NEWSLETTER April 2009 NEW FOCUS ON PROMOTION Red Poll National Executive have ap- pointed Ben Simpson and his team at OGA Marketing & Design to co-odinate the market- ing of the breed for the next three years. The appointment of a marketing specialist will enable the breed to highlight the attributes of the breed to outside cattle breeders. Ben’s profi le in the industry and abilities will be a great asset to the promotion of the breed. One of the fi rst tasks to be conducted by OGA Marketing & Design will be a complete overhaul of the breed’s website, www.redpoll.org.au Ben and his website designer Jess Fletcher ran a most informative day at Albury hosted by the Australian Red Poll Cattle Breeders Inc. The feedback from this event was exceptional and was a contributing factor in Ben’s appoint- ment. Ben Simpson, OGA Marketing & Design, President Kate Goulding, Jess Fletcher, OGA Marketing & Design and new Federal Secretary Keryn Hutton at the recent Albury marketing Members from every region attended this seminar. workshop and enjoyed a thought provoking producers across Australia. discussion. Ben has spoken internationally in the USA and New Zealand cover- Ben Simpson is the Managing Director of ing topics from marketing development to establishment of beef supply Outcross Genetics Australia PTY Ltd, a com- chains. He is also a government regional development-consulting speaker. pany dedicated to the promotion and develop- Ben is internationally recognised as a leading livestock and equine ment of Australian products. Established in sports photographer. These photographic skills have been the backbone 2000, the company trades as OGA Marketing to the development of his marketing company and he travels internation- & Design. ally taking images. The company began promoting various Ben and his wife Julia live on their cattle property in Holbrook, in local cattle studs and has now expanded to southern NSW, with their 3 children. He breeds Angus cattle and is a representing businesses in banking & agribusi- Royal Show Cattle Judge. He is also Senior Vice President of the Beef ness to many major cattle, sheep and horse Improvement Association of Australia. Ben will be involved in breed promotion, website management and AUSTRALIAN RED POLL CATTLE BREEDERS INC special projects identifi ed for breed promotion. One important aspect of ABRI, UNE ARMIDALE NSW 2351 Bens’s appointment wil be developing an effective bank of images for T: 02 6773 3144 F: 02 6772 1943 future breed promotion. E: [email protected] Ben’s images and further background on his company can be found at W: www.redpoll.org.au www.ogadesign.com.au

April 2009 Newsletter | 1 Internet Animal Listing

All Red Poll animals in the Herdbook are displayed When an ANIMAL ENQUIRY screen opens the data on Internet Solutions (Internet Herdbook) on the shown below will display. Information shown from Red Poll website. The Internet Herdbook is updated the top of the screen includes the Herdbook number, weekly. Sex, Tattoo, Birthdate and Active status. Registration Information can be accessed worldwide on status is also shown. Australian Red Poll animals including pedigree, progeny The sire and dam are shown and further details can reports and performance data. be accessed by clicking on their name. A full pedigree Another excellent service that Red Poll breeders link for the animal is available further down the screen. can use is linking a photograph to their animals. This Breeder and current owner are shown and if they is a very cheap and effective way of displaying your are an active member, contact details can be accessed animals to the world. The photograph is added as by clicking on their name. two fi les, one small image which opens automatically If any progeny are recorded with the ARPCBI the with the animal and a larger image for those with high number will be shown and these can be investigated quality internet connections. further by clicking the link. If a photograph is sent in for display by email the An animal’s EBV’s if available will be shown and cost of placing the photograph on the website is under the EBV box a list of traits that have been $3.30. If the offi ce needs to scan the photograph observed for that animal. By clicking on the graph icon then the cost is $6.60. Contact the Red Poll offi ce for in the top left of the EBV box, a graph will show the further information. EBV’s in their percentile range. It is recommended that photographs be included The Internet Herdbook Animal Enquiry is a valuable for Herd sires, Embryo Transfer donors, Foundation marketing tool for members and valuable research females and sale animals. Naturally the photograph facility for potential customers. needs to compliment the animal.

