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WA ANGUS NEWS DECEMBER 2019

THE WA ANGUS COMMITTEE WOULD LIKE TO WISH EVERYONE A VERY MERRY CHRISTMAS AND A PROSPEROUS NEW YEAR...

WA ANGUS COMMITTEE Chairman Mark Hattingh 0419 399 557 Vice Chairman Liz Sudlow 0427 362 025 Treasurer Andrew Kuss 0428 761 240 Garry Cain 08 9757 4553

Kerry Cain 08 9757 4553

Bruce Campbell 08 9525 2361

Craig Davis 0428 366 052

S. Gibbs-Hooper 0409 025 099

Tony Golding 08 9725 4334

Andrew Kuss 0428 761 240

Jim McGregor 08 9831 0401

Pam McGregor 08 9831 0401

Richard Metcalfe 08 9846 8001

Mark Muir 0427 691 001

Lew Smit 08 9833 6250

Henry Strating 0416 026 851

Tony Sudlow 0428 362 032

Harris Thompson 08 9767 1355

David Topham 08 9651 8015

Allison Wolrige 08 9755 1123

Lindsay Wolrige 08 9755 1123

John Young 08 9884 5253 Secretary

Society Head Office

08 6263 3100 PO Box 135, Claremont, WA 6910

02 6772 3011 Locked Bag 11, Armidale, NSW, 2350

Angus Australia Director Andrew Kuss

The WA Angus News... The Newsletter is a project of the WA Angus Committee sent to Society members in WA, Federal Councillors and senior staff of the society, people we know of in WA who have bought Angus cattle, stock agents & press - just over 1100 each issue! The mailing list is continually revised and updated, so you may be receiving the WA Angus News for the first time. If you are on the mailing list and you would rather not be or if we donâ€™t have your correct address, please advise the Newsletter & Mailing List Coordinator on the contact details below Shezanne Gibbs-Hooper Phone - 08 9242 8894 or 0409 025 099 Email - waangusnews@yahoo.com.au Post - PO Box 94, Wembley, WA 6913

The WA Angus News is printed by A-Team Printing 81 Acton Avenue, Rivervale, WA, 6103 Ph: 08 9478 3188 WA ANGUS NEWS December 2019

CONTENTS Chairmanâ€™s Update

WA Angus Celebrates

Sire Benchmarking 10 Years On

Clementine Raises $26,000

Perth Royal Show

DNA Requirements for Animal Registration

Membership Awards

Chinese Demand Global Impact

GenAngus 2020 Applications

2019 Bull Sales Auction Decline

From the Vet

Management Groups

In Memoriam

Coordinators Note Hi Everyone, Welcome to the December 2019 edition of the WA Angus News. As you will have worked out it is a bit earlier than usual (because of school holidays) but hopefully you still all enjoy the read! Thankyou to everyone for their contributions and advertising support - without this the WA Angus News would not exist. Hopefully I haven't left anyone out or missed any stories and my apologies if I have. I would also welcome any feedback and look forward to putting together the next edition of the WA Angus News in June 2020 - Merry Xmas! Kind regards, Shezanne 3

CHAIRMAN’S UPDATE The year 2019 has been a great year of celebrations for Angus Australia. WA Angus had the Centenary Celebrations in Gingin with an exhibition of Angus cattle, structural assessment of cattle presented by Peter Collins and David Roe and talking to the Vets Enoch Bergman and Matt Carrick in the morning session.

rainfall for the year and is experiencing warmer than normal temperatures which has led to lower crop and feed yields for the season.

Stock numbers throughout the continent have declined significantly, whilst there is a good demand for meat products in the overseas markets which could increase prices in the coming year especially should At the luncheon in the Gingin Recreation centre John significant rainfalls occurs. Young presented the History of Angus and there The Angus/Farm Weekly heifer competition for 2020 were also guest speakers for the afternoon including is about to be released, last year there was a record CEO of Angus Australia Peter Parnell, President of number of entries of 16700, hopefully this will be Angus Australia Brad Gilmour and Caris Jones Project exceeded again this year. Thank you to all the breedManager (Genetics) Meat and Livestock Australia. er sponsors in making this campaign happen, it genThe Sundowner session, Cooking with Beef demonerates great interest. Good luck to all entrants. stration by Don Hancey closed the day. Bull sales are about start throughout the state, I do I would like to take the opportunity to thank all inbelieve that there has been a wide selection of good volved in the planning, organising, working on the genetics been used to suit everyone’s needs. May the day, supporting, presenting, sponsoring, Angus Aussellers receive the best prices for their dedicated tralia Board members and staff and all attendees in work in breeding the best genetics and buyers remaking the day such a success. Angus Australia has ceive increased production from the genetics. made enormous advancement in the past 100 years, Angus for productivity. looking forward to further advancements for the I would like to wish everyone a next 100 years. happy and blessed Christmas and Australia is experiencing severe drought, parts in the prosperous new year with good Eastern states for multiple years, which has had firains and plenty of Angus calves. nancial consequences on the farming community. Most of WA has received about half of their normal Mark Hattingh

The Australian Angus Cookery Book This was first published 1997 for the World Angus Forum in Australia with recipes from Angus folk all over Australia. It has been reprinted in 2019 to help celebrate the Centenary of the Angus Society of Australia.

Only $13 each posted to your Australia address. Send a cheque made out to Pam McGregor and send to her at PO Box 301, Kojonup WA 6395 and she’ll post one (or more) to you OR ring her on 0417 942 326 for EFT details.

WA ANGUS NEWS December 2019

WA Angus Centenary Magazine Did you know the first Angus cattle to arrive in Western Australia thanks to John Muir, who lived near Manjimup, was in 1891? If you weren’t at the Black Friday Angus Centenary day in September and you would like to learn more about the history of Angus, read about the individual histories of many WA Angus studs and view an amazing collection of old photos there is a limited number of Centenary magazines available to members that would like a hard copy. Please contact the WA Angus News coordinator Shezanne Gibbs-Hooper at waangusnews@yahoo.com.au or Pam McGregor at maybenup@bigpond.com and we can post you out a copy.

Alternatively the magazine can be viewed online by using the link below: https://issuu.com/waangusnews/docs/ wa_angus_centenary_magazine_sept_2019_final

Harvey Beef & Angus Australia celebrate 100 years in 2019 In 2019 both Harvey Beef and Angus Australia celebrated 100 years of their respective organisations - a major milestone in today’s tough environment. These milestones are testament to the hard work and dedication of Western Australian cattle farmers over the years and we are committed to the future success of this industry.

