4.5%.
The research identified a mutation in the IARS gene as being the cause of the disorder.
Calves with the mutation exhibit anaemia, depression, weakness, variable body temperature, difficulty nursing, growth retardation, and increased susceptibility to infection.
A further publication by the same team identified that in addition to deaths associated with weak calf syndrome, more than half of affected embryos – those carrying two copies of the IARS gene mutation – died prenatally. These findings make for sobering reading for Wagyu breeders, as the cumulative effect of these losses across the breed are significant.
1
IARS mutation in the registered AWA Herdbook population by year of birth.
According to the AWA fact sheet, the Australian industry is also seeing significant impact from the disorder.
Using this SNP test information for 44,839 anonymous registered animals, 36,991 were identified as Free (not carriers), 7,701 as Carriers (carrying one copy of the mutation) and 147 as Affected (having two copies of the mutation).
Figure 1 shows the prevalence of IARS mutation in the registered AWA Herdbook population plotted against year of birth so that trends in frequency of the mutation over time could be determined.
Unfortunately, the more breeders unknowingly join animals that carry the mutation, the stronger foothold it will get in the national herd and the harder it will be to fix.
“The industry knows from experience that a proactive approach is the best way to address the presence of genetic disorders like IARS in a breeding population,” Ms Buttsworth said.
frequency
“By knowing the IARS status of breeding stock, producers will be in a much more informed position when making decisions about joining or purchasing of stock.”
The AWA has now updated its DNA test request forms for members to allow IARS genetic condition testing as stand-alone tests and within Genomics Bundles.
The AWA has also begun reporting IARS status of animals registered with the AWA and will use GeneProb software to estimate probability of carrier animals within the registered Fullblood population – based on DNA tested animals.
“With simple, one-time tests that producers are probably already using, we are able to help them understand the levels of IARS in their herd so they can make selection choices accordingly,” Ms Buttsworth said.
DNA tests for IARS are available for AWA members through NEOGEN Australasia.
An increased trend in paperless transactions, traceability and protection against food fraud brings into question the methods the red meat supply chain has used for the past twenty years. There is a growing realisation in the industry that some of the systems used to operate business are getting a little out of date.
The introduction of programs such as the NLIS tag, Livestock Production Assurance scheme and National Vendor Declarations have been a vital part of ensuring Australia’s red meat integrity, but as technology systems have progressed, methods of transaction have not always kept up.
For many producers, the documentation for the transport company, the paper NVD document and the stock agent paperwork are shoved in the glovebox, slowly gathering grime and dust. A pen that works might be in there too.
What if your phone or tablet had all that information contained within one portal? What if you were at the stockyards and a buyer asks if you have got more of that consignment of cattle?
You could find that pen, scratch around for that piece of paper, write the guy’s number down, and shove it in the glovebox until you deal with it tomorrow, if you remember, back at the office which is four hours away.
Systems such as those offered by AXIchain can solve a lot of those issues. Using software, the transaction between the producer and the buyer could have been completed in a ten-minute process. The producer checks his available livestock via the app, creates a sale and invoice, consigns it to the buyer, sends a request to the transport company, who acknowledge it, payment is arranged and the cattle will be delivered promptly, compared to the week it might have taken on a paper-based system.
Our aim is to make complex trading systems simple and efficient, reduce costs for producers, create efficiencies and enhance traceability for all supply chain participants.
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The next step in the chain is the abattoir, processor and marketplace. Here again, the receival and condition reports can be recorded in a virtual system, carcase traits noted and a cut price matrix process calculates orders and yields as orders come in based on specifications. For Wagyu, the addition of carcase camera data can be added in addition to the LDL.
According to AXichain CEO, Linda Woodford, the real strength in an end-to-end digital supply chain system is the traceability and protection of brand, plus trading with trusted buyers right through to the retail level.
“With a paper-based system, it is relatively easy to fraudulently change the documentation,” she said. “Food fraud is serious business and for a high value product like Wagyu, it is important to protect that product and brand reputation. The point is to make the whole system more transparent through the supply chain,” said Linda.
By registering all supply chain actors within the one system, trust and protocols can be established to protect the interests of those concerned.
As each step in the supply chain is enacted – producer, processor, buyer, distribution, delivery to enduser – a series of verifications take place to ensure that each sender and receiver are recognised. The level of information available at each point can also be limited – for example, the enduser does not need to know the producer’s LPA details, but would be interested to know the marble score, and perhaps the brand name.
Digital identifications through technologies such as QR codes can provide the full range of information, or be limited to a
specified number of receivers. Should a QR code be used by a non-recognised party, it is possible that fraudulent activities are occurring.
“A system like this is well suited to smaller producers, who may not have the networks, knowledge and time to establish markets beyond their local point.
“With a group of trusted, reliable buyers and endusers, the small producer can confidently put through a small number of cattle which can either be bought directly by the buyer (a buyer could be an abattoir) or become part of a consolidated order that meets the specification of the enduser.”
Linda also said that small to medium enterprises can potentially form a group, whereby agreed specifications and branding can be used to band the producers together, to increase trading opportunities, rather than as single entities.
The beauty with the AXichain system is that each solution can be used as a standalone unit, or integrated into the whole process.
For example, if a producer is only interested in the electronic movement of cattle from farm to saleyard then the user only needs to use the mobile NVD (mNVD) that is systematically connected to logistics and transport (TransTrack) through the mNVD which improves connectivity between producer, transporter and livestock agent.
Via the cut price matrix system the processor can manage the trade with an international buyer, whereby export trading terms, licenses and other regulatory requirements are in place within the system between the two parties. Interaction with the producer need not be involved.