2 | April 2009 Newsletter National Executive President’s Post President Ms Kate Goulding Welcome everyone to the Autumn Cottage 2 Newsletter, with what’s been going on 1243 Bruxner Hwy around the Regions. We hope to make WOLLONGBAR NSW 2477 the Newsletter a fl ow of information T: 02 6628 0842 to and from members, with the Annual E: [email protected] more commercially focused. Please Vice President contact your Region Executive Mem- Mark Harris ber, Keryn or I if you would like any 230 Cams Road information included in future Newslet- LANG LANG VIC 3984 ters. T: 03 5997 8340 As usual this great country of ours E: [email protected] is truly trying us all out, with some breeders’ battling drought, some fi res and some fl oods! But I guess, this will Treasurer never change as you can look back through old newsletters and these occur- Richard Daley rences always appear. PO Box 169 JAMESTOWN SA 5491 Our thoughts go out to Ian and Nell Staff, as they re-establish their prop- T: 08 8664 1463 erty after the horrifi c Kinglake fi re; and also the Johnson family who have E: [email protected] supported them and also affected by the damage to that community. Many other Victorian members have had challenging times during the fi res as well. Junior Co-ordinator Even with the fi re events, Whittlesea Sale went head thanks to the hard Wayne Owston working and dedicated committee. PO Box 34 A lot of you will now be aware that we have a new Secretary – Keryn SERPENTINE WA 6125 Hutton. Welcome Keryn! I hope that our members welcome you and work T: 08 9525 2052 with you. Thank you to Colin for his services to Red Polls over the last 5 E: [email protected] years and we wish you all the best. Cheryl continues as our Registrar. Ian Staff The website and marketing workshop at Albury was a really informa- 31 Beltons Way tive day, with members from all Regions attending. There was some good DOREEN VIC 3754 thought provoking discussion with the group and I’m sure those that attended T: 03 5786 5251 went home with new ideas and thoughts. Please let your Regional Member know if your Region would like to have another workshop or even a workshop Doug Smith with a different topic. We really appreciate feedback, and remember that 1201 Mayfi eld Road Australian Red Poll Cattle Breeders is made up of more than just the National via TARAGO NSW 2580 Executive – member input is critical. T: 02 4842 7188 E: [email protected] The National Executive is currently engaging Ben Simpson to redevelop the Red Poll website and develop marketing strategies. We believe this is Past President a positive move forward. To help market the breed it’s important that we Ross Draper collect as much performance data as we can, to strengthen our claims to the 75 Running Creek Rd outside world, that we know what our Red Polls can do. Most people today ARTHURS CREEK VIC 3099 won’t just accept claims – they want to see hard evidence (the facts), on the T: 0428 510 252 product they are considering purchasing. E: [email protected] A few members from around the Regions are preparing to head off to Ja- maica for the World Congress. I hope you all have a fantastic time, and enjoy Staff international Red Poll fellowship. I know they will catch up with old friends and make plenty of new ones from around the world, and return home with Federal Secretary new stories to remember and share. If you ever have the chance to attend a Ms Keryn Hutton World Congress I highly recommend attending, it really is a worthwhile experi- T: 02 6773 3059 ence to network with other Red Poll breeders, whilst enjoying another country E: [email protected] and their cattle. Queensland Region is hosting this year’s Youth Camp, with more details Registrar Mrs Cheryl Green available soon – keep watch in the Queensland report. Congratulations to T: 02 6773 3144 Hayley Goad from Western Australia. Hayley has won our 2009 Youth Award. E: [email protected] Sydney Royal started while I was writing this report, which starts off the Royals. Members from all around the Regions will be busy preparing stock, Technical Offi cer good luck to everyone. Remember to put Adelaide Royal on your calendar Christian Duff – for this year’s AGM. T: 02 6773 2472 The Herdbook is due for publication this year. To be included in the Herd- E: [email protected] book, registrations must be processed by 30/09/09. If you wish to include a photograph, must be with the Federal Secretary by 15/10/09. For further details please contact the Federal Secretary. An ending thought – thanks to Jill Bockman:“Why not Red Polls?!” Kate Goulding April 2009 Newsletter | 3 South Australia Report Our regional affairs are going along nicely now; it’s Beef fi eld days and that was held on Friday 6th Febru- amazing what a few good results do for moral. At our ary. The day was very hot,43C, but surprisingly well regional meeting, held at the Terminus Hotel at Balak- attended with many genuine visitors and one early bird lava on Friday 23rd January attended by Alan and by 8am so as not to miss the bull he wanted. During Marilyn Wilson, John and Veronica Malone, Richard the day other Red Poll breeders came to help the show and Kay Daley, Richard Sampson and Kev Graham, along, along with a sprinkling of commercial producers the members decided to concentrate on what we do interested in crossing their herds with red polls, and of well and that is to promote the attributes of the breed course the usual locals who help make the day a suc- through carcase competitions. cess. We propose to get this current O’Connor Trophy Kay and Richard Daley attended the seminar ar- and then make some challenging suggestions to the ranged by the federal executive at Albury on Saturday Adelaide show cattle committee to get rid of the hoof 21st of February. This day was an eye opener. The points and increase the team numbers for 3 to say 10 bushfi res in Victoria had a big effect on the numbers so there is more commercial signifi cance to the event. and quite understandable. SA region watched with Initially it was our intent to improve our member- concern those areas we knew had Red Poll breeders ship but we felt that considering the poor state of the and friends involved and we extend our support to the economy this might prove futile and we would be bet- Victoria region and our best wishes to those individual ter served in keeping our breed before the public eye. members who now have to rebuild. The success of Oakwood at the Naracoorte com- Our trip to Albury took us across 1000Kms via petition with an individual class winner and a pen of Finley, Deniliquin, Balranald, Mildura, Morgan, Burra three was a great follow on from our 2008 Adelaide and Jamestown, and over this expanse there was only results. Alan was the only Red Poll breeder who drought. At this time of the year you expect to see the entered as the trial was put together late in the year countryside dry but this was as poor as I have seen it, and many of us didn’t have cattle that would fi t the particularly those irrigation areas that would normally specifi cations. be green now just blowing with dust. Moyle Park was the only representative in the SA Richard Daley SA

Oakwood steers

Southern Grassfed Carcass Classic Trade Heifer/Steer: Max 2 teeth 261-340kg Ist Place RM Wilson & Sons – Red Poll Total points 83.91 HSCW 261kg Market Specifi cations: P8 Fat 10mm Points 10/10 Saleable Meat Yield: Rib Fat 7mm Points 15/15 Eye Muscle Area: 101cm2 Points 20/20 Class EMA average: 75cm2 Red Poll EMA average 93cm2 Oakwood winning steer at the Southern Grassfed Classic, Naracoorte SA 4 | April 2009 Newsletter Western Australia Report

Yongerellen Jacob Gallant, Interbreed Champion bull, Wagin Woolarama WA A regional meeting was held on the 14th of in the short term future will be the WA lot feeders February at the property of J & S & B Lutey, day, the Red Poll breed is always a special guest at Broselinda Park stud in Serpentine. these events and the region is very thankful to the The meeting was held with the majority of organizers for there assistance and to Mr. Murray members in attendance followed by a lunch and a Williams who donates a lot of time and effort to the small farm tour of the Ranfurley and Broselinda Park event. studs, the most interest coming from the recently Red Poll cattle will again be on show at the annual purchased Hallmark and how they were settling into Harvey Agricultural show on April 25th and 26th, The there new homes. Ranfurley and Broselinda Park studs will be exhibiting Yongerellen bulls were again offered for auction at and with growing popularity and numbers it ensures to the annual Knutsford Invitational bull sale, 3 bulls were be a great event. presented with all lots being sold to a top of $4500 We would also like to wish the Red Sands and to an average of $3166, a reasonable result principles Quentin and Shezanne Hooper good luck considering some of the bull sales have been very poor and best wishes with impending birth of there fi rst in the 2009 season. child. Red Poll cattle were exhibited at the Wagin On a sadder note the W.A. region lost a member Woolarama in March, with 3 studs being on show for in February with the passing of Mr. Colin Sloan, A the weekend including Yongerellen, Red Sands and Le commercial member based out of Bullsbrook, he was Topaz. heavily involved with the commercial aspect of the A big win on the day was the bull Yongerellen Red Poll breed and was well known on the Red Poll Jacob Gallant winning the Interbreed champion bull, world conference tours, Deepest condolences to the the young bull that was also supreme exhibit at the Sloan family. Perth Royal Show in 2008 was admired for his growth We wish breeders all the best for the upcoming and structural correctness. season Once again the W.A. region of the ARPCBI has Belinda Lutey & Wayne Owston sponsored the West Australian Cattle Youth Handlers Camp running from April 19th to the 22nd, Red Poll promotional material will be handed to every participant, as well as Red Poll heifers being donated for use by the students. Members and connections of Red Poll studs will be on hand to pass on there knowledge and maybe learn a thing or two at the same time. Some upcoming events on the Red Poll calendar April 2009 Newsletter | 5 Albury Seminar Breeders from every region converged on the Albury Chifl ey to hear Ben Simpson and Jess Fletcher discuss marketing in the rural industries and website design and maintenance. The smaller number of members involved allowed for high level of interaction between presenters and attendees. Ben Simpson who is featured in the article on page 1 of this newsletter expanded his views on marketing and the use of quality images. He emphasised the need to use effective and quality images throughout the presentation. Ben provided some great examples of advertising and marketing to illustrate his delivery. Some of these had the group paying very close attention. Jess Fletcher expanded on the ability of a website to be an effective tool for the development of a business. Jess then described the use of “tags” to raise the effectiveness of a website to rank on an Attendees at the Albury Marketing Seminar enjoyed some hospitality at Eurimbla that Internet search facility such as Google. evening. Back row l-r Mark Harris Ketlang VIC, Anne Smith. Glenrossal NSW, Kay A discussion on tracking tools which are & Richard Daley Moyle Park SA, Doug Smith Glenrossal NSW, host Ian Coghlan incorporated into websites to evaluate their Eurimbla NSW. Front row Jill Fiebiger and Murray Williams Yongerellen WA. effectiveness was extremely interesting. Jess and Ben used a site developed for a client to illustrate Comparing images that came from both ends of the the pages and number of visits different sections of spectrum Ben highlighted the need to use only quality a website received. It was obvious how useful these images. tools could be. Ian Coghlan hosted an informal barbeque that night The seminar concluded with Ben giving some at nearby Eurimbla where the discussion on the day’s handy hints on obtaining great livestock shots. education continued.

