TOP Classifications

A system of classification of registered females based upon type and individuality, TOP Classification recognises that progress towards the improvement of the Ayrshire breed should be obtained through animals superior in conformation as well as production.

Classification is undertaken by the Association in late spring each year. Animals are scored by trained inspectors on a scale of 1 – 9 for 11 different conformation traits along with scores for ‘udder overall’ and ‘dairy conformation’. These scores are then converted into an ‘award’.

Members are encouraged to submit all 2 year old cows (both pedigree and grade), along with any older animals they wish to have re-classified. In particular, the two year old data plays a large role in calculating sire proofs and the information is invaluable in that respect.

CLOSING DATE FOR APPLICATIONS FRIDAY 30 SEPTEMBER 2022

Fees: (all prices exclude GST)

Herd Fee $50.00
(Senior members are no longer required to pay a herd fee for TOP & Classification when using this service)

Late Herd Fee (received after 30 September 2022) $65.00

Late Herd Fee (One month after close off) $150.00

PLUS

Two year olds $4.00 per heifer

Older Cows $6.00 per cow

There will be a minimum charge of $100.00 + GST if not all two years olds (by breed, by sire) are inspected

Conditions

1. All two year old heifers by breed, by sire, whether pedigree or grade, must be put up for inspection.
2. Inspections must be carried out in suitable yards for drafting and be on concrete.
3. The member or one staff member must be present during the inspections to assist with drafting etc.

Registration of grade heifers

At the members discretion (see overleaf), any animal not showing as PA or SA on the inspector’s screen (i.e. grade animals) will be given a final classification award and an ER (eligible for registration) code. These animals will be registered automatically by the Ayrshire New Zealand office and a registration fee charged, as well as the classification charge. These animals will be charged at the registered heifer TOP price.

Farmer Sheets

Farmer Sheets will automatically be sent for all two year olds. If you wish to have Farmer Traits entered for your older animals download a blank Farmer Sheet from our website. Members may also select to complete Farm Traits via a phone app.

Bio Security

All members are asked to make hot water and scrubbing brushes available to inspectors to prevent cross-contamination between farms.

Health & Safety

Ayrshire New Zealand will confirm the date and times of your inspection. Please ensure that any health & safety policy requirements for your farm are provided to Ayrshire New Zealand at least one week prior to the scheduled inspection.