Breedplan remains the most important genetic selection tool as cattle breeding technology continues to develop.

Its measurements within a pedigree accurately produce genetic estimates for profitability, using BreedObject software.

All the major cattle breed societies now publish BreedObject estimates for many of their cattle.

Southern Beef Technology Services (SBTS) was established a couple of years ago by Meat and Livestock Australia, the Agricultural Business Research Institute (ABRI) at Armidale, and fifteen major breed societies, to fill a gap in technical support for Breedplan.

SBTS aims to deliver technical information to commercial and seedstock producers in southern Australia.

The service combines workshops, on farm visits and a back up technical support service.

A series of workshops is being held across southern Australia to teach producers about different genetic technologies.

Initial workshops will provide information on Breedplan, BreedObject and Internet Solutions.

Farm visits up to half a day will be available for producers with specific needs.

The industry will also be able to get technical support by phone and e-mail.

Four young, enthusiastic and highly skilled technical personnel offer the necessary hands on technical support.

As other service providers reduce their technical support, the SBTS team will help fill this gap.

They can be contacted at ABRI, Armidale, 02 6773 3555.