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Outcomes of MLA’s livestock production

research and development

Outcomes of MLA’slivestock production research and development

Authors: Jane Harris with Cheryl Ryce

Published by Meat & Livestock Australia LimitedABN: 39 081 678 364

September 2005 © Meat & Livestock Australia, 2005ISBN: 1 74036 673 5

Care is taken to ensure the accuracy of information in this publication, however MLA and the contributors to this publication cannot accept any responsibility for the accuracy or completeness of the information or opinions contained in the publication. Readers should rely on their own enquiries in making decisions concerning their interests. Reproduction of this publication in whole or part is prohibited without prior consent and acknowledgment of Meat & Livestock Australia.

MEAT & L IVESTOCK AUSTRALIA 1

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Table of Contents

Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

1. Improving animal production . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

Genetics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6Genetics research and development. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7Beef marbling. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10Improving efficiency of beef cattle through selection for net feed intake . . . 11Maternal central progeny test for sheep . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12Merino validation project . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

Animal health and welfare . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14Heat stress risk management on long haul livestock voyages to the Middle East . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15Ovine Johne’s disease. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15Sheep internal parasites . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17Bovine TB . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17Calf scours. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 Temperament and lamb survival . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17Heat load in feedlot cattle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18

Nutrition and reproduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20Strategic optimisation of nutrition in Merino sheep meat production. . . 21Bullpower. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21Near infrared reflectance spectroscopy (NIRS) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22

Supply chain management. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24Sheep meat eating quality. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25Q Lamb Alliance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26BeefNet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26

2. Improving the environment, pasture and feedbase . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28

Environment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30Sustainable Grazing Systems (SGS) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31Burdekin catchment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33Lucerne breeding program . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34Biological weed control for Paterson’s Curse & thistles . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35National Beef Cattle Feedlot Environmental Code of Practice . . . . . . . . 36

Pasture and feedbase management . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37PROGRAZE® . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38Silage for prime lambs. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39Speargrass, wiregrass, animal management project . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39MoreLamb . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40Tagasaste. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40Grain & Graze . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41EverGraze . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41

3. Improving delivery and capacity building . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42

Prime Time. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44EDGEnetwork® . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45BeefCheque/LambCheque®. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46Postgraduate scholarship program . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47BeefPlan® . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47More Beef from Pastures. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48PIRD® (Producer Initiated Research & Development) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50

OUTCOMES OF MLA’S L IVESTOCK PRODUCTION RESEARCH & DEVELOPMENT 2

Outcomes of MLA’s livestockproduction research anddevelopment


INTRODUCTION

IntroductionMeat & Livestock Australia (MLA) is a producer-ownedcompany providing services to the entire Australianred meat industry. Valued at more than $15 billion per year, the industry includes producers,processors, meat exporters, live exporters andretailers. MLA’s mission is world leadership for theAustralian red meat and livestock industry. Its coreactivities include improving market access, buildingdemand for Australian red meat and conductingresearch and development (R&D) to provide acompetitive advantage for the industry.

MLA was formed in 1998 as part of the Government’s‘red meat reform package’ to increase the Australianred meat industry’s self determination withappropriate industry representation, governance andaccountability. Three statutory meat industry bodies,Australian Meat and Live-stock Corporation (AMLC),the Meat Research Corporation (MRC) and the MeatIndustry Council (MIC), were replaced by the newproducer-owned company.

MLA has around 34,000 livestock producer memberswhose levies comprise approximately 50% of totalfunding. The largest contributor to the remainingfunding is the Commonwealth Government, whichprovides dollar-for-dollar matching of money spent onR&D, followed by cooperative contributions from meatprocessors, live exporters, wholesalers, food serviceoperators and retailers.

Outcomes for livestockproduction R&DThis report outlines a selection of MLA’s outcomes oflivestock production R&D since its formation in 1998.It is not intended as an exhaustive summary; rather, itis an overview with case study details from some ofthe most significant projects since MLA began. Theoutcomes represent both new products and newknowledge in different areas, as well as changes offarm and enterprise management practices.

One of MLA’s key goals is to ensure sheep, cattle andgoat producers are aware of the findings of itsresearch, and to encourage them to adapt theirmanagement practices to improve on-farmprofitability and sustainability. This leads to outcomesthat directly benefit the producer, the wider industryand the Australian community as a whole.

The outcomes have been achieved throughcollaboration with industry, other researchorganisations and government. Collaboration withindustry ensures research identifies the most critical

needs. Collaboration with other researchorganisations enables joint approaches to commonproblems and eliminates duplication of effort.Collaboration with Government ensures that researchfocuses on economic, social and environmentalresults.

Livestock production R&D is conducted in the broadareas of improving animal production, improving theenvironment, feedbase and pastures, and improvingdelivery and capacity building. In implementation,these areas overlap and interact with each other.

MLA’s R&D programs are aligned with the FederalGovernment’s National and Rural Research andDevelopment Priorities.

More informationFor more information on any of the case studies inthis report please refer to www.mla.com.auor write to one of the addresses below.Email: [email protected]: MLA Livestock Production R&DMeat & Livestock AustraliaLocked Bag 991North Sydney NSW 2059


PART 1Improving animal production


IMPROVING ANIMAL PRODUCTION

Improving animal productionChanging commodity prices and increasing costsplace the red meat industry under constant pressureto increase the efficiency of production in order to maintain current levels of business profitability.Improving animal production is a key driver forsuccess. MLA invests in R&D in different areas of animal production including genetics, animal health and welfare, nutrition and reproduction, and supply chain management.

GeneticsMLA’s work in the area of beef, sheep and goatgenetics encompasses a broad spectrum fromscientific capacity building to delivery of genetic toolsto producers. These tools have been used widely byproducers and have directly resulted in significantgains being made through genetic improvement.

MLA is currently investing in the search for more genemarkers for efficiency of feed utilisation for beefcattle, marbling of beef, and quality of sheep meat.Investment also continues in genetic evaluationservices such as BREEDPLAN, LAMBPLAN® andMerino Genetic Services. MLA’s Sheep GenomicsProgram is a major collaborative venture that aims to identify sheep genes and their functions in order to improve sheep health, welfare and productivity.

Animal health and welfareInvestment in animal health and welfare R&D supports industry productivity, product quality andmarket access by providing tools to improve the well-being of Australian livestock. This work alsoaddresses issues of community concern. MLA animal health research programs deliver cost-effective, practical management recommendations for the prevention and management of importantdiseases of sheep, cattle and goats.

MLA’s animal welfare R&D has focused on livestockmanagement issues such as heat stress, ventilationand animal diseases encountered by the feedlot andlive export sectors. Production-focussed industryinitiatives have also resulted in positive impacts onanimal welfare. Examples include buffalo fly control,vaccine development, and the livestock managementaspects of the Meat Standards Australia eating qualityprogram.

MLA, together with Australian Wool InnovationLimited, is currently developing a framework for theidentification of scientifically-based animal welfaremeasures. This framework may be useful in directing

welfare measures, research projects, and ultimatelyidentifying scientific measures that may be used todetermine best practice animal husbandry.

Nutrition and reproductionEfficiency gains in animal nutrition and reproductionaffect the overall profitability of all livestockenterprises. MLA has invested in research tounderstand animal nutrition needs and theeffectiveness of various nutrition options on livestockproduction, as well as programs to assess diet quality and to increase pasture utilisation. Work inreproduction includes research into bull fertilitymanagement, improved diagnosis of key reproductivediseases, identification of the causes of losses from pregnancy testing to weaning, the impact onfertility of selecting for increased carcase yield, and demonstration of new management practices. Future investment will include the identification of gene markers for lifetime calf output.

Supply chain managementA supply chain is a group of businesses linkedtogether for mutual benefit to supply products tocustomers. A red meat supply chain takes beef, lamb,mutton and goat meat from the paddock to the plate.Supply chain management integrates communicationand delivery of R&D projects with management toolsand training. This results in strong businessrelationships and consistent, high quality productsbeing delivered to customers. MLA’s work in thesupply chain management area ensures that R&D isadopted and commercialised as widely as possible.

Improved environmental outcomes in red meat supplychains are also an MLA priority. MLA has collaboratedwith industry groups to develop several integratedenvironmental management systems. One of thesehas been implemented by Australian Country Choice(ACC), a vertically integrated agri-business consistingof production properties, feedlots and a centralprocessing facility, dedicated to beef and vealproduction for Coles supermarkets.

Meat eating quality is an important aspect of supplychain management in the livestock production sphere.MLA’s R&D has identified practices and processesthat will further improve consistency and quality in Australian sheep meat eating quality. Significantcontributions have also been made to existing supply chains such as the Western Australian Q Lamb Alliance, and the support of supply chainnetworks such as BeefNet.


Case StudiesGenetics


GENETICS

Overview: Geneticsresearch anddevelopment

MLA plays an important leadership role in Australianbeef and sheep genetics. It encompasses:

• Building capacity for overall genetic improvementof beef and sheep in Australia

• Development of genetic improvement tools such asBREEDPLAN and LAMBPLAN®

• Continuing research into better methods and toolsfor genetic improvement, such as gene markerresearch and support for the development of TotalGenetic Resource Management (TGRM)

With the right genetic tools, cattle and sheepproducers can make decisions to select animals forvarious qualities that affect profitability. Identifyinganimals with the most appropriate genes for differenttarget markets has a direct positive impact on theprofit of sheep and beef enterprises.

The genes that sheep and cattle possess affect:

• reproductive performance• survival rates of lambs and calves • mothering ability of cows and ewes• growth rates• feed efficiency• health, including the ability to manage parasites• fatness, muscling and carcase characteristics

Significant work has been done by Australianresearchers in the area of beef and sheep geneticssince the 1960s. This research has been aimed atimproving productivity and profitability throughgenetic technologies. These technologies includeimportation of new genetic material, breed changeand cross-breeding, and within-breed selection. MLAand its predecessor organisations, Meat ResearchCorporation and Australian Meat and Live-stockCorporation, have had a significant funding andcoordination role in developing beef and sheepgenetics in Australia.

MLA investments are part of a larger nationalinvestment made by breeders, producers, breedsocieties, R&D agencies and the wider communitythrough the Commonwealth Government. MLA and itspredecessors have contributed around 23% of thenational investment in cattle and an estimated 45-50% in the lamb industry. Since its formation in 1998,MLA has continued a substantial investment—up to$2 million per annum—and work has ranged frombasic through to applied science and extension.

The cumulative present value of investments ingenetic improvement (1963-2001) is estimated at$337 million. Total benefits from beef cattle geneticsR&D investment over the past 30 years is $11.5 billion(consumers gaining $5.75 billion, producers gaining$3.8 billion). Of this $11.5 billion, approximately $10.2billion is due to the infusion of tropically adapted BosTaurus cattle with the balance approximately equallydue to benefits from selection, from use of cross-breeding, and from breed change in the southernindustry. An example of improvement over the period1985 to 2003 for one specific production systemmarket specification is shown in the figure below.

During the period 1985 to 2003 the benefit to thelamb industry of R&D investment is estimated at $3.6billion, of which genetic improvement is a significantcomponent. Annual rates of genetic improvement ingrowth and carcase value of lamb and sheep equateto between $10-15 million extra on-farm income peryear, or approximately $2 billion over the period.

Scientific capacity andstrategic collaborationsMLA has had a key role in the development ofAustralian capacity for livestock genetic research anda delivery framework. MLA continues to invest inprojects that provide the necessary infrastructure forwork that will influence the beef and sheep industriesin the long-term. Strategic collaborations includeBREEDPLAN, the Beef CRC#, Sheep GeneticsAustralia and the Sheep Genomics Program. Ongoing research in development of new traits andestimating genetic parameters underpin the deliveryof BREEDPLAN and LAMBPLAN® to industry.

Change in average Japanese B3 $Index Value over time. Valuesestimated for Angus cattle registered with the Angus Society of Australia.Reference www.angusaustralia.com.au/BP_Genetic_Trends.htm

Japanese B3 $Index


PART 1 IMPROVING ANIMAL PRODUCTION

GenomicsGenomics is the study of the genes within anorganism and how they contribute to its phenotype(its observable characteristics). Functional genomicsmakes use of the vast amount of data generated fromgenome sequencing. It describes the function andinteractions of genes in order to develop new ways tomeasure economically important traits and todiagnose disease. Genomics has the potential toidentify new diagnostic methods and geneticscreening tools for livestock in order to improveproductivity and health.

