Merino Genomic Reference Flock 2023 to 2025

The existing Sire Evaluation Flocks will be used as a base for the Merino Genomic Reference Flock. In most years there are 10 active sites across Australia with over 100 sires entered, covering a broad range of Merino types. To encourage participation, it is proposed that AWI cover half of the 50K DNA genotyping costs related to this project, with the other half paid by sire entrants. The sire evaluation sires already collect a broad range of measured and visually assessed traits and at older ages compared to on-farm data. Any breeder can connect to the Reference Flock by entering sires. Sites would commit to the collection of high-quality flystrike data in addition to their current traits. There is an increasing amount of 50K genotyping being conducted by ram breeders on-farm and this is a further potential source of data for the Merino Genomic Reference Flock. It is proposed that Merino breeders with high Data Quality Indexes (determined by Sheep Genetics) and already taking reasonable numbers of 50K DNA tests also be encouraged to participate. Most on farm breeders will need some genotyping assistance to be involved with collection of good flystrike data. Sire Evaluation Flock Data Managers would be compensated for the flystrike data collection and transfer to modestly assist the ram breeders. Extensive ongoing consultation and engagement will be required with MLA and AGBU. BCS Agribusiness, given their direct involvement with Sire Evaluation, data collection and transfer, and involvement with the major players in the genomics space are well placed to coordinate and promote the 2-year project, but the role would be tendered out thereafter should it be agreed to continue this project.