Beefing Up Genomics is a collaborative initiative between Frontier Genetics and the MLA Donor Company (MDC). The project focuses on a core group of 10 Northern Beef producers, spanning a wide geographical footprint from Augathella to Einasleigh, Queensland.
Our mission is to develop a robust, industry-first model for producer-driven reference populations, demonstrating how commercial “satellite herds” can effectively complement existing research station data and projects like Repronomics, both of which provides carcass data on castrated males. Through this project, Frontier Genetics will ‘beef up’ the brahman genomics reference by recording bull data to complement the existing data currently captured.
Strategic Objectives
By bridging the gap in male recording and enhancing female fertility data, this project aims to:
- Establish protocols for commercial enterprises to contribute high-quality data to the national genetic evaluation.
- Target an improvement of 1.5 index points per annum on the Brahman Central Production Index.
- Complement the Repronomics project by addressing gaps in male data and linking commercial herds to the broader Brahman industry reference population.
- Engage over 150 “observer” producers through industry events and webinars to foster a broader understanding of breeding values.
Key Targets (By May 31, 2029)
- 10,000+ calves recorded and genotyped (approx. 2,720 per year).
- 2,720 females recorded annually for mature cow weight across 9–11 herds.
- Increased recording of identified traits that are new, novel and hard to measure, alongside the identification of new productivity drivers.
- Comprehensive analysis by the Animal Genetics and Breeding Unit (AGBU) to measure productivity benefits such as weaning rates, fertility metrics, kg/beef produced, and longevity.
- The development and testing of a scalable model for producer-led reference populations that can be transferred across other cattle breeds and into other livestock industries.
Collaboration & Methodology
The 10 participating Frontier Genetics members manage over 5,000 BREEDPLAN recorded females. The project will assess linkage within these herds to ensure an efficient recording strategy that aligns with the broader Brahman industry.
Working closely with AGBU (Animal Genetics and Breeding Unit), we are developing the protocols for data recording and contemporary group management that will ensure long-term, industry-supported reference populations.
Resources & Extension
This page will serve as a hub for resources developed throughout the life of the project. We are committed to increasing the skills and confidence of our fellow producers through:
- Supporting Industry Events
- Targeted Training Sessions
- Webinars and Fact Sheets
- Adoption Resources for Industry-wide Application
A joint collaboration between Frontier Genetics and MLA MDC, driving the future of Northern Beef productivity.