New Secretariat Contract

The National Executive recently re-signed with The benefi t of the new appointment for members the Agricultural Business Research Institute [ABRI] will be maintaining the Secretariat contract at to provide secretariat and registration services for an effective cost structure and the availability of another two years. more hours for the breed within Keryn’s profi le of As part of this contract the staff member at ABRI responsibilities at the ABRI. Keryn’s other duties at responsible for the Red Poll Federal Secretary role ABRI involve BREEDPLAN processing. will change. Colin Rex who has been the Federal Secretary for 5.5 years has altered his profi le within the ABRI and Keryn Hutton takes the reigns as Federal Secretary. This change became effective the 1st April 2009. Colin will continue at the ABRI and provide backup for Keryn as she learns the Red Poll system. Registrar Cheryl Green continues in her role and will also provide invaluable historic knowledge to Keryn. Registration and debtor enquiries should be directed to Cheryl in the fi rst instance. Keryn’s email contacts will be either [email protected] or [email protected] and her direct line will be 02 6773 3059. Cheryl’s contacts remain the same. Some members have already meet Keryn at the Albury Seminar and she will be in attendance at the Adelaide Annual General Meeting. This change in Federal Secretary is only the third in over 22 years with David McDonald having 17 years in the position. Margaret Baxter also served 16 years Christine Smith and Anne Smith sashing Christine’s grand champion Red Poll as Secretary with the Association records. bull NSW Beef Spectacular, Belault Charles. W Jenkins photograph

6 | April 2009 Newsletter 2008 Lardner New Federal Secretary Steer Trial Keryn Hutton Identifying genetics and not highlighting feeding I would like to introduce myself as the new Federal regimes is one of the purposes of the Lardner Secretary of the Australian Red Poll Cattle Breeders Steer Trial. Lardner in western Gippsland is a Inc. I recently attended the National Executive meeting Grass fed steer trial with an objective to demon- in Albury and had the pleasure of meeting members of the Executive team. I would like to express my thanks strate carcass requirements for the domestic and to everyone for their warm welcome and hospitality heavy domestic trade markets. Designed to com- and look forward to further interaction with you all. pare breeds the steers are fed on grass together I do maintain a strong interest in current research for 160 days and weighed every fi ve weeks trends in the agricultural industry, in particular gene before slaughter and assessment. markers and the impact these will have on the genetic improvement (or otherwise) of the different breeds. Steers arrived at the Lardner property in June My background is in agricultural research, most and after a week of settling in were weighed on recently in the fi eld of Artifi cial Reproduction, as a the 30th June 2008. The steers were run in one Research offi cer with the CSIRO. However, most mob on pasture with some hay and silage supple- memorable for me were the collaborative projects with the Beef CRC and the many hours we spent sampling ments. cattle at feedlots and abattoirs in order to defi ne those qualities deemed most desirable for the improvement Live Yield Award of each breed. (Live Yield = Saleable meat yield & dressing %) The results of much of that research have been used to create the EBV values currently in use and one 1st Brooklea Red Poll 44.5% can only wonder at further trials set up to deal with the effects of climate change and consumer needs/ wants on our production systems and the genetic at- Best individual Carcass tributes that will be needed to cope with these chang- 1st Brooklea Red Poll es. 86.43points (MSA Grading) I am looking forward to working with you over the coming months. Regards Keryn Youth Ambassasor 2009 - Hayley Goad FOR SALE Agricultural Studies at Kelmscott Senior High Name: Jay-AR Unlimited School ignited a passion for the rural scene with West- Herd Book Number: M29472 ern Australian Hayley Goad. Hayley (19) as the 2009 Sire: JAY-AR OSCAR II Red Poll Youth Ambassador will attend the South Dam: BANDAROO UNIQUE Australian Junior Heifer Expo. DOB: 21/09/04 Hayley commenced with the Red Poll breed in Price: $2,500 ono early 2008 assisting Wayne Owston and Belinda Lutey with their show team. Attending several Handler Location: Goulburn, NSW camps in the west, Hayley has been developing her This is a unique opportunity to purchase an under worked skills. bull who is the son of Jay-Ar-Oscar II (M28953) who was Hayley graduated with impressive results in Agri- reported to have the best weight gain across all breeds. culture including top state marks for one subject. Hay- This bloodline is running ley also won a Certifi cate of Distinction for her Primary out so this may be the only Industries Studies. Only 369 Certifi cates of Distinction opportunity you get to own were awarded across Western Australia in total. a bull that can increase the In September 2008 Hayley purchased her own Red returns for your herd. This Poll female, the six-year-old Hallmark Dora. Currently Bull is a very big boy and in calf, Hayley is planning an assault on the Perth throws exceptional calves. Royal later in the year with Dora and calf. He is extremely quiet in the yards and the paddock. Newsletter Production Dates Contact Deadline for material July 15th 2009 Tony Mitchell Newsletter posted by 31st July 2009 Advertising accepted: Contact the 0416 279 026 Federal Secretary for rates. April 2009 Newsletter | 7 Victorian On Farm Challenge