MLA’s Sheep Genomics Program aims to identifysheep genes and their functions in order to improvesheep health, welfare and productivity. It is a majorcollaborative initiative in which MLA and AustralianWool Innovation Limited are partners. Ten Australianresearch organisations are also involved in the projectand are providing in-kind funding.

The Cooperative Research Centres (CRCs) for beef cattle and sheepMLA has leveraged its own funding investmentsthrough strategic collaborations with industry andscientific institutions. A significant collaborativerelationship has been with Beef CRC#.

The Beef CRC brings together research and industrypartners in order to benefit the whole industry. The venture includes the University of New England,CSIRO, NSW Department of Primary Industries andQueensland Department of Primary Industries &Fisheries, commercial firms, and cooperating cattlebreeders. MLA (and predecessor Meat ResearchCorporation) is the major private sector core partnerproviding significant cash support.

The Beef CRC integrates molecular and quantitativegenetics, meat science, and animal nutrition andhealth, to identify and understand the factors thatinfluence growth, development and beef quality, inorder to ensure Australia’s ability to guarantee theeating quality of beef.

The Sheep Industry CRC brings together a range ofpartners, including several State Departments ofPrimary Industries as well as processor and producergroups. MLA has been a major industry investor inseveral project areas, and has been a supportingparty to the CRC.

MLA has worked closely with the Sheep IndustryCRC, partnering in R&D projects in the areas of sheepmeat eating quality and sheep genetic parameters, toassist in tackling the wool-meat balance, and in

projects to better understand managing for both wooland meat in sheep enterprises across a range ofenvironments. The collaboration has been veryeffective and yielded considerable additional R&Doutcomes over what could have otherwise beenachieved.

Sheep Genetics AustraliaSheep Genetics Australia (SGA) is the nationalgenetics evaluation service for the Australian sheepindustry jointly developed by MLA and AustralianWool Innovation Limited. SGA unites MLA and AWI’ssheep genetics initiatives to integrate and maximiseknowledge gained through their respective researchand development programs. The establishment ofSGA provides a platform for standardisation,calculation and use of credible and accurate breedinginformation across all sectors of the Australian sheepindustry.

Trait identification and gene markers Gene markers have been identified for various cattletraits that are critical to productivity and consumerrequirements, such as meat tenderness and cattlefeed efficiency.

MLA has supported the development of gene markersfor beef marbling and tenderness in collaboration with the Beef CRC and CSIRO. These gene markersenhance cattle producers’ ability to predict thegenetic merit of their animals. Again with the CRC,MLA research has demonstrated that geneticimprovement in the efficiency of cattle feed utilisationcan be made, and that using the net feed intake as aselection criterion in beef cattle breeding schemes isprofitable. It has provided a blood-based test (IGF-1)to reduce the cost of testing, and work continues toidentify and commercialise gene markers for feedefficiency.

Research also continues on developing more genemarkers for hard-to-measure but economicallyimportant traits in cattle and sheep. Alongside this,research is being conducted on better computationalmethods to incorporate gene markers in quantitativeanalysis to ensure smooth delivery to industry.

Genetic delivery—traitselection toolsBREEDPLANBREEDPLAN is the national genetic recording andevaluation program for the Australian beef cattleindustry. Development of BREEDPLAN is co-fundedthrough the Animal Genetics and Breeding Unit atArmidale, NSW, and is delivered by the AgriculturalBusiness Research Institute under license from


GENETICS

MLA, NSW Department of Primary Industries and the University of New England. The program providesperformance recording systems that predict anindividual animal’s ability to produce progeny thatmeet the requirements of current and future markets.It offers bull breeders the potential to accelerategenetic progress in their herds and to provideobjective information on stock they sell to commercialbreeders.

BREEDPLAN uses Estimated Breeding Values (EBVs)for economically important traits, including growth,fertility, carcase qualities and calving ease. Theadoption rate across Australia is about 51% ofregistered and recorded cattle. BREEDPLAN has also been successfully implemented in many othercountries.

BREEDPLAN delivers an estimated $15-20 million to industry in additional on-farm returns each yearthrough continued improvement in growth rates,carcase composition, feed efficiency and maternalability.

MLA’s investment in the development of analyticalsoftware and the measurement of new traits andgenetic parameters underpin BREEDPLAN. MLA co-ordinates national activities to ensure producerscan use genetic tools and resources for improvedprofit.

LAMBPLAN®

LAMBPLAN® is Australia’s system for describing the genetic worth of sheep used in sheep meatproduction. Developed and managed by MLA,LAMBPLAN® started in 1989 and is the world’s mosteffective sheep genetic improvement system.LAMBPLAN® provides a performance recordingsystem that predicts an individual animal’s ability toproduce progeny that meet the requirements of thecurrent and future markets for lamb products. Thesystem is based on Australian Sheep Breeding Values(ASBVs) that are calculated from raw data collectedby breeders and accredited LAMBPLAN® ultrasonicscanning operators. LAMBPLAN® ASBVs aredesigned to give the best possible estimate of thetrue genetic merit of sheep from the data.

All major terminal, maternal and dual-purpose breedsin Australia use LAMBPLAN®. Continuing R&D makesASBVs more accurate, makes breeding programsfaster and better targeted, and increases thecommercial use of LAMBPLAN®. Currently theLAMBPLAN® system produces breeding values on1.65 million animals, with an annual evaluation of100,000 animals. It has directly contributed to

approximately 70% of the gene pool of prime lambproduction in Australia, which has demonstratedsignificantly higher growth in productivity(approximately 5% per annum) compared with theoverall sheep population.

Merino Genetic ServicesMerino Genetic Services has provided Merinobreeders and producers with information on thegenetic potential of sheep through ASBVs. Breedersand producers can select the best sire or dam fortheir breeding objectives across a comprehensiverange of commercial production and quality traits.Merino Genetic Services delivers a higher level ofcontrol over animal selection. This service allowscommercial and stud producers to more effectivelyuse information now available to them through newtechnologies such as in-shed wool testing. It isavailable to all Merino clients (both Horn and Poll) thathave data submitted to the Merino database.

Merinoselect® is replacing Merino Genetic Serviceswith the introduction of Sheep Genetics Australia.

KIDPLANKIDPLAN provides practical information to the Boerand Meat Goat Industry on the value of an animal’sgenes for production, in the form of EBVs andspecialised indexes.



Case Study: Beef marbling

OpportunityMarbling is the finely distributed fat in beefmuscle. It is positively associated with eatingquality and has commercial importance,particularly in the USA and Japan. There issubstantial genetic variation in these traits, so tests for underlying genetic causes are likely to succeed. Also, producers seek animals that can marble without becoming over-fat and thus be expensive to feed.

ProjectsThere are now five gene markers for production traitsin beef cattle: three for marbling and two fortenderness. MLA has been involved in supporting thedevelopment of the markers and improvements in thetests using these markers.

Gene marker tests for beef marbling and tendernessMLA’s funding, in collaboration with the Beef CRCand the CSIRO Division of Livestock Industries, has developed gene markers for beef marbling andtenderness which increase producers’ abilities topredict the genetic merit of their animals. This allowsproducers to more accurately select feedlot cattledestined for the high value markets such as Japanthat require high marbling scores.

A test has been developed for three markers whichhave been licensed to GeneSTAR Pty Ltd. This wasthe world’s first commercial gene marker test for aproduction trait in beef cattle. GeneSTAR marbling is a DNA diagnostic test that distinguishes differentforms (alleles) of the Thyroglobulin (TG) geneassociated with different levels of marbling in thecarcase. One form of the gene has been shown to be associated with increased marbling in cattle onlot-feeding programs.

The presence of the first discovered marbling allele is associated with an increase of approximately 11%in the average marbling score in a population ofanimals.

GeneSTAR has also introduced a DNA test fortenderness. It detects two different forms of thebovine calpastatin gene; one is associated withincreased tenderness and the other with increasedtoughness. This works best in breeds which have amoderate to high frequency of the toughness allele, in that it can be actively selected against in breeding programs.

Protein intake and beef marblingThis joint MLA and Beef CRC project tested theeffects of dietary protein on the performance andexpression of marbling in beef cattle.

Ultrasound scanning of back-fat thickness, eyemuscle area and intramuscular fat was conductedthroughout the trial, and feed intake recorded. The project found that there were no significanteffects on marbling percentage of the protein contentof diets. However, the low protein diet resulted in asignificantly lower Feed Conversion Ratio (the numberof kg of feed used to produce one kg of beef) andless cost for weight gain than both the control andhigh protein diet.

The protein content of the diet was found to affectfeed intake, liveweight gain, Feed Conversion Ratio and cost of gain. Ultrasound scanning at thebeginning of the feeding period was found to be the best predictor of marbling outcome.

OutcomesObjective industry benefitsGene marker tests for beef marbling and tendernessGenetic seedstock producers see the benefit of selecting cattle to build a genetic base.

Most feedlots supplying this Japanese marketsegment now ensure they purchase their stock from sire lines that have a proven propensity to marble.

Since December 2004 the marbling test has threemarkers, and uptake of the technology is expected to increase significantly. More than 15,000 tests formarbling and more than 20,000 tests for tendernesshave been sold.

Protein intake and beef marblingIt was demonstrated for feedlots that feeding too high a level of protein too late in the feeding period is uneconomical and does not increase marbling.Protein levels are now more aligned to animalrequirements and high levels are no longer fed,reducing the cost of feed. This is also partlyattributable to many operators ceasing feeding whole cottonseed because of its GMO status.

Scanning was found to be the best predictor ofmarbling outcomes. This may reduce the cost of feed by feeding fewer cattle (or more targetedselection of cattle to feed) to achieve marblingspecifications.


CASE STUDIES:GENETICS

Intangible benefitsAustralia’s international reputation is enhanced by this world-first research.

Triple bottom lineEconomicThe cost of feed to achieve marbling specifications is reduced.

EnvironmentalReduction of feed to achieve specifications means areduction in feed eaten and thus greenhouseemissions per kilogram of quality beef are reduced.

FutureThe impact of nutrition research on marbling may berevisited in the future.

Case Study: Improvingefficiency of beef cattlethrough selection for net feed intake

OpportunityProviding feed to cattle is the single largestexpense in most beef cattle productionenterprises. Improvements in efficiency of feeduse per head will reduce costs as well as theenvironmental footprint of production.

ProjectThis project was the most comprehensive research on feed efficiency in beef cattle in the world. Itinvestigated and demonstrated the economic benefitsof reducing the costs of beef production through thegenetic improvement of net feed intake. Net feedintake (NFI) is the difference between actual feedintake and the expected feed required for growth and maintenance. An efficient animal is one that has a negative NFI. Most producers consider NFI to be a very important trait, on par with carcase and growth Estimated Breeding Values.

The project showed that selection for reduced NFIshould produce steers that are more feed efficient,with no adverse effects on growth performance in the feedlot, beef yield, meat quality or fertility. NFI is heritable and there is a strongly favourable geneticcorrelation between post-weaning NFI and maturecow NFI.

The project incorporated six major integratedcomponent studies: post-weaning performance,

reproduction and maternal performance, mature cowefficiency, feedlot performance, carcase and meatquality evaluation, and a demonstration herd. It alsoincluded a comprehensive industry implementationprogram to stimulate adoption of the outcomes by the beef industry.

OutcomesObjective industry benefitsThe project demonstrated that genetic improvementin the efficiency of feed utilisation can be made, andthat using NFI as a selection criterion in beef cattlebreeding schemes is profitable.

A pilot facility for commercialised central testing of industry cattle for NFI and national accreditation for NFI testing facilities were developed.

Comprehensive quality assurance guidelines andstandards on feed intake and efficiency recording in cattle were developed.

The project is a world-first study to providerecommendations on the industry implementation of atest for feed intake and efficiency in beef cattle, andthe first study to provide genetic parameters for NFIand its relationship with other economically importanttraits over the whole beef production system.

Intangible benefitsFuture areas of research have been identified for the disciplines of both nutrition and genomics.

Producers are more aware of the benefits thatinnovative practices can bring.

Australia is recognised as the world leader in this technology.

Triple bottom lineEconomicThe estimated net present value of the benefit fromgenetic improvement in NFI to the commercial cattlesector of the southern Australian beef cattle industryis $162 million over 25 years (see figure below). Theestimated net annual benefit per farm is $630.

EnvironmentalGenetic improvement of cattle has resulted in more efficient use of pasture and grain resources.This in turn reduces production of methane, a keygreenhouse gas, for each kilogram of beef produced.

FuturePhysiological and gene markers are being developedto reduce the cost of testing for NFI.