Harvey Beef has strong plans to grow Western Australia’s beef reputation across the globe and Angus beef will play a key role in this for us, both domestically through our retailer supply chains and into key export markets. As we enter our 101st year, we look forward to sharing our plans and continuing to work with Angus breeders across WA. Please contact our livestock team if you would like to discuss working with Harvey Beef on 08 9729 0000 or livestock@harveybeef.com.au

WA ANGUS NEWS December 2019

WA ANGUS CELEBRATES THE CENTENARY Over 100 people converged on Gingin, just over an hour north of Perth for the Western Australia celebrations of the centenary of Angus Australia on Friday the 13th of September. Hosted by the WA State Committee, Chairman Mark Hattingh welcomed everyone and highlighted the fact that while Angus breeders have made great gains, there is a need ‘to keep the breed moving forward’.

The first half of the day saw Angus breeders from Western Australia put on a fantastic display of Angus cattle.

adopted technologies made available to them.’ Angus Australia President Brad Gilmour gave a presentation on his experiences at the World Angus Secretariat in Uruguay earlier in the year, while also promoting the World Angus Forum that will be hosted by Angus Australia in 2021. The speaking sessions were closed out by Caris Jones, Project Manager – Genetics, Meat & Livestock Australia (MLA), with an update on MLA activities and the current research and development initiatives in place.

David Roe from Benalong Grazing, Gingin WA and Peter Collins, Merridale Angus, Tennyson Vic, gave a demonstration on structural assessment and Dr Enoch Bergman and Dr Matt Carrick presented a session on various health and breeding management practices that can impact beef herds.

The afternoon culminated in WA Food Ambassador and chef, Don Hancey serving up some delicious beef during his ‘Chefs Sundowner’, while spruiking the highlights of the WA food and wine industry.

Mr Young’s speech was closed out by noting that Angus is, ‘The breed that writes history, others read it’.

He also noted that it is great to see the work being done on structural soundness and docility.

Day 2 of the celebrations saw Angus Australia take the lead, with the beginning of the Centenary Function and The session in the yards was followed by the Centenary Forums series with attendees presented with the new lunch and with past Angus Australia Presidents, Lew Smit research and development outcomes from Angus Aus(also an Honorary Life Member) and John Young in tralia, updates to the Angus genetic evaluation services attendance along with a number of past Board members and other projects. and service recognition awardees, there was plenty of time for reflection and celebration, while also focusing Tony and Liz Sudlow from Kapari Angus, Northampton on the future and acknowledging the fact that the Angus WA believe that attending the forum is a great learning breed and breeders wish to continue to evolve and still opportunity. be standing for the next 100 years. For Mrs Sudlow it is important to interact with the peoJohn Young summed this up best during his speech when ple making the decisions and implementing the prohe spoke about why the Angus Society has been so suc- grams and ‘Given the technical nature of a lot of the incessful? formation, the more times you can be exposed to it the more you take it in.’ ‘In part because breeders were quick to adopt new technology and breeding tools. Sensibly priced semen. The Mr Sudlows’ take home message was that it is, ‘Great to breed with a natural marbling gene. Fantastic maternal see a focus on the cow because it’s the driver of any abilities.’ business.’

The success of the breeders was a sentiment that was reiterated by Angus Australia CEO Dr Peter Parnell, whom spoke on the value of the based organisation, that is Angus Australia and that its’ members are, ‘Are very passionate about breeding and enhancing and promoting he value of Angus.’ ‘It is the breeders that have made Angus the success that it is today,’ Dr Parnell said. ‘The Angus breed is so successful because breeders have WA ANGUS NEWS December 2019

Photos from the WA Centenary Celebrations!!

- John Young speaking about the history of the Angus breed in WA

- Angus Australia CEO, Peter Parnell with John & Lesley Young and Pam McGregor

- Steve & Sandy Elliot with Angus Australia's Breed Development & Extension Manager, Andrew Byrne - WA Angus Chairman, Mark Hattingh and Jim McGregor

- Peter Collins, David Roe & Ken MacLeay - Caris Jones, MLA & Liz Sudlow, Kapari Angus

- Peter Collins giving a presentation on structural assessment WA ANGUS NEWS December 2019

- Beef Ribs prepared by WA Food Ambassador Don Hancey 7

ANGUS SIRE BENCHMARKING PROGRAM - 10 YEARS ON! Eleven years ago, Peter Parnell convinced the board of Angus Australia to apply for MLA funding to run a largescale progeny test program. The application for MLA Donor Company funding was successful and Angus Australia entered into cooperative agreements with Rangers Valley Feedlot to purchase and feed the steers, University of New England to use Tullimba Feedlot for feed efficiency testing and Bayer Animal Health for supply of synchronising drugs and technical advice for fixed time AI. The program had three original objectives: 1. To progeny test Angus bulls, especially for hard to measure traits like NFI, carcase traits and female fertility. 2. To generate data for the validation of BreedPlan. 3. To develop large number of animal records on progeny with DNA typing providing a reference population for evaluation of new DNA testing and genetic technologies. The plan was to test up to 40 bulls each year and to join 2000 cows each year. In the first year (2010), 5 commercial Angus herds in NSW and Vic agreed to breed the calves and 35 bulls were nominated. They were joined to 1640 cows. Originally, the ASBP was to operate for 3 years but it soon became apparent that the program would be only starting to generate information by the end of that time. The program was extended a couple of times and now with 10 joinings, 353 Angus bulls from Australia, New Zealand, USA and UK have been involved. With one more joining year planned, the target is to have 400 bulls tested producing 5,500 steer progeny and 5,500 heifer progeny. All the progeny are fully DNA tested and a large reference population of fully recorded animals for growth, carcase attributes, feed efficiency, structure, temperament, calving ease, days to calving and some new traits like immune competence are recorded. Progeny testing programs take a long time to generate information. By the time we had carcase and female fertility information from the first Cohort born, another three cohorts of calves had been joined and were at WA ANGUS NEWS December 2019

