The computer-based BeefSpecs calculator has been developed via funding from Meat & Livestock Australia and designed by the Beef CRC.

According to MLA, it will assist cattle producers in making more accurate management decisions that could increase carcase compliance rates for fatness and weight targets specific to various beef markets.

MLA says up to 25pc of Australian cattle currently fail to meet targets for hot standard carcase weight (HSCW) and fat specifications, at a cost of between $15 and $30 a head, depending on the target market.

The online BeefSpecs calculator requires users to input initial live weight, P8 fat depth and frame score (an indication of frame size relative to age) to define the growth and maturity parameters of cattle while still on-farm.

The likely or possible parameters relating to HGP usage, average daily weight gain, feed type (grain or grass) and the system and duration of grazing/feeding are then input into the calculator to predict, on a group average basis, final fat depth and live and carcase weight attributes.

MLA's southern beef manager, Angus Hobson, said the simple-to-use BeefSpecs calculator would help cattle producers make informed management decisions and allow them to better meet market specifications.

"Increasing carcase compliance rates for fatness and weight targets specific to various beef markets is an important profit driver for beef businesses, especially those supplying feeder steers and finished cattle for high quality markets," Mr Hobson said.

"If the calculator predicts the animals will exceed the required specifications, the input information can be revised and the animals can be managed accordingly so that they do meet specifications.

"This has obvious advantages in terms of improving production and cost efficiencies."

A recent study of feedlot cattle showed that in a 20,000 head sample of animals being finished for short-fed markets, 28pc missed HSCW specifications forfeiting $31,000 ($5.50/head), and 16pc missed P8 fat specifications, forfeiting $54,000 ($17.50/head).

The current version of BeefSpecs is limited to group-only applications with Bos taurus (British/European) steers, however work is already underway to enhance its application to heifers and steers of all breeds and composites.

* The free BeefSpecs calculator is available for download from the More Beef from Pastures section of MLA’s website: www.mla.com.au/beefspecs.