Repronomics Droughtmasters and the Northern Beef Producers Expo

In early June, members of the Droughtmaster breed society visited Spyglass Beef Research Facility to hear about the Droughtmaster herd involved in the Meat & Livestock Australia (MLA) Repronomics™ trial.

Dr David Johnston (project leader) from University of New England, presented data from the trial that shows an increased accuracy in the estimated breeding values (EBVs) across the three breeds (Brahman, Droughtmaster and Santa Gertrudis) involved in the trial, enabling significantly faster rates of genetic progress for these breeds.

The group visiting expressed their appreciation of the information shared by David and welcomed the opportunity to view the 2023 heifers in the yards. The beef extension team and Spyglass staff assisted with the presentation of the cattle and networked with the society members, who then travelled on to Charters Towers to attend the Northern Beef Producers Expo. 

Droughtmaster cattle did extremely well at the Expo cattle events, placing in almost all categories. It was a great opportunity to link research with results in the competition.

The beef extension team were also at the Expo, sharing a site and display stand with Natalie Hughes from North Queensland Rural Financial Counselling Service who are part of the GrazingFutures Livestock Business Resilience Project.

The stall provided handouts on a wide range of topics, including nutrition, grazing land management, herd management and record keeping.

“It was mainly graziers who stopped in for a chat about the workshops and programs the Department of Agriculture and Fisheries runs”, said Jo Gangemi, Senior Extension Officer.

“We also spoke to other service providers such as banks, the Drought Hub, MLA and some of the rural retailers.

“Supporting local industry events is an important opportunity for extension staff to build relationships with both producers and local industry service providers.”