Case study: Maternalcentral progeny test for sheep

OpportunityDifferences in maternal genetics have a massiveimpact on the productivity and profitability of lambenterprises.

Relatively little attention has been given in the past to the genetics of the maternal sire (the sire of first cross and dual-purpose ewes). Maternal sire is defined as either a sire that isused across Merino ewes to generate first-cross ewes and to produce saleable wether lambs, or a sire that is used in self-replacing flocks for lamb production. Terminal sires are meat sires used to produce both wether and ewe lambs for sale.

ProjectThe Maternal central progeny test project was a joint undertaking between MLA, the NSW andVictorian Departments of Primary Industries, and theSheep Industry Cooperative Research Centre. Theproject was carried out at the State Department ofAgriculture research stations at Cowra, Hamilton,Rutherglen, and Struan between 1997 and 2001.

The project demonstrated the significant benefits of superior genetics in maternal sires for prime lamb production—around $35 increased gross marginper ewe joined per year. All sires in the trial hadLAMBPLAN® Australian Sheep Breeding Values(ASBVs)* produced for a range of traits, and the trialallowed the first comparisons of ASBVs acrossmaternal breeds that are relevant to prime lambproduction. The project showed the importance ofselecting maternal sires with high ASBVs for prime

lamb production, and that the best genes for primelamb production are spread across a number ofbreeds. The variation in lambing rates of first-crossewes was the major profit driver identified.

OutcomesObjective industry benefitsThis project increased industry recognition of, andappreciation of, the importance of the maternal sire.

Since the project has shown that desirable genesreside in a number of breeds, demand for maternalsires with high ASBVs for prime lamb production hasincreased considerably, along with premiums. Around 25,000 maternal sires are tested annually in LAMBPLAN®.

Intangible benefitsIndustry attitudes have changed by providing factualinformation about the genetic importance of thematernal sire. Awareness of the value of geneticimprovement in sheep production has increased.

Awareness of key welfare issues of lamb survival andinternal parasite management has increased.

Triple bottom lineEconomicThe net annual benefit per farm is $27,000, and net present value is $8.8 million, over 20 years, at present adoption rates. The projected net presentvalue is $147 million.

SocialProducers who have made better use of maternalgenetics in the lamb enterprises have a much greatersense of control of risk—they are now able to choosewith greater confidence maternal genetics that willperform satisfactorily (or better).

Environmental The ewe flock consumes some 60% of the totalresource (feed, water) used in lamb production.Flocks that use superior maternal genetics aremaking more efficient use of these scarce resourcesand less use of chemicals in parasite control.

FutureAcross-breed breeding values are being developed by Sheep Genetics Australia (see page 7).

Cumulative industry benefit from research on geneticimprovement of NFI.


CASE STUDIES:GENETICS

Case study: Merinovalidation project

OpportunityTo improve the genetics of Australian Merinosheep flocks.

ProjectIn 2001 MLA funded a three-year project for thevalidation of genetic information and to facilitategenetic improvement in Merino sheep. The projectaimed to provide tools for genetic evaluation of flocksin the Merino industry.

The project achieved this through three mainactivities. Firstly, validating existing genetic parameterestimates for Merinos. Secondly, obtaining reliableresults for the genetic relationships between growth,wool, fertility, carcase and internal parasite resistancetraits of Merinos, and incorporating reliable measuresof these traits into MLA Merino GeneticServices/LAMBPLAN® OVIS analysis software. Thirdly, through increasing the adoption of across-flock Merino genetic evaluation services nationally.

The project involved research partnerships with up to50 Merino breeding flocks per year for three years, aswell as a number of research flocks and central testsire evaluation schemes. A total of 162 flocks wereinvolved in the project.

OutcomesObjective industry benefitsProject participants significantly increased theadoption of across-flock genetic evaluation in theMerino industry, as evidenced by the fact that theMerino Genetic Services database increased from120,000 to 560,000 animals over the three yearperiod.

Participants in the project have provided a significantamount of data to Sheep Genetics Australia (SGA).SGA will be the national genetic provider of AustralianSheep Breeding Values (ASBVs)* for the Australiansheep industry. Participants receive the most accurateand relevant genetic information on their animalsthrough their involvement.

This project has contributed to the development of a single genetic evaluation system for the Merinoindustry.

Intangible benefitsAwareness of animal welfare and health issues withinMerino studs has increased.

Awareness of the value of meat and surplus sheep inMerino production systems is improved.

Collaboration with Australian Wool Innovation Limitedhas increased.

Triple bottom lineEconomicParticipants have been able to provide ASBVs fortheir clients when selling rams, and there is evidencethat this is beginning to improve the prices theyreceive for rams. In addition, the participatingbreeders have begun to use the ASBVs in makingselection decisions, and this will help them breedmore profitable sheep. This will in turn generatebenefits in the form of improved gross margins fortheir clients.

SocialParticipating breeders have increased knowledgeabout genetic technologies and about the genetics oftheir sheep, and in turn greater confidence aboutmanaging their breeding businesses effectively. Theyhave also become part of a network of breeders whocommunicate via email to share ideas and informationand use web resources.

EnvironmentalIn the longer term environmental benefits will accruefrom this project through more efficient use ofresources (land, feed, water).

FutureThe Meat-Wool Interface project and other SheepCRC programs for improved muscling and highereating quality are being undertaken. SGA will befurther developed. Work will be done on improvingcarcase value in Merino sheep through VIASCAN.


Case StudiesAnimal health & welfare


CASE STUDIES:ANIMAL HEALTH & WELFARE

Case study: Heat stressrisk management on longhaul livestock voyages tothe Middle East

IssueHeat stress can cause mortality in cattle, sheepand lambs transported by ship to the Middle East.

ProjectFollowing a series of investigative voyages involvingengineers and veterinarians to record environmentaland animal data on commercial shipments, a projectwas formulated to construct a heat stress riskmanagement model. The model was developed into a computer software package that exporters coulduse to plan voyages to the Middle East to reduce the risk of mortality of livestock due to heat stress.

The model is a planning tool and will assist to greatlyreduce heat stress incidents.

OutcomesObjective industry benefitsShipboard mortalities due to heat stress in cattle,sheep and goats are reduced. A major benefit to the industry has been the continuation of the long haul trade in cattle, sheep and goats due to the compulsory use of the heat stress model in the Middle East trade. Any disruption to the tradereduces demand and prices paid for cattle, sheepand goats for both the long haul and short haulexport trades.

Intangible benefitsThe introduction of the heat stress risk managementtool on all shipments to the Middle East wasinstrumental in keeping the long haul live export tradeopen by giving the Government confidence in thetrade. The model is outcome-focussed and relievesexporters and producers from prescriptive standards.

Triple bottom lineEconomicThe financial repercussions for producers andexporters if export demand declines due to a heatstress mortality incident would be very significant.The price paid for livestock in other markets will beaffected if total demand is affected. The heat stressrisk management tool provides producers withadditional security of demand for their livestockexported to the Middle East.

SocialThe wider community has an improved perception of the industry’s management of animal welfare.

FutureThe heat stress model is continually refined in terms of the biological assumptions used and the user-friendliness of the software.

Case study: Ovine Johne’s disease

IssueOvine Johne’s disease (OJD) is a chronic wastingdisease of sheep caused by bacteria that infectthe intestinal wall. The resulting inflammationblocks normal food absorption resulting in severeweight loss, emaciation and eventually death. OJD also affects wool production.

OJD infection can result in significant financialcosts to producers due to increased sheepdeaths, decreased production and restrictedtrading opportunities for infected flocks andregions.

The total annual cost to Australian sheepproducers of OJD is estimated to be $53 million.

OJD is a complex disease with a very longincubation period, and it may take many yearsfrom the time of infection until the development ofobvious signs of wasting. Infected sheep shed theOJD bacteria in their dung, contaminating pasture.The organism is very hardy and can survive in theenvironment for over a year. Lambs less than sixmonths of age appear to be most susceptible tothe infection. However, due to the long incubationperiod, obvious signs of illness are rarely seen insheep less than 18 months of age.

ProjectSince 1998, MLA has initiated 28 projects as part of the National Ovine Johne’s Disease Program(NOJDP). Most of these are now complete, providingcritical information to assist the sheep industry tocontrol OJD. The NOJDP has now finished and MLA has initiated a ‘harvest year’ to collate andcommunicate the results of all current OJD research in Australia.



OutcomesObjective industry benefitsThe evaluation and registration of a vaccineMLA R&D had a key role in the evaluation of an OJD vaccine which is now registered. This vaccinedoes not prevent infection, but can reduce deaths by up to 90% and reduce the level of clinical diseasewithin a flock. Importantly, it can also reduce pasturecontamination. The vaccine is already widely usedand its availability in OJD-infected areas hasincreased producers’ trading options.

Grazing management to reduce infection ratesGrazing management strategies have been identifiedfor producers to control the disease and reduce itseconomic impact. In order to develop thesestrategies, research has focussed on how OJDspreads within flocks and how disease progressioncan be controlled.

Assessment of the cost of OJD to individual producersResearch into the economic effects of OJD hasenabled producers to make more informed decisionson the economic rationale of various controlmeasures within their flocks.

Information on the role of other animal species in the spread of OJDControl programs need to know if other animals cantransfer infection to sheep. Current research showscross infection to cattle and other species to be rare,enabling producers to continue shared grazingpractices. However, goats have been shown to beinfected with OJD and should be included in all OJDcontrol and eradication plans.

Development of on-farm management guidelines for industry MLA has published a number of OJD on-farmmanagement guides, including three ResearchUpdates and a series of OJD Tips & Tools. These giveproducers the most up-to-date information on OJD inAustralia.

Less regulation for producersResearch resulting in better understanding andmanagement of OJD has influenced policy makers tomove from a highly regulated approach to one wheretrading schemes are less regulated.

Intangible outcomesEarly eradication strategies for OJD meant large-scaleloss for some producers of both stock and bloodlinesthat had been developed over many generations. Thisresulted in traumatic effects on individuals, families

and communities. Evaluation of this eradicationstrategy and development of different protocols,including vaccination, removed the necessity for total de-stocking.

Triple bottom lineEconomicThe economic loss due to OJD is estimated to be$7.68 per dry sheep equivalent (DSE). Researchoutcomes have mitigated this through investigatinggrazing management strategies and vaccination to limit the impact and spread of the disease.

SocialModification of management strategies removing thenecessity of de-stocking has a positive social effecton communities affected by OJD.

EnvironmentalResearch showed that native animals were notpotential OJD carriers, indirectly protecting nativeanimal populations. Grazing management protocolsmean less contaminated pastures.

FutureResearch continues in the areas of understanding theOJD organism, diagnostic tests, interaction betweenOJD bacteria and the animal, bacterial factorsinvolved in OJD infection, and identifying risk factorsfor disease progression.



In brief: Sheep internalparasites

Internal parasites of sheep are a considerable cost to sheep production. Many of the parasites are resistant to the currently available drugs. MLA and Australian Wool Innovation Limited have jointlycommitted to invest over $4 million, over four years, in innovative research with the aim of creatingcommercially available sheep worm controltechnologies to address this major industry threat.Following the recommendations of the speciallyconvened scientific advisory panel meeting in 2002,nine projects have been funded. Each project isinvestigating a different facet of the parasite problem.These projects are using leading biochemical,genomic and proteonic technologies and focus notonly on the most economically damaging parasitesbut also their interface with the host.

In brief: Bovine TB

Australia is a recognised leader in control programsfor bovine tuberculosis in the developed world,declaring itself free from this disease in 1997.

MLA recognised that the detection methods forMycobacterium bovis (the bacteria causing bovinetuberculosis) needed to be improved, both withregard to time and cost. On behalf of Animal HealthAustralia, MLA contracted research in 2003 toimprove detection methods.

As a result of this project, a set of recommendedprocedures for the isolation, detection and straintyping of M. bovis has been established. Thesetechniques will enable a quick response in the event of an outbreak of bovine tuberculosis. Superiorscreening methods for detection and strain typing ofM. bovis samples isolated from infected animals willassist in diagnosis and traceback to the source of theinfection, an important aspect of disease control.

In brief: Calf scours

Calf scours (or calf diarrhoea) is a health problem in young beef calves which can lead to death. An outbreak of calf scours is often distressing for producers, and treating affected calves is time consuming and costly. The average cost to producers of a scouring calf was estimated at $73.30 or $18.70 per breeding cow. MLA has initiated two projects on calf scours. The

first project included surveys of beef producers and cattle veterinarians to determine the extent of the problem and attitudes towards it. The secondproject included a comprehensive literature reviewwith the objective of putting in place pathways thatwill ensure that consistent and scientifically soundadvice is provided to prevent, treat and manage calf scours.