RED POLL ON FARM CHALLENGE - December 2008 Class 7: Bull 2-5 years The Victorian Region of the Australian Red Poll 1ST - Lesley Johns - Rhyd-Talog Belafonte LMJ 297 Cattle Breeders Inc. is hosting an “On Farm Challenge” 2nd - Mark Harris - Ketlang Monarch KET 761 December 3-5. There are eight participating herds that are spread out over Victoria from Stoneyford, Gel- Class 9: Pair of Steers librand, Terang in the west to Ballarat, Colbinabbin, 1ST - Greg Abbott - Turanga Pheasant Creek and in the east - Lang Lang and Won 2nd - Mark Harris - Ketlang Wron. The aims of this event include the engagement of Class 10: Sires Progeny Pair breeders from all over the State, both commercial and 1ST - Koallah Park by Raedean Sinatra stud, to provide assistance to breeders by communi- 2nd - Turanga by Koallah Park Red Power cation with an expert in livestock assessment on the 3rd - Sophronites by Sophronites Nimrod hoof with a view to better selection of stock on the basis of structure, fertility and market needs. Champion Male: Lesley Johns - (Colbinabbin) The Judge for the event was Mr Grame Hopf of Rhyd-Talog Belafonte Murwillumbah, NSW. Mr Hopf has a distinguished career in the Cattle Industry. He has been involved in Champion Female: Ian & Nell Staff - (Pheasant Creek) breeding large beef herds, in assessment of dairy and Sophronites Cindy beef herds in Australia and Internationally, and has judged at many Royal Shows in Australia. When presenting the awards, Mr Hopf stated that He uses a points scoring system for each animal he was very impressed by the quality of cattle he assessed which provides an objective basis for the examined. There was a large number of very good and task at hand. He also gives valuable advice to breed- excellent animals assessed, and he was particularly ers on the projected future of animals assessed, and is surprised by the quality of older females seen in sev- extremely talented in these matters. eral of the herds. On Saturday, 6th December, at the Staff’s resi- These animals, he said, should be targeted by the dence at Pheasant Creek, the results of Mr Hopf’s Red Poll Group, and mated to the best bulls we could assessments were summarised and winners of each fi nd in order to conserve some of the genetics they of the classes were announced and presented with represent. certifi cates and prizes. He was particularly impressed by some of the com- The awards went to mercial herds, where they were very switched on to supply the market needs and presented some top ani- Class 1: Heifer 9-16 months mals for him to inspect. He stated that the Red Polls 1ST - Lesley Johns - Rhyd-Talog Ophelia LMJ 358 provide the most femininity amongst the British Breeds 2nd - Don Castle - Koallah Park Susan BC 023 and along with their high fertility characteristics, they 3rd - Sam Henson - Red Hot Polls CTH 115 represent a boon to those who are interested in using them for cross breeding purposes. Class 2: Heifer 16-24 months The greatest numbers were entered in the young 1st - Paul & Judith McAninly PJM 710 heifer classes, and several of these were assessed at 2nd - Ian & Nell Staff - Sophronites Cara NIS 115 the maximum point score he gives for heifers, and a 3rd - Ian & Nell Staff - Sophronites Daphne NIS 119 high proportion were just under the maximum. The Champion Female was an eleven year old Class 3: Cow 2-5 years cow, Sophronites Cindy, that has had 9 calves, with 1st - Ian & Nell Staff - Sophronites Sapphire NIS 082 a lovely eight month old calf at foot. She had an ideal 2nd - Lesley Johns - Rhyd-Talog Olga LMJ 280 head and body, with an excellent udder and legs and 3rd - Sam Henson - Red Hot Crystal CTH 082 feet for such an age. He scored her 92 points , which is the highest for the competition and she would Class 4: Cow 5 years over stand proud and high in a herd of any breed. She was 1st - Ian & Nell Staff- Sophronites Cindy NIS 011 exhibited by Nell and Ian Staff of Sophronites Stud at 2nd - Sam Henson - Red Hot Philis CTH 027 Pheasant Creek. 3rd - Greg Abbott - Turanga Buccaneers Ann EMA 175 The Champion bull was exhibited by Lesley and 4th - Ian & Nell Staff - Sophronites Pamela NIS 055 Alan Johns of Colbinabbin. He was a 35 month old bull, Rhyd-Talog Belafonte, who had great size and Class 5: Bull 9-16 months conformation and Mr Hopf suggested to the owners 1ST - Greg Abbott - Turanga Koallah Hero EMA 230 that they should collect his semen as soon as possible, 2nd - Ian & Nell Staff - Sophronites Google NIS 128 so that his genetics could be spread throughout the 3rd - D & S McAlinden - Rua Mor RMS 158 breed and the industry expediently. Participants were very pleased with the whole even, and all said they Class 6: Bull 16-24 months had learnt so much about cattle assessment in a very 1ST - Don Castle - Koallah Park Dean DBC 055 short time, and were very grateful to Mr. Hopf. Ian Staff 8 | April 2009 Newsletter Victoria Report The members of the Farm World Lardner Park at Warragul on March 26th – 29th was also Victorian Region have continued well supported this year, with over 55,000 people attending over the 4 days. their busy schedule of Plenty of promotional material was handed out which we all hope leads to promoting the Breed in 2009. sales in the future. Many thanks to Ian and Nell Staff, Doug D’Oliver, Craig The fi rst event was the On Farm Moralee, and the Johnson family for their willing support over the 4 days. Challenge held on the fi rst week of Derrileen Stud opened their gates once again for Beef Week December. This event had been in and I am informed that it was another successful day for the Stud. the discussion stage since it was Red Cactus Stud had a display at the Alternative Farming Expo at fi rst suggested a couple of years ago Seymour on the 20th – 22nd of February and despite much of Victoria and credit must go to the organising still recovery from the disastrous bushfi res, enquiry was solid. committee and entrants for making Our annual sale on the 14th of March saw pens of Commercial Cattle it the success it was. A special along with the Stud Cattle of offer in the newly constructed yards at the thanks to Judge-Mr. Grame Hopf Whittlesea Show Grounds. Clearance rates and prices were on a par with for his job in assessing the cattle. recent sales and it was pleasing to see some new buyers and vendors at His knowledge and appreciation this years event. The organising committee once again did a wonderful of the Red Poll Breed gave all job and are not afraid to embrace new technology to promote our sale. involved in this competition great Most of Victoria is looking to the sky in anticipation of a decent encouragement. Champion autumn break, with Anzac Day being the ideal time to set things up Bull went to Lesley and Allan for the cropping season and as I write, the forecast looks promising. Johns – Rhyd-Talog Belafonte. Mark Harris Champion Female went to Ian and Nell Staff’s – Sophronites Cindy. The fi nal results of the Gippsland Field Days Steer Trial Covering your needs was announced in February with a Steer from the Brooklea Stud of Norman and Craig Moralee gaining the highest individual across the country carcass score and their pair of The Rural Press National Network Steers winning the live yield of Agricultural Weekly newspapers award which is an award which combines the saleable meat yield reach a staggering 85% of Australian and dressing percentage results. livestock producers every single week. The Sungold Field Days on the 18th – 20th February was once again supported by the region and Jim Pola I am informed that enquiry was (07) 4721 3341 once again strong. Thanks to Peter Lowe Danielle Hogarth Don Castle for his ongoing work (07) 4638 4633 in running the display at Sungold. (07) 4927 9422 Peter Scott Jodie Rintoul Craig Chapman (07) 4638 4633 (08) 9365 2607 (07) 3826 8200 Internet Solutions Craig Montgomery (02) 6771 2641 (Internet Herdbooks as described on page 2) Carla Claire Allen Wiese-Smith (08) 9365 2632 (02) 4570 4614 Brad Wilson In the 2008 calendar year across Don Eime (02) 6882 4866 the 83 Beef Cattle breed societies Kane Chatfield (08) 8372 5222 Brett Tindal (08) 9365 2615 (02) 6921 5299 and 28 other species that use the Garry Rodda Internet Herdbook there were (03) 9287 0935 Graham Petrie 29,000,000 0011-64-3-3129267 hits/ or searches conducted. Target Your Market NOW! The Australian Red Poll Internet Herdbook received Rural Press 52,112 searches. Livestock Services