different stages of production. The information pipeline took some time to fill but once it started, has generated continuing amounts of data and information. So what have we learnt? 1. There are large differences between the progeny performance of Angus bulls. This variation is important as it gives us the chance to identify animals with desirable traits and to use those individuals to make genetic improvement. 2. Australian bred bulls are equal in progeny performance to the best bulls from around the world. 3. Fixed time AI works. It can be used in stud and commercial herds with good results and used to concentrate calving periods for higher herd productivity. The technical and financial support of Vetoquinol Australia has been greatly appreciated. 4. BreedPlan works. It is not perfect and EBVs for young animals can change, up or down, as more progeny performance is recorded. But EBVs do give a good indication of how a bullâ€™s offspring will perform. The Angus Australia website (www.angusaustralia.com.au then select Sire Benchmarking tab on the homepage) contains a number of videos presenting results (Lessons from the ASBP tab). These are very well done and you should watch them. 5. Using proven sires gives more confidence of progeny performance. The listing of bulls tested in the ASBP gives breeders a large number of tested bulls from which to select AI sires. The results of the program mean that the EBVs reported are higher accuracy because they are based on actual progeny performance. As all the progeny are also assessed for temperament and structural traits, it is possible to select bulls from the ASBP tested lists that meet your production needs but have progeny structural information as well as desirable temperament. 6. The ASBP has provided opportunities for associated research never anticipated when it began. The CSIRO research into immune competence has led to developing EBVs for how the progeny of different bulls handle health challenges and has identified bulls whose progeny have performed well but also remained healthy when challenged. Other research into different methods of assessing marbling (using camera technology) has proved productive. NSW DPI have used the program to generate more useful and current data on retail beef yield by collecting individual yield data on some ASBP steers. 8

7. High performing bulls can come from many different herds. While many of the bulls nominated for the ASBP come from well known, high profile herds, some have come from lesser known herds. High performing sires may not have reached high sale prices or have glossy brochures but can be highly productive progeny. 8. Angus breeders have been strong supporters of the program. Dedicated breeders have nominated their commercial herds and allowed them to be joined to selected bulls, to collect calving and weaning information and other details. They have grown out the heifers and natural joined them to allow conception data and calving ease. They have been the backbone of the project. 9. MSA Marble Scores are an accurate measure of Intra Muscular Fat (IMF). They correlate strongly with lab analysed IMF%. The MSA Index is a useful measure of eating quality and a means of ranking carcases on eating quality. 10. Marbling is still important for Angus cattle and we have made steady improvement in that trait by selection. WA breeders do not have the emphasis on long fed markets but the domestic market MSA grid payments continue to emphasise the importance of marbling. 11. The original need to establish a data base of physical animal performance records on DNA tested animals has now become a high priority. The development of new genomic tests and increasing adoption of this technology makes it essential that a resource of physical performance records on current populations is available. 12. Selecting for sound structure has always been important for stud breeders. Scoring structural traits like feet and leg shape has been reported as trial EBVs and the results from the ASBP have added over 5,000 records and 4,500 coat score records. Analysis has shown both traits are heritable and describe the results of test bull progeny.

- Steers using GrowSafe feeders to measure feed efficiency

- Eye muscle samples collected from project steers for laboratory analysis of IMF%, shear force, cooking loss and fat quality. - Thanks to Bob Dent for this article, it is greatly appreciated! WA ANGUS NEWS December 2019

The WA Angus Committee would like to acknowledge and say THANK YOU to the following studs that have committed to supporting the upcoming 12th Farm Weekly/WA Angus Heifer Competition... Your support is much appreciated!

2020 Female Inventory Dates Members are reminded to be prepared for the upcoming annual distribution of Inventory Lists and Calf Record Forms from the Member Services Team. It is important that members set aside time and really consider their inventory options when fating off calving females. Below are the vital dates for your 2020 Inventory: Autumn 17th Jan 2020 – Autumn 2020 Female Inventory List mailed out to members 18th Mar 2020 – Autumn 2020 Female Inventory is due 24th Mar 2020 – Invoicing of Autumn 2020 Female Inventory 3rd April 2020 – Autumn 2020 Calf Record forms mailed out 29th May 2020 – Late Inventory fees for unpaid Autumn 2020 females are charged

Spring th

15 May 2020 – Spring 2020 Female Inventory List mailed out to members th 17 July 2020 – Spring 2020 Female Inventory is due th 24 July 2020 – Invoicing of Spring 2020 Female Inventory 7th August 2020 – Spring 2020 Calf Record Forms mailed out 30th September 2020 – Late Inventory fees for unpaid Spring 2020 females are charged

2020 year letter is ‘R’ Members are reminded that the year letter for the 2020 calf registrations is ‘R’. For more information on registering your calves please feel free to contact the Member Services Team at Angus Australia on P: 02 6773 4600 F: 02 6772 3095 E: regos@angusaustralia.com.au www.angusaustralia.com.au

If you have any questions or queries regarding your Inventory List, please feel free to contact the Member Services Team on (02) 6773 4600 or regos@angusaustralia.com.au WA ANGUS NEWS December 2019

Clementine Raises $26,000 for Black Dog Ride Mental health charity the Black Dog Ride's coffers have been boosted by another $26,000, with the auction of a Western Australian Angus heifer at the Royal Melbourne Show. Semex general manager Jim Conroy led the winning bid on behalf of a five member syndicate that bought the heifer, Little Meadows Wilcoola P7 (AI).

"I've met so many wonderful people, I have met sad people, I have met survivors, I have met people who are struggling. "I have met people who have admitted to me they have had an issue, before they have told anyone else."

*From Angus e-news OCTOBER 23, 2019 and stockandland.com.au/story/6418749/angus-heifer-saleThe syndicate included P.J Cattle Co, Hamilton, Fernwood helps-beat-the-black-dog/ (Andrew Miller@journoandy26)

Angus, WA, Clift Angus, NSW, and Eurozone Ltd, WA. Tony Golding, Little Meadows Angus, Dardanup, WA, said he was pleased to offer one of his heifers for the auction The sale was part of the Royal Melbourne Angus Feature Show. "A big drive for me, behind this, was depression and suicide, in rural Australia, with what's going on with the drought," Mr Golding said. He said he was also moved by the plight of the dairy industry. "The hardship it has put on livestock producers and their families is immeasurable and sadly its ongoing," Mr Golding said.

- Tony, Mostyn and Karen Golding, with handler Tiffany McLauchlan, P.J Cattle Co, Little Meadows Wilcoola P7, the Black Dog Ride's Peter Milton and Jim Conroy.