Information about developments in the prevention,diagnosis, treatment and control of calf scours withexpanded basic management principles for controland prevention is being disseminated to laboratories,producers and veterinarians. This will enable a clearand consistent future approach to calf scoursresulting in more healthy calves and reducedproducer costs.

In brief: Temperament and lamb survival

One of the causes of losses of newborn lambs is theabsence or late establishment of the vital ewe-lambbond that occurs in the first few hours after birth.

Sheep’s stress reactions to humans and new orthreatening environments have been shown to affecttheir ability to establish a strong ewe-lamb bond.Initial studies have shown that “calm” ewes are bettermothers and have about half the lamb mortality rateof “nervous” ewes.

In 2004 a joint project between MLA, the University ofWestern Australia and CSIRO was initiated to developa simple, reliable and objective test for the on-farmmeasurement of sheep temperament.

As the project continues, the interaction betweengenetic and environmental factors in theestablishment of the ewe-lamb bond and subsequentlamb survival will be investigated. On-farmmanagement strategies will also be developed.



Case study: Heat load in feedlot cattle

IssueDuring a period of extremely hot, humid weatherconditions in 2000, a significant number of cattledeaths occurred in a feedlot in southern NSW. The industry recognised the need to address theheat load issue, and the opportunity to improveboth animal welfare and community perception of the industry, by working collaboratively withgovernment and animal welfare agencies. Sincethat time, the feedlot sector has implemented aseries of research, development and extensionactivities to reduce the impact of heat load onfeedlot cattle.

ProjectA number of projects have been undertaken toimprove the understanding of the heat load issue,develop mechanisms for recognising and forecastingconditions when heat load is likely to be a problem,and develop measures that can be implemented byfeedlot operators to ameliorate the impact of heatload. Specific projects have addressed the followingareas:

• Increased understanding of the climatic, animaland management factors that affect the heat loadof feedlot cattle.

• Development of heat load indices that reflect the impact of climatic heat load on an animal at particular times.

• Development of a forecasting service that predictsthese heat load indices up to six days into thefuture.

• Development of a suite of measures andmanagement practices that will reduce the impactof heat load on feedlot cattle. These includeimproved manure pad management, manipulationof rations, provision of additional water troughsand cool drinking water, and the provision ofshade.

• Development of a risk assessment softwarepackage that can be used by feedlot operators to identify the level of heat load risk for theirparticular site and the measures they need to adopt to offset the level of risk identified.

• Extension of the outcomes of the research work to industry practitioners.

OutcomesObjective industry benefitsDirect regulatory impositions for the management of heat load in feedlot cattle are made unnecessary.

Feedlot operators are enabled to make betterdecisions about the management of heat loadthrough the knowledge and principles acquired from the research.

Feedlot operators are now starting to recognisebenefits from improved summer managementpractices in the form of improved performance andimproved compliance with product specifications.

Partnerships have been developed between industryoperatives, government, and animal welfare/community representatives, in determining researchdirection and priorities, and overseeing researchactivities to address identified industry problems. This is a model that could be used in other areas.

Intangible benefitsGovernment regulatory and animal welfare agencieshave confidence that the industry is responsiblyaddressing its animal welfare undertakings.

Adoption of the provision of shade as a means of reducing the potential impact of heat load onfeedlot cattle has increased dramatically since 2000,and addresses a significant community perceptionthat lack of shade means poor animal welfare.

Triple bottom lineEconomicNot quantified at this time, but operators are startingto identify benefits in production parameters andcompliance with product specifications.

SocialFeedlot operators have worked collaboratively with government and community representatives,improving relationships and perception of theindustry’s animal welfare approach.



FutureFurther research will be conducted to improve the understanding of the impacts of dietarymanipulations on the heat load of a feedlot animal.

Many of the outcomes of the research activities will be incorporated into the National FeedlotAccreditation System (the industry QA system),relevant codes of practice and industry guidelines,ensuring they are adopted by all operators.


Case StudiesNutrition & reproduction


CASE STUDIES:NUTRIT ION & REPRODUCTION

Case study: Strategicoptimisation of nutrition in Merino sheep meatproduction

OpportunityGenetic factors and the way Merino sheep are fedaffect lambing success, wool cut, worm resistanceand overall profitability of Merino productionsystems.

ProjectThis project examined the effect of, and interactionsbetween, several genetic and non-genetic factors onlambing performance, subsequent lamb growth, woolcut and worm resistance in fine-wool Merinos in NewEngland, NSW.

The non-genetic factors that were examined includedthe body condition of ewes prior to mating, levels ofsupplementary feeding with cottonseed prior tolambing, and grazing systems.

Two grazing management systems were used. These were a set-stocked system similar to that used elsewhere in the local district, and an intensiverotational grazing system (IRG) that allowed higherlevels of pasture production and stocking density. IRGis based on subdivision of the pasture into very smallunits and intensive grazing periods.

The project demonstrated that supplementary feedingof ewes with cottonseed pre-lambing tended toincrease the number of lambs that were successfullyreared to weaning.

This project has discovered new opportunities forintegrating grazing technologies. More work will beneeded to understand the applications of thistechnology on other environments. Producers in southern Australia are already trialling thesepackages.

OutcomesObjective industry benefitsBetter management programs that optimise lambingpotential and growth rates in fine-wool merinos.

Better management systems for worm control.Improved flexibility in fine-wool production systems.

Triple bottom lineEconomicThe combination of IRG and pre-lambingsupplementation trialled in this project allowed an

increase in stocking rate from 6 Merino ewes/ha to9.7 Merino ewes/ha, and a gross margin increase of69%, from $198/ha to $336/ha. It is anticipated thatfurther enchancements are achievable with the IRGsystem that could take gross margins to around$490/ha.

EnvironmentIntegrated grazing technologies have the potential toincrease production while increasing the water useefficiency of pastures, improving soil structure andreducing the demand for chemicals to controlparasites.

FutureWork is being done to increase pasture productionand utilisation from weaner management in Merinosheep.

Case study: Bullpower

OpportunityFertile bulls are a key aspect of all cattle breedingenterprises. They contribute to the number ofcalves weaned as well as the pattern ofconception and subsequent calving. The numberof bulls required to service a given number ofcows is an important variable cost in terms ofeach calf produced (ie, bull cost per calf born).The ability to use fewer bulls would directly reducethe bull cost per calf or enable producers topurchase better quality bulls for the same cost.

ProjectThe Bullpower project was undertaken in two phasesand was designed to develop management strategiesthat maximise the calf output of bulls of desiredgenetics in northern Australian herds by: identifyingpredictors of the ‘calf getting ability’ of bulls, definingrequired bull joining percentages at different levels ofherd dispersion, quantifying the impact of relocationon subsequent bull fertility, identifying traits wherebybulls can be selected for fertility at an early age, andidentifying traits that predispose bulls to earlybreakdowns in their working life.

The project generated a number of key findingsincluding:

• In herds with a wide range of bull joiningpercentages (4 –12%), bulls varied greatly in thenumber of calves each sired. One in ten bullsproduced no calves at all, 50% of bulls producedless than six calves each, 30% of bulls sired



between seven and 30 calves each, while 10% ofbulls sired over 30 calves each. Thus there is amarked difference in the bull cost per calf betweenthe various bulls.

• A range of factors were examined for thewidespread variation in calf getting ability of bulls.The most important and consistent factor wassemen morphology. It is now recommended that allbulls should have semen morphology assessed aspart of a Bull Breeding Soundness Examination(BBSE) prior to joining. Fifty percent normal forsemen morphology is considered adequate.

• Given bulls pass a BBSE it is recommended that bull joining rates of 2.5 to 3% can be used in most joining situations. This can representa significant cost reduction in bull cost per calfborn.

• Bulls with high-normal semen morphology getcycling cows in calf much sooner and thereforehave a tighter calving pattern than bulls with low-normal semen morphology.

• Under commercial conditions, 50% of relocatedbulls failed a BBSE up to three months after sale.These bulls were therefore less than ideal for useas breeding animals. It is recommended thatproducers buying and relocating bulls need to payparticular attention to the management of the bullsduring the transport process and in particular whenthey arrive at their new destination (eg, nutrition).

OutcomesObjective industry benefits The findings and recommendations from theBullpower project have been incorporated in theBBSE protocol of the Australian Cattle Veterinarians.

A survey of northern beef producers in late 2003,prior to finalisation of the second stage of theBullpower project, found that:

• 24% of producers were aware of the Bullpowerproject, with a quarter of these having changedtheir bull management practices as a result

• Management changes included testing for semenquality and reducing bull joining rates

• 47% of producers use a bull joining rate of 3% or less

• 34% of producers have their bulls tested forreproductive soundness

Triple bottom lineEconomicProducers and veterinarians now have indicators of the calf getting ability of individual bulls. Thisenables fewer bulls to be selected with confidenceand used, thus reducing the bull cost per calf.Alternatively, producers can now buy fewer, betterquality bulls for the same total bull cost. The reducedtime to conception also ensures calves are born atthe optimal time and is a direct contributor to thelifetime productivity of cows.

FutureThe focus is now on extending the results of theBullpower project to more producers and otherstakeholders. Two of the major mechanisms for doingthis are through close links with the Australian CattleVeterinarians, and incorporation of the findings intoMLA’s EDGEnetwork® “The Breeding EDGE” course.

Case study: Nearinfrared reflectancespectroscopy (NIRS)

IssueSupplementary feeding of stock is a major cost for most northern beef producers. To assess theneed for supplements, the diet quality of grazingcattle in northern Australia must first be measuredunder commercial conditions.

ProjectMLA has invested in a suite of three projects withCSIRO and the Queensland Department of PrimaryIndustries and Fisheries using near infraredreflectance spectroscopy (NIRS) to estimate thedietary quality of grazing cattle across northernAustralia.

The core project developed the key NIRS calibrationequations through the use of paired feeding samples.That is, key diet quality attributes (dry matterdigestibility, crude protein) were derived usingtraditional feeding approaches, with faecal samplescollected from the animals and the resultant spectralresponses related to the results of the feedingexperiments.

The second project considered the accuracy andreliability with which faecal NIRS could predict growth of young cattle and the performance ofbreeder herds, and the accuracy and reliability with


CASE STUDIES:NUTRIT ION & REPRODUCTION

which faecal NIRS could predict the magnitude ofanimal responses to urea-based or low levels ofprotein meal supplements.

The third project was established to trial the newtechnology with selected producers and to developappropriate support tools to aid adoption. The firstproject has been completed whilst the second andthird projects are in their final stages.

OutcomesObjective industry benefits Significant numbers of northern beef producers areusing the NIRS technology to estimate proteinrequirements and adjust supplementation.

Triple bottom lineEconomicSupplementary feed costs are an important variablecost for northern beef producers. NIRS provides atool that allows producers to fine tune theirsupplementation strategies based on a soundknowledge of what the livestock are actuallyconsuming from the available pasture.

FutureNIRS technology will be provided to producers on a sustainable commercial basis.


Case StudiesSupply chain management


CASE STUDIES:SUPPLY CHAIN MANAGEMENT

Case study: Sheep meat eating quality

OpportunityTo deliver a world-class product by defining andimproving lamb and sheep meat eating quality.

ProjectCommencing in 2000, MLA and the SheepmeatCouncil of Australia undertook a research project into sheep meat eating quality (SMEQ).

An initial industry consultation phase identified thecommercial needs and priority research issues. Over600 stakeholders contributed to setting researchpriorities. The SMEQ program devised a model forpredicting eating quality based on the results ofaround 45,000 records of consumer evaluations oflamb and sheep meat. Samples were selected from a range of production, processing, age and otherattributes. The project then investigated theimportance of the identified research factors,undertaking 17 research projects over two years.

The major factors affecting sheep meat eating qualitythat were investigated are:

• breed and genetics• age (lamb, hogget, mutton)• growth pattern and nutrition• transport and pre-slaughter stress• chilling treatment• electrical stimulation of carcasses to ensure sheep

meat enters rigor at the right temperature• hanging method• ageing/storage• cut and cooking method

Currently the project is piloting the implementation of outcomes through five supply chains andinvestigating options for commercialising theresearch.

OutcomesObjective industry benefitsPractices and processes have been identified that willfurther improve consistency and quality in Australiansheep meat eating quality.

With knowledge of the factors that affect eatingquality, producers and processors can aim to improveeating quality and reduce failure rates of theiroperations.

