Vala Holstein sale to spread beneficial genetics

The heifers sold for an average of about $1950.

The top price for a bull was a tie between two homozygous slick gene bulls at $5000 each.

One other homozygous bull went for $4750, and the remaining heterozygous bulls went for $3000 to $3500.

Many of the heifers and all the bulls carried the slick gene, which gives them a shorter coat and improves their tolerance of heat and humidity.

Mr Arena said he had seen the benefits of the gene himself, watching slick cows stand in the sun eating, while non-slick cows were lying down in the shade.

Vala Holsteins was an early player in the spread of polled Holsteins, a gene that stops horns developing, eliminating the unpleasant work of de-horning.

The genes play crucial roles in ensuring animal welfare and greater production of milk.

Many of the cattle also had the A2A2 gene, producing milk that is easier to digest for some people with sensitive stomachs.

Mr Arena said the auction would be a great benefit to the industry as it would increase access to these genes.

The property at 1350 River Rd, Toolamba is currently open to expressions of interest.