Wilcoola was given the tag Clementine 6, after the wife of the late British Prime Minister, Winston Churchill, who coined the phrase "the Black Dog", when referring to depression. Sired by Pathfinder Genesis G357P out of Coonamble D252, Wilcoola had a birthweight of 5.6 kilograms, 200day weight of 54kg, 600-day weight of 129kg. Wilcoola had an eye muscle area of 7.9 square centimetres, rib fat of 0.9mm rump fat of -0.1mm, retail beef yield of +0.9 per cent and intramuscular fat of +1.2pc. Peter Milton, Black Dog Ride said the fundraiser began as a one off, when he sold steers at the Perth Royal Show. Black Dog Ride began in 2009 to raise awareness of depression, evolving into a national charity involving thousands of Australians. "We raised about $8000 and it was supposed to finish then," Mr Milton said. "It's kept going and we are now around $100,000 and I can't stop.

WA ANGUS NEWS December 2019

PERTH ROYAL SHOW 2019 The Angus Feature Show at the 2019 Royal Perth Show, saw a great exhibition of Angus cattle paraded before judge Andrew Raff, King Island Tasmania. Grand Champion honours were shared, with Junior Champion Female, Little Meadows Wilcoola P9, exhibited by Little Meadows Angus taking out Grand Champion Female and Supreme Exhibit and Junior Champion Bull, Tullibardine Phantum P61, exhibited by AG & JC Murray taking out the Grand Champion Bull award. Little Meadows Wilcoola P9 was an ET bred early April 2018 born heifer by Pathfinder Genesis and out of Coonamble D252 and also took out the interbreed junior champion female.

‘PRS 2019 RESULTS’ (From Angus Australia website)

Class 12 - Female, over 9 & not over 15mths 1 Little Meadows Edwina P220 (AI) Class 13 - Female, over 15 & not over 18mths 1 Little Meadows Wilcoola P9 (AI,ET) 2 Collegian Wilcoola P21 3 Venturon Passion Pop P22 Class 14 - Female, over 18 & not over 21mths 1 Fernwood P04 2 Fernwood P14 3 Collegian Rosebud P2 JUNIOR CHAMPION FEMALE Little Meadows Wilcoola P9 (AI,ET) RESERVE JUNIOR CHAMPION FEMALE Fernwood P04 Class 15 - Female, over 21 & not over 33mths 1 Tullibardine Julitha N46 SENIOR CHAMPION FEMALE Tullibardine Julitha N46 GRAND CHAMPION FEMALE Little Meadows Wilcoola P9 (AI,ET)

Junior champion interbreed female, Little Meadows Wilcoola P9, exhibited by Little Meadows Angus stud WA ANGUS NEWS December 2019

Class 18 - Bull, over 15 & not over 18mths 1 Tullibardine Pretender P86 2 Venturon Patriot P17 Class 19 - Bull, over 18 & not over 21mths 1 Tullibardine Phantum P61 2 Venturon Pocket Rocket P13 JUNIOR CHAMPION BULL Tullibardine Phantum P61 RESERVE JUNIOR CHAMPION BULL Tullibardine Pretender P86 GRAND CHAMPION BULL Tullibardine Phantum P61 SUPREME CHAMPION Little Meadows Wilcoola P9 (AI,ET) Class 25 - PAIR 1 AG & JC Murray 2 Venturon Livestock Class 26 - BREEDERS GROUP OF THREE 1 AG & JC Murray

Grand Champion Bull - Tullibardine Phantum P61, exhibited by A G & J C Murray 12

Angus & Angus influenced steers excel in Perth A purebred Angus steer, exhibited by Leon, Kerry and Michael Giglia took out the coveted Grand Champion Led Steer or Heifer title at the 2019 Perth Royal Show.

a 432kg liveweight steer exhibited by Murdoch University.

It made $1951 at auction and recorded 101cmsq for The 614kg steer, also bred by the Gigliaâ€™s was previous- EMA, 10mm for P8 fat and 7mm for rib fat. ly named Champion Extra Heavyweight and sold for a Murdoch University also exhibited the Champion Medistaggering $9,000 in the auction to Harvey Beef to umweight carcase with a 432kg liveweight Angus influachieve 1446c/kg. enced steer. The Reserve Champion Mediumweight award went to a 453kg purebred Angus steer bred and owned by Harris Thompson, Venturon Livestock, which sold for $2,200 to Woolworths. This result was backed up in the carcase competition, with the steer also winning Reserve Champion Mediumweight Carcase with a score of 84.76 points in total. It dressed at 55.4% equating to 251kg HSCW with 87cmsq EMA, 10mm P8 fat and 7mm rib fat.

Other carcase results saw Angus influenced steers take out Reserve Grand Champion Carcase and reserve champion heavyweight carcase, with 85.63 points, with

WA ANGUS NEWS December 2019

The Gigliaâ€™s with their purebred Angus steer - the 2019 Perth Royal Sow Grand Champion Led Steer. - From Angus e-News, October 23 2019

DNA Requirements for Animal Registration Members are reminded of the DNA requirements when registering calves with Angus Australia in the Herd Book Register (HBR), Red Angus Register (RAR), Angus Performance Register (APR), Angus Commercial Register (ACR) or Multibreed Register (MBR). New Registrations: • If the sire of the animal being registered is born after 1/1/2004, a DNA profile must be recorded with Angus Australia for the sire. • If the sire of the animal being registered is born after 1/1/2018, a DNA profile must be recorded with Angus Australia for the sire with > 5000 SNPs (i.e. the sire must have been genotyped with HD50K for Angus or Angus GS, or the predecessors of these products). • If the animal being registered was bred by artificial insemination (AI) or embryo transfer (ET), and the sire of the animal being registered is born after 1/1/2018, the sire must be tested for the 8 genetic conditions monitored by Angus Australia. • If the animal being registered was bred by ET, and the donor dam is born after 1/1/2004, a DNA profile must be recorded with Angus Australia for the donor dam. • If the animal being registered was bred by ET, and the donor dam is born after 1/1/2018, a DNA profile must be recorded with Angus Australia for the donor dam with > 5000 SNPs (i.e. the donor dam must have