As part of the overall solution AXIchain has partnered with a fortune 500 global payment conglomerate as part of the infrastructure to help facilitate the domestic and cross border transaction processes via AXIpay, an escrow structured remittance process, giving SMEs assurances of payment and improved foreign exchange rates.
“We understand the pitfalls and frustrations surrounding the current process and digital systems like this are designed to advance supply chains, particularly the Australian agricultural sector and essentially make the entire system easier to facilitate trade.
“Our aim is to make complex trading systems simple and efficient, reduce costs for producers, create efficiencies and enhance traceability for all supply chain participants.”
The AWA and AXIchain are pleased to announce the development of a corporate partnership to assist with development of digital systems related to Wagyu and to assist AXIchain in areas that add value to the transactions within Wagyu supply chains and data transfer.
Results is what matters The average from July 15 to January 17 for the last 4000 embryos transferred in 37 different farms from July of 2015 to January of 2017 is 48.5% of pregnancy
WKSFP1593
An animal’s breeding value can be defined as its genetic merit for each trait. While it is not possible to determine an animal’s true breeding value, it is possible to estimate it, and these are called Estimated Breeding Values (EBVs).
EBVs are reported in the units in which the measurements are taken (e.g. marble scores for the Marble Score EBV).
Thus, a Marble Score EBV of +1.6 means the animal has been estimated to be genetically superior by 1.6 marble score units when compared with another animal with a marble score EBV of zero.
On average, half of this difference will be passed on to the animal’s progeny.
The individual EBVs for animals can change slightly from run to run as additional data (genotypes and phenotypes) are added to the analysis. Occasionally, larger amounts of performance data are provided by AWA members and these can result in significant changes in EBVs. These changes are data driven.
This article will focus on one such recent change, involving the already ‘proven sire’ WKSFP1593 (World K’s Shigeshigetani 1593).
In the September 2020 BREEDPLAN run, a total of 54 carcase progeny records were already loaded for WKSFP1593.
He had a Marble Score EBV of +1.1 with an accuracy of 81%. Prior to the October 2020 BREEDPLAN run, an additional 46 carcase records were added from WKSP1593. The result was that his Marble Score EBV increased to +2.1 with an accuracy of 89%.
No additional progeny carcase data related to WKSFP1593 has been added since October 2020, so his carcase EBVs remain the same.
USING PROGENY PERFORMANCE TO EBVS
The statistical models used by BREEDPLAN to calculate EBVs use several important sources of data to calculate EBVs:
» The relationships between all animals
» Genomic information (genomic SNP results)
» Progeny performance in contemporary groups
» The heritability of the traits
» The genetic correlation with other traits
SHIGESHIGETANI’S WKSFP1593 MS EBV
To keep this explanation relatively simple, we will only look at one source of data “Progeny performance in contemporary groups” and only Marble Score as the trait of interest.
The graph in Figure 1 shows the carcase marble scores of all animals in the groups in which WKSFP1593 also had progeny, represented by the red dots. There are several instances where dots overlap and, in those cases, the red dot will be shown while the black dot will be hidden.
In all graphs (see pages 23 and 24) the blue line represents the group average, therefore; any dot above the line is an indication of above average marble scores within each group.
Figure 1 shows the majority of WKSFP1593’s progeny has marble scores higher than the average of each contemporary (kill) group. It is important to remember that each of the progeny got half of their genetics from their sire and the other half from their dam. The dam’s genetic merit will therefore impact the marble scores displayed in Figure 1.
In addition to individual progeny marble score records, the BREEDPLAN statistical model also considers the averages of the progeny of each sire in the group and use this information to benchmark different sires. To demonstrate this principle, the sire group averages are shown in Figure 2.
To reduce the complexity, three sires are represented by different colour dots. Two well know industry AI sires (WKSFM0164 and let’s call him Sire 1) also had progeny which can be compared to WKSFP1593’s progeny. The purpose of comparing the progeny of these sires are purely to help explain how BREEDPLAN uses marble score data to calculate the MS EBVs and not to determine the “usefulness” of the bulls to the Wagyu industry.
Figure 2 shows that the progeny of WKSFP1593 have significantly higher marble scores than the progeny of Sire 1. Also, in most cases where WKSFP1593 and WKSFM0164 progeny can be compared (in the same groups) the average marble scores of WKSFP1593’s progeny are higher than
that of WKSFM0164. These differences are also reflected in the current MS EBVs of the three sires which are +2.1 (accuracy 91%), +1.4 (accuracy 98%) and -0.4 (accuracy 94%) for WKSFP1593, WKSFM0164 and Sire 1 respectively.
ANOTHER EXAMPLE WHERE A SIRE’S MS EBV DECREASED
When new data is loaded into the Wagyu BREEDPLAN analysis, the EBVs of some animals move up, while those of other animals may move down. Figures 3 and 4 (page 24) are examples where due to additional carcase data, a sire’s MS EBVs decreased by almost a whole marble score. In this case, we will refer to the sire of interest as Sire A and the other reference sires in the
FIGURE 1
Shigeshigetani (red) compared to contemporaries for marble score.
group as Sire B and Sire C.
Figure 3 shows the carcase marble scores of all animals in the group in which Sire A had progeny, his progeny records are represented by the pink dots. As in the previous graphs, where dots overlap the pink dots will be shown while the black dots will be hidden.
The figure shows, while there are some of Sire A’s progeny above the group average, most of his progeny are below the group average.
To again highlight the differences in progeny performance, Figure 4 shows the sire’s group averages and three sires are represented by different colour dots.