April 2009 Newsletter | 9 FROM COLIN Retiring Federal Secretary Colin Rex shown with the Glenrossal champion female at the 2009NSW Beef Spectacular

Dear Red Poll breeder, By now you will be aware that Keryn Hut- ton has become the new Federal Secretary of the Australian Red Poll Cattle Breeders Inc. This News- letter is my last role for the breed. I remain at ABRI with a slightly altered job profi le and differing time allocations, which has made this change neces- sary. Just as I had the benefi t of David McDonald at the ABRI to seek sup- port from when I started with the breed, Keryn will also have this ability to seek support from myself. Having been raised in the cattle industry in South Australia as a youngster and been a keen steer exhibitor during tainly assisted the National Executive at their meeting those years, I always had a healthy respect for the the next day. This has culminated at my last meeting ability of the Red Poll breed. My offi cial involvement with the Executive in the appointment of Ben Simpson commenced with the breed when the historic merger to market the breed into the industry. occurred in September 2003. Keryn is entering at an exciting time with these This was at the time an exciting period for the new initiatives and marketing programs being devel- breed in Australia and has certainly delivered the oped and as members your participation will increase promise that we all anticipated back then. The new the effectiveness of the Executive’s framework. committee with representatives from both organi- One thing I will say is that members of National sations was required to make diffi cult decisions to Executive give their time and substantial personal benefi t the breed and history has proven the success expense to be involved at Executive level and deserve of their diligence. It was a pleasure to work with the support from all levels of the membership. committee of the time to bed down the merge. On a personal note I appreciate the hospitality Over fi ve and a half years since I must say it has Red Poll members have shown during my involvement been an interesting journey. Like any life journey at with the breed. Events like the Glen Innes Youth Camp times there have been some intersections where there will long be remembered. To the National Executive is no street sign and the direction chosen may not members over the years I extend my appreciation of have achieved common consensus. On some issues your hard work. I have enjoyed the friendships and/or we have generated some displays of passion from the debate with all members over the years. membership. Debate is positive and the end result of Two people that I must acknowledge for their maintaining momentum of the breed should be the service and support over my time in the breed are common goal of all involved. Cheryl Green and Michelle Starr at ABRI. Cheryl has The process the National Executive commenced offered amazing support and service to the member- last year by polling the membership on the needs and ship, National Executive and myself. Her knowledge direction of the breed will produce results. The interest of the administration of Red Polls has proven to be a of the membership was outstanding and the document great asset to your breed. Cheryl continues with the that summarises the requests provides the Executive breed. Michelle has performed the graphic design and with a framework to progress. layout of the last two magazines and done an out- One of the fi rst initiatives to be seen from this standing job. By the time you read this Michelle will be process was the recent marketing and website devel- on maternity leave. opment seminar conducted at Albury. Presenters Ben I look forward to catching up with members and and Jess engaged those attending and provided some to watching the progress of the breed in the future, interesting advertising concepts. Yours sincerely Colin From those members that attended, the feedback Colin Rex was excellent and outcomes from the seminar cer- ABRI Consultant 10 | April 2009 Newsletter New South Wales Report Things have been fairly quiet in the NSW Region 2009 Sydney Royal Red Poll Results – a lack of enthusiasm for attending meetings has Judge Andrew Green resulted in less meeting than in recent years. Nevertheless breeders keep on going. Class: 3300 – Female over 9 and under 12 months Commercial member Gordon McCarthy hosted a 1 Red Cactus Jolly - Ross Draper fi eld day on Cow/Calf Productivity in November 08... Class 3301- Female over 12 and under 16 months Gordon now runs a crossbreed operation producing 1 Red Cactus Regal - Ross Draper Mundi Mundi Red X beef. The herd is based on Red Class 3302 – Female over 16 and under 20 months Poll and has been crossed with Saler and Red Angus, 1 Baladeen Chelsea - RJ & SD Wilkinson to produce highly maternal cows with superior carcase 2 Glenrossal Courtney Martha - JA & DW Smith quality. Gordon produces off grass steer calves 3 Glenrossal Canny Ada - JA & DW Smith averaging 350K live weight at 8/9 months. REDX vealers have won the pen of three on the hook at last Junior Champion Female four Landmark Goulburn Hoof and Hook competitions. Red Cactus Jolly Ross Draper A very interesting day had by all. Reserve Junior Champion Female There was a much-reduced showing of Red Polls at Red Cactus Regal Ross Draper Canberra and Sydney. Thanks to Balla Balla for coming to Canberra and Red Cactus for coming to Sydney. Class 3305 – Female over 20 and under 24 months Without these Victorians our numbers would have 1 Belault Cate - Christine Smith been very low. Class 3306 – Female over 24 and under 30 months Not enough steers in Sydney for a Stan Hill Team 1 Red Cactus Wilma - Ross Draper but the good news is that a steer shown by Bede Class 3307 – Female over 30 months Polding College donated by Richard Wilkinson was 1 Rictafe Vivace Luci - RJ & SD Wilkinson right up there and won a Silver Medal. A Woolworths Specifi cation trade steer shown by Senior Champion Female Prairiewood High School lost points by being over the Rictafe Vivace Luci RJ & SD Wilkinson carcase weight i.e. 265 K rather than 255 K max. Reserve Senior Champion Female He was ready about a month early notwithstanding Belault Cate Christine Smith loosing his weight points he still came in the top half Grand Champion Female of the fi eld to be 19th overall. Naturally both of these Rictafe Vivace Luci RJ & SD Wilkinson steers were scarcely looked by the hoof Judge. After a good showing at Dubbo last year it was a Class 3311 - Bull over 9 and under 12 months Smith only affair at Dubbo Beef Spectacular. A pity 1 Red Cactus Land Boy - Ross Draper as this event goes from strength to strength. It was Class 3313 – Bull over 16 and under 20 months a great display of Beef Breeds. If you only do one 1 Glenrossal Craig - JA & DW Smith show a year this could be it. Not too long, low hassle factor and organisers going out of their way to help Junior Champion Male exhibitors and at least the tyre kickers are all beef Red Cactus Land Boy Ross Draper producers. Reserve Junior Champion Male Doug Smith Glenrossal Craig JA & DW Smith

