image: QGI’s APEX (R5) PPWFR005
As spring is in full swing here at Koolang Wagyu it is worth reflecting on a key part of the bull business. The accuracy of the tools we use to select, join and breed superior animals for the growth of the Wagyu breed is critical to the progress we make. This is a short note to explain how this accuracy can be enhanced. The principle tool we use are the EBVs published by the Australian Wagyu Association on the basis of analysis by AGBU.
We have used a number of sires from our sister organisation, Quality Genetics International (QGI) in our programs over the last few years. A classic example is R5 (PPWFR005) This bull was purchased in the middle of Covid in 2021. He is a fine animal with a strong balanced phenotype.
In May of this year we were starting the process of looking at our joining program for 2025. It takes a good 6 months to decide which cows will be used with which sires to produce the best range of new and improved animals which will calve down in July 2026. The process involves considering sires, dams, AI, IVF and the constraints of how this can all work on farm.
We looked at the figures for R5. His Marble Score EBV was a solid +2.4 with an accuracy of 70%. This was based on data analysed from 28 herds and a total of 532 progeny. There were no carcases analysed at this stage. By todays standards R5 was no longer a leading sire.
Last week we relooked at the data. R5 now has a Marble Score EBV of +2.7 with an accuracy of 93%. This is based on 34 herds with 681 progeny. Critically there are now 106 carcase progeny records. This rapid increase in both the EBV and most importantly the accuracy of the EBV is due to dedication of QGI to getting maximum data for its bulls. QGI has put R5 into the AWA Progeny Test Program this involves providing sample straws for use across the PTP and paying a hefty contribution to the AWA. QGI has also undertaken a lot of analysis in each of the three QGI herds, 3DWagyu, Bishop Wagyu and Koolang Wagyu. Joe Grose, Peter and Pip Bishop and Geoff Cummins and myself are committed to getting more data to improve our decision making. More data means much higher accuracy. Higher accuracy means better results. R5 is still yesterdays sire but his genetics play a key role in moving the breed forward.
The results from this commitment to accuracy are substantial. The EBVs for all of R5s own progeny are adjusted upwards to reflect the higher marbling score and increased accuracy which is generated from more data. There are still a few bulls left for sale with R5 genetics well represented in their pedigree.