In Figure 4, in all instances, the averages of the progeny of Sire A are below the group average while the averages of the progeny of
FIGURE 3
Marble score of Sires A (pink), B and C compared to the group average. Carcase marble average
PROGENY OF SIRE A PROGENY OF OTHER SIRES
FIGURE 4 The averages of the progeny.
SIRE C SIRE B SIRE A OTHER SIRES
GROUP AVERAGE
<<< from page 23
Sire B are all above the group average. In most cases the progeny averages of Sire C are higher or close to that of Sire A but lower than Sire B.
The EBVs, accuracies and number of marble score records before and after analysis are shown in Table 1.
The table demonstrates that the MS EBV movement for the three sires are in line with the carcase marble score performance of their progeny where Sire A decreased, Sire B increased and Sire C stayed the same.
These two examples clearly demonstrate that BREEDPLAN use progeny records (from groups where more than one record and more than one sires are represented) to calculate the differences in the genetic merit of sires.
TABLE 1
BREEDPLAN uses performance data to calculate the differences in genetic merit for the respective traits and therefore be used to predict the difference in performance that will be observed if two or more sires are used and their progeny fed under the same conditions until slaughter.
To demonstrate this, we can do a simple theoretical comparison between two bulls. The first bull has a Marble Score (MS) EBV of +2, while the second bull has a MS EBV of -1. Comparing these animals shows a difference in MS EBV of 3. Assume these sires are randomly mated to cows with similar MS EBVs (similar genetic merit for marble score). Half the genetics of a calf comes from its sire and the other half from its dam. As the dams (in this example) are of similar genetic merit, observed differences would be expected to be a result of the differences between the sires. We can estimate that calves from the first bull would have (on average) marble scores that are 1.5 units higher than calves of the second bull.
This example is only valid if the calves are managed and killed at a level where they can express this genetic variation.
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The diner has high expectations of the restaurant and has been looking forward to a premium Wagyu experience, but on the menu, there are four choices to select from, with little to differentiate one from the other.
Wait staff know what the brand is and perhaps where it is from, but not how it will taste, and has little to suggest what sides or wine will complement each Wagyu dish.
Descriptions of the flavour, aroma, mouthfeel and texture on each item would have been of an enormous benefit to the wait staff and chef, to assist the diner with those dining decisions.
The development by Australian Agriculture Company (AACo) of the Wagyu flavour wheel for the Westholme brand is designed to meet those challenges for the entire supply chain up to the consumer. The flavour wheel utilises 100 words to describe flavour, taste, aroma and texture.
A common practice in the wine, seafood, coffee and cocoa industries, flavour wheels are used extensively to describe the flavour and sensation of eating the product, with scientific grounding to develop the words. It is believed to be the first time the concept has been applied to beef in a commercial sense, and in particular, for Wagyu.
The need to outline the attributes of AACo’s brand, Westholme and Wagyu more broadly has been the driving force behind the flavour wheel’s development. “The Westholme brand supply chain is literally paddock to plate, with many players involved in the process of moving the product to the consumer,” said Hugh Killen, CEO of AACo.
Hugh Killen, CEO of AACo
“We partner with each one of them in describing our product along the way. For a distributor that may handle more than one brand of Wagyu, the flavour wheel will give them the tools to help sell that product into hospitality.
“For the chef, the quarterly menu planning process is a significant part of their role, and knowing the flavour characteristics of Westholme Wagyu will improve the menu in terms of enhancing the dish with appropriate sides and wines.”
AACo commissioned Dr Heather Smyth at the Queensland Alliance for Agriculture and Food Innovation, based at University of Queensland, to undertake the project to define the flavour wheel for Westholme Wagyu.
Dr Smyth, a flavour chemist, has undertaken similar projects with other food industries, but was excited to be involved in the project. Using a trained tasting panel of 12, portions of the loin cuts are taken from a sample set to create the initial sensory profile. From there, the team fine tunes the descriptions to come up with an agreed set of terms. The tasting is repeated with other samples to ensure that the descriptors are consistent across the food, and the taster.
“Many food industries have created a flavour wheel, and there are many that are based more on a marketing strategy, than science, so often the descriptors poorly reflect the products actual sensory qualities,” said Dr Smyth.
“We know that taste, flavour, aroma and texture in the case of beef is dependent on the volatiles and fatty acids within the meat – of which we know of around 800 – and that can depend on the genetics of the animal, how it was raised, what it ate and how it was processed. As a consequence of those volatile compounds and fatty acids, a scientific approach to describing the meat can be achieved with a more rigorous approach.”
The wine and coffee industries often use flavour wheels with reference to ‘terroir’, the taste that is achieved dependent on where the grapes were grown. That concept of ‘terroir’ says Dr Smyth can be attributed to beef.
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Flavour wheel improves the consumer experience
<<< from page 29
While most Wagyu are finished in the feedlot, where they were raised whether it be Gulf Country or the Darling Downs will play a role in the final beef. So too will the genetic potential of the animal.
“Most people can tell the difference between A5 Japanese Wagyu and Australian Wagyu,” said Mr Killen.
Westholme Flavour Wheel respresenting flavour, texture and aroma
“In Japan the animals are raised on feed since weaning and it creates a unique eating experience. The same is true of Westholme Wagyu raised on the Mitchell grass of the Gulf Country compared to their Darling Downs cousins. The feed, whether it is sorghum, barley or proprietary mixes will also play a role. I’m certain the feed history and therefore terroir is a part of the Westholme Wagyu flavour.”