Class 3317 – Bull over 24 and under 30 months Dubbo Beef Spectacular 1 Belault Charles - Christine Smith The quality of Red Polls paraded at the NSW Beef Spectacular was very high. Judged by the ex Federal Senior Champion Bull Secretary Colin Rex who remarked on the quality of Belault Charles Christine Smith the showing. Grand Champion Bull The Smith Family, Glenrossal with Rictafe Yakking Belault Charles Christine Smith Reddle, exhibited grand champion cow. This fi ve- Supreme Exhibit year-old female was sired by Broomfi eld Goodmen Belault Charles Christine Smith and paraded with a strong bull calf at foot. The judge commented whilst only a smaller framed female the maternal traits of this female was evident by the calf Newsletter at foot. Christine Smith exhibited the Grand Champion Production Dates bull with Belault Charles. Charles has had a very successful season on the circuit and exhibited a strong Deadline for material muscle pattern and structural correctness. July 15th 2009 Newsletter posted by 31st July 2009 April 2009 Newsletter | 11 RED POLL AI SIRE LIST AI SIRE LIST - RESTRICTED (Breeders require Blue Form to register calves) NAME Gest Len Birth Wt 200 Day 400 Day 600 Day Mat Cow Milk (kg) (Days) (kg) (kg) (kg) (kg) (kg) Broomfi eld Goodmen +0.3 -0.5 +2 +4 0 -4 0 Carl’s Beamin’ Boy 06280/GR30 +1.5 +6.8 +33 +43 +55 +13 Derrileen Dale -0.3 +5 +7 +12 +2 Eurimbla Gladstone +1.1 +2.3 +6 +2 +11 +4 +2 M-M Hoosier Classic +3.2 +25 +37 +41 +34 +8 Maleer Lazarus -0.1 +2.5 +17 +25 +32 -1 Moa Vale Growth Advancer +0.3 Oakwood Muscle Tone +0.8 -0.4 -3 -2 +4 +9 Oakwood Snowy River +0.1 +0.8 +8 +10 +19 +30 +1 Oakwood Super Sire +0.4 +1.5 +7 +6 +10 +11 +3 Puketi Phoenix +1.7 Waroona Vale Metric -1.5 -1.0 +8 +17 +18 +9 Yongerellen Caesar Impeccabull +0.2 -0.2 +5 +10 +16 +5 Yongerellen Grant Invar +1.0 +1.7 +10 +14 +21 +2 Yongerellen Power Mover -0.2 +1.4 +14 +20 +29 +4 Breed Ave for 2006 Born Calves -0.1 +1.4 +12 +18 +23 +22 +4 AI SIRE LIST - OPEN (Breeders do not require Blue Form to register calves) NAME Gest Len Birth Wt 200 Day 400 Day 600 Day Mat Cow Milk (kg) (Days) (kg) (kg) (kg) (kg) (kg) Balla Balla Bellamy -0.2 +1.0 +12 +16 +20 +1 Bandaroo Upman +4.4 +24 +32 +41 Buggaree Algernon +0.3 +10 +16 +20 Bundaleer Endeavour +0.7 +12 +18 +27 +3 Bundaleer Noblenation +0.9 +12 +17 +26 +1 Burrabidgy Yorkshire Carabin Walking Ned Kelly -0.1 +1.0 Conmurra Tall Timber +3 Glen Echo Forester -0.7 +4 +5 +10 +1 Hallmarks Power Walker -0.2 +3.8 +26 +35 +49 +58 +6 Inglebar Brave Buccaneer +0.4 +0.9 +8 +16 +21 +3 Ketlang Monarch +0.5 +11 +15 +21 Larkhill Mutiny +3 Larkhill Ruffi an Larkhill Safe Deposit +3 +4 +9 -1 Longdendale Unique -0.1 +0.8 +9 +15 +19 +3 Maleer Lucas -0.8 +3.1 +25 +34 +43 +5 Mistley Linking Licias Oakwood Bovine Builder +4.5 +30 +41 +53 +12 Pinpur Intercontinental -0.3 +2.0 +17 +27 +35 +4 Pinpur Moving On +0.4 +1.0 +9 +11 +13 +3 Plymouth Red Rocket Plymouth Searover +0.4 +0.8 +8 +14 +20 +2 Plymouth Stardust Rictafe Sandman +2.8 +19 +26 +34 +3 Sandilands Romeo 0.0 -0.2 +6 +9 +13 Tangryang Oscar Tocama Sherman -0.1 +8 +13 +18 +6 Tocama Skeeter +0.4 +9 +11 +16 Breed Ave for 2006 Born Calves -0.1 +1.4 +12 +18 +23 +22 +4 (Semen may not be available in all sires listed, details on how to contact the owners of 12 | April 2009 Newsletter these sires can be found on the Red Poll website or by contacting the offi ce) 2009 Herdbook The Herdbook will be produced this year with the following timeline for members’ information. 30th September 2009 Registrations processed by Registration Department 15th October 2009 Photographs supplied to Federal Secretary 15th October 2009 Regional committees supplied to Federal Secretary 1st November 2009 Herdbook sent to printers Pre Christmas Herdbook posted to members Photographs will be included in black and white at a cost of $44.00 per photograph. Photographs must be supplied in high quality for inclusion into the Herdbook.

