Exclusive Opportunity to Participate in Building Better Merino Flocks Project

Neogen is proud to be a contributing partner in the Meat & Livestock Australia (MLA) funded project “Implementing and Optimising Genomic Prediction Tools for Commercial Merino Producers” coordinated by SheepMetriX.

This integrated R&D and Producer Demonstration Site (PDS) project is focused on showcasing how commercial Merino producers can unlock greater genetic gain by applying current and emerging genetic and genomic tools in their breeding programs.

About the Project

The project aims to demonstrate and identify clear pathways for producers to incorporate genomic testing and genetic selection tools into both ewe and ram selection. By doing so, commercial Merino enterprises can make more confident, data-driven decisions that directly impact flock productivity and profitability.

Through its network of demonstration sites, the project will integrate genomic and genetic tools in real production systems. These sites will serve as practical, on-farm examples for the wider industry, delivering:

• Educational resources for producers on how to apply the tools in their own flocks
• Practical demonstrations of the value of genomics in guiding selection decisions
• Measurement of impact on productivity and genetic progress

As part of this project, Neogen is excited to showcase its new genomic test, Smart Flock Select.

Smart Flock Select is a Merino-only genomic selection tool that describes the genetic merit of animals for economically relevant traits. It helps producers:

• Rank sheep based on traits that directly impact productivity
• Align selection decisions with breeding objectives
• Eliminate low genetic merit animals from production systems

By enabling more accurate selection of rams and ewes, Smart Flock Select improves the overall profitability, production, and sustainability of a sheep operation.

In a single test, Merino producers can evaluate wool quality and quantity, health and welfare, growth, and carcase traits. This provides an efficient solution for managing and marketing sheep with greater confidence. Importantly, the tool allows producers to focus resources on young stock of verified merit, tailoring their flocks to their specific production and business goals.

Neogen’s role in the MLA project reflects our commitment to bridging the gap between research and practical application.

By combining the power of Smart Flock Select with the demonstration and extension work delivered through this project, we are helping to ensure that commercial Merino producers have the tools and knowledge they need to breed more resilient and profitable flocks.

Producers who would like to participate in the project can register their interest by completing the form below.