Certificate III Agriculture Year 11 & 12 – Busy Start to the Year

Year 11 & 12 Certificate III Agriculture students have had a busy start, working with the Farrer Angus Stud on data collection, structural assessments, pregnancy testing, and weaning.

The year kicked off with Ultrasound Scanning by Roger Evans (Bovine Scanning Services), assessing carcase traits in bulls and heifers. Data will be sent to Breedplan for genetic analysis, aiding both the upcoming bull sale (Wed 25 June 2025) as well as providing detailed EBVs for our females to assist in sire selection. Roger also provided valuable demonstrations to agriculture classes.

Year 12 worked with Jim Green (Greens Livestock Services) on independent structural assessments of the U Bulls & Heifers, evaluating foot structure and type. This data will be used for Breedplan analysis and help students class the bulls for the bull sale catalogue.

Year 11 students visited Brewongle to wean V calves and pregnancy test HBR females. Rob Ferris used ultrasound technology to determine pregnancy status, with 72% pregnant to AI, 21% to backup bulls, and only 7% empty—a testament to the successful AI program led by Year 12 students last year.

These hands-on experiences with industry professionals and a 100-cow breeding herd provide invaluable learning opportunities.