Queensland Report Myostatin Queensland Region members have been busy over the fi rst half of the year attending local Agricultural Help or Hinder? Shows where they exhibited their cattle success- fully and did a fantastic job of promoting The Red Poll A single gene variation that can cause debate Breed. amongst seedstock producers is the mutation to Some members will be heading to Beef 2009 at the myostatin gene. When some producers think Rockhampton again to exhibit and promote the breed, of myostatin they think of the extreme form of whilst other members are in Jamaica at The Red Poll the genetic mutation which, when present as World Congress they will fl y to Rockhampton on their two copies, causes double muscling. way home. This mutation has a high frequency in some On returning from Rockhampton members will at- tend a working bee at Toowoomba Farmfest site on breeds such as Belgian Blues, which explains Saturday the 23rd of May 2009 in preparation for their extreme heavily muscled phenotypes. Farmfest in June. While this extreme form has benefi ts for Eight studs exhibited 43 head for the feature breed retail beef yield it can also lead to production at Dorrigo show on the 22nd November. It was a a disadvantages such as extreme leanness, higher successful day with the judge; Chris Whitney, show levels of assisted calvings and reduced female committee and spectators impressed with the quality fertility. and numbers exhibited. Cattle breeders should also be aware that Other members in the Region are preparing cattle there are milder forms of the myostatin mutation ready for Brisbane RNA in August. that provide the benefi ts of improved retail beef Well done to Queensland Region Members. yield while not negatively impacting on the maternal traits. 2009 Calendar One milder form of this gene mutation is known as F94L. It has a high frequency in May 4 – 9 Beef Australia 2009 Limousin cattle with recent research showing May 20 - 24 National Bendigo Beef a large effect on retail beef yield with animals carry two copies of the F94L gene having 13% Aug 6 – 15 EKKA larger eye muscle areas and a 4.4% increase Sept 4 – 12 Royal Adelaide Show in total yield of retail cuts, while showing no Including Red Poll deleterious effects on birth weight or calving Annual General Meeting diffi culty. Sept 17 – 27 Melbourne Royal Show Further information on the myostatin gene Sept 26 - Oct 3 Perth Royal Show is reproduced on the next two pages. This Oct 9 -11 Glen Innes Youth Camp reproduced article was sourced from the Beef CRC’s “Science for Quality Beef” booklet, which was published in October 2007. Red Poll female at Moyle Park, Jamestown SA thriving For further information contact in stubble after Christian Duff, SBTS Technical Offi cer cropping. (Ph: 02 6773 2472 or Email: [email protected])

April 2009 Newsletter | 13 Myostatin gene promises higher yield Brian Sundstrom

Breeding to improve double muscling in meat specialist producers. He and carcase yield is being studied characteristics but also carry colleagues in NSW DPI with in a number of experiments subcutaneous fat and are funding from MLA and close using traditional selection just as functional as normal CRC links, are now studying techniques. At the same time, animals. For more detail on the effect of this condition over scientists are searching for double-muscling and the genes and above that effect of visual the genes responsible for the involved, see the box story on selection for muscling in their resulting yield differences. the next page. selection lines.

One experimental herd Following his many years Two herds carries a gene known as of studying the effects of myostatin which has a increasing muscling through Two herds are being substantial effect on yield. visual selection, as described studied, a 300 cow NSW DPI In both field and laboratory elsewhere, Bill McKiernan has research herd at Glen Innes, advances in meat qualityadvances experiments, the CRC is become interested in this ‘mild and a commercial pure-bred examining how this gene double muscling’ as a tool to Angus herd in the Hunter might contribute to practical speed up progress for some Valley. Both herds are carrying improvement programs in the future.

Current double muscling work The ‘double muscle’ condition in cattle (muscle hypertrophy) is well known and studied. While there are potential big increases in the percentage yield of saleable meat, there are many problems with the full double muscled animals for commercial production, including extreme leanness, poor temperament and calving difficulty. These problems have prevented their widespread use in Australia. It is also known however, that a milder variant of the condition occurs where cattle carry only one of the ‘double- muscling genes’ i.e. are heterozygotes. (For simplicity in this article, hereafter termed mild- double muscling MDM). MDM cattle display many advantages of 27 Steers Carcase Wt EMA P8 Fat Rib Fat Fat Trim Yield H’quarter (kg) (cm2) (mm) (mm) (%) (%) (%) 11 357 85.0 24.1 16.4 14.5 66.5 24.8 MDM 14 360 76.9 21.2 16.2 17.1 63.0 23.1 HIGH LINE 17 359 70.4 24.3 18.7 18.3 61.8 22.1 LOW LINE

a number of animals with the in 2006 and assessed for hindquarter. High steers myostatin gene. carcase traits. The carcases were again intermediate. were boned out and meat Early results yield information collected. Future application Results and observations to 11 MDM steers were Summing up at a recent date: compared with steers from field day, Bill McKiernan stated; the High and Low muscle „ In both herds eye muscle “With careful planning and selection lines. Full detail is DNA testing now offered by area is higher in MDM cattle in the table above. by 12 to 20 % at the same the Genetics laboratory at MDM steers dressed 1% NSW DPI’s Elizabeth Macarthur advances in meat qualityadvances age and muscle score by ™ almost one full muscle more than High line steers Agricultural Institute, self- score. These cattle were and 2% more than Low line replacing breeding programs already known for high steers. can be designed to take levels of muscling. ™ All steers had the same full advantage of these „ MDM cattle were only fatness at the P8 and improvements. Incentives slightly leaner and slightly rib sites (24 and 16mm for producers to make these smaller in stature or height respectively). improvements to meat than normal cattle. ™ Once boned out however, yield need the support of processors by implementing „ MDM cows and heifers in both higher muscled systems of better carcase both herds were the same groups had less total body feedback and price incentives weight and condition as fat percentage. on percentage yield. normal animals. Records ™ MDM steers yielded indicated they were equally an extra 5% of retail He also sounded a word of productive in maternal cuts compared to Low warning. “This technology is traits. steers, with High steers not for everyone. It is only for „ The most dramatic result so intermediate. producers prepared to instigate far has been the enormous ™ Finally and very significantly, a rigorous breeding program impact a single copy of the there was a 2.5 % advantage using DNA testing to ensure gene had on carcase traits. to the MDM steers over Low the deleterious full double- 40 steers from the Glen steers in the proportion by muscled (homozygous) form of Innes herd were slaughtered weight, of primals in the the condition does not occur”.

Double-muscling genes A single gene, myostatin, has a major effect on the regulation of skeletal muscle development and normally inhibits excessive muscle growth. A mutation in this gene reduces its powers, resulting in increased muscularity or muscular hypertrophy. There is an increase in both the number and size of muscle fibres, particularly in the hindquarters or the extremity muscles. There are six known different myostatin mutations, each having a slight variation in their effect. All cattle have two copies of the myostatin gene and animals without a mutation exhibit normal muscling. Those with a mutation in each copy of the gene (2 copies) exhibit the extreme ‘double’ muscled phenotype and depending on the mutation, can experience production problems. Animals with one copy of the myostatin deletion mutation (heterozygotes) offer superior muscling advantages over cattle without a mutation, including increased muscle mass, increased rib eye area (EMA) and a small reduction in fat. A DNA test to determine the number of copies (0, 1 or 2) of any of the six known myostatin mutations causing muscular hypertrophy is offered by the Genetics laboratory at NSW DPI’s 28 Elizabeth Macarthur Agricultural Institute. WORKSHOP KNOW YOUR AN UPDATE ON DNA TECHNOLOGY FOR THE SEEDSTOCK PRODUCER

The range of tools available to the beef seedstock industry is entering into the exciting new era OF DNA TECHNOLOGY.

In order to ensure that you are positioned to take advantage of this new technology, your Breed Society is providing you with an “all you need to know” guide to DNA technology.

