At BlueStone Beef, the embracement and adoption of science in our breeding is paramount. We believe science provides the key to productivity gains as well as validating numbers and visual assessments.
We target heterosis to fuel maternal efficiency. We believe well managed hybrid vigour will be the next biggest productivity gain for your beef enterprise.
Using an Angus base, we want to use the best traits of multiple breeds to produce a black, polled animal with superior early growth rates producing a moderate maternal female. Our sires have longevity, docility, and soundness with moderate mature weights. Our breeding philosophy is uncomplicated and practical.
Our cattle are registered with the American Simmental Association and are on the International Genetics Solutions (IGS) database. The IGS database is the world’s largest beef genetic evaluation system. It is a collaboration of progressive cattle breed associations with nearly 20 million total animals and more than 340,000 annual registrations. IGS delivers the best objectively described, user-friendly, and science based genetic predictions to enhance the profitability of beef cattle producers.
We genetically test all young seedstock. This data is interpreted in parallel with scanning and structural assessment data. All cattle are independently assessed by Liam Cardile, Eudunda Livestock. Our aim is to have the balance right between phenotype and genotype. All bulls are grass fed and are run contemporary commercial conditions.
We measure and record weights at all appropriate growth stages. We ultrasound scan to measure for IMF, P8 fat, Rib fat and EMA. Using all these measurements, we select for carcass quality and productivity. Genetic testing allows us to identify homozygous black and homozygous polled. It also allows us to guarantee parentage.
We aim for calving ease and optimum birthweight. We are conscious that continued selection for light birth weights will ultimately reduce the mature sizes and performances of cattle.
BlueStone Beef’s data contributes to the International Genetic Solutions (IGS) Multi Breed EPD Percentile table. IGS has over 20-million animals and over 300,000 genotypes from nearly 20 different organisations. When BlueStone Beef’s Sire’s performance data is compared against the world’s largest and only major multi-breed cattle evaluation system – it has performed well:
