THE last ten years have seen a wave of products entering the human health market. From weight management drugs (Ozempic is a good example – see Beef Central’s recent article on how the drug is changing beef potential), metabolic conditions and related issues, many have now become commonplace.
For the right person at the right time, they deliver real results. But without major changes in lifestyle and nutrition, it is difficult to maintain the benefits. The product is the cause of change, but the change depends on the underlying system.
Breeder of Queensland Brahman bulls Josie Copley Copley Pastoral, based in Anduramba in the south-east of the province, has drawn a direct comparison between human health progress and the genetics of meat and meat. genetics in direct comparison in Anduramba district.
Josie argues that beef production works under the same principle.
“There will always be something marketed as a quick fix,” he writes, “perceived as a ‘herd changer’ or a change in choice that is heralded as change.”
However, there is no one master, no one way to choose, and no one year of decisions that will instantly fix the herd.
The introduction of new DNA into the herd is not a mutation. It’s input into the system, and it’s the system that determines whether input becomes sustainable change or dilutes the next generation without direction, Josie argues.
“This confirms the importance of clear and advanced reproduction plans. Combining decisions may sound like a smart, short-term choice, but they are manifestations of a long-term strategy. Without that strategy being clearly defined, it is a choice made in isolation.
Offer ‘selected below’
For many beef producers in northern Australia, that means fat, well-adapted cattle that can perform in the environment in which they run. Breeding is at the forefront of profitable research for northern beef cattle management, yet it remains one of the most under-selected traits.
Reasons for this include being difficult to observe, difficult to measure without the right tools, and easily overlooked when there are immediate pressures on the farm.
Genetic gain is a function of the accuracy of genetic information combined with the power of selection, and both depend on the consistent focus of the breeder.
Josie writes: “Genetic progress in livestock is increasing, driven by sustained, purposeful pressure on breeding and supporting systems.”
1pc lift to reproduce has influence
Industry figures have shown what that concentrated selection pressure can mean, with a one percent increase in reproduction translating into about 1.5kg per adult equivalent in increased production. When used consistently, increments have a real business impact on the entire herd.
Josie doesn’t chase catalysts. A new seed supplier, a new measuring device, or changing the selection process can speed up and improve progress, he says.
However, only when these catalysts are used in a program that has clear breeding objectives and is now supported by management systems, there is a full chance that they will express themselves in the next generation.
The bull is one part. Regardless of the program around him, his ‘power’ remains just that: ability.
As the season to buy northern bulls approaches, now is a good time to ask the honest question about which bulls are worth buying, but whether the system they are going into is set up to make the most of them.
Josie writes: “It is the consistency and consistency of your program that will consolidate the change and make it permanent.
New genes can speed up the program, but they cannot replace the program.
Alastair Rayner is Strategic Account Manager for Southern Australia and Vytelle and Principal of RaynerAg. He has over 30 years’ experience advising beef and pasture producers across Australia. You can contact Alastair here or via his website: www.raynerag.com.au
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