WA ANGUS NEWS December 2019

been genotyped with HD50K for Angus or Angus GS, or the predecessors of these products). • If either the sire or dam of the animal being registered was under 11 months of age at the time of conception, the animal must be DNA sire verified. Modifications to Existing Registrations: • The sire of an animal can only be amended if the animal is DNA sire verified to the new sire. • The dam of an animal can only be amended if the animal is DNA parent verified to both its sire and new dam. • The sex of an animal that is more than 24 months of age can only be amended if the animal is DNA sire verified. Registration of Animals Recorded with Other Breed Associations: An application for registration of an animal recorded with another breed association must be accompanied by either a DNA parentage profile from an Angus Australia approved laboratory, or a DNA sample for testing at an Angus Australia approved laboratory. To further discuss the DNA requirements when registering calves with Angus Australia, please contact staff at Angus Australia. *From Angus e-News October 15th 2019

Join us for the World Angus Forum being held April - May 2021 in Australia! WELCOME FUNCTION IN SYDNEY Renowned for its stunning harbour setting, temperate climate, and world class restaurants. PRE TOUR THROUGH CENTRAL WEST NSW Showcasing world class Angus properties and one of Australia’s best known food and wine regions. INTERNATIONAL ANGUS YOUTH COMPETITION With Angus Youth teams from around the world competing throughout the forum to be crowned the champions of the Angus world.

For more information please contact -

ANGUS AUSTRALIA - WAF 2021 host 86 Glen Innes Road, Locked Bag 11, Armidale, NSW 2350 PH: 02 6773 4600 Fax: 02 6772 3095 office@angusaustralia.com.au

TECHNICAL FORUM IN CANBERRA Australia’s capital city, the heart of the nation and home to many of Australia’s inspirational landmarks and renowned cultural attractions. POST TOUR, FROM TOOWOOMBA TO ROCKHAMPTON Through Queensland, renowned for its northern beef industry, culminating in Beef Australia 2021, the southern hemisphere’s largest beef exposition.

WA ANGUS NEWS December 2019

25 & 50 Year Membership Awards The 2019 Western Australia Black Friday Celebration not only celebrated 100 years of registered Angus cattle with a number of informative sessions for members, it also highlighted those breeders who have continued to help develop the breed over those years. More specifically, a number of WA members were awarded 25 and 50-Year Membership awards during the festivities.

JE & FC Kitchen, Carenda, Katanning, WA, received by Matt Kitchen, son of the late John Kitchen and Flo Kitchen. The following members were unable to attend the celebration however are also celebrating 25 years as Angus Australia members: PN & NY Chalmer, Nypin, Esperance, WA

Angus Australia would like to congratulate these members on this milestone and thank them for their ongoing support and work for the Angus breed in Australia. The following members were presented awards recognising 50 years as registered Angus Australia members: DH & FA Macleay, Blackrock Angus, Vasse, WA, received by Ken Macleay.

50 Year Member Award Mark Hattingh with Ken MacLeay

The following members were unable to attend the celebration however are also celebrating 50 years as Angus Australia members: Brooks Rural, Black Velvet Angus Moora, WA The following members were presented awards recognising 25 years as registered Angus Australia members: Little Meadows T/A Golding & Son, Little Meadows, Dardanup, WA received by Tony and Karen Golding.

25 Year Member Award Mark Hattingh with Tony Golding

25 Year Member Award Mark Hattingh with Matt Kitchen WA ANGUS NEWS December 2019

Young cattle prices in the west outperform east Young cattle prices in WA continue to trend above their eastern counterparts, with the west trading at an average premium of 41¢/kg cwt since the start of 2019. For the week ending 21 November, the Western Young Cattle Indicator (WYCI) averaged 551c/kg, 7% above the Eastern Young Cattle Indicator (EYCI) which was trading at 512.75c/kg. With no reprieve from dry conditions, restocker confidence in the east remains subdued despite cattle being pulled forward in strong numbers across NSW and Queensland. A failed autumn unsurprisingly maintained elevated yardings over winter for northern centres however high throughput of young cattle has continued into spring, maintaining downwards pressure on the EYCI. Feeder buyers, and more recently processors, have pro-

vided some support for store cattle prices, with processors purchasing younger cattle due to strong export returns.

While the EYCI lifted above 500¢/kg in October, following a brief dip in September, the WYCI has been consistently strong, remaining above 500¢/kg since May. For the week ending 21 November, cattle moving through the saleyards in the west surged to near peak levels as the rise in WYCI attracted bigger yardings. While the west has also experienced below average rainfall across 2019, a slightly better autumn rainfall and some restocker activity provided support to the market. At the finished end of the market, the largest spread has been in heavy steers, with eastern states prices outperforming the west and the benchmark indicators on either side of Australia averaging 295¢/kg and 270¢/kg live weight respectively. Medium cow prices have also favoured the east, trading 13c/kg above the west at 217c/kg for the week ending 21 November. For the full article and more market news please visit the link below: https://www.mla.com.au/pricesmarkets/market-news/young-cattle -prices-in-the-west-outperformeast/

Chinese demand having global impact, but means opportunities for Australia: MLA

Uruguay MLA analysis indicates cattle supply in Uruguay is tight with slaughter figures down 6pc 2018. But it appears China is taking precedence as an export destination this year with it drew over 80pc of all Uruguayan beef exports in October.

Meat & Livestock Australia has released its latest analysis of the impact Chinese demand, due to the As well frozen exports to the EU have dropped off pork shortfall created by African swine fever, is hav- as a result of the draw from China. ing on global market dynamics. New Zealand The analysis indicates that with Australia's beef pro- Traditionally New Zealand has been a key supplier duction forecast to decline in 2020, China will inin the US market, but with their focus shifting to creasingly lean on other suppliers to meet their ex- China the percentage of exports to the US has depanding needs. clined from 46pc 2018 to 30pc this year.

To meet that demand South American suppliers are MLA is forecasting that strong competition from expected to continue building a presence in China. China will continue to limit US imports, potentially leaving gaps in the market for imported beef. Brazil In September, 17 Brazilian processors were approved for export to China, and in October Brazil shipped 65,000 tonnes beef there. Brazilian beef exports for the year-to-September are now up 11 per cent 2018, with traditional Middle Eastern buyers unable to compete against Chinese demand combined with a strong domestic market. Argentina Argentinian beef production is currently flourishing, albeit uncertainty surrounding future agricultural reform exists with the new incoming president. Domestic prices for cows have just exceeded steers which highlights demand for manufacturing beef, which has driven slaughter levels in October to the highest point since 2009.

Impact for Australian markets MLA's analysis is that while South American nations are taking advantage of Chinese demand , Australia can continue to leverage off this increased competition to obtain value for their product in markets like the US, Japan and Korea.

*From Farmonline.com.au - 23rd November 2019

Export volumes to China are up 105pc on 2018 for the year-to-September making Argentina the top supplier of beef to China.

WA ANGUS NEWS December 2019

Applications open for the 2020 GenAngus Future Leaders Program • Finding your place in the beef industry • Business benchmarking • Improving your herd with genetics The GenAngus Program will provide 10 Angus Australia • Resilience and succession members and 2 New Zealand Angus members aged 18 • Marketing and branding • Business writing skills – 40 with the opportunity to participate in a customised program to aid them in increasing their knowledge and confidence to launch a new or existing APPLICATIONS CLOSE 6th JANUARY 2020 beef enterprise. Angus Youth and Achmea Australia are pleased to announce the 2020 GenAngus Future Leaders Program will take place 18th-20th March 2020.

Participates will attend an intimate and intensive 3 day workshop with industry leading professionals, before embarking on a 12 month program with access to personalised support. The program is targeted at people looking to start up their own business in the beef industry or take that next step in their existing business. Topics covered:

• Mindset and strengthening belief • Financial fundamentals and business planning tools • Risk management and insurance

WA ANGUS NEWS December 2019

If you would like more information about all things ANGUS YOUTH please visit www.angusaustralia.com.au/ angusyouth Or for further information during business hours (8.30am – 5pm) please contact Candice Liddle Events and Youth Development Officer P: 02 6773 4622 E: youth@angusaustralia.com.au

2019 Bull Sales: 13pc decline in numbers sold at auction A COMBINATION of fewer bulls being catalogued for sale by bull breeders, and lower sale clearance rates has driven a 13 percent decline in the number of bulls sold at auction this year across Australia. Total bulls sold at auction this year for the nine breeds listed in Beef Centralâ€™s annual report was 17,640 head, down from 20,293 last year, and 4036 head or 19pc below the 21,676 bulls sold in 2017. Thatâ€™s easily the largest two-year correction in bull numbers sold ever seen in the seedstock industry. Results clearly show that while studmasters continued to reduce their catalogue offerings in 2019 in line with lower demand due to female liquidation due to drought, this was simply a continuation of a similar policy applied in some exposed breeds the year before. As signs grew that the 2019 drought was not going to break, large numbers of young bulls were disposed of, either sent to the meatworks or into live export. Considerable numbers of young bulls found their way onto live export boats for the heavy export trade into markets like Vietnam, out of Port Alma and Townsville this year, as stud masters lowered their expectations over likely spring sale demand. Record high prices for lean grinding meat has also helped support the disposal of unwanted or surplus sale bulls this year.

* Incomplete data

As the table of 2019 results published above shows, while double digit declines in percentage terms for numbers sold were reasonably common among beef breeds this year, others showed much smaller reductions in numbers, or actually increased. Shorthorns recorded a 10.3pc rise in numbers sold this year to 493 bulls, although that figure was coming off an unusually low base in 2018. Droughtmasters numbers were only 1pc below last year, at 1575 bulls, while Limousin numbers only reduced by 3.7pc. Breeds recording the biggest downwards movement in bull volume turnover included Herefords, back 27pc, Brahmans back 17pc, Charolais back 15.7pc and Santa Gertrudis back 14.7pc. By and large, those breeds did not record such large reductions the year before, suggesting there might be some catch-up involved. Clearance rates While clearance rates were requested of all breeds approached for this report, only some were able to provide breed-wide results. Clearance rates at auction should be viewed in the context of bull numbers offered, however, as some breeds clearly cut their numbers offered more severely than others this year. Of those breeds reporting clearance rates in 2019, all were clearly impacted by drought. Herefords cleared 68pc of 2203 bulls offered; Shorthorns cleared 78pc of 631 bulls offered; Droughtmasters cleared WA ANGUS NEWS December 2019

82pc of its offering of 1575 bulls (down from 84pc last year); while Santa Gertrudis breeders cleared 85pc of their offering. The 2016 year is regarded as the ‘goldilocks’ year when everything went ‘just right’ for bull breeders, combining a better than average season in most areas with strong cattle prices and high international beef demand. And on top of that, herd recovery was still in progress after earlier drought, elevating demand even further. Clearance rates for most reported breeds that year sat in the low to mid 90s. Change in crossbreeding trends In monitoring trends in bull demand, Beef Central asked Angus Australia’s Dr Peter Parnell whether the decline in F1 Wagyu breeding using Angus dams since the enormous spike seen two years ago was likely to be reflected in renewed Angus bull demand in coming years, as commercial Angus cattlemen returned to straightbreeding. “We do expect that as herds rebuild after the season hopefully breaks in autumn 2020, that there will be a strong demand for Angus bulls (and females), including a swing back to Angus by some breeders who have dabbled in crossbreeding over the last year or so in search for promised market premiums,” he said. “We believe that the long-term price advantage for quality Angus cattle, driven by strong export and domestic demand for Angus branded beef, will continue to reward breeders of straight-bred and high content Angus. Hence, despite the setback caused by the continuing widespread drought, Angus Australia remains positive about the medium-long term outlook for the breed and our members. This is likely to be reflected in the recovery of bull sale volumes sold and average prices over the next couple of years,” Dr Parnell said. *Article by Jon Condon, from Beef Central Dec 5th 2019, sourced through Scanning the Media (Angus Australia website)

WA ANGUS NEWS December 2019

From the Vet Infectious Pustular Vulvo-Vaginitis/Balanoposthitis (IPV/IPB) or Exploding Dick Syndrome Many producers have probably heard of Infectious Bovine Respiratory (IBR) disease. IBR is the respiratory manifestation of bovine herpesvirus (BoHV). IBR is considered one of the primary viral contributors to the Bovine Respiratory Disease (BRD) complex, conservatively estimated to cost Australian producers $60 million dollars per year, primarily due to sickness, death, and reduced performance amongst animals in Australian feedlots. IBR replicates within the upper airway interfering with the animal’s normal mechanical defences from respiratory pathogens. It can be especially detrimental to the muco-ciliary apparatus of the trachea, a type of “elevator” comprised of tiny brushes which beat in synchrony to move “junk” from the windpipe back up to the throat keeping it out of the lungs. Animals with severe IBR infections (often complicated with co-infection with other viruses like BVD) are prone to developing bacterial pneumonia as a consequence.

