THERE may be delays in Austalia Post, but livestock genetic services have not been interrupted by current COVID-19 restrictions.
Focused on supporting livestock breeders by providing timely information to assist with making decisions around genetic gain, Neogen genomics territory manager Hannah Bourke said they wouldn't let coronavirus stand in the way of livestock breeders continuing with their genetic improvement programs.
"This information is for the selling and breeding of livestock and we will continue to do everything in our power to ensure that livestock breeders can access the services they need, despite the coronavirus restrictions," she said. "While some businesses that rely on sending samples overseas may be affected, our lab in Gatton (Qld) is continuing to process and analyse DNA samples uninterrupted."
Ms Bourke said there have been some slight delays in Australia Post's delivery of samples and collection kits due to the decreased number of freight planes available and increased online shopping.
"Breeders should take this into consideration when planning their testing schedule," she said. "At this stage there has been no changes to the way producers are sending their samples in. We are working closely with the breed societies to ensure that the process is as streamlined and efficient as possible.
"Provided DNA samples are correctly obtained, preferably using Tissue Sampling Units (TSUs), producers can then post these samples as per their normal process."
Neogen recommended having deadline in mind and working backwards.
"Is it a sale or show? Is there a key breeding goal in mind? Take all factors into consideration such as genetic analysis, parentage results, Australia Post delays, etc," she said. "If there are any changes to Neogen's services due to coronavirus and government directives, we will communicate that as quickly and as clearly as possible to all of our customers.
"We don't expect coronavirus to impact the registration of new semen sires."