For the consumer, that translates into a higher eating experience, where the chef – or butcher – knows what the customer preference is for flavour in their beef, and can recommend a cut that is better suited to their palate, cooking skills and cuisine. According to Dr Matt McDonagh, CEO of the Australian Wagyu Association, the development of the Westholme flavour wheel is a welcome addition to the industry’s ability to help Wagyu be differentiated in the market and to educate consumers of its qualities.
A panel of 12 trained taste tasters initially ‘brainstorm’ the flavours and textures that are first noted in the beef sample. A method developed in the 1980s, sensory descriptive profiling creates a set of words put forward by the taste testers, which can be in the hundreds. The panel then convenes to reach an agreed set of descriptors, or to find an alternative word that is better suited such as ‘herbaceous‘ compared to ‘grassy’.
These are then compared to other flavour chemicals that might be used as a reference, or other foodstuffs – an aroma described as citrus might then be compared to a lemon, orange or grapefruit, to more closely define the citrus aroma present in the product, or to find a more appropriate term.
Anyone in the Wagyu industry would agree, that how it is cooked can change the flavour and texture considerably, something that Dr Smyth quickly learned. Under-cooked produced a more metallic flavour, while over-done gave it a stewed, earthier tone. Therefore, laboratorycontrolled cooking processes were used for every portion, with samples delivered to the tasters at the same time to minimise any effects cooling may have.
“Replication is an important aspect of creating the flavour descriptors,” said Dr Smyth. “Each taster needs to be able to rate terms reproducibly for the same sample set, but additionally across different cuts and animals for it to be useful for Westholme.
“Ideally, we would take a larger sample of animals for taste testing and perform the same process across the seasons to see if there is any variability, however, that would create a large project very quickly, and AACo were keen to develop a robust baseline that is still representative of their brand.” Dr Smyth said the next phase for beef industry flavour wheels would be to find the relationship between the volatiles and fatty acids and the contribution each one makes to a specific flavour profile. From there exploring “provenance” becomes possible, understanding how particular regions, diets or genetics impact those components in the beef that give rise to the distinctive flavours and differences between brands. Different cuts and marble score may also be assessed to expand the flavour language. Ultimately, a depth and breadth of knowledge about beef flavour will allow producers to control and optimise sensory outcomes and deliver consistent high-quality eating experiences for the consumer.
FULL BLOOD BULLS FOR SALE SIRED BY MICHIFUKU
TWAFR0007 SHIKIKAN
HIRASHIGETAYASU (WES001)
KITATERUYASUDOI (WES003)
TF147 ITOSHIGEFUJI
TF148 ITOSHIGENAMI
TF YUKIHARUNAMI 4
WORLD CLASS GENETICS
WORLD CLASS CARCASSES
Proof is in the carcass
Half of our carcasses grade MBS 9 and 9+ with a herd average MBS of 8.4 for steers and heifers.
The AWA has grown significantly over the 2010 - 2020 period as a result of a substantial increase in the number and scale of its members operations.
This analysis provides feedback to members on how their contributions have impacted the genetic evaluation for Wagyu cattle and to report some of the observed breeding trends.
FIGURE 1
Membership trends across for the AWA over the past ten years up until 20 June 2020.
The power of a genetic evaluation is influenced by the number of people who use it, the number of animals involved and the strength of the data that is analysed.
Since 2010, the number of Full AWA members has increased three-fold to 633 (20 June 2020, Figure 1). This growth has occurred since 2015, with an increasing proportion of new AWA members being international Full members who register animals with the AWA, to provide genomic information and performance records into the Wagyu BREEDPLAN genetic analysis.
Over the five-year growth period from 2015 – 2020, the number of registered dams (females with recorded progeny in the AWA Herdbook) has increased more than two-fold to 104,222 (refer to Figure 2; orange line, page 34).
AWA members typically only register a portion of their calves, mostly out of the 50% that are females. Comparing the orange (dam) line in Figure 2 to the blue and purple (calves) lines, approximately 25% of dams had calves registered against them by the AWA in 2015. As the registered number of dams has increased, there is an increase in registration of new calves, of which approximately 80% are females and therefore, future breeders. The number of sires (males with recorded progeny – refer to Figure 2; green line, page 34) increased 2.6-fold over the same period to 12,224.
FIGURE 2
Total registered sires, dams and calves between FY2015 to FY2020 for which BREEDPLAN EBVs are provided.
<<< from page 33
The Wagyu genetic analysis is based on three components, a pedigree recording platform (the AWA Herdbook described page 33), phenotypic records (animal performance data for traits supplied by members) and genotype records (genomic data supplied by members). Using these sources of information, Wagyu BREEDPLAN uses statistical analysis to calculate the genetic merit of individuals using all available data.
Wagyu BREEDPLAN analysis provides EBVs for all dams, sires and calves registered with the AWA, including those from members in more than 20 countries. The analysis uses approximately 60,000 genomic records and an increasing volume of performance records (Figure 3).
Since 2015, the number of AWA members who are BREEDPLAN members and submit performance data has increased 280% from 43 members, to 120 members. These members are located across nine different countries on four continents.
In the past five years there has been a steady increase in recording across the major growth performance traits. Records for birthweight have increased 70% to 35,419 total records, 200-day weight (weaning weight) has increased by 95% and 600-day weight has increased by 85%.
In the same period, a total of 47 AWA members submitted carcase data records to the AWA, with carcase weight and marble score records increasing by 370% and 400% respectively to approximately 10,000 records for each (to 30 June 2020).
Wagyu BREEDPLAN sire, dam and calf trends
Total performance records for each trait over time
FIGURE 3
Cumulative performance recording trends for core weight and carcase traits.
