Performance Recording

Pre birth we start collecting data about an animal and over the course of its life many weights and measurements are taken.

This information is entered into our on farm data base and twice monthly sent to the National data base where computer software analyses it and reports it back to us as Australian Sheep Breeding Values.

We have systemised our processes with better software, lamb tagging bikes, EID tags, panel readers, bar code readers, portable printers, auto drafters and data loggers to allow larger volumes and higher accuracy to flow through our operations.

Recently we have commenced collecting DNA from key sires and the genetic information will be added to our existing information.  As at September 2021, 8,100 animals now have Genomic information.

Flock Details

Information about our animals is vitally important to assist in selecting which ones to use in the breeding program and the more is better rule applies here. By having large numbers we generate higher accuracy ASBVs and sires now have complete cohorts of daughters being measured right through their reproductive lives.  We have expanded the flock in recent years to the current position where 10,143 ewes were recorded and mated in 2020.
This makes it the largest recorded maternal flock in Australia but interestingly we have also increased the number of sires lines with high genetic merit and still maintain a very low inbreeding level across its entire range. We have potential to expand it further with the release of new technologies relating to pedigree collection which will allow increased collection of data and higher genetic improvement rates.

 

> Example of Lambplan Maternal Indexes

>> Understanding Lambplan Maternal Indexes

Cashmore Oaklea Seedstock Ewe flock as @ Mating Autumn 2019.

Drop                         Tag                        #

2011                          Green                   4
2012                          Purple                  50
2013                          Yellow                  66
2014                          Red                     1296
2015                          Blue                    1470
2016                          Black                   1721
2017                          White                  2484

2018                          Orange                2331

                                   Total                   9420