- Trachea of animal with severe IBR infection.

- Feedlot animal suffering visible symptoms of Bovine Respiratory Disease (BRD).

Like all herpesviruses, animals which survive exposure to BoHV are permanently infected with the virus and are sometimes infectious to other animals, especially when stressed. When stressed the virus will “recrudesce” or reemerge, often with some clinical signs, though usually not as severe as the primary infection. As a veterinarian servicing cattle producers across the state, early in my career working in Esperance I began to notice a consistent pattern of bull breakdowns during the breeding season. Initially I thought it was just bad luck, but property after property the story was the same. Each case involved a new bull within the first couple of weeks of the joining afflicted by a ripped, swollen, and infected prepuce. Therapy was pretty straightforward: sexual rest, anti-inflammatories, and antibiotics. We would then usually schedule a revisit after the breeding season. If the prepuce had healed well enough, we would give him another go next year. If he had healed reasonably well, but had a stricture affecting his prepuce, we would sometimes circumcise him surgically, opening up the prepuce. If he was insured we would discuss the options with the agent. But we felt there was something else leading to this other than the usual presumption of misadventure or inexperience.

- Acute infectious balano-posthitis. WA ANGUS NEWS December 2019

- Chronic infectious balano-posthitis with secondary bacterial involvement. 22

Sadly, some producers were quick to blame the seed stock producer, especially when a group of recently purchased bulls broke down simultaneously. We felt we needed to look into the syndrome more closely. We began taking blood and tissue samples from affected animals and soon worked out that MOST bulls will be exposed to BoHV (either IBR or IBP) either before or by the time they finish their first season of mating. Unfortunately, apparently some bulls are being exposed to IBP during their first joining. Some of those bulls are then developing clinical IBP, characterized by small ulcers on the penis and prepuce. Sometimes this results in oedema (swelling) of the prepuce and if the bull keeps working hard, this will usually result in a severe longitudinal tear almost always followed by a nasty secondary infection occasionally including entrapment and strangulation of the penis. Long story short, some bulls are probably immune prior to mating, some bulls survive infection during mating, but some suffer catastrophic failure! Initially, the only vaccine available in Australia for BoHV was Rhinogard, an intra-nasal vaccine developed for the lot feeding industry. Originally it was only available 500 doses at a time in ten 50 dose vials, shipped on dry ice. Each 50 dose vial must be used immediately once reconstituted. The vaccine is a modified live product requiring only a single dose to be squirted up an animals nose to confer immunity. We began splitting up packs organizing vaccination programs for some of our larger producers and as a pre-sale treatment for some of our seed stock producers. The feedback was excellent. Effective vaccination appears to reduce both the incidence and severity of balano-posthitis in protected bulls. Eventually a second product, Bovilis MH + IBR became available. This vaccine requires two doses a minimum of four weeks apart to confer optimum protection. Delivered in a multi-dose vial, this product has been better suited to our smaller producers to whom we sell single doses. Rhinogard is currently being reformulated to be sold freeze dried, negating the need to ship on dry ice. Presumably this will also allow smaller pack sizes to be shipped. Currently a minimum order is 250 doses. At present, we provide individual doses of Bovilis MH + IBR to our smaller producers for their virgin bulls pre-mating and organize either Rhinogard or Bovlis MH + IBR as appropriate for our larger clients.

Bovine Herpes Virus Infections Balano-Posthitis is a devastating syndrome. Bulls exposed for the first time on properties without any form of prior immunity are at the greatest risk. By vaccinating all virgin bulls either pre-sale or prior to their first outing, we can reduce bull wastage and improve conception rates on most properties. In my opinion, all sale bulls will benefit from vaccination with either Rhinogard or Bovilis MH + IBR as well as their routine Pestigard, Vibrovax, clostridial and lepto vaccinations. Further, in my opinion, all virgin working bulls would benefit from vaccination prior to their first joining if they were not vaccinated previously by the seed stock producer. A booster of Rhinogard or Bovilis MH + IBR pre mating for bulls already vaccinated pre-sale may confer even greater protection from balano-posthitis. I strongly advocate ongoing boosters of Pestigard and Vibrovax for subsequent mating seasons, though I donâ€™t believe there is compelling evidence of a need for ongoing vaccination with Rhinogard or Bovilis MH + IBR in most cases. Contact your cattle veterinarian for more information. Enoch Bergman is a senior veterinarian at Swans Veterinary Services and past president of the Australian Cattle Vets. He is a member of Trilogy Genetics a group of veterinary practices providing export accredited reproductive services across Western Australia. He can be reached for further questions at enoch@swansvet.com or at 0427 716 907. *Thanks to Enoch for this informative contribution it is greatly appreciated!

- Checking a bull post circumcision. WA ANGUS NEWS December 2019

Management Groups make all the difference Breeding values allow breeders to compare the genetic merit of animals raised in potentially very different environmental conditions. These environmental factors are not genetic and so cannot benefit a breeding program through the progeny.

only animals that have equal opportunity to perform are directly compared together. It is only when animals can be directly compared on an even playing field that we can accurately account for non-genetic factors and calculate the genetic merit of the animal.

Whilst the actual performance record the animal receives (e.g. birth weight of 30kg) is important, a critical piece of information for the accurate calculation of estimated breeding values (EBVs) is management group information. This is because the management group information will allow the contexting of the animals performance.

Most of the problems that breeders encounter in “believing” their Angus TACE EBVs can be traced back to incorrect contemporary grouping – either calves being fragmented into isolated groups of only one or two animals (and thereby virtually eliminating those calves from any comparison with their peers) or by not differentiating between calves who performance has been influenced by different non-genetic factors (e.g. differences in management or feeding).

If we look at this in a practical example; if the bull we are looking that weighs 400kg from a large group of bulls that averages 340kgs, there is the potential that the bull was a standout for growth.

Importantly, the management groups that are submitted with each set of performance information have a major influence on which animals are directly compared within each contemporary group in the Angus TACE analysis.

