The ASBP Cohort 11 Sire Nominations are now open

The ASBP Cohort 11 Sire Nominations are now open. The ASBP is a major R&D initiative of Angus Australia with support from MLA and industry partners with the objectives to generate progeny test data on modern Angus bulls, particularly for hard to measure traits.

To complete step 1 in the nomination process CLICK HERE

The joining program will commence in September 2020, and is expected to involve over 2,000 Angus cows across five co-operator herds.

The benefits of bulls entering the ASBP include: 

• Close genetic linkage to the Angus Australia genomics reference population ensures research outcomes will be highly relevance to your herd. 
• Be involved in world leading research in areas such as genomics tools, eating quality image technology and testing for immune competence.  
• Receive high accuracy EBVs, particularly for hard to measure traits such as feed intake, abattoir carcase data and female reproduction. 
• Receive progeny average values and sire rankings from within the ASBP, including traits such as MSA Index and MSA Marble Score. 
• Involvement in Australia’s largest and longest running beef cattle progeny test program including large contemporary groups.  

 Approximately 40 bulls will be selected for the 2020 joining program with the aim to join each bull to at least 50 cows by fixed time AI. The bull selection criteria will be based on genetic diversity, breeding values, selection indexes and their relationship to sires already used in the ASBP. Preference will also be given to early nominations.

Key Steps

• Step 1 – Nominate bull(s) via the online form before Monday August 3rd, 2020. To nominate please CLICK HERE. Preference will be given to early nominations. 
• Step 2 – Breeders of successful nominations will be contacted in early August, provided with a Bull Owners agreement for signing, Veterinary and Health Declaration form and semen requested. 
• Step 3 – Bull owners organise semen (120 straws) to be delivered to Agri-Gene, Wangaratta, VIC before August 28th,2020. All semen will undergo independent quality checks at this stage. 

Other considerations: 

Bulls entering the program must be: 

• Genetic Condition free (AM, NH, CA and DD). 
• BVDV (aka Pestivirus) free by diagnostic test. 
• Campylobacter (aka Vibriosis) and Leptospirosis free through vaccination (i.e. double vaccination plus annual booster), or laboratory diagnostic test via EMAI. 

 Entry Fee 

All bulls that enter the ASBP joining program will attract an entry fee of $2500 (plus GST) for Australian Bred Bulls and $4000 (plus GST) for overseas bred bulls.

For all questions in relation to the nomination process or the ASBP in general please contact Christian Duff, Angus Australia Strategic Projects Manager M: 0457 457 141 or email: christian@angusaustralia.com.au