At Te Mania Angus, we’ve been at the forefront of innovation in the beef industry for more than 50 years — from objective measurement to the early adoption of DNA analysis as a breeding tool. We’ve always believed in the power of science to drive progress.
But we also believe in keeping both feet on the ground.
Genomics has transformed how we breed cattle. It’s a game-changing tool that allows us to fast-track genetic gain, improve accuracy, and sharpen the focus on key traits like growth, marbling and fertility. But we want to sound a note of caution — because relying on genomics alone can lead us down a dangerous path.
As our Farm Manager, Edward Gubbins, puts it:
“DNA gives us powerful predictions, but it should never replace the value of real-world, on-farm performance data.”
The Angus breed in Australia has built its reputation on rigorous genetic evaluation. That means combining hard data from the paddock and processing plant with the best scientific tools available. But as we see more producers scaling back traditional performance recording — often due to cost or labour constraints — we’re concerned about what that means for the future accuracy of our EBVs.
And we’re not talking about a small risk.
It’s fast and easy to breed problems into a herd — but it can take years to breed them out.
A solid Angus breeding program isn’t a one-season job. It requires year-in, year-out commitment to maintain genetic integrity and long-term profitability. That’s why we, as dedicated Angus studs, focus on doing what we do best — and why we respect our commercial partners who focus on producing premium cattle for the supply chain.
There’s no quick fix here. The science of genetics is powerful, but it’s not magic. Tools like the TransTasman Angus Cattle Evaluation (TACE) system, and particularly the genomic breeding values, rely on a reference population — animals with both DNA data and actual recorded performance data. This combined dataset is the backbone of accurate breeding values.
If we stop contributing real-world data into that system, the accuracy of our EBVs starts to slip. Over time, the progeny of today’s bulls will become less genetically connected to the original reference population. That means genomic predictions — no matter how sophisticated — will become less reliable.
And that has real consequences.
If we can’t trust our EBVs, commercial breeders may unknowingly invest in bulls that don’t deliver as expected. That leads to slower genetic progress, increased risk of structural and fertility issues, and a loss of confidence in the whole system. Ultimately, that puts pressure on the profitability of everyone in the supply chain — from seedstock to processor.
Bull selection is a big decision. It’s a long-term investment. And we owe it to our clients — and to the future of Angus breeding in Australia — to keep that process as accurate and reliable as possible.
So yes — we absolutely believe in genomics. It’s an incredible tool that we use every day.
But tools only work when you use them right.
Breeding success doesn’t come from DNA alone. It comes from the combination of genomics and phenotypes — of science and stock sense. That’s the balance we’re committed to maintaining at Te Mania Angus.
Because the decisions we make today will shape the industry for decades to come.
When you choose Te Mania Angus, you’re choosing a partner in your success — one that sees the future with clarity and confidence, ensuring that every step you take is backed by reliability and strength.
If we can assist you with your Angus breeding program, or any other aspect of your business, we would be delighted to lend a hand.
Hamish McFarlane 0427 641 606 | Sam Reid 0432 148 120 | Edward Gubbins 0488 429 885
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