Herefords Australia Black Baldy Trial
Herefords Australia, along with support from the MLA Donor Company support a structured Hereford x Angus (Black Baldy) cross breeding trial that builds on to the Hereford Beef Information Nucleus by using Hereford and Angus sires over commercial Angus cows. This trial has four primary objectives and each address limitations to current Hereford genetic evaluation:
- Generate carcass data that can be used in genetic analyses to inform and enhance BREEDPLAN Estimated Breeding Values for carcass traits which will aid evaluation within and across breeds;
- Generate reproduction and longevity data that can be used in genetic analyses to inform and enhance BREEDPLAN Estimated Breeding Values for maternal traits which will aid evaluation within and across breeds;
- Quantify the performance benefits (reproduction, growth and carcass merit) of Hereford x Angus ‘Black Baldy’ for pasture reared animals in an Australian production system; and
- Develop genomic selection tools by phenotyping and genotyping large numbers of commercial cattle.
The work conducted in this trial aims to produce data from Australian conditions that is in line with international work done in this area. International projects include:
- Circle Ranch Heterosis Research Project
- Harris Heterosis Project
- Simplot Livestock Co Research Project
Black Baldy Trial Sires:
Black Baldy Trial Sires – 1st Cohort 2014 Joinings