Approximately 20% of lamb currently fails consumerexpectations, but SMEQ practices can reduce thatrate to around 5%.

Processing regimes are now known that will improvethe eating quality and consistency of all sheep andlambs.

Opportunities have been identified for bettercommercial use of non-lamb sheep meat, includingcertain cuts of yearling mutton and the mutton loin.

Triple bottom lineEconomicSMEQ research benefits all parts of the supply chain.

By reducing risk of failure and improving consumersatisfaction of Australian lamb and sheep meat, all industry sectors benefit from increased andconsistent demand. This should assist in maintaining,or growing consumer preparedness to continue tosupport sheep meat prices at the high levels of recentyears.

SocialGreater pride in the product through the supplychain—breeders, producers, processors and retailershave the knowledge to deliver high quality lambconsistently, and take pride in knowing that suchlamb is appreciated and recognised by consumers.

FutureA number of options for the commercialisation ofthe SMEQ research have been investigated, andrecommendations for a commercially based systemhave been approved by the Sheepmeat Council ofAustralia.

Further research into the eating quality performanceof all commercial cuts is currently being investigatedin a series of consumer trials which will consider theinfluence of animal age, cooking method, and thecombined influence of fat and bone with muscle.



Case study: Q LambAlliance

IssueIn the early 1990s a lack of integrated supply chain relationships was resulting in unstable lambprices and an inconsistent lamb supply in WesternAustralia. The Q Lamb Alliance was established in1995 between Western Australian lamb producersand Hillside abattoirs. It aimed to produce andmarket premium lamb products to capture thebenefits of above-average quality product forAlliance members.

As Q Lamb expanded, there was a growing needfor a more efficient feedback system to secureproduct integrity at higher volumes.

ProjectAs part of the sheep meat eating quality (SMEQ) pilot trial, a meat eating quality assurance system was established at Q Lamb along with an efficientelectronic feedback project.

A trace-back system was developed tracking lambcarcases to farms of origin. This trace-back systemwas supported by the development and installation of an electronic feed-back system to provide Alliancesupplier members with carcase performance data.

The eating quality assurance system has beenimplemented based on the research findings from the sheep meat eating quality program(SMEQ). The third-party-audited system is based on HACCP principles.

OutcomesObjective industry benefitsThe trace-back system and the meat eating qualitysystem assisted in the creation of a vertical alliancethat provides increased numbers of high quality,consistent lamb product throughout the year andachieves a premium retail price which benefits allthree parties (producers, processors and retailers).Sales increased (30%), as well as consumersatisfaction with branded lamb.

An average 12% premium for Q Lambs and stabilisedmarket prices for all Western Australian lambproducers were achieved.

Indirect industry benefitThe Alliance is a model for other parts of the industry.

Triple bottom lineEconomicNet present value is estimated at $88 million, over 20years, at projected adoption rates.

SocialProducers spoke of a new pride in their product andfeeling an integral and important part of their industry.It gave producers an increased knowledge andcontrol of their own businesses.

FutureThe Q Lamb Alliance has now moved to conductingresearch into the best way to use genetics andmanagement in the on-farm stage of the supplychain, aiming to further improve product quality whilstat the same time improving production efficiency.

Case study: BeefNet

OpportunityAdoption of world’s best practice supply chainmanagement in the Australian beef industry couldcontinue to improve its cost-competitiveness andconsumer focus.

ProjectBeefNet (Beef Marketing Support Network), a five-year MLA program initiated in 1998, supported theestablishment of producer groups throughoutAustralia and fostered a supply chain culture acrossthe beef industry. The BeefNet mission was “toprovide a self-help support network for beefmarketing groups to improve viability by fosteringcommercial developments through consistent deliveryof quality assured product”.

OutcomesObjective industry benefitsPowerful alliance groupsBeefNet was a major catalyst for the amalgamation of almost 2,000 cattle producers into 73 local andregional beef marketing groups.

Membership of beef marketing groups gaveproducers a vehicle to discuss operational, marketingand industry issues among peers.

Commercial development of various branded beefproducts for both domestic and export marketsoccurred.


CASE STUDIES:SUPPLY CHAIN MANAGEMENT

Stronger supply chain networksAll processors dealing with producers’ alliance groupsconfirmed that new sales and marketing opportunitieshad been created as a direct result.

Beef marketing groups successfully establishedalliances with partners in the supply chain.

Some partners adopted technologies andmanagement systems to improve beef eating quality,cost competitiveness and consumer qualityassurance.

Alliance groups piloted R&D technologies such asMeat Standards Australia beef grading.

An important feedback loop between consumers,retailers and producers has been created.

Improved on-farm managementMore than half the BeefNet producers (58%) modifiedthe on-farm management of their enterprise as adirect result of their involvement through:

• changing breeding and turn-off times to meetspecific supply demands (27%)

• reviewing carrying capacity and feeding regimes to increase compliance with market specifications(21%)

• embracing on-farm quality assurance (17%)

Producers• were better informed on supply chains (100%)• increased network opportunities with other

producers (85%)• developed marketing objectives (85%)• received more consistent carcase feedback (84%)• stabilised and secured cattle sales (66%)• created avenues for higher returns (60%)

Triple bottom lineEconomicMore than one-third of producers acknowledgedincreased farm profit since joining the program.

SocialParticipation in supply alliance groups developedproducers’ skills to be more consistently competitivein the market place.


PART 2Improving the environment,pasture & feedbase


IMPROVING THE ENVIRONMENT PASTURE & FEEDBASE

Improving the environment,pasture and feedbaseMLA has a focus on the environment and developingproduction systems that provide for win—winoutcomes. This work has provided new understandingsof production system impacts on the environment anddeveloped thresholds and benchmarks to improvemanagement of soil, water and nutrients. It hasprimed producers with the skills, knowledge andconfidence to make changes to production systemsthat reduce on and off site environmental impacts.

Pasture species and their management and grazingpractices (managing timeliness, frequency andintensity of grazing) are key actions that will directlyinfluence environmental outcomes in:

• water quality—on and off farm• soil health• erosion of soil by wind and water• dryland salinity• soil acidity• weed ingression• contributions to greenhouse gas • biodiversity decline and nature conservation

Scientific investigation supported by MLA hasidentified grazing management practices that canmaintain ground cover, reduce run-off and minimiseerosion, whilst at the same time maintaining orimproving productivity.

The quantity, quality and utilisation of pasture andfeed grown by many Australian grazing enterprisescan greatly affect productivity and profitability.Together these three factors determine the mostprofitable stocking rate, herd or flock structure andtarget markets for all grazing-based beef and sheepenterprises. MLA supports producers to developexpertise in areas that influence pasture growth andutilisation to boost their productivity, profitability andsustainability.

Environmental management is essential to thesustainability of the Australian red meat industry asthe industry relies heavily on healthy ecosystems,market access and continued community support forlivestock production. A critical element of MLAinvestment is not only the development of newknowledge but also ensuring the capability andconfidence of producers to make change.

Environment is a high priority area for both State and Federal Governments as well as other R&DCorporations. MLA provides leadership and focusesheavily on collaborating with these different groups toadd value to initiatives and deliver greater benefit tothe livestock industry.


Case StudiesImproving the environment,pasture & feedbase


CASE STUDIES:ENVIRONMENT

Case study: SustainableGrazing Systems (SGS)

IssueDeclining pasture productivity and sustainability of grazing systems is a major issue in the highrainfall zone (HRZ) of southern Australia.

Pasture degradation is responsible for reducedlivestock production and is implicated inenvironmental problems such as dryland salinitythrough changed water-use patterns, soil erosion,weed ingression and biodiversity decline.

ProgramSGS was a five-year program established by MLAand partners in 1996. SGS was established to bringresearchers, producers and extension agents into apartnership that could collectively improve theproductivity, profitability and sustainability of grazingsystems in the HRZ. The program’s overall objectivewas that by 2001 at least 2,000 producers in the HRZwould adopt changes to their grazing systems thatcan be shown to be at least 10% more profitable andalso more sustainable than those they used prior toparticipating in SGS. SGS aimed for a further 5,000producers to have trialled at least part of therecommended changes to grazing managementsystems.

The SGS program was a highly effective combinationof research, a training program, and a producernetwork.

National experiment model A network of research sites was established as a single, integrated national experiment. Six sites(Albany, Hamilton, Rutherglen, Wagga, Orange and Tamworth) and five themes (water, nutrients,pastures, animals and biodiversity) provided acomprehensive understanding of the interactionbetween production and sustainability variablesacross a wide range of systems and environments.This process has arguably produced the bestdatabase for grazing systems in the world.

The national experiment model was critical inproviding scientific underpinning and credibility for the recommendations made within SGS.

Regional producer network A regional producer network determined local issuesand priorities that maximise profit and sustainability,and then managed local demonstration and delivery.

A model of research and extension was developedwhere an extensive and diverse group of respectedproducers are in control of research and developmentto maximise learning and on-ground change.

PROGRAZE® †

The PROGRAZE course provides producers with theskills, knowledge, confidence and language neededto participate in and trial improved grazing systemsfor sustainability and profit.

Integration and managementIntegration and management was the adaptivemanagement model adopted by SGS. The integrationof research, development and extension assistedproducers to understand and implement newpractices. It allowed for ongoing modification andimprovement, and also ensured a balance betweenthe production, environmental and social perspectivesof SGS.

Harvest yearSGS had a ‘harvest year’ in 2001/2002. This was anew concept in R&D implementation where mixedteams of producers and researchers worked rapidly to analyse and interpret the results and experiencesfrom the previous four years, and develop and deliverproven products.

OutcomesObjective industry benefitsBeneficial changes to producers’ grazing practicesSGS delivered significant beneficial change toproducers, helping them make their operations moreprofitable and sustainable. Up to 8,000 producersacross southern Australia who were associated withSGS have made beneficial changes to their grazingpractices that they anticipated would yield financial(78%) and sustainability (81%) benefits.

Participating producers were most likely to recogniseenvironmental issues as a problem on their properties,and having recognised the issues were more likely toadopt best practice. Active SGS participants hadhigher stocking rates, a higher proportion of perennialpasture, and better recognised and managedenvironmental issues.


PART 2 IMPROVING THE ENVIRONMENT PASTURE & FEEDBASE

Active SGS participants were very positive about thebenefits of involvement in SGS to the running of theirlivestock enterprise, attributing to SGS many of thebenefits they had gained:

• sharing information with other producers (90% of active participants in SGS indicated that it had helped them in sharing information with otherproducers)

• understanding environmental issues (80%)• managing soil, water and nutrients (75%)• managing pastures (83%) and• managing animals (78%)

A National Experiment model that can be used for future large scale agricultural research.The National Experiment framework has providedAustralia with a new benchmark for conducting large-scale rural research.

PROGRAZE®

By 2001, 8,500 producers from about 6,400 farmbusinesses participated in PROGRAZE® (more than20% of high rainfall zone producers). Since beingdelivered through EDGEnetwork® a further 2,800producers have completed the workshop. For more information see the PROGRAZE® case study on page 38 of this report.

National FarmWalks and harvest year modelsThe National FarmWalks was an innovative extensionactivity organised and delivered by regionalcommittees. The Harvest Year model delivered morefrom the existing research base and encouragedfurther adoption of outcomes by producers.

Both these models can be used in future researchprograms.

Triple bottom lineEconomicSGS increased producers’ returns and efficienciesthrough changed practices on-farm toward moreproductive and profitable grazing systems. ABAREfound that SGS delivered significant and beneficialchange to beef and sheep producers, helping themmake their operations more profitable andsustainable.

SocialProducers and researchers experienced an increasedsense of personal satisfaction in their involvement inthe livestock industry.

Networks and linkages to shared information weredeveloped.

Producers increased personal growth and improveddecision making through increased skills, knowledgeand understanding of grazing systems. Producersincreased their confidence to make improvedmanagement decisions and to adopt new grazingmanagement practices.

EnvironmentalSGS developed and demonstrated more sustainablegrazing systems, and environmental issues wererecognised and incorporated in core activities.

Producers’ knowledge and awareness ofenvironmental issues in the grazing industries wasincreased, and their ability to understand and managethe key environmental themes (water, nutrients, soils,biodiversity) improved.

FutureThe Grain & Graze project helps mixed farmingenterprises increase production of crops, pasturesand animals while maintaining or enhancingbiodiversity and the catchment resources that sustain them.

EverGraze—more livestock from perennials is a joint MLA and Cooperative Research Centre for Plant-based Management of Dryland Salinity project,which integrates production and environmentalmanagement. The goal of the project is developmentand demonstration of innovative animal productionsystems based on summer-active perennial pasturesthat are more profitable and better at reducinggroundwater recharge than traditional land usesystems.