However, if he and a small number of the bulls which average 385kg were supplementary fed, then all of a sudden his performance isn’t as amazing. This doesn’t mean he doesn’t have good growth, it just contexts his Types of management groups performance and this is why it’s so important accurate There are two different types of management groups. management groups are recorded. 1. Birth Management Group: specified to describe any non-genetic factors prior to calving that may result in The underlying principle of managements groups is that differences to the performance measurements that are collected at birth (i.e. calving ease, birth weight, gestation length). For example, where one group of cows have been supplementary fed during gestation, resulting in heavier calf birth weights than would otherwise be the case if they ware managed in a similar manner to other cows who haven’t been supplementary fed. 2. Post Birth Management Group: specified to describe any non-genetic factors post birth that may result in differences to the performance measurements that are collected. For example, when some animals were run on an oats crop, resulting in heavier weights than would have been the case if they were managed in a similar manner to other animals that were run on native pasture. (Continued on pg 25 >>>) WA ANGUS NEWS December 2019

Specifying management group information is an im• calves that are orphaned portant consideration when submitting any performance For further information contact staff at Angus Australia information to Angus TACE. By assigning animals into on (02) 6773 4600 or office@angusaustralia.com.au management groups, seedstock breeders are acting as “eyes” for the TACE evaluation and ensuring that only the performance for animals that have had the same opportunity to perform is directly compared together. Assigning management groups Animals should be assigned into different management groups in any situation where their performance has been affected by different non-genetic influences to other animals. In practical terms, animals that have been run in the same contemporary group and have had equal opportunity to perform should be grouped together. Some examples of where animals should be recorded in separate management groups are:

•

grain fed animals versus paddock reared animals

•

some animals are fed for show or sale

•

some animals being given growth promotants

*From Angus e-News Nov 27th 2019

ANGUS WA ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING NOTICE

•

animals reared in different paddocks in which feed is of different nutritional value

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sickness gives some calves a permanent set back

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a bull has been fighting and clearly lost weight prior to recording

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yearling bulls used as sires compared to those not used as sires

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different stages of pregnancy for heifers (try to weigh before joining and certainly before two months)

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All Members of Angus WA are advised that the next Annual General Meeting is scheduled to be held on FRIDAY JANUARY 20TH 2020 AT 10.30AM Please notify Jack Martin (RASWA Secretary) on the contact details below if you have any queries or to record your apology if you are unable to attend.

calves weighed on different scales

•

calves weighed straight from the paddock as compared to those off feed for say three hours or more

WA ANGUS NEWS December 2019

Phone: 6263 3137 Email: jack. Martin@raswa.org.au

IN MEMORIAM ‘Vale John McKay’ With the recent passing of John McKay the WA Angus family lost one of its most influential members. John was born in Kadina, South Australia on 6th October, 1932 and passed in peace at the age of 86 after a short battle with a brain tumour. In recognition of John the following is a piece that John and his wife Beth provided for the recent WA Angus Centenary magazine and as all of our readers may not have had a chance to read it we thought we would reprint it in this issue of the WA Angus News.

Wilson Downs Angus Stud was conducted by Beth

- Bred the 1986 and 1987 Supreme Angus Exhibit at the Sydney Royal Show;

and John McKay at Cunderdin in the central wheatbelt of Western Australia. The property farmed wheat, sheep - Bred the top selling bull of all breeds at the United and the Angus stud. The annual average rainfall was Beef Breeders Association of W.A. Annual Sale for four 350mms. consecutive years. The stud was formed in 1968 based on females purchased from the Tenterfield, Barwidgee and Wallah studs.

John has been involved in the industry as the Western Australian State Chairman of the Angus Society and a representative on the Federal Council.

In 1981, prior to the protocol allowing direct importation of cattle into Australia, embryos and heifers were imported into New Zealand. This resulted in the female lines of the Rosebud and Pride families, which have had an outstanding influence in many herds.

Beth is recognised for her ability to prepare and show cattle with a supreme achievement being winning the Governors’ Cup at the Perth Royal Show in 1990 for most points in the Livestock Section.

Wilson Downs was involved in the instigation of grass fed bull trials in 1978 in Kojonup in Western Australia for the Angus Society. Wilson Downs also formed and managed the International Angus Stud which comprised animals from Western Australia, Tasmania, Victoria, South Australia and New Zealand to form an elite herd. This stud produced the top-priced bulls for two consecutive years at the Angus National Beef Classic and Wodonga, Victoria.

Wilson Downs has been to the forefront in marketing, conducting the Royal Canadian Sale in New Zealand of pure Canadian bloodlines, and in 1978, using the services of Roley Fraser from Scotland to auction their annual bull sale. 1998 saw the introduction of a Red Angus herd which has been successful in both the show ring and bull sales, setting a State record price for a bull of $14,000 in 2003.

Cattle from the stud have been extremely successful across Australia: - Bred or involved in the breeding of the top selling bull at the National Beef Classic for six years, including the record priced Wilson Downs Zenith to a New Zealand syndicate for $40,000 for a three-quarter share; - Bred the Supreme Angus Exhibit at the Perth Royal Show for five consecutive years including two All Breed Champions; - Bred the top performing Angus Bull in the Western Australian Grass Fed Bull Trials in Kojonup for three consecutive years; WA ANGUS NEWS December 2019

Proposed Bull Sale Dates - 2020! (Subject to change)

JANUARY Tuesday, 14

Mason Valley Angus Bull Sale, Great Southern Blue Ribbon Sale, Mt Barker Thursday, 23 Lawsons Angus Bull Sale, Hopetoun Wednesday, 29 Lawsons Angus Bull Sale, Cataby

FEBRUARY Tuesday, 4

Ardcairnie Angus Bull Sale, Kojonup Thursday, 6 Allegria Park Angus Bull Sale, Esperance Tuesday, 11 Little Meadows Angus Bull Sale, Dardanup Wednesday, 12 Monterey Angus Bull Sale, Bunbury Thursday, 13 Blackrock Angus Bull Sale, Boyanup Monday, 24 Koojan Hills Angus Bull Sale, Manypeaks Tuesday, 25 Coonamble Angus Bull Sale, Bremer Bay Tuesday, 25 Narrogin All Breed, Narrogin

MARCH Tuesday, 3

Carenda Angus Bull Sale, Katanning Thursday, 5 32nd Multi-breed Bull Sale, Gingin Including - Black Tara, Cookalabi, Kapari, Redhat & Warringah Angus Bulls Wednesday, 18 Islay Angus Bull Sale, Brunswick

APRIL Wednesday, 15 Mordallup Angus Bull Sale, Boyanup

MAY Friday, 1

Lawsons Angus Bull Sale, Albany

Good luck to everyone with their sales - hereâ€™s to a prosperous 2020!