SO COME ALONG & LEARN ABOUT DNA basics: What is DNA? What is a gene marker? What is a SNP? Applications for DNA technology in your herd & the advantages/ disadvantages it offers over current selection tools The value of the DNA technology that is currently available - an independent assessment. The factors you need to consider before using DNA technology in your herd

The workshops will be conducted by Southern Beef Technology Services (SBTS) & Tropical Beef Technology Services (TBTS), on behalf of your Breed Society.

16 | April 2009 Newsletter KNOW YOUR WORKSHOP PROGRAM

8.45 am Registration

9.00 am Welcome An introduction to the workshop program and presenters.

9.10 am DNA Technology – Understanding the Basics An introduction to DNA for the seedstock producer. What is DNA? What is a gene marker? What is a SNP?

9.30 am Applying DNA Technology in Your Herd How can DNA technology be used by seedstock herds? What DNA technologies are commercially available today? Includes discussion on use of DNA technology for parent verification and management of genetic disorders.

10.00 am Genetic Improvement Using DNA Technology Using DNA technology within your breeding program to improve the genetics of your animals for commercially important production traits. What advantages does DNA have over the tools currently available? What limitations does it have?

10.30 am Morning Tea

10.50 am Validation of Current Gene Markers Do the current gene markers work? Includes an overview of the results from the Smartgene for Beef project and the independent validation of MVPs. Discussion on the development of BREEDPLAN Marker Assisted EBVs.

11.35 am Should YOU be using DNA Technology in YOUR Herd? Group exercises using case studies to discuss the use of DNA technology in your herd. What considerations do you need to make before using DNA technology? Should you be DNA testing your animals now? Should you be using DNA information when selecting animals?

12.30 pm DNA Technology – The Future An insight into how DNA technology is likely to progress in the future. Includes an overview of the proposed Beef Information Nucleus.

12.45 pm Closing remarks and general discussion

> The workshop program is primarily targeted at seedstock producers, however people who are involved in the beef industry may also benefit from attending a workshop (eg. agents, scanners, commercial producers). A light lunch will be provided at the end of the workshop.

April 2009 Newsletter | 17 KNOW YOUR WORKSHOP SCHEDULE

Workshops will be conducted in the following locations.

JUNE 2009

Tuesday June 2nd Perth Comfort Inn Bel Eyre Wednesday June 3rd Albany Dept. of Agriculture & Food Thursday June 4th Bridgetown Bridgetown Shire Hall Tuesday June 16th Mt Gambier Blue Lake Golf Links Wednesday June 17th Keith Keith Institute Thursday June 18th Adelaide Chifley Hotel Tuesday June 23rd Tamworth The Alandale Motor Inn Wednesday June 24th Orange Orange Agricultural Institute Thursday June 25th Goulburn Goulburn Soldiers Club Friday June 26th Holbrook Community Resource Centre

JULY 2009

Wednesday July 8th Casino Casino RSM Club Thursday July 9th Toowoomba Toowoomba Motel & Events Centre Friday July 10th Gympie Gympie RSL Club Monday July 13th Rockhampton DPI&F Conference Centre Tuesday July 14th Emerald AACC Emerald Campus Wednesday July 15th Longreach The Longreach Club Friday July 17th Charters Towers DPI&F Office Tuesday July 28th Hamilton Hamilton DPI Wednesday July 29th Ballarat Mid City Motel Thursday July 30th Seymour The Seymour Club Friday July 31st Warragul Arts Centre Warragul

AUGUST 2009

Tuesday August 18th Launceston Venue TBA

> For catering purposes, people wishing to attend any of the workshops are asked to register prior to the workshop. A registration form has been enclosed. > A full listing of address details for each venue is available on the SBTS & TBTS websites.

18 | April 2009 Newsletter WORKSHOP REGISTRATION FEES

Registration fees include morning tea and lunch. In addition, participants will also be provided with a set of proceedings.

Members of Breed Societies participating in SBTS $40 per enterprise* Blonde d’Aquitaine, Charolais, Devon, Gelbvieh, Hereford, Limousin, Murray Grey, Red Angus, Red Poll, Salers, Shorthorn, Simmental, South Devon, Wagyu

Members of Breed Societies participating in TBTS $40 per enterprise* Belmont Red, Braford, Brahman, Brangus, Charbray, Droughtmaster, Santa Gertrudis, Senepol, Simbrah

Other $80 per enterprise* (eg. Commercial Producers, Scanners, Agents, Members of Breed Societies not participating in either SBTS or TBTS)

> * Note – the per enterprise cost category, this cost will be $40 per > If workshops are fully booked, covers attendance for up to additional person. preference will be given to two people from an individual members of Breed Societies enterprise. Attendance by three > Cancellation Policy – Full refunds participating in SBTS or TBTS. or more people from an individual will be given if the SBTS or TBTS In any case, you will be issued enterprise will incur a cost office is notified 1 week or more with confirmation of your of $20 per additional person. before the date of each scheduled workshop registration. For participants in the “Other” workshop.

For further information on the “Know Your Genes” workshops, please contact:

Southern Beef Technology Services Tropical Beef Technology Services ABRI, University of New England PO Box 809 ARMIDALE NSW 2351 ROCKHAMPTON QLD 4700 Ph: (02) 6773 3555 Fax: (02) 6772 5376 Ph: (07) 4927 6066 Fax: (07) 4927 6036 Email: offi[email protected] Email: offi[email protected] Web: http://sbts.une.edu.au Web: http://tbts.une.edu.au

April 2009 Newsletter | 19 You and CGU. Working together to protect your greatest assets. GD0913-0108

CGU Insurance is proud to be associated with The Australian Red Poll Cattle Breeders Inc. After all, CGU is Australia’s largest regional and rural insurer and the one with the local knowledge and experience to meet your specific needs. Reason enough to call CGU for a no-obligation free quote on all types of general insurance such as farm, business, home and contents as well as motor vehicle. Or you can log on to www.cgu.com.au. Either way, you can then judge for yourself how much better off you’ll be when we put the you in CGU. Contact Ray Maxwell on 1800 136 765 or 0418 536 685.

These insurance products are issued by CGU Insurance Limited ABN 27 004 478 371. You can get a Product Disclosure Statement (PDS) for farm, home and contents, and motor vehicle insurance from any office of CGU. You should consider the PDS in deciding whether to buy or hold the product. This is general advice only and does not take into account your individual objectives, financial situations or needs (“your personal circumstances”). Before using this advice to decide whether to purchase this/these insurance policy/policies, you should consider the appropriateness of it having regard to your personal circumstances, plus obtain and consider the current Product Disclosure Statement for the insurance policy/relevant insurance policy

20 | April 2009 Newsletter