pulsewww.simmentaler.org info@simmentaler.org / +27 51 446 0580 / 2

July 2020 Rewind

Index

JJC Holliday | ClarkZaan Simmentalers

From the President’s Pen

Cover Photo:Gulland Simmentaler Auction, 22/07/2020

In previous editions of the Pulse I wrote about champions. I just attended the very successful Gulland auction of the De Jager family. Wow, what an occasion! Top animals were sold and the future of the Simmentaler breed looks extremely good. The fact that we are under severe strain due to the global pandemic and various other contributing factors does not prevent us from breeding world class animals. It is absolutely astonishing to see what our breeders are doing in these challenging times.

We need to keep our focus on our stud cattle, communicate with fellow breeders, and enhance our knowledge of the Simmentalers. Furthermore we need to exchange data with fellow breeders, do often inbound inspections about our cattle, farm and environment.

“The difference between an opportunity and an obstacle is your attitude. Your faith has to be greater than your fear “- Positive Quotes

Enjoy the best breed in the world.

Onwards and upwards!

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From the President's Pen

From the Office

Simmentaler Junior Course, Namibia

Simmentaler Colour Codes

Sale results - Tri-Bull Sale

Sale results - Lovedale Auction

Sale results - OTVL Bull Sale

Sale results - Gulland Production Auction

Die 'ooms' sê maar net, Peter Massmann

Find a breeder

Fleckvieh Australia Magazine

6 Month Development

Sale pamphlet - Lewenslus & Odensim

Sale pamphlet -Ashtonvale Simmentalers

Crossbreeding Principles in Beef Cattle Breeding with

Reference to the Simmentaler, Dr Danie Visser

Sale pamphlet - Vlensburg

Breeding or Feeding?

Champions meeting Champions

Piet Theron

Sale pamphlet - 3 van die Bestes Simmentalers

Steps to becoming a registered Simmentaler breeder

Sale pamphlet -Simmchris

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Photos from #Simmentaler in Instagram

Missed an issue?

Contact details

From the Office

Simmentaler Office | 6 CP Hoogenhout Street, Langenhovenpark

Erna de SwardtFinancial Manageraccounts@simmentaler.org

Antoinette JacobsSenior Administrative Officerinfo@simmentaler.org

Kinnear GeldenhuysTechnical Advisorkinnear@simmentaler.org+27 (0) 76 191 4318

Chantel ViljoenData Analyst (M-U)chantel@simmentaler.org+27 (0) 83 790 5332

Marguerite FouchéData Analyst (A-C & V-Z)marguerite@simmentaler.org+27 (0) 79 503 8100

Amanda LessingData Analyst (D-L)amanda@simmentaler.org+27 (0) 82 447 3750

July 2020

Christel HerbstFinancial Assistantchristel@simmentaler.org

Simmentaler Office+27 (0) 51 446 0580/2info@simmentaler.org

Dear Simmentaler breeders,

We are saddened by the news of the passing of former Simmentaler breeder, Piet Theron (Overal Simmentalers, Vryburg). He contributed to the stud industry greatly. Former CEO of the Simmentaler and Simbra Society, Flaf Lauwrens, has written a short piece in his remembrance, see page 26.

Breeders will soon be able to report Simmentaler colour codes on the IRL2 registration platform. We invite everyone to report the colours and colour patterns of animals. This can be reported at any time, but preferably at birth. The recording of colours and colour patterns can, among other things, be of value to breeders in the investigation of possible colour inheritance in pedigrees. Please see page 7-8 for a detailed list of colour codes that may be used. As soon as the programming has been completed we will provide more information on how to submit this data to the office.

Another reminder about the Champion of the World photo competition entries that need to reach the office on or before 21 September. Since we have had no shows this year, this competition will determine Southern Africa’s entrants in the annual international Champion of the World Competition. An email with more detail was sent to all registered members of the Society on 10 June.

It’s very important to remember that DNA and sire verification is compulsory for all Simmentaler bulls and female animals presented for inspection born on and after 1 January 2020. DNA and sire verification is also compulsory for all bulls offered on an auction from 1 January 2020. Please have your animals’ DNA tests done in advance to avoid any issues in your sale catalogues and at your inspection visits.

We are still functioning on 50% staff members from the office and 50% from home. All contact details can be found on the left of this page. Office hours are from 08:00 - 16:30 (Mo-Th) and 07:30 - 16:00 (Fr). Please feel free to contact us for assistance with any Simmentaler queries

As always, thank you to all of the farmers out there delivering an essential service to Southern Africa. We look forward to meeting with you at events as soon as it’s allowed. Until then, please keep safe!

Best wishesSIM Office

Deomika Simmentaler stud, Kuruman NC

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“There are only two reasons to farm: because you have to, and because you love to. The ones who choose to farm choose for love.”- Wendell Berry

Simmentaler Junior Course

The course leaders were Stephan Voigts and Paul Klein. 11 students attended the course.

As per usual the course started with a theoretical section to provide a platform for the practical sessions. Stephan Voigts presented the first part on the rich Simmentaler history, basic use of EBVs and structural correctness. Dewald Walters presented the second part on performance testing and $-Indexes.

After a light meal it was off to the practical sessions where the students were tested thoroughly. The evening was spent enjoying good food, cold drinks, and warm and

friendly discussions.

The practical sessions continued on Saturday. Some of the classes also tested the candidates’ ability to incorporate EBVs and $-Indexes in selection. This was a particularly interesting exercise. Lunch was enjoyed by all with juicy steak accompanied by an assortment of other dishes prepared by Komien Walters.

The total cost of the course was generously sponsored by Santam Namibia. The course stood out for the fantastic spirit that characterized both days. A lot was learned, but good friendships were also built.

thFriday the 24 of July was the first of a two-day Simmentaler Junior course on the farm Spitshoek of Bertus Walters and the Walsim Stud.

The Simmentaler colour codes consist of two numerical digits e.g.11, 12, 13, 21, 22, 23, 31, 32 en 33.

The FIRST number can be 1, 2 or 3 and indicates one of three groups of colors.

The SECOND number can be 1, 2 or 3 and indicates color patterns between, Patched, Slightly Patched and Covered. The number indicates the degree of coverage of the

animal. For classification, white on the head, underline, and under legs are not taken into account.

Any single white spot on the body with an area smaller than an A5 paper’s (150 x 200mm) classification is slightly patched.

More than one white spot of any size or single spot with area larger than an A5 paper (150 x 200mm) changes the classification to patched

Breeders are invited to report colour and colour patterns. Colour codes of animals can be reported at any time, but preferably at birth. More information on the submission of this data will be available soon.

Simmentaler Colour Codes

Geel/Yellow | Kleurkode/Colour Code: 1

Bruin/Brown | Kleurkode/Colour Code: 2

Rooi/Red | Kleurkode/Colour Code: 3

Gevlek/Patched | Patroonkode/Pattern Code: 1

Effe-gevlek/Slightly Patched | Patroonkode/Pattern Code: 2

Oordek/Covered | Patroonkode/Pattern Code: 3

The Simmentaler IRL2 registration platform allows individual colours and colour patterns of animals to be recorded. The recording of colours and colour patterns can, among other things, be of value to breeders in investigating possible color

inheritance in pedigrees.

Oordek / Covered

Effe-gevlek / Slightly Patched

Gevlek / Patched

Kleurkode / Colour Code: 13Geel Oordek / Yellow Covered

Kleurkode / Colour Code: 23Bruin Oodrek / Brown Covered

Kleurkode / Colour Code: 33Rooi Oordek / Red Covered

Kleurkode / Colour Code: 12Geel Effe-gevlek / Yellow Slightly Patched

Kleurkode / Colour Code: 22Bruin Effe-gevlek / Brown Slightly Patched

Kleurkode / Colour Code: 32Rooi Effe-gevlek / Red Slightly Patched

Kleurkode / Colour Code: 11Geel Gevlek / Yellow Patched

Kleurkode / Colour Code: 21Bruin Gevlek / Brown Patched

Kleurkode / Colour Code: 31Rooi Gevlek / Red Patched

Kleurkode Voorbeelde Colour Code Examples

Tri-Bull Sale1 July 2020, Dundee

Simmentaler Bulls:Offered / Sold - 32 / 30Average Price - R 46 366Highest Price - R 75 000

Photo right - Congratulations to Bruce Taylor from the Garrisford Simmentaler stud, Underberg, for selling the two highest price Simmentaler bulls of the day at R75 000 each. T1719 (photo) and T1710 both sold to commercial buyers.

Sale ResultsSOUTH AFRICA

Lovedale Auction22 July 2020, Lindley

Simmentaler Bulls:Offered / Sold - 9 / 5Average Price - R 43 000Highest Price - R 65 000

Simmentaler Heifers:Offered / Sold - 5 / 4Average Price - R 17 500Highest Price - R 22 000

Photo right - The highest priced Simmentaler bull at the auction was Marontel CAB1729, from Marie and Gerhadus Beukes’ Marontel Simmentaler stud, Petrus Steyn. CAB1729 sold for R 65 000 to Corné de Jager from the Tierkloof Simmentaler stud, Reitz.

Sale ResultsSOUTH AFRICA

OTVL Bull Sale29 July 2020, Ermelo

Simmentaler Bulls:Offered / Sold - 30 / 28Average Price - R 45 267Highest Price - R 95 000

Photo right - The highest priced Simmentaler bull at the auction was Rivervalley Nissan AB1749, from Peter and Lucille Abrahamse’s Rivervalley Simmentaler stud, Three Rivers. Nissan sold for R 95 000 to Ed Barry, Four-Feet Simmentaler stud, Dalton.

Sale ResultsSOUTH AFRICA

The 12th Gulland Simmentaler Production Auction was held on Wednesday morning, 22 July 2020 on the farm Vlaknek in the Koster district. The sale was held by auction marketing firm André Kock & Son.

The auction was attended by commercial and stud breeders alike; in person, telephonically and online via SwiftVee. Despite current restrictions, buyers got their paperwork in order and traveled from across South Africa to attend the auction.

The De Jager family presented some of their best show animals on offer. With well-known show champion and super cow, Von-Taler Petra, selling for R85 000 to the Deomika Simmentaler stud, Kuruman.

The owners of Gulland Simmentaler stud, Martiens de Jager Snr and Martiens de Jager Jnr, would like to thank everyone for supporting and participating in the success of their production auction in these trying times.

Gulland Simmentaler Production AuctionKoster, 22 July 2020

Sale Results

SALE RESULTSGulland Production Auction22 July 2020, Koster

BullsOffered / Sold - 36 / 35Highest Price - R80 000Average Price - R47 857

Cow & CalfOffered / Sold - 13 / 12Highest Price - R85 000Average Price - R36 916

CowOffered / Sold - 1 / 1Highest Price - R16 000Average Price - R16 000

Show Champion Von-Taler Petra PVW1018, Lot 25, sold for R85 000 with bull calf from Erico Derklou, MAD19302. One of our embryo donors and IVF'd eith great success. Sold to Conrad and Louriska Meyer, Deomika Simmentaler stud, Kuruman.

The highest price bull of the day was Gulland Zorba MAD18151, Lot 18, who sold for R80 000. A dark red Zagreb X Orauka son. Potential stud bull with a birth weight of 38 kg. Sold to Reggeraai Boerdery.

HeiferOffered / Sold - 30 / 28Highest Price - R26 000Average Price - R21 750

EmbryosOffered / Sold - 20 20Average Price - R11 750

The auction was well attended by commercial and stud breeders alike.

SOUTH AFRICA

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“The way to a farmers' heart is through his cattle.”

Die 'ooms' sê maar netPeter Massmann

Aan die Voorsitter en Redakteur, baie geluk met die 'lekkerlees' Simmentaler-Pulse. Weens die belangrikheid van vrugbaarheid stel ons voor dat meer bydraes oor reproduksie by bulle en/of vroulike diere gepubliseer word - die arsenaal is geweldig.

Intro Reinhard 'Reini' RuschHet vir 31 jare op die Raad van die Genootskap gedien, daarna as Lewenslange Ere-President en hy woon steeds elke raadsvergadering van die Namibië Genootskap by van wie hy 'n stigterslid is. Voor die stigting was hy vir 20 jaar intens betrokke was by die Namibië Arbeitsgemeinschaft (Klub). Sy oupa Ernst, het in 1885 sy eerste Simmentalers van Duitsland ingevoer en oor Reini se vader Georg, sê “Meneer Simmentaler Suider-Afrika”* dat hy 'n enorme kenner van die ras was en Gehle se grootste onderwyser oor hoe 'n regte dier moes lyk.

* = 'Sieg' Gehle, die skepper van die eerste Rasstandaard vir vleis-Simmentalers in die wêreld.

Ek het Reini in bovermelde jare op die Raad beleef en plaas hom boaan die lys van kollegas met 'n uitstekende kennis in beide dierewetenskap en visuele evaluering (beoordeling).

Hy studeer by Tukkies (1959-62, Veeteelt en Weiding) en Goettingen in Duitsland (1963-64) en behaal ook die hoogste rang in beoordeling nl. Raseksaminator.

As raadslid was hy 'n ywerige ondersteuner van veral die instelling van vrugbaarheid by skoue; die Simpro kuddeverslag stelsel; Simdeks, minimum skrotumomvang vir registrasie/skoue; oorskakeling van SA Stamboek registrasie na 'n eie stelsel en die aanstelling van Breedplan vir prestasietoets evaluering.

Sy boerdery, met dogter Bianca as bestuurder, is hoofsaaklik op bergveld met 'n gemiddelde reënval van 410mm (1970-2019). Die weidings stelsel behels vinnige rotasie van 8 kampe per kudde en wissel alle 7 dae, dus 'n 49 dae rusperiode per kamp tydens dekseisoen. Na die dekseisoen word die vinnige rotasie voortgesit. Kampe kan nie vir die hele jaar rus nie, want sulke kampe word deur wild kort gewei en dit belemmer die stelsel. (Hy is al vir 45 jaar 'n wildbewaring boer). Die weidingstelsel moet voldoende voedsel oor die hele jaar voorsien. Slegs lekke word toegedien en geen byvoeding.

Die April 'Simmentaler Pulse' bydraes “13 Pointers for increasing fertility in beef cattle breeding” van Llewellyn Angus en my Facebook gelukwensing met Reini Rusch se 80ste het 'n positiewe reaksie by Reini geskep. Hy deel graag sy gedagtes rondom vrugbaarheid en het 'n storie oor sy “zero-tolerance” oftewel 'geen-verskoning' seleksie-beleid, wat hy al vir vier dekades met groot sukses toepas, aan my gestuur om dit vir publikasie voor te berei want sy vinger-toetsbord-koördinasie is nie wat dit was nie. Samehangend daarmee wil ek uitwei oor die Telersvereniging se historiese beleid oor vrugbaarheid.

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Selekteer vir vrugbaarheid, en die res sal volg. Reinhard 'Reini' Rusch

Elke koei wat bul toe gaan moet 'n kalf soog want koeie sonder kalf belemmer Breedplan teelwaardes. Dit impliseer dat die volgende koeie nie by die bul kom nie: nie dragtig, koeie met aborsies of distokia; koeie wie se kalwers vir watter rede ook al (bv. roofdiere) wegraak en koeie wat volgens onvermelde seleksie-indeks uitgeskot word. Met die beleid van “zero tolerance” is daar nie iets soos oorslaan nie. Laastens, word koeie wat hulle sewende kalf gespeen het ook uitgeskot omdat 'n dier sonder redelike snytande in ons wêreld nie behoorlik kan wei nie. Jy doen haar 'n onreg aan om te sukkel nadat sy hard by jou gewerk het. Voorts, veekundiges stem saam dat langlewendheid seleksiedruk belemmer.

Algemeen: Bul le word voor die dekseisoen vir vrugbaarheid en teen geslagsiektes getoets en koeie kry inentings teen geslagsiektes. Bulle kan geskou word as Breedplan aantekening onder 'n eie bestuursgroep geskied maar vroulike diere wat skoue se voorkeur-behandeling kry het geen plek in ons projek nie omdat die koei anders uitgroei en ook 'n ekstra invloed op die kalf het.

DekstelselBulle word in die middel van die somerreënval tydperk by die vroulike diere gesit wat die beste voeding ontvang, gemiddeld 35 koeie/verse per bul. Dektydperk: Vir koeie was dit eers 90 dae en is dit met die jare verlaag na 64 dae. Verse is 63 dae met tyd verlaag na 43 dae. Na die dektyd loop alle diere in een kudde.

In die sewentiger jare het ek baie KI gedoen - ongeveer 80 koeie met 65% suksesvolle eerste inseminasie. On het KI nogtans gestaak weens weiding wat by die sentrums agteruitgaan. Bronstigheid observasie by ekstensiewe stelsel is moeilik. Die vaderskap bepaling het 'n lang periode geëis, tussen KI datum en daarna diere by die bul. Bulle doen elk geval 'n beter job. My dogter begin deesdae in goeie jare weer met KI om aan die vereistes van “Genomika” te voldoen.

� �Seleksie drukBy 90% dragtigheid bevinding uit 100 diere het jy gemiddeld 45 verskalwers. Van geboorte tot speen is die verliese ongeveer 5 (aborsie, distokia en roofdiere). Van die oorblywende 40 wat gespeen word (almal is in een temporêre groep), word 5 weens teelwaardes uitgeskot as hulle na 1 ½ jaar by die bul kom. 'n Verdere 5 word op grond van strukturele foute of liggaamsontwikkeling uitgeskot. Van die oorblywende 30 moet 15 opmaak vir ou koeie en koeie met swak teelwaardes. Dit gee jou 15 diere. Tien moet opmaak om weer 100 diere wat bul toe gaan te hê; dus 5 diere vir “over mating*” of enige afwyking van die verwagte situasie.

Verse kom nagenoeg op twee jaar ouderdom by die bul. Onder ons toestande het verse wat “weens 'n glips” te vroeg by die bul was feitlik altyd met eerste kalf dekseisoen sonder spesiale behandeling nie dragtig geword nie – hulle is dus uitgeskot en vroeë kalwing was geen voordeel nie.

Alle koeie by bul moet na 63 dae dragtig wees, so nie word hulle uitgeskot. By verse is daar geen genade nie, as hulle

na 43 dae by die bul nie dragtig is word hulle summier uitgeskot, onafhanklik van voorkoms en afstamming. Dit is 'n belangrike vereiste, dit help nie om omstandighede te skep, sodat elke dier die paal haal. Ou koeie se produksievermoë daal na die vyfde kalf, dus swak kalwers.

Eerste kalf koeie word soos alle ander diere behandel m.a.w. geen ekstras nie. Hulle moet 'n kalf speen en binne 64 dae weer dragtig raak om te voldoen aan die “elke jaar 'n kalf” beginsel. Wat van droogtes en dit en dat? Hier word geen kompromie aangegaan nie. Soms (in swak reënjare) moet ons 50% van die eerste kalf koeie slag, wees positief – 50 is oor van die hele spul. Dit is koeie wat onder uiterste omstandighede nog die mylpaal gehaal het. Dit is koeie wat baie vrugbaar en aangepas is.

Oor die jare met goeie en ietwat onder gemiddelde reënseisoene het ons nooit minder as 90% met dragtiheids ondersoek behaal. Ongeveer - verse 100%, koeie 95% en eerste kalf koeie 90%. Tweederde van alle kalwers word binne die eerste 4 weke van die kalf seisoen gebore.

Die 'bottom line'“Selekteer vir vrugbaarheid en die res sal volg”. Ongelooflik, maar waar. Ons glo dat streng seleksie vir vrugbaarheid lei tot (i) goed aangepaste diere (ii) met die korrekte grootte (middel van die pad) en (iii) optimale produksie in die omgewing waar hulle moet produseer. Ons stelsel is 'n bestuursprogram wat beide omgewingsinvloede en genetiese seleksie insluit. Ek het hierdie resep sedert 1980 aangewend en alhoemeer druk toegepas.

Peter vraWat van vrugbaarheid by bulle? Ons selekteer vir skrotum vorm sowel as omvang en is bewus van navorsing wat getoon het dat 'n groter omvang gekorreleer is met vroeër puberteit by dogters. Die vermoë om koeie behoorlik te dek verg natuurlik ook goeie libido, strukturele korrektheid, ietwat vroegryp en middelmatig groot.

Wat van Breedplan se “Days-to-Calving”? Ons vrugbaarheid-seleksie beleid is baie jare voor die bekendstelling van DtC geïmplementeer en die kantoor se 'Simpro-Verskag' met al sy reproduksie syfers is 'n goeie administratiewe hulpmiddel vir ons stelsel. Dis voor die hand liggend dat ons al die jare indirek vir DtC geselekteer het. Ook in die toekoms gaan ons DtC teelwaardes in ag neem d.m.v. wetenskaplike teelwaarde indekse.

Wat se Breedplan se Dr. Michael Bradfield. Ja, Reini het indirek vir DTC geselekteer. 'n Bekende teler in Australië het jare gelede aan my gesê dat hy Breedplan net sal vertrou as sy bulle bo-aan die punteleer van teelwaardes staan omdat hy al baie jare vir vrugbaarheid in sy kudde selekteer. (Van die 50 top Brahman bulle gemeet op DTC indeks teelwaardes is 47 syne). 'n Soektog op Breedplan se verbruikersvriendelike Simmentaler webblad toon dat 5 van die top 10 Simmentaler bulle volgens DTC teelwaardes met 'n minimum akkuraatheid van >60%, Lichtenstein (Reini) bulle is.

VOLGENDE MAAND -

Die geboorte van reproduksie in die lokale

stoetbeesbedryf, deur Peter Massmann

You can now easily find a Simmentaler breeder in your area.

Visit our website at www.simmentaler.org and click on the new "Find a Breeder" button on the right hand side of your screen. The “Find a Breeder” page will present you with the South African provinces, as well as the countries Botswana, Namibia, and Zimbabwe.

Select your country/province. You will be redirected to the ABRI website and find a list of all active registered Simmentaler breeders in the province/country you selected.

Click on the “Stud Name” (in green) of the breeder you are interested in to find their closest town/city and contact details.

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Find a Breeder

South Africa's BTB Simmentaler stud graces the

cover of the latest Fleckvieh Australia magazine.

This edition of the magazine (Vol 2, 2019-20) has

outstanding South African contributions, please

read.

Follow this link - https://tinyurl.com/y33mae6m

Just look at the strong 6 month development of this Simmentaler calf from the Little Creek Simmentaler stud, Lephalale.

These photos were taken on 17/01/2020 (top) and 12/07/2020 (bottom).

6 Month Development

Crossbreeding Principles in Beef Cattle Breedingwith Reference to the Simmentaler

by Dr Danie Visser Agricultural Advisor & Strategic Analyst, JUVENTIS Consulting

INTRODUCTION Primary or frontline beef production is practiced mostly under extreme or harsh environmental conditions across South Africa. According to Webb & Erasmus (2013), some 70% of weaner beef calves are sold to feedlots to yield carcasses between 220 – 250 kg and assuming a dressing % of 48 to 50%. As true custodians of the earth and farmland per se, livestock and beef producers have (should have) the following aggregate objective in mind namely to ensure that: The reproductive efficiency of breeding females are

manifested in regular annual calving's and calves that are healthy and uniform with good survivability.

Offspring should have the genetic capacity to reach the desired weaning weight in the shortest time and convert pasture and grain efficiently into protein.

Cost of gain should be complemented by heavy and lean carcasses, a high dressing percentage and preferably the highest market price.

It stands to reason that all these attributes cannot be superimposed or bred into one all-encompassing animal or breed. Farming sustainable and economical in extensive conditions call for the following interwoven components: An enterprise/farm with all the resources to sustain stock

flow, fodder flow, carrying capacity and output efficiency. A clearly defined breeding objective with the ultimate

goal to improve total herd efficiency. A meticulously planned breeding program that explore

crossbreeding and heterosis.

Animals that adapt comfortable to a specific bio-climatic region and acute awareness of G x E interactions. The female animal's non-interrupted and consistent reproductive ability is paramount.

A prudent decision which breeds to include in your crossbreeding program.

Breed complementarity and genetic compatibility. Understanding the needs and preferences of your

buyer/end producer in the beef supply chain Identification of genetically superior animals to slot into

the breeding program.

CROSSBREEDING IN SOUTH AFRICA: HISTORIC PERSPECTIVE Being developed as a dual-purpose animal since the early development of the breed in Europe, the Simmentaler's unique characteristics were recognized and utilized when German cattle farmers in Namibia were the first farmers on the African continent to import Simmentaler cattle in 1893.

The objective was to improve meat and milk production of indigenous cattle and to do this through crossbreeding and heterosis.

According to Patterson (1988) crossbreeding systems should be introduced and executed to utilize its additive (genetic) and non-additive (heterosis) gene effects. The results of crossbreeding are not always positive, exemplary or plausible. See Figure 1.

Figure 1. The different combinations when crossing different breeds or strains in terms of a specific trait (English et al, 1988).

Hence the fundamental question that producers should answer is:

Which breeds do I use (or should I use) in my environment and given my farm's production system, my long term vision and my business acumen?

A well designed crossbreeding system with true additive and non-additive components should be complimented by management practices that are conducive to improved productivity and profitability.

It is common practice in many beef producing systems that females are retained and selected on-farm and the breeding bulls are purchased from Stud breeders or Commercial producers with large herds/specific genotypes. As a general rule of thumb, the small herds should not produce their own replacement animals.

A British Beef breed, such as the Hereford, breeding cows generally reach their peak weaner production at 5 – 6 years, whilst in the case of the Simmentaler and Charolais breeds or crossbreeds, cows only reach their peak production at 8 – 11 years (Patterson, 1988). A two way criss-crossbreeding system using the Hereford and Simmentaler can be harnessed into combining the best of both breeds.

With a well-planned breeding program, the British Beef Breeds, Continental (Dual-Purpose/ Simmentaler) and Zebu breeds could all find a niche as purebreds under commercial conditions and also in a structured terminal and three way criss-crossbreeding system.

THE GENETIC BASIS OF HETEROSIS

Heterosis in simplistic terms or by definition means: The degree or extend to which the performance of a crossbred or outbred (F1) animal, is better or worse than the average performance of the parents (P1)

The genetic distance between two breeds that are distinctly different will result in improved heterozygosity. It is assumed that the heterotic effect(s) are primarily attributed by the dominance effects. Loci without dominance cause neither inbreeding nor heterosis. The fraction of maximal heterosis is proportional to the likelihood that an animal received genes from different breeds at a random locus. Schoeman (2004) indicated that the model for heterosis be further explored to incorporate maternal, paternal and individual heterosis.

The amount of heterosis (H) can inter alia also be expressed as follows:

[and where the f’s are the various fractions that the different breeds contribute to the sire and dam]

Across all livestock species, the largest impact of heterosis is on those traits with small heritability, namely: Calves born alive per inventory female mated, survival rate pre weaning, weaning mass and also on robustness and longevity.

Good estimates of heterotic effects require reliable datasets and information from both purebred and reciprocal crosses and sound statistical procedures and analysis.

DESIGNING OF A CROSSBREEDING SYSTEM

A variety of crossbreeding systems exists in South Africa and the wider beef production fraternity internationally. In the intensive livestock industries the development of specialist sire and dam lines had been universally proven and is managed meticulously according to modern genetic acceleration programs, large genepools, enormously large international databases, meticulous data collection procedures and rapid genome research and sequencing genomic outputs.

In well-designed breeding programs where genetic improvement is achieved in every generation, the improved performance and resultant benefits of hybrid vigour are parallel and equally important expressed in the crossbred progeny at all the layers in the breeding pyramid. The secret of course will be the challenge to match the right genotype to the right environment and to combine mature cow size, milk production and output efficiency in the right environment.

A phenomenon gaining popularity is the utilization of small f r a m e m o t h e r l i n e b r e e d s ( c r o s s i n g t h e Hereford/Angus/Sussex with a Jersey) and mating them with a medium to large frame/ dual-purpose or terminal sire such as the Simmentaler or Limousin. The rationale to capitalize on lean tissue growth rate, cost of gain, feed efficiency and to attain heavy carcass weights from females with a moderate metabolic size, good reproductive and maternal abilities.

HARNESSING THE RIGHT BREEDS INTO THE BREEDING SYSTEM

The breed for a specific enterprise, must adapt and flourish (reproduce and produce) in that environment. The adaptation of an animal is generally linked to: skin colour, skin thickness, pigmentation, heat exchange and relative skin surface area (Bosman, 2011). In the classical Bushveld with extreme summer temperatures in excess of 28° C, adaptation is a pre-requisite for performance. According to Bonsma (1983) cattle breeds that are kept at high altitudes must be equipped with pigmented hides.

The secret of course will be the

challenge to match the right

genotype to the right environment

and to combine mature cow size,

milk production and output

efficiency in the right environment.

USING TWO BREEDS OPTION 1

[Pure non registered]

OPTION 2[Pure and registered]

OPTION 3 ROTATIONAL CROSSING

USING THREE BREEDS –TERMINAL

This program will enable the mother to express significant maternal heterosis, as well as individual and terminal heterosis from the calf and sire. In a Three Breed Rotational Program it is advised that the Bos Indicus, Bos Taurus and Continental or Dual-Purpose breeds are used intermittently for optimal results – which for the purpose of this paper will not be discussed. The progressive commercial beef producer could design his/her own virtual on farm

crossbreeding program, without having to keep all the different purebred breeds. The desired mother line females could be purchased at weaning from a reputed genetic supplier, replacing 12 – 15% of his herd per annum and using semen from top quality terminal sire and or AI bulls and market his animals at a premium.

Genetic improvement for a breed implies that every new generation has the genetic ability to perform better than their parents, whilst enabling their progeny to perform better than themselves in future. The magnitude of genetic superiority will enable the breed to excel further.

THE ROLE OF THE SIMMENTALER IN CROSSBREEDING

Due to the unique genetic composition of the Simmentaler, being a global and renowned dual-purpose animal and one of the most numerous breeds in the world, the breed renders itself to a wide variety of crossbred options:

THE ROLE OF THE SIMMENTALER IN CROSSBREEDING FROM A BREED OR BREEDER PERSPECTIVE: A PROPOSED SCORE CARD

Benchmark yourself against: 1. The current breed average. 2. The top 10% South African Simmentaler producers and 3. The performance of the leading international Simmentaler countries.

Aim for a minimum score of 35/50 Scores below 30/50 call for immediate intervention

Schoeman, Jordaan & Skrypzeck (2000) determined the contribution of the Simmentaler breed in synthetic breed or multi-breed beef cattle herd, where the average contribution of the Simmentaler genes were 33.4%.

In the study birth weight was positively influenced by the proportion of Simmentaler genes and increased with the proportionate Simmentaler increase. The same trend was observed for the regression of the best linear unbiased

estimate for weaning weight in relation to the proportion Simmentaler involvement. The authors are of the opinion that in the creation of a synthetic breed, the level of Simmentaler involvement should be carefully monitored and not be over exploited despite all the positive attributes of the breed.

The metabolic size (W 0.75) and weight of the dams at weaning should continuously be linked to the actual weaning weights of their calves over their lifespans as well as the herd in general.

CONCLUSIVE REMARKS AND SUMMARY

The drivers of genetic improvement at seed stock and

purebred level are just as applicable to crossbreeding and

heterosis. Animals with solid performance or crossbred

animals originating from animals with plausible breeding

values and sound functional efficiency will further enable

the commercial beef producer to breed efficient cattle and

do it profitable.

What is your cross margin per inventory breeding animal for

large, medium and small frame animals within your

enterprise? It stands to reason that environment, rainfall,

fodder production will determine which breeds to use in a

crossbreeding program. As a general rule of thumb: The

higher the rainfall and the more fertile the soil, the more yield

and output driven the enterprise become. In this regard, with

sound management, the Simmentaler should reach its full

potential. Breeders have to breed the most efficient animals

for the most profitable market.

Biosecurity, individual animal identification and animal

movement as well as traceability have now also become

new drivers of beef production.

Calving ease and regularity of calving, should form an

integral part of the dynamics of the crossbreeding

programme. Find the right balance between the genetics

(breeds/genotypes) and the environment.

The stockman must always observe, count the animals

regularly, plan meticulously, record data on all animals and

weigh them accurately (at important intervals). This should

be done irrespectively whether you are a stud breeder and

use performance testing and BLUP or whether you are a

commercial producer.

According to Schoeman (2004) the gain of an effective

crossbreeding system should be to optimize maternal and

individual heterosis and when a crossbred sire is used, also

parental heterosis.

The ideal crossbreeding system should capitalize on using

the maternal heterosis of the crossbred dam (with up to ±

15% improvement in weaning mass) and individual

heterosis and additive gain post weaning (of some 8%

improvement).

The inclusion of a small frame/well adapted mother line (be

it Bos Indicus or small frame British beef breeds) with a

small maternal birth weight and subsequent calving ease

and a high calf survival rate is meritorious. Ensure that the

Simmentaler breed, through breed complementarity slots

well into the ultimate crossbreeding program.

The genetic performance of the purebred Simmentaler

should be used as the benchmark for excellence, heterosis

and overall performance.

The Simmentaler stud breeders and their organization have

the responsibility that their breed remains the breed of

choice for stud breeding, sustained genetic improvement

and crossbreeding on the African continent.

REFERENCES

Arthur, J.P.F. & Herd, R.M., 2008 Residual feed intake in beef cattle. R Bras. Zootec. Volume 37. pp 269 – 278.

Beef Industry Federation Guidelines, 8th Edition. pp 175.

Billet, Roy., 1988. Biggest isn't Best. Farmers Weekly. 9 December 1988.

Bonsma, Jan, 1983. Livestock Production. A global approach. Tafelberg Uitgewers. pp 201.

Bosman, D.J. 2011. Interview conducted with S A Stud Breeder. Issue 23 – November 2011.

English, P.R., Fowler, V.R., Baxter, S. & Smith, B., 1988. The Growing and Finishing Pig Improving Efficiency. Farming Press. pp 550.

Falconer, D.S., 1960. Introduction to Quantitive Genetics. Oliver & Boyd Ltd pp 365.

Marincowitz, G., 1990. Die bul in 'n kommersiële vleiskudde – Red Meat. Junie 1990.

Patterson, A.G., 1988. Improving Productivity in Beef Cattle and Sheep. Proceedings of a symposium held by the Natal Branch of SASAP. Cedara College of Agriculture. 02 March 1988.

Preston, T.R. & Willis, M.B., 1978. Intensive Beef Production. Pergamon Press. 2nd Edition pp 567.

Schoeman, S.J. 2004. Crossbreeding in Beef Cattle. Beef Breeding in South Africa. Editors: M.M. Scholtz, Leslie Berg & Danie Bosman ARC – Animal Improvement Institute Irene. ISBN 1-868491293 pp 220.

Schoeman, S.J., Jordaan, G.F. & Skrypzeck, H., 2000. The influence of proportion of Simmentaler breeding in a multibreed synthetic beef cattle population on pre-weaning growth traits. South African Journal of Animal Science 2000, 3(2) pp 98 – 109.

Webb, E.C. & Erasmus, L.J., 2013. The effect of production systems and management practices on the quality of meat products from ruminant livestock. S.A. Journal of Animal Science, 2013, 43 (No.3) pp 413 – 423.

www. simmentaler.org

Koelfontein Simmentaler stud, Prince Alfred Hamlet WC

Breeding or Feeding?Emile Kotzé, Anderland Simmentaler Stud, Noordbrug NW

Naturally, the calf’s weight could be influenced by many factors which were greatly taken into account at calculating the EBV.

The influencing factors were as follows: Non-genetic factors (e.g. nutrition) - contributes to 70 %

of the variation. Calf’s genetics for growth - 20%. Material contribution by mother – remaining 10%

(Including: Amount of milk, Quality of milk, and Mothering ability of the dam).

The most astounding figure in this finding is that 70% of the variation in the weight of the calves at 200 days is contributed by non-genetic factors such as nutrition and only 20% by genetics. In spite of the correction factors used in establishing the EBVs for milk and growth, it seems as if nutrition has a very significant influence on the outcome of the estimated breeding values.

So, after 52 years of breeding Simmental cattle, during which time I laid much emphasis on the genetic

improvement of my herd, it seems to me that it is much easier and more profitable for the breeder to rather improve the environmental factors such as nutrit ion and management and not try to make the same headway with genetics.

Source - Anderland Simmentalers on Facebook

In the January 2019 Breedplan’s Quarterly Report to Simmentaler SA, a review was given on how the South African cow’s 200-day milk EBV (Estimated Breeding Value) was calculated by the weight of her calf at 200 days.

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“Agriculture, for an honorable and highminded man, is the best of all occupations or arts.”- Xenophon (c. 430–c. 350 B.C.)

Piet TheronWell-known Simmentaler breeder and former Standard Bank manager from Vryburg passed away in June 2020. Piet Theron was a member of the Simmentaler Society from 01/09/1983 to 31/12/1998 after which he remained an inactive member.

Piet registered the Overal Simmentaler stud in 1983. He had a great passion for his cattle and participated in all of the big shows across South Africa with great enthusiasm.

He bred plenty of well-known stud bulls, including Overal Birner, Dingaan, Boesman and Police. His Simmentaler bloodlines can still be found in studs internationally.

He was one of the founding members of the Vryburg Stud Livestock Association, which presents the September and November bull auctions every year.

The Piet Theron Auction Complex in Vryburg is named after him and this is how we remember his life and contribution to the stud industry.

OVERAL BIRNER, PJT9353 Born: 18/12/1993

Breeder - PJ Theron, VryburgSold to - Mahne & Mahne BK, Lichtenburg

Birner was an AI bull an has 457 progeny on the South African ABRI system. His progeny can be found in 36 different herds.

Champions meeting

Champions

Victor Matfield, CEO of GWK Veewinkel and former Springbok captain, visits Gert Nienaber’s Leeupoort Simmentaler stud in the Rustenburg district on 15 July 2020 to learn more about the best dual purpose breed out there!

Gert Nienaber and Victor Matfield

STEPS TO BECOMING A REGISTEREDSIMMENTALER BREEDER

START HEREContact the office for an

English or Afrikaans application form -

info@simmentaler.org oraccounts@simmentaler.org

Return application form to Erna at

with proof of membership fee

payment.

Complete the application form in full -

Form 1, 2, 3 and 4.

NB - all dates and a drawing of your road

map need to be completed.

Double check your joining date - this date determines

part of your membership fee as well as the date which

calves can be registered from.

Once the application has been processed, you will

be notified of your registered details and receive a VAT invoice.

Your application will be sent to the registrar.

uu u

u

uWould you like to be part of a Society and members with an intense interest in the

breeding and raising of Simmentaler animals? Yes? Well, look no further!

Receive application form containing applicable information and fees.

u

u

Congratulations! You are now a

registered member of the Simmentaler

Society!

Add value to your animals An income potential apart from only weaners New marketing opportunities New income possibilities Join a network of dynamic beef producers Trade ideas, meet other farmers with mutual objectives Outstanding professional client services

24 hour access to your animal and herd reports Annual Technical Advisor visits Assistance in animal selection, genetic analysis and

general advice A sophisticated system for performance testing Registration certificates for animals A well trained and competent team at the Society’s office

ADVANTAGES OF MEMBERSHIP

accounts@simmentaler.org

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@karin621122Lynnwoodrif, South Africa30/07/2020

@mettl3rLenk, Switzerland27/07/2020

@mirtelizeSouth Africa30/07/2020

@nestaustudAssagay, South Africa30/07/2020

@three_rivers_winterbergerAdelaide, South Africa11/07/2020

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Simmentaler Cattle Breeders’ Society of Southern Africa

Contact Us:Tel - +27 51 446 0580Fax - +27 51 446 0455

E-mail - info@simmentaler.org

Office Hours:08:00 - 16:30 (Mo - Th)

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Postal Address:Private Bag X 7002Langenhovenpark

9330

Physical Address:1 Genius Loci Office Park6 CP Hoogenhout Street

LangenhovenparkBloemfontein

9301

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