Additive performance recording year on year
ACCURACY TRENDS – THE RELIABILITY OF THE ANALYSIS
As more members are submitting more phenotype records and undertaking large numbers of genomic testing on their herds, the impacts of these factors on the accuracy of genetic prediction for traits within the Wagyu BREEDPLAN analysis is evident. Shown in Figure 4 are the whole-of-database, average accuracies for the core growth and carcase traits since 2015. AWA switched to include genomic information for registered animals in 2018 with the introduction of Single-Step BREEDPLAN. The large jump in whole-of-database accuracy for BREEDPLAN EBVs can be seen between 2017 and 2018.
As shown in Figure 4, the impact of new genomics information and performance data is spread across the whole of the AWA Herdbook and has a gradual positive influence on increasing accuracies. In the five years to 2020, the whole-of-database average EBV accuracy has increased 5%. The largest impact of new genomic and performance data is on ‘current’ or newly registered animals as shown in Figure 5 (see page 36).
It is worth noting the significant jump in accuracy for the EBVs of calves born in 2017, most of which were registered in 2018 post the implementation of Single-Step BREEPLAN. These calves benefited from the addition of genomic information within the BREEDPLAN analysis.
The overall trend for EBV accuracy for newly registered calves has been a substantial increase from an average of 47.5% for calves registered in 2015, to 61.5% for calves registered in 2020. This is an increase in EBV accuracy of 14% during the five-year period to 2020. The average accuracy of growth traits EBVs is now greater than 65% for 2020 born calves, with accuracy for carcase traits ranging from 50% (EMA) to 60% (CWt).
Ave. EBV accuracy %
Genomics introduced from 2018
5
The average accuracies for core growth and carcase traits for calves born each year since 2015.
<<< from page 35
Every breeder has their own breeding objective for their herd. Whilst there is no doubt that Wagyu are identified as ‘the marbling breed’, our Wagyu breeder members are cattle producers and manage herds of females that are required to perform in a wide range of different environments from northern Queensland to Tasmania and Western Australia.
The following section demonstrates continued improvement (genetic gain) across a range of growth and carcase traits.
To understand genetic trends across the whole Wagyu herd, it is necessary to look at changes over a longer time frame, as genetic progress is gradual and cumulative. The following figures show trends over a ten year period, looking at the average EBVs for traits of calves born within a year.
In Figures 6 and 7, the trends for early life growth (birth weight) and weaning weight (200- day weight) shows slight increases across the last ten year period.
The average Birth Weight EBV is increasing at 0.03kg per year, such that over the ten years to 2020, the average Birth Weight EBV has increased +0.3kg to +1.1.
As shown in Figure 6, the slight trend towards increase in Birth Weight EBV is associated with +5kg increase in Mature Cow Weight EBV (Figure 9) over the same period. Hence, as genetic potential for Birth Weight is increasing, genetic potential for cow size is also increasing. However, care should always be taken in matching Birth Weight EBVs of sires to the frame size of cows and breeders should consider the Birth Weight EBVs of their breeding females to avoid matching high birth weight sires to high birth weight females.
For 200-day weight, the EBV is increasing at +0.08kg per year, such that over the ten years to 2020, the average 200-day weight EBV for calves has increased +0.8kg to +9.6kg.
Genetic change can be demonstrated in all key growth and carcase traits – demonstrating that as a collective, Wagyu breeders have categorically not focused on single trait selection and have made sustained improvements through multi-trait breeding.
6
Average Birth Weight EBV for calves born in each year.
7
Average 200-Day Weight EBV for calves born in each year.
WKSFM0164 WORLD K’S MICHIFUKU
SMOFF0126 SUMO CATTLE CO MICHIFUKU F126 (AI)
SMOFC0152 SUMO CATTLE CO HANA C152 (AI) (ET)
AWSPN0011 ACADEMY N11 (AI) [CC]
ARWFH0015 ACADEMY RED WAGYUS GISHANAMI H15 (AI) [CC]
AWSPL00021 ACADEMY SUTTSU L21 [CC]
ACCPU0011 ACC WAGYU SUTTSU U011 (AI) (ET) [CC]
AWSPQ0029 ACADEMY MR TENDER Q0029 (P) [CC]
IMJFAJ2810 KITATERUYASUDOI J2810 HONGEN (IMP JAP)
LFDFY0004 LONGFORD 004 (AI) (ET)
LFDFT0480 LONGFORD MUTSU (AI) (ET)
AWSCN0062 ACADEMY KARIKI N0062 (P)
LFDFY0004 LONGFORD 004 (AI) (ET)
AWSCL63 ACADEMY KARIKI L0063 (P)
IGTEND 10/10 (tenderness)
SCO AA (best fat)
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Ave. 600-DAY WEIGHT EBV (600-Dwt)
8
Average 600-Day Weight EBV for calves born in each year.
TEN YEAR TREND
+0.4kg per year
Ave. MATURE COW WEIGHT EBV (MCW) GROWTH TRAIT
9
Average Mature Cow Weight EBV for calves born in each year.
TEN YEAR TREND
+0.5kg per year
In Figures 8 and 9, the trends for later life weight gain, 600-day weight and mature cow weight, also show increases across the last ten year period.
The average 600-Day Weight EBV is increasing at +0.4kg per year. Over the ten years to 2020, the average 600-Day Weight EBV has increased 4kg to +19.2kg.
Likewise, for mature cow weight, the genetic potential has increased by 5kg over the ten year period to +20.6kg.
