Beef genetics now on CD

 The debut release of research results on CD-ROM has taken the Cooperative Research Centre for Cattle and Meat Quality (Beef CRC) into a new era of technology transfer.

Bringing together 12 years of genetic research, Genetics findings and outcomes of the Beef CRC, is an all-in-one package which includes simple summaries, scientific papers and slides for presentations.

The initiative is the brainchild of NSW Department of Primary Industries beef breeding specialist Brian Sundstrom, who has been involved in technology transfer at the Beef CRC for the past 10 years.

"The CRC's research has national significance and we wanted to ensure that people across Australia and beyond have access to the information," Mr Sundstrom said.

"Traditional methods of technology transfer have worked well and will continue. By taking advantage of CD technology the Beef CRC will now be able to deliver the results more widely.

"I see this as being another important milestone for the CRC because of the many benefits it will provide to producers, their advisors and educational facilities.

"It means that people can access the research without leaving their home or office."

The CD features a number of major projects, including the straight breeding project (a major progeny test with seven breeds), the northern crossbreeding project (involving nine sire breeds over Brahman cows with progeny finished on grain or grass to different weights), and provides contact details for more information.

Users can navigate their way through the CD to find the outcomes under various sub-headings, including Enhancing BREEDPLAN carcase EBVs;  Multibreed EBVs;  Ultrasound for carcase prediction; Gene markers;  Feed Efficiency;  Docility effects on meat quality and feedlot performance.

A second CD on meat science, nutrition and health is due for release in April 2005.

Copies of 'Genetics findings and outcomes of the Beef CRC' are available for $10 (including GST and postage) from: NSW DPI Beef Industry Centre, University of New England, ARMIDALE 2351, PH (02) 67701804 or daphne.johnston@dpi.nsw.gov.au and helen.mclennan@dpi.nsw.gov.au.

Cheques should be made payable to NSW Agriculture.

Media contact: Brian Sundstrom, beef breeding specialist with NSW DPI at Armidale 6772 7879

Issued by: Annette Cross, NSW DPI Tamworth 6763 1243, mobile 0427 201 840