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Active Participants in SGSNon-Participants



Case study: Burdekincatchment

IssueWith an area of 130,000km2, the Burdekin River in North Queensland is the second largestcatchment emptying into the Great Barrier Reeflagoon, making careful management of nutrientand sediment run-off essential to maintainingwater quality and health of the reef.

Burdekin graziers contribute to the estimated 90million tonnes of sediment that shifts from thiscatchment annually. This poses a threat to the reefand is a serious loss of soil and critical nutrientsto Burdekin beef producers.

ProjectIn conjunction with our research partners,(Queensland Department of Primary Industries andFisheries, CSIRO and Queensland Department ofNatural Resources and Mines), MLA has been fundingresearch, development and extension into quantifyingand communicating the relationships betweengrazing, land condition, run-off and erosion. Further,this investment has identified grazing managementpractices that can maintain ground cover, reduce run-off and minimise erosion whilst at the same timemaintaining productivity.

These projects include:

Ecograze This eight year project found:

• Maintaining ground cover at a minimum of 40% isessential for minimising losses of water, sedimentsand nutrients from the system and for maintainingeffective cycling of water and nutrients.

• Land was maintained in good condition bycontinuous stocking at 25% utilisation or early wetseason spelling followed by 50% utilisation.

• Recovery of pastures in poor condition was alsoachieved through continuous stocking at 25%utilisation or early wet season spelling followed by50% utilisation.

Regional patterns of erosion and sedimenttransport in the Burdekin river catchment This large data collection and spatial modellingproject found:

• Surface erosion varies by three orders ofmagnitude across the catchment.

• 95% of the sediment exported to the coast isgenerated from just 13% of the catchment area.

• Only 16% of suspended sediment and 4% ofbedload delivered to the river network in any yearis exported from the river mouth. The rest is storedwithin floodplains, as sand and gravel deposits onthe beds of streams, and in reservoirs.

• The high erosion risk areas are the sub-catchmentsdownstream of the Burdekin Falls dam, the Bowenriver, and parts of the upper Burdekin catchment.

Sustainable grazing for a healthy Burdekin catchmentA follow on to the preceding, this project extends thedata monitoring and modelling work as well as testingthe ability of Ecograze grazing principles in high riskland systems to maintain ground cover and reducerun-off and erosion.

Wambiana grazing trialThis ongoing trial is evaluating the effects of differentutilisation strategies on resource condition (includingrun-off and soil erosion) and animal production at ascale relevant to commercial properties. One of theutilisation strategies involves adjusting stocking ratesusing an SOI based seasonal climate forecast.

Groundcover and biomass/feed availabilityestimates in tropical savanna systemThis ongoing trial is evaluating the use of MODISsatellite imagery to measure ground cover andpasture biomass. If successful, this will enableproducers to access spatially explicit, accurateinformation for the Burdekin catchment (and others) in near-real time.

Grazing Land ManagementGrazing Land Management (GLM) is one of thetraining courses of MLA’s EDGEnetwork®. GLM is a 3-day workshop which has been developed toprovide the best available information on landmanagement (including the results of the aboveresearch) in an integrated manner. The course coverstopics including the calculation of short and long-termsafe stocking rates, use of fire, and control of weeds.

OutcomesObjective industry benefits Producers are more aware of the downstreamimpacts of grazing, and more willing to modifymanagement practices for productivity andenvironmental benefit.

Findings from the studies have also assisted with prioritising of local environmental projects.



Findings are being delivered to producers through theGrazing Land Management (GLM) training module ofEDGEnetwork®.

A survey in late 2003 found 34% of north Queenslandproducers were aware of Ecograze, and that 48% and52% respectively considered above ground biomassand seasonal climate forecasts when adjusting theirstocking rates.

Triple bottom lineSocialProducers in the region are more confident thatmanagement practices are available that will helpensure the future of beef production in the Burdekincatchment.

EnvironmentalImproved management practices have resulted in lesssoil erosion and less degradation of local waterwaysand the Great Barrier Reef.

FutureThe program is ongoing.

Case study: Lucernebreeding program

IssueGreater water efficiency reduces environmentalproblems such as rising water tables and nutrientpollution of water resources. Agricultural systemsalso need to increase dry matter for livestockproduction.

ProjectLucerne is recognised as the only current legumeoption for reducing deep drainage and subsequentgroundwater recharge. Farmers grow lucerne toincrease livestock production over summer andimprove the sustainability of their farming system.

This program investigated various Lucernecharacteristics, including: a variety of winter activities,persistence matched to farming system, highproductivity, disease resistance, quality, aphidtolerance, broad adaptation to lucerne zones, seedproduction, grazing tolerance, salt tolerance, andseedling vigour.

The following Lucerne varieties have been developed:

SARDI 7SARDI 7 is a winter-active Lucerne with improvedperformance over Eureka in cold wet environmentsand under disease pressure. SARDI 7 is expected topersist for 7–10+ years and is grazing tolerant.

SARDI 10SARDI 10 is a highly winter-active Lucerne that hasretained a bushy appearance. It has exceptionalpersistence under grazing for its class and isdeveloped for farming systems where maximisingwinter production is important. SARDI 10’s largestmarket is in low-medium rainfall cropping systems,but it is by far the most suitable Lucerne for highlyintensive, short cycle grazing rotations (ie, graze backtimes of 15–20 days) on dairies or hay properties.

SARDI 5SARDI 5 is a semi winter-dormant Lucerne to bereleased in 2005. A replacement cultivar for Primeand PL55, SARDI 5 is highly resistant to every majorLucerne disease and is bred for Australian conditions.SARDI 5 will be grown where premium quality hay isdesired, or in permanent pastures in cold, wetenvironments for summer production in mixtures withwinter-active grasses.

OutcomesObjective industry benefitsImproved Lucerne cultivars are available and Septreand Eureka are now being phased out. SARDI 5,SARDI 7 and SARDI 10 are replacement cultivars thatoffer additional opportunities for farming systemintegration.

Royalties generated from the seed sales provide R&Dopportunities in Lucerne development.

Triple bottom lineEconomicIncreased livestock production and reduced pasturemanagement costs result from application ofimproved cultivars.

EnvironmentalIncreased planting of Lucerne is actively beingpromoted to reduce water tables and assist inaddressing dryland salinity.

FutureA greater extension effort is underway promoting the benefits of Lucerne for production and salinitymanagement. Further screening can provide benefitsfor tolerance to aluminium toxicity and developmentof new cultivars with these traits.



Case study: Biologicalweed control forPaterson’s Curse and thistles

IssuePaterson’s Curse is a dominant pasture weed in temperate Australia that causes loss of pastureproduction. It can also reduce livestock weightgain and wool production and in severe cases canlead to stock death. Thistles (onopordum, slender,nodding) also reduce pasture productivity and cancause injury to livestock and shearers.

Insects could provide a biological control for theseweeds resulting in a decreased need forherbicides and an increase in pasture productivity.

ProjectMLA has made a long-term investment in biologicalweed control projects with Australian Wool InnovationLimited (AWI), CSIRO Entomology and other partners.Fourteen insect agents were successfully released,and monitoring of these biological control agents iscurrently in various stages of progress. Producergroups and Landcare have established andmaintained regional and strategic nursery sites.

OutcomesObjective industry benefitsThe nature of the project means that significantbenefits will only be evident in the long-term, althoughsome producers are already experiencing tangiblebenefits. These are the likely outcomes:

• reduced need to use chemicals• improved pasture and livestock performance• reduction in weed seed banks• increased stocking rates• improved stock movement to feed and water• lower penalties for contaminated wool• improved stock health • reduced environmental impacts • reduced tillage

Intangible benefitsProducers gained experienced with biological weedcontrol programs.

The project provided a basis for improvedcollaboration between MLA, AWI, CSIRO and state agencies.

Triple bottom lineEconomicAnnual benefits in terms of increased productivity of grazing lands are projected to rise from near-zeroin 2000 to some $75 million by 2015. The net presentvalue for the 1972–2050 period is estimated to be$1.074 billion (calculated using a 5% discount rate).

Producers report noticeable decreases in numbersand spread of thistles resulting in less chemicalneeded, reduced weedicide spraying costs,decreased negative impact of chemicals and weedson livestock, and reduced aerial spray costs. Othersindicated that substantial financial benefits would beevident in the future.

SocialCommunity engagement has improved through the Landcare and Catchment Authority networks.

EnvironmentalReduced chemical use and fewer weeds benefit the environment.

FutureAn integrated weed management approach to capturebenefits from tactical use of grazing, herbicide andfertiliser in conjunction with biological agents isunderway. MLA is also investing in biological controlresearch for Giant Rats Tail grass—a major weed ofcoastal Queensland and northern New South Wales.



Case study: National Beef Cattle FeedlotEnvironmental code of practice

OpportunityThe feedlot industry needed to draw togetherdivergent opinions on standards of environmentalmanagement across Australia and consolidate itinto a single approved document that would formthe basis of future environmental activity.

ProjectThe development of the National Beef Cattle FeedlotEnvironmental code of practice was initiated in 1998to address the environmental legislative requirementsof all States and Territories.

The process adopted for the development of the code was consistent with the approach employed in the successful development of the NationalGuidelines for Beef Cattle Feedlots in Australia,satisfying the requirement to achieve a balancebetween self-regulation and public accountability.

Representatives of all government agencies that had environmental regulatory interactions with thefeedlot sector were directly involved in the code’sdevelopment, along with relevant industryorganisations.

The Standing Committee on Agriculture and ResourceManagement (SCARM) and the Agriculture andResource Management Council of Australia and NewZealand (ARMCANZ) endorsed the code in March2000.

The Feedlot Industry Accreditation Committee hasadopted the code as a replacement for the ALFACode of Practice for Protection of the Environment,ensuring that all feedlots accredited under theNational Feedlot Accreditation Scheme must nowcomply with the code.

OutcomesObjective industry benefitsThe code provides nationally accepted environmentalperformance objectives, operational objectives andpractices that can be used by feedlot managementand staff to achieve compliance with theenvironmental duty of care.

As a result of the development of the code, Victoriahas phased out its regulatory monitoring of feedlotenvironmental performance in favour of an industryself-regulatory approach. Other states are looking at following this example.

Indirect industry benefitsThe code provides industry agencies, the communityand government regulatory authorities with abenchmark against which to assess the industry’sperformance, underpinning community confidence in the environmental performance of the industry.

A partnership between industry operatives,Government and community representatives inaddressing identified industry issues is a modelthat could be used in other areas.

Triple bottom lineEconomicOperators are starting to identify benefits inproduction parameters and compliance with productspecifications from improved environmental practices.

SocialFeedlot operators have worked collaboratively with government and community representativesresulting in an improved community perception of the industry’s environmental performance.

EnvironmentalThe feedlot sector has made improvements inenvironmental practices. MLA with industry hasinitiated a survey to measure this.

FutureThe Feedlot Industry Accreditation Committee iscurrently considering a revision of the code toincorporate new information from R&D activities and the practical experience of operators. Theupdated code will be incorporated into the NationalFeedlot Accreditation System, ensuring its adoptionby all operators.


Case StudiesPasture & feedbase

management



PROGRAZE® †

OpportunityOpportunities were identified to facilitate changein producers’ attitudes to grazing managementand help them gain the knowledge of pasture andanimal assessment emerging from research.

ProjectConceived by NSW Department of Agriculture, thedevelopment of PROGRAZE® was supported by MLA(then the Meat Research Corporation). Following asuccessful first year, MLA then supported thedevelopment of the same basic model of content anddelivery in association with the State AgricultureDepartments in Victoria, Tasmania, South Australiaand Western Australia.

Initiated in 1994, PROGRAZE® was a nation-widetraining program developed for producers, primarilyconducted in each state by the relevant statedepartment.

By 2001, 8,500 producers from about 6,400 farmbusinesses have participated in PROGRAZE®

(more than 20% of high rainfall zone producers). Theprogram relied on participative group learning whereproducers shared their skills with each other anddelivery staff, and vice versa. PROGRAZE®

is now being delivered under the EDGEnetwork®

banner and over 2,800 producers have completed the workshop since 2001.

OutcomesObjective industry benefitsPROGRAZE® gave producers the skills, knowledge and confidence to make improved decisions onmatching pastures and animals. PROGRAZE®

changed the attitudes and practices of most producer participants towards pasture managementand sustainability. For instance, around 50% ofparticipants have adopted rotational grazing sinceattending.

PROGRAZE® influenced participants to makechanges that they believe will benefit them financially(89%) and improve the productivity and sustainabilityof their grazing enterprises (95%).

Intangible benefitsPROGRAZE® provided a practical adult learningenvironment where producers are able to determineprinciples of grazing management which they canapply in their own situation. It also became astepping stone to deliver other related workshopswithin the group environment.

Triple Bottom LineEconomicThe net annual benefit per farm is $3,000. Over 20years, the net present value is $147 million at presentadoption rates, and $580 million at projectedadoption rates.

SocialPROGRAZE® groups provide a supportiveenvironment for producers who report havingincreased confidence in their management decisions.

Environmental95% of producers consider the knowledge and skillsthey have gained results in more sustainablepastures. Benefits from PROGRAZE® are likely toinclude improved management of perennial pastures,better water usage and less opportunity for weeddevelopment.

FuturePROGRAZE® is being delivered throughEDGEnetwork®, and continues to attract newparticipants. The PROGRAZE® content is regularlyupdated by current research findings.


CASE STUDIES:PASTURE & FEEDBASE MANAGEMENT

Case study: Silage for prime lambs

OpportunityMany farmers often have surplus forage thatotherwise has no direct use. Silage could be usedto finish lambs, particularly in winter. Lamb pricesare generally higher in winter due to lack ofsupply, hence being able to finish lambs in winterwould increase profitability.

ProjectThe project was conducted at the NSW AgricultureResearch and Advisory Station in Cowra during1997–99. The project successfully showed that lambsfed high quality silage can reach target weights inwinter and that meat quality is unaffected. Even betterresults were demonstrated when silage was used incombination with grain. Silage production was shownto increase productivity of pastures by reducing weedinfestation, hence increasing stocking rates. Improvedpasture yield and quantity due to silage cutting inspring was demonstrated. This project has providedinformation to producers to consider silage as anoption for finishing lambs under different economicand management conditions.

OutcomesObjective industry benefitsProducers are well positioned to adopt silageproduction when economic circumstances change. Insome areas many producers now use silage for eitherlamb finishing or ewe maintenance as a result of thisproject.

Triple bottom lineEconomicThe net annual benefit was assessed as $9,787 per farm, over a period of 20 years.

Silage is a financially beneficial option when grainprices are at a certain level.

EnvironmentalSilage reduces weed infestation and increases qualityof pastures.

FutureWhen economic parameters change, use of silagemay be favourable for some producers.

Case study: Speargrass,wiregrass, animalmanagement project(SWAMP)

IssueBlack speargrass pastures in the southernspeargrass zone in Queensland were degraded.

ProjectConducted jointly with the Queensland Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries, research foundspecific pasture management practices that wouldrestore pastures to a better composition of lesswiregrass and more black speargrass. Thesepractices are annual spring burning for three years,coupled with summer destocking for four to sixmonths or reducing the stocking rate by half.Producers were strongly involved in this program.Demonstrations were located on commercialproperties and producer groups were involved in each demonstration.

OutcomesObjective industry benefitsRestoration of degraded speargrass pasture to asustainable speargrass pasture was shown to bepractically feasible on commercial properties, andquantified for cost and time.

Producers are enabled to make better decisionsabout their pasture and stock management throughthe knowledge and principles acquired through theprogram.

The program had the following benefits to producers:

• more sales per breeder (16%)• more Kg per sale (35%)• increase in per Kg price (15%)

Triple bottom lineEconomicThe net present value was assessed at $3.8 million in 2001, with a net annual benefit per farm of$34,196 and $30 million at projected adoption rates,over 20 years.

SocialFarmers gained support from each other andresearchers, and influenced the way the project was organised.



EnvironmentalThe project demonstrated how a degraded nativepasture can be restored to a sustainable and moreproductive state on commercial properties.

FutureThis project provides a model for taking researchresults to industry in a participative way that greatlyimproves the likelihood of adoption. The outputs fromthe project continue to influence on-farmmanagement through their inclusion in the grazingand fire management sections of MLA'sEDGEnetwork® workshop on Grazing LandManagement.

Case study: MoreLamb

OpportunityDifferent pasture management enables producersto increase lamb production.

ProjectIn 2004, MLA joined with the Department of Primary Industries Victoria to investigate pastures thatcould increase lamb production. Five commercialproperties in south-western Victoria were partners inthe research.

OutcomesObjective industry benefitsThe project demonstrated on-farm pastures thatincreased lamb production by 30-40% compared to normal practice. Summer grazing of lambs onarrowleaf clover, compared to ryegrass/clovermixtures and subterranean clover monoculturepastures, was found to give high quality lambs withhigher growth rates. It was also identified that somenew pasture species and cultivars can extend thepasture-growing season to improve productionefficiency.

This project provides the knowledge for lambproducers to be able to extend the growing seasonwith new pastures, and improve the continuity ofsupply of lamb to the marketplace.

Intangible benefitsThe partnership between the scientists and thecollaborating producers has encouraged further on-farm trialling of options for improving productionefficiency. It has also stimulated new ideas forresearch and for immediate implementation that aim to improve lamb production efficiency andprofitability.

Triple bottom lineEconomicLess seasonal fluctuation in availability of lambassists all levels of the supply chain.

Lamb production was increased from grazingarrowleaf clover by 30–40%.

EnvironmentalThe new pasture varieties, together with bettermanagement of existing grazing systems, haveimproved pasture utilisation, and hence water useefficiency should also be improved. By spreading the grazing load across time, grazing pressure at key times is reduced, which reduces the risk of over-grazing that leads to bare soils, excess water run-off, salinity and soil erosion.

FutureThe data generated from the on-farm sites will assistin the development of realistic weightings on thefactors contributing to profit in a lamb productionsystem. A decision-tree framework and database toenable MoreLamb producers to identify critical pointsin lamb production to increase profitability is beingdeveloped.

This project has stimulated new applications for usingexisting cultivars and likely will lead to further on-farmR&D in this area. Participating producers areexperiencing production benefits and within the highrainfall areas of Victoria and southern South Australiathere is now a greater awareness of pasture speciesand high input finishing of lambs.

Case study: Tagasaste

IssueThe perennial shrub Tagasaste had been plantedon poor sandy country in the West Midland andEsperance areas of Western Australia in the 1980sand was responsible for a three to five foldincrease in carrying capacity. However, cattlefeeding on tagasaste were failing to gain weightwhen livestock exporters required them in latesummer and autumn, even though the foliage was green and leafy.

ProjectDepartment of Agriculture WA, with cooperation from scientists at Murdoch University and CSIRO,developed grazing and supplementary feedingstrategies that overcome the reduction in growth rate in cattle when grazing Tagasaste in late summer and


CASE STUDIES:PASTURE & FEEDBASE MANAGEMENT

autumn. Researchers found good evidence thatbranch chain volatile acids arising from proteinfermentation may be a limiting factor for microbialprotein supply and that supplementing with lupin grainwould overcome Tagasaste’s limitation.

OutcomesObjective industry benefitsUp to 50% of the beef business using Tagasaste are using lupins as supplements when they need to meet particular market weights and times.

The age that steers reach sale weight has beenreduced from 22 months to 17 months. Adoption by up to half the beef producers so soon afterproject results were available indicates that theproject provided a simple, economically viablesolution to a real need. Further uptake is expected.

Triple bottom lineEconomicThis is a highly cost-effective way to overcome lackof cattle growth. In 2002 the net annual benefit per farm was assessed at $7,000, with a net presentvalue $2.8 million, and $9.7 million at projectedadoption rates, over 20 years.

EnvironmentalTagasaste provides stability to sand-based soil inWestern Australia, reducing wind erosion, and it can lower the water table thus helping to reducefurther salinity.

FutureForage shrubs provide a new layer of feed forlivestock, as well as producing production benefitsthrough shelter and reducing water loss to the watertable (arresting dryland salinity). The EverGrazeproject (see below) is incorporating shrubinvestigations for recharge benefits, and scopingwork of a larger multi-agency underway.

In brief: Grain & Graze

Grain & Graze is a research program that is workingwith producers and catchment groups in Australia'swheat-sheep zone to improve on-farm profitabilityand productivity while also achieving localcatchment management targets. Grain & Graze is ajoint initiative between MLA, Grains Research andDevelopment Corporation, Australian WoolInnovation Limited and Land & Water Australia.

The key objectives of Grain & Graze are more profitfor broadacre farmers (especially from the pasture

phase of rotations), better water quality (eg reducedrecharge through using deep-rooted pastures) andenhanced condition and diversity of plants andwildlife on farms and across catchments.

The Grain & Graze partners are working together to share the huge amount of information andknowledge that is already available about the bestways to manage farming systems within a catchmentcontext. Producers, researchers and catchmentplanners will design and implement on-farm trials to improve the understanding of the financial andenvironmental impact of broad acre management.

Grain & Graze aims to increase profitability oflivestock production by 10% and of crop productionby 5%.

In brief: EverGraze–morelivestock from Perennials

A joint program of MLA and the CooperativeResearch Centre for Plant-based Management of Dryland Salinity, EverGraze is investigatingperennial-based grazing systems to reducegroundwater recharge and increase productivity for producers in the high rainfall zone. EverGraze is investigating the whole farm system of pastures,animals and management. The program is applying a common high-performance lamb productionsystem and using perennials strategically to achievehigh weaning percentages and therefore improveprofitability. The project is developing and testingnew farming systems in different environments toensure relevance across the whole of the high rainfallzone of southern Australia. Through modeling,EverGraze will estimate catchment-scale impacts ofthe widespread adoption of future farming systems.

EverGraze is aiming for increases of up to 50% in profitability of a dual-purpose sheep enterprisewhile reducing groundwater recharge by 50%.


PART 3Improving delivery& capacity building


Improving delivery and capacity buildingMLA is committed to supporting the Australian redmeat industry to adapt to change through building the capacity of producers as well as advisers,researchers, scientists and students in the livestockscience area.

Capacity building is the fostering of people’s ability to acquire knowledge and manage change to achievegoals.

Producers and advisersMLA engages in a number of activities tocommunicate results of its R&D to producers andencourage them to change management practices for increased profitability and sustainability. Methodsto assist producers adopt R&D range from traditionalinformation access and technology-transfertechniques to a facilitated adult learning approachwith an emphasis on active user groups.

Researchers and scientistsMLA supports future and current researchers andscientists in the area of livestock production andenvironmental sustainability to build scientific capacityin the Australian community for the future. Inparticular, recipients of its post-graduate scholarshipprogram have made significant contributions to thered meat industry during their careers, with more thanthree quarters still in the industry or wider Australianagriculture.

StudentsMLA supports the agricultural education sectorthrough a variety of programs. Targeted at secondary,vocational and tertiary levels, it jointly invests with theAustralian Sheep Industry Cooperative ResearchCentre to encourage students to pursue careers in the sheep industry and update and develop skills andknowledge needed by the industry. MLA alsosupports a number of scholarship programs forstudents including the Australian Rural LeadershipProgram, the Nuffield scholarship and variousundergraduate courses.

IMPROVING DELIVERY AND CAPACITY BUILDING


PART 3 IMPROVING DELIVERY & CAPACITY BUILDING

Case study: Prime Time

IssueIn 2003, a chronic shortage of sheep and lambs until at least 2007 was predicted. MLArecognised this as a serious threat to producersustainability and Australia’s reputation as areliable, global supplier of lamb, mutton and wool.In addition, there were significant opportunities foron-farm productivity improvements to offsetdeclining producer terms of trade.

ProjectSupported by the Sheepmeat Council of Australia,MLA with event partners the Sheep IndustryCooperative Research Centre, Landmark, Robertsand Elders, developed the Prime Time campaign toraise awareness about the shortage, the opportunitiesin lamb and sheep meat production, and practicesthat boost flock productivity and profitability. Keyprograms and resource materials were promoted tohelp producers boost their sheep numbers and flockproductivity through increased fertility, flockmanagement, stocking rates and carcase weights.Key genetics-based breeding and selection toolswere showcased. Producers attending Prime Timeforums were given information to enable them to:

• wean up to 10% more lambs• get up to 50% more from pasture • increase profitability from ewes by up to 25%

The first phase of these forums, conducted in spring2003, was aimed at sheep/lamb producers in theWheat-Sheep Zone, particularly to encourageincreased sheep/lamb production from these areas.

The second phase, Making More from Merinos,was conducted in 2004 (and in early 2005 incollaboration with AWI), and targeted Merinoproducers. It encouraged producers to rebuild thedeclining national Merino ewe flock, the critical link in the supply chain for first and second cross lambproduction.

The third phase, Prime Time for Prime Lambs,ran in autumn 2005 and focused on improving the productivity of prime lamb producers.

Over the three campaigns, more than 60 producerforums have been held in rural/regional areas acrosssix states (including other producer forums in whichPrime Time information has been presented).Approximately 18,000 producers were reached withthe Prime Time information during 2003—2005.

In addition to the forums, MLA has provided otheropportunities for producers to extend theirknowledge, skills and confidence through:

a) specialist hands-on workshops for small groups of producers in conjunction with stock and stationagents

b) funding for lamb and sheep producer groups to conduct on-farm flock ‘productivity’ researchtrials

c) more in-depth training in specific subject areasthrough MLA’s EDGEnetwork®

OutcomesObjective industry benefitsMore than two-thirds of lamb/sheep producers (67%)participating in Prime time/Making More from Merinosactivities have changed management practices as aresult of their participation (including improvingpasture management, reviewing lambing managementand joining practices, sourcing better genetics,improving ewe/weaner nutrition, considering lot-feeding/finishing of lambs, and thinking aboutperformance in terms of production per hectare rather than per head).

Mixed farmers adopted better on-farm managementpractices. Producers using LAMBPLAN® rose from9% to 42%, use of Merino Genetic Servicesincreased from 6% to 28%, and use of PROGRAZE®

principles increased from 6% to12%. Three-quartersof mixed farmers agreed higher sheep productivitycould be achieved without affecting grain production.Mixed farmers intending to increase the size of theirflocks (when seasons returned to normal) increasedfrom 13% to 37%.

MLA’s 2004 Lamb Survey reported a 16% increase in ewes mated to produce Merino lambs, a 13%increase in estimated number of lambs on hand, aforecasted 5% increase in ewes joined to produceprime lambs, a 9% increase in expected lamb sales in that spring, and 25% the following autumn.

While the 2005 Lamb Survey indicates a continuedbut slight increase in the number of lambs on hand atnational level, particularly Merino lambs, drought andwool prices have placed downward pressure on lambnumbers in some key lamb-producing areas. Wherethese issues are not a factor, lamb supply is expectedto continue to show significant growth.

While seasonal factors and market pricing clearly playa significant role in producers’ decisions, Prime Time


CASE STUDIES

has created awareness in lamb and sheepproducers of the opportunities for increasingproduction, and provided the practical tools andinformation to assist them to change theirmanagement practices to take advantage of thoseopportunities.

Triple bottom lineEconomicIncreased productivity per hectare will lead toimproved profitability (depending on ruling marketprices) and potentially securing of market access bymeeting market specifications.

SocialProducers have increased their knowledge, skillsand confidence to change management practices.Increased sheep and lamb production will maintainAustralia’s reputation as a reliable, global supplier.

FutureLambmax is a new research program to maximiselambing rates and boost lamb survival. Its objectiveis to optimise lean meat yield by integratinggenetics, pasture use, animal health and welfare,and enhanced carcase feed back.

Links with consultants and supply chains are beingdeveloped to help producers reduce their lambproduction costs per hectare by optimising marketspecifications, genetics, pasture resourcemanagement, and marketing initiatives.

The Superlamb project will identify key geneticfactors, pasture and reproductive management thatinfluence lamb eating characteristics to addresshuman health issues (eg, essential trace elements,omega 3 fatty acids etc).

Programs for sheep meat eating quality and futuresheep genomics are being implemented throughproducer networks.

Case study:EDGEnetwork® §

OpportunityMLA’s livestock production R&D programscontinually identify opportunities for producersto increase their profitability and sustainabilityby adopting current technologies. MLA canencourage producer learning and help to equipproducers with the skills and knowledge toassist them in their on-farm decision-makingthrough programmed learning.

ProjectEDGEnetwork® is a range of 50 practical workshopsand learning opportunities which help livestockproducers gain knowledge and develop skills toimprove their enterprises. In partnership with theVictorian Department of Natural Resources andEnvironment, MLA developed EDGEnetwork® in1998. EDGEnetwork® is now a nation-wide trainingprogram for producers through independentlicensees and deliverers in each state. To minimiseduplication and maximise coordination of theEDGEnetwork® program, MLA worked with the formal education and training sector in developingthe program.

There have been more than 9,500 producerparticipants in EDGEnetwork® workshopsdeveloped under seven content areas:

• pastures/feedbase• animals• natural resource management• people• business/finance• quality assurance• marketing

OutcomesObjective industry benefitsAs a result of their participation 78% of producershave changed at least one management practice:increasing pasture production, stocking rates,natural resource management and businessplanning to meet market specifications.

Producer participants have reported increasedcapacity or skills in these areas:

• purchasing sires on Estimated Breeding Value(EBV) scores

• formulating supplements for feed mixes• estimating pasture quantity and availability• adopting advanced grazing strategies• adopting early weaning strategies to increase

profit and run more stock• using future pricing tools

An established delivery system for R&D informationto producers, EDGEnetwork® has resulted in agreater uptake of past R&D findings by livestockproducers.

Participants report high satisfaction with the quality of the workshops (average score of 8.2/10).



Triple bottom line

EconomicProducers reported an increase of about 4-5% for short-term productivity and/or profitability and long-term increases of up to 12%.

SocialEDGEnetwork® § has improved producer knowledge,skills and confidence to change management practices.

EnvironmentalProducers improved their on-farm managementpractices for natural resource management

FutureEDGEnetwork® is an ongoing program. Modules areadded to maintain relevance.

Case study: BeefCheque®

/LambCheque®

OpportunityThe capacity of producer groups to identify keyinformation and develop skills to improve grazingmanagement practice could be increased using agroup learning model. The producer communitycreated the demand for these groups.

ProjectFunded by MLA, the Department of Primary IndustriesVictoria and the Beef Improvement Association,BeefCheque® commenced as a pilot project of 15groups of Gippsland beef producers (total 420producers) in 1995 and ran until 2000. Over 1000 beef businesses from 65 groups have participated in the program, 27 of which have completed all threeyears of BeefCheque® (281 businesses). FourLambCheque® groups have also been completed (36businesses). Each group meets approximately once amonth, usually at a focus farm owned by one of theproducers. Led by an expert consultant, the producergroup has a ‘farm walk’ and discussion, and decideswhat is to be done on the focus farm. Futuremeetings examine the results of these decisions.Producers control the groups’ agendas.

OutcomesObjective industry benefitsBeefCheque® and LambCheque® have equippedproducers with pasture management principles andthe confidence to use them. Two reports on theimpact of BeefCheque® in Gippsland have shown

significant benefits to participating producers in terms of practice change, increased productivity and profitability.

In the pilot project it was demonstrated thatparticipating producers gained an average of 18% liveweight output per hectare and significantincreases in saleyard price, gross farm income, net income and farm operating surplus.

At the end of the first five years, 94% of respondentshad tried one or more new grazing managementpractices, and 54% had tried at least 11 new grazingmanagement practices.

An analysis of all farms involved in benchmarkingover four years (10-21% of producers involved inBeefCheque®) showed significant increases in totalliveweight output (+157kg/hectare), saleyard price (+$0.39/kg beef liveweight), trading profit(+$240/hectare), net income (+$268/hectare) and farm operating surplus (+$287/hectare).

Indirect industry benefitsBeefCheque® has provided a good model forextension to other parts of the red meat industry and an excellent example of effective technologytransfer through partnerships between producers and expert advisers. Benefits were also experiencedoutside the groups through participants influencingother producers in their local areas to adopt changednew practices.

Triple bottom lineEconomicIn 2002 net annual benefit per farm was assessed at $4,650, net present value at $11 million, and $27 million at projected adoption rates, over 20 years.

SocialProducers benefited from a network of peers whereproblems can be openly discussed, particularly indifficult times such as drought.

EnvironmentalThe rotational grazing system, a central part of themanagement system adopted by BeefCheque® andLambCheque® producers, is effective in minimisingthe area of a property that is exposed to poor groundcover. This reduces weed invasion and soil erosionand makes better use of water. Pasture managementknowledge also enables better decisions about theuse of herbicides and fertilisers.


CASE STUDIES

FutureBeefCheque® and LambCheque® continue to bedelivered across Victoria under the EDGEnetwork®

banner.

Case study: Postgraduatescholarship program

OpportunityThe industry needs innovative scientists withexperience and an interest in livestock science to conduct R&D and become leaders for theindustry.

ProjectMLA supports the bridge from education toagricultural research through its postgraduateprogram and various scholarships. 223 postgraduatestudents have been supported through MLA and itspredecessor organisations since 1975.

The scholarship program supports students doingpostgraduate studies (mostly PhDs) for the threeyears of their candidature. Students receive a stipendhigher than Australian Postgraduate Award stipends,plus support for project costs. Students’ projects arevaried and cover a wide range of industry-relatedtopics, and include all areas of interest in MLA’s livestock production R&D programs. Many studentssupported by this scheme are working within thesefunded research programs, whilst others are workingon projects independent of MLA programs. Uponcompletion, more than 70% of students supported bythis scheme continue to work within the meat andlivestock industry. A significant proportion go on toplay important leadership roles in agricultural and livestock industries.

Students are supported for the three years of theircandidature, and the program is ongoing with anintake of around 10 students per year.

OutcomesObjective industry benefitsAround 75% of MLA scholarship recipients havemade high-level contributions during their careers andaround 79% are still involved in various segments ofthe red meat industry and other aspects of Australianagriculture.

Intangible benefitsA number of current industry leaders have beensupported in their postgraduate studies by MLA and its predecessors.

Triple bottom lineSocialThe capacity of the research community to deliverscience to advance the industry in the future isincreased.

FutureThe program is ongoing with an intake of around 10 students each year. The program may be furtherenhanced through a post doctoral fellowship programand specific undergraduate leadership training.

Case study: BeefPlan

IssueConventional top-down scientific research doesnot always result in research results being widelyadopted on farms.

ProjectBeefPlan is an experiment in producer drivenresearch, development and extension. Launched in 1998 by MLA, BeefPlan formed and funded groups of producers in the northern Australian beef industry to develop improved and sustainable propertymanagement systems in whatever ways producerssaw fit. There are around 11 groups and 110members.

BeefPlan members undertake strategic planning andsynthesise available information to develop systemsand tools for integrated whole property managementin their own businesses.

OutcomesObjective industry benefitsProducers have developed systems and tools to effectively integrate production and resourcemanagement.

Producers and researchers have an improvedunderstanding of whole-farm systems. BeefPlanproducer-run events, attended by other BeefPlannersand members of the industry, lead to increasedknowledge as well as awareness of the need forgreater knowledge.



Intangible benefitProducers become more confident and capable in decision-making.

Triple bottom lineEconomicThe financial bottom line of many of the BeefPlangroup members has improved due to BeefPlanactivities, although this is not always easily measuredor separated from non-BeefPlan causes.

SocialBeefPlan has contributed to the development ofstrong social support networks of producers thatimprove family, group and industry relationships andincrease personal confidence in managing thebusiness.

EnvironmentalWhen making decisions affecting their production and financial performance, environmental factors are considered. At least two of the groups haveexperimented with Environmental ManagementSystems and this has benefited the industry.

FutureExisting groups and new groups have a three-yearagreement with MLA.

Case study: More Beef from Pastures

OpportunityLivestock production has become increasinglycomplex due to the social, political, natural andeconomic operating environments and the vastarray of available technologies. Technologiesdeveloped from R&D are not universallyappropriate for all businesses and environments.The challenge for producers is to identify andfocus on the 20% of decisions that have 80% of the impact on their profitability andsustainability, and to choose the most appropriatetechnologies for their circumstances. Thisincludes their physical resources, access tocapital, attitude to risk and social perspective.

ProjectMore Beef from Pastures covers the whole beefbusiness, recognising that every beef enterprise isdifferent and the producer is the key decision-maker.This is the first time that the industry’s best practicerecommendations and key research outcomes havebeen assembled in a do-it-yourself decision supporttool designed by producers.

The MLA More Beef from Pastures program has threekey components:

• a producers’ manual to enable producers to makethe right decisions for their situation

• an awareness and support program• direction to further training and advisory services

As a result of participation 66% of southern beefproducer participants have changed managementpractices. In the program’s first 12 months 4,000manuals in hard copy and CD have been sold(representing around 6% of southern beef businesses)and over 3,000 producers have attended a forumfeaturing the More Beef from Pastures program. This is considerable given the drought conditions atthe time, and reinforces the risk managementapproach of the program.

The producers’ manual This do-it-yourself, step-by