Similar to increases across growth traits for the past ten years, AWA members have made significant progress in genetic merit for core carcase traits (Figures 10 - 12).
Consistent with increases in 600-day weight and mature cow weight, genetic gain in the Carcase Weight EBV (Figure 10) has averaged +0.5kg per year, resulting in a 5kg increase in Carcase Weight EBV to +15.3kg.
In addition to the genetic gain for growth and carcase weight over the ten year period, genetic gain for marble score has been significant. The ten year trend for the Marble Score EBV (Figure 11) is an increase of +0.04 MS units per year. This amounts to a +0.4 MS EBV increase over the past ten years to +0.8.
There is significant and positive genetic correlation between marble score and eye muscle area in Wagyu. As the genetic potential for deposition of intramuscular fat within the eye muscle increases, the genetic potential for eye muscle area also increases.
Figure 12 shows the ten year trend for increasing Eye Muscle Area EBV at +0.07 sq cm per year, amounting to an increase of +0.7 centimeters over the last ten years to +1.2.
Ave. CARCASE WEIGHT EBV (CWt)
Score Units
Ave. MARBLE SCORE EBV (MS)
10
Average Carcase Weight EBV for calves
11
Average Marble Score EBV for calves born in each year.
Ave. EYE MUSCLE AREA EBV (EMA)
12
Area
AWA members have made significant genetic progress across all traits reported without bias toward a particular trait.
MAKING SENSE OF GENETIC INFORMATION
It is important to note that the EBVs reported by AWA through Wagyu BREEDPLAN reflect the breeding directions of the membership as a whole. It has demonstrated in the information presented, that AWA members have made significant genetic progress across all traits reported without bias toward a particular trait. The total analysis shows a consistent trend toward increasing genetic merit of growth and carcase traits, demonstrating effective multi-trait selection.
It is encouraging to note the substantial increase in EBV accuracy for newly registered calves in the past five years. This trend is significant, with the contribution of performance data and genomic information resulting in substantial lift in accuracy for all growth and carcase traits recorded.
The higher accuracy for growth traits reported is largely a reflection of the increased volume of performance data for those traits. As more members become Wagyu BREEDPLAN data submitters and increased volumes of performance data is provided, it's likely accuracy trends and genetic merit will increase across the herd.
Likewise, as EBV accuracy increases, it becomes easier for members to make genetic gain by more accurately identifying genetic merit within their herds.
SALE DATE Details
Darley Tuesday 2nd March
Mayura Thursday 15th April
Sumo Tuesday 20th April
Taree, NSW and online
Millicent, SA and online
Grafton, NSW and online
Elite AWA Wednesday 28th April Gold Coast Conference and online
Special AWA July/Aug TBC
Sumo September TBC
Elite AWA October TBC
Private
Online only, Bulls for F1 breeding
Grafton, NSW and online
AGM and online
Please call Harvey to discuss your needs.
hweymanjones@gdlrural.com.au | 0414 941 788
Analysis of the ten year trends for phenotype (trait) averages in Fullblood Wagyu cattle is provided to complement the information provided in the multi-trait genetic trend analysis (Part 1).
The number of records for each growth trait, database average and minimums and maximums are provided in Table 1. This shows the birth weight is 29.7kg on average, with 200-day weight at 175.9kg on average (across male and female). By subtracting birth weight from 200-day weight, the average daily gain across the database is 0.73 kg per day to weaning.
The database average for 400-day weight ( yearling weight) is 285.7 kg. Based on the change in weight over the 200 to 400-day period, average post-weaning daily gain to yearling age is 0.55 kg per day. The database average for 600-day weight (feedlot entry weight) is 380.4 kg. Based on the change in weight over the 400 to 600-day period, average post-yearling to feedlot entry daily gain is 0.47 kg per day.
The growth data summary in Table 1 demonstrates relatively low rates of daily gain for Fullblood cattle prior to feedlot entry, particularly during the 400 to 600-day grow-out/backgrounding period. From birth to feedlot entry, average daily gain across all recorded Fullbloods (male and female) is 0.58 kg per day.
In 2019 , the AWA released the Wagyu Feed Calculator tool to assist members with increasing growth rates to a consistent 0.7 to 0.8 kg per day to better optimise baseline marbling deposition prior to feedlot entry. This figure is consistent with minimum growth rate targets developed through the Australian Beef Cooperative Research Centre (CRC) analysis, but below recommended targets from numerous Japanese studies (eg. The Japanese industry review of Motoyama et al., 2014 Meat Science 120: 10-18) where feeder calves are targeted to 280 to 300 kg at approximately 9 to 10 months of age (ADG approximately 0.9 kg per day).
Japanese Black cattle are then typically fed on concentrated diets from this point to slaughter at approximately 29 months of age and 755 kg liveweight ( Japan Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries – 2014). This amounts to a whole of life average daily gain of 0.77 kg.
The data provided in Table 1 shows that the pre-feedlot entry growth rate averages are significantly lower than those recommended by the Australian Beef CRC and Japanese studies.
As shown in Table 1, the AWA holds relative few mature cow weight records. The average of records held by the AWA is 462.7 kg for mature Fullblood Wagyu cows, with range in phenotypes from 252 kg up to 767 kg. This database average is not substantially different from that reported by Motoyama et al. (2014) for Japanese Black breeding cows at 487 kg, noting that the vast majority of breeding cows in Japan are maintained whole-of-life on feeding rations.
Carcase data summary. <<< from page 41
Although Intramuscular Fat percentage (IMF%) data from ultrasound scanning is not used within the Wagyu BREEDPLAN analysis, it is important to note that subcutaneous fat thickness and Eye Muscle Area (EMA) measurements from live animals are used in the BREEDPLAN analysis. Importantly, these measurements are used in the calculation of other traits such as retail meat yield and carcase Eye Muscle Area. Members are encouraged to use ultrasound scanning, as it can be important information in identifying animals with high EMA and relatively low subcutaneous fat at an early age.
In Table 2, heifer and bull ultrasound scan data is presented separately, with average rib fat being lower and eye muscle area being higher in bulls compared to heifers. Average EMA for bulls is 64 cm2 and rib fat is 3.26 mm
4,483
4,479
Carcase data is of keen interest to many AWA members who supply feeder cattle through supply chains and provide data back to the AWA. As provided in Part 1 - Multi-trait Genetic Improvement, a total of 47 AWA members have submitted carcase data records to the AWA. These records are provided through more than 15 different feedlots and supply chains.
The phenotypic averages for the AWA database are shown in Table 3 for carcase weight, over 10,000 Fullblood records, the average carcase weight is 429 kg, with average age of slaughter at 32 to 33 months. Carcase weights range from a minimum of 213 kg to a maximum of more than 600 kg. In the four years (2010 to 2013), the phenotypic average for CWt was 423 kg. In the three years 2017 –2019, the phenotypic average for CWt had increased to 440 kg. For marble score, the phenotypic average is marble score 7.4, with the full phenotypic range from MS1 to MS9+ recorded. When AusMeat MS values of 9+ are reported by graders, this is entered into BREEDPLAN numerically as a 10.
In the four years 2010 to 2013, the phenotypic average for MS was 7.3. In the three years 2017 – 2019, the phenotypic average for MS had increased to 7.7.
Stanbroke is purchasing quality bred 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.
<<< from page 42
The distribution graphs for carcase weight and marble score are shown in Figures 1 and 2, to demonstrate the range in data within each trait.
For carcase weight, the ‘Bell Shaped” curve shows the full range of carcase weights. There is significant range in carcase weight with more than 10% of carcases being less than 350kg and 10% of carcases being over 500kg.
For marble score, the curve is truncated, where the full range of marbling is unable to be described by the Aus-Meat grading system. Even with the Aus-Meat 9+ grade being implemented recently for Wagyu carcases, the full variation in marbling expression is unable to be captured by Aus-Meat grading (evident by the attenuation of the bell shaped curve on the right hand side of the graph).
It must be highlighted that this is not a market or marketing issue, it is an issue relating to the use of Aus-Meat grading data for accurately determining the genetic merit of animals for marbling. Approximately 15% of carcases within the AWA database are recorded as being graded Aus-Meat 9+. Increasing use of the MIJ-30 camera is showing that the full range of marbling is expressed using Digital Marble Scores out to DMS-15.
Members wishing to obtain marbling grading data are encouraged to contact AWA about using the MIJ-30 carcase camera.
<<< from page 44
The Phenotype trend data is presented to explain whole-of-herd averages and to describe the range of phenotype records in the AWA database.
The data summary provided includes data from more than 120 individual members across production systems that show extreme variation and large year to year variation reflecting drought, floods and changes to farm management practices.
The data in the AWA database is derived from hundreds of different production systems, management units and year groupings. In considering this data and how it compares to your data, comparisons can only be made between individual animals within the same management groups.
It is not appropriate to look at your own information on individual animals (eg your marble score data) and state that the progeny of any particular bull is higher on average than the AWA database average and should therefore have a higher that average EBV.
There is also large variation within any trait and the measurement system can limit our ability to accurately measure the trait. For example – marble score. It may be that a sire produces progeny that all score 9 or 9+ within a management group. However, about 30% of Fullblood Wagyu score 9 or 9+. What is important, is understanding how that sires’ progeny compared to other progeny in the same management group.
Comparisons between animals are only relevant if those animals are raised in the same conditions in the same management groups (contemporary groups) and can be benchmarked against known standards (link sires). Genetic evaluation is designed to highlight the true differences between animals based on genetics, not environment.
Over the past three years, the number of members that submit animal growth and carcase performance data to AWA BREEDPLAN has increased by 30% per year.
Unlike other Breeds, the AWA actually pays all the costs for membership of BREEDPLAN and the significant data entry fees for AWA members. As a result, there is no cost to AWA members in being BREEDPLAN members and submitting their performance data.
Performance data drives the Wagyu BREEDPLAN genetic evaluation. Based on the increasing volumes of performance data and genomics, Wagyu BREEDPLAN can better determine the genetic differences between individuals. We are now seeing significant increases in EBV accuracies, especially for animals who have had data submitted by AWA members.
In the past three years, we have members who have commenced performance recording with Wagyu BREEDPLAN, have submitted their animal and carcase records and completed genomics testing.
It is not often the AWA sees a member attain a 4-Star rating with BREEDPLAN under the ‘Completeness of Performance’ herd rating system. Even more remarkably, it has been achieved by a member who has been in the industry for less than five years. And, an international member is swiftly moving up the ratings.
The Completeness of Performance herd rating system acknowledges the amount of data that is submitted to BREEDPLAN for the herd across animal traits, and underpins the accuracy of the resultant EBVs.
Calculating the star rating is achieved by considering the level of data submitted across a five-year period. However, each herd may have differing data priorities and may
not submit data across all animal traits for all animals.
According to Keryn Hutton, BREEDPLAN consultant with ABRI, the star rating system is designed to give acknowledgement to those herds that have a more complete recording regime. It also indicates to potential buyers that the herd managers are diligent with data recording and that the EBVs and accuracies are a reflection of that commitment.
“The higher the star rating, the greater the number of traits that are recorded across the animals in your herd,” said Keryn.
“Whether you are a big herd or small, it is possible to achieve higher ratings. For some herds, the traits that are reported will depend on your operation – a genetics business, is not likely to record as much data for carcase traits, but might focus more on fertility.
“With Wagyu, the traits will be a little different to other breeds, such as marble score and IMF, but the principle remains the same.
“If you are planning to buy a bull, that star rating will be indicative of how much data has been submitted for that bull, which will be reflected in the EBV and accuracy. The last thing you want is a bull that has wildly fluctuating values from one data run to the next. So for herd managers, it can be part of their marketing toolkit.”
The business model for Beechworth Wagyu is focused on beef, where elite genetics are utilised to achieve that goal.
Based in northeast Victoria, the animals are primarily grassfed – steers will go to the feedlot at 12 months for finishing while females are retained for breeding. The data available to date on carcase traits is promising, with consistent marbling achieving 9 and 9+. The primary market for the beef has been Taiwan, but is looking to expand.
The operation began in 2016 in a transition away from Angus, but now runs 108 breeding females and a total of 300 head. While there is some Angus retained as recipients, the majority are Fullblood Wagyu.
With a background in insurance risk management, Kerrie McKenna Bishop understands the importance of data and is diligent about submitting to BREEDPLAN. The business relies on the data to track how the farm management program is performing as well as tracking traits.
“I want to be able to understand why one carcase hasn’t performed as well as the others from the same cohort,” said Kerrie.
“If I have good records, I can see that he had surgery early in life that has set him back – and that is acceptable, but if there are other reasons, I want to know why. The data I then send to BREEDPLAN can then be qualified, and that one carcase may not be included, therefore the EBVs and accuracies remain intact. I would like to see all our numbers sit at 70% or higher accuracy so that we can get the best value from the data – and for our customers too.
“The end result is that we have produced the best product we can for the market, and that is reflected in the feedback from the customer. Good quality beef that the consumer is happy with.”
<<< from page 49
The business model for Double 8 Cattle Company, located in central Ohio, USA, is Fullblood Wagyu beef where consumer demand is for quality and consistency. Established in 2016 the property now runs 400 head of Fullblood Wagyu registered with both the American and Australian Wagyu Associations. In the short term, the focus is to bring the herd up to the level that best represents the brand. Improving the breed more broadly, is the long-term goal for local and international markets.
Jeremy Freer, manager at Double 8, understands that marbling is the one trait that sets Wagyu apart from other breeds, and one of the top traits that the company focuses on but aims for balance across the whole animal. Data is collected across weights (birth, 200-, 400-, 600-day and mature cow weights, fertility (calving ease, joining dates, gestation length) and hip height. Ultrasound scans will also be recorded in the 300-800 day window in the near future, particularly for rump fat depth, rib fat, eye muscle area and intramuscular fat. Once all steers are fully registered with the Australian system, carcase data will also be submitted.
As a relative new entrant into Wagyu breeding in the US, Double 8 Cattle Co looked for methods of establishing the value of their animals –the Australian Wagyu Association’s tangible EBVs enabled them to set a reasonable, data-supported benchmark.
“From our perspective the greatest benefit of BREEDPLAN data is our own herd improvement, in a local market setting. For many breeders, there is still an emphasis on selling based on a particular lineage, even where that animal may have below par EBVs and Indexes,” said Jeremy.
“It is our belief that over time, breeders in the U.S. will start to understand the importance of BREEDPLAN data in terms of elevating their herd, consistently producing high-quality products, and assigning data-supported valuations. U.S. breeders will be more inclined to submit data and assign animal values based on EBVs and Indexes when they see that BREEDPLAN data directly translates to better products that merit a premium.”
The star-rating by BREEDPLAN is seen as validation of the work accomplished to date, but not the sole reason for data submission. However, it does act as a measurement that the company is thorough with data collection for the Double 8 herd.
“For us, educating others throughout the US on the importance of performance recording and data submission to BREEDPLAN is a boost for the US Wagyu beef market as a whole, and the more international members share that knowledge and increase their visibility through measures such as the EBVs, Indexes and the star rating, the more sought after they will become.”
BREEDPLAN stars make the difference
*As at 28 October, 2020
5-Star rating is the gold standard and considered to have recorded data across all traits for which EBVs are available.
4 and 4.5-Star is the silver standard, records are comprehensive but may not include all traits
3 and 3.5-Star are bronze standard. A reasonable number of traits or animals have been recorded.
HERDS WITH 4 STAR AND ABOVE*
Beechworth Wagyu
HERDS WITH 3.5 STAR* Double 8 Cattle Company
Irongate Wagyu
HERDS WITH 3 STAR*
Academy Wagyu
Clear Hills
Mt Mee Wagyu
Gooree Park Pastoral
Prime Valley Farms
Codenwarra
Lisheen Wagyu
StoneAxe Pastoral
DoorKey Wagyu
Circle 8 Wagyu
We’ve commenced progeny testing to expand our own breeding program with top quality sires Mayura Pioneer and QGI’s Q122 Need a bull for your Spring 2021 breeding program? Contact Pete to discuss
PETE BISHOP Owner Bishop Wagyu | Director Quality Genetics International contact @ bishopwagyu.com 0429 454 189
WE USE OUR 10 YEARS + OF CARCASE DATA RECORDS TO MEASURE AND SELECT ONLY THE BEST PERFORMING GENETICS TO GROW OUR WAGYU HERD
Macquarie Wagyu
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