Implementation of genomics in Australia

Australia is in the process of implementing genomic estimated breeding values for Holstein. Direct genetic values (DGVs) are estimated with BLUP, but an animal specific reliability is calculated separately. Blending is used to combine pedigree, herd recording and genomic information (following Harris and Johnson, 2010). The reference set used to derive the prediction equation consists of 2193 bulls. The addition of genomic information to the parent average leads to an increase in reliability of 20 to 31% for the traits investigated. Once a bull has a first set of daughters, inclusion of genomic information does not greatly alter its BV or reliability. The first release of a limited set of traits is planned for September 2010 followed by an official release for all traits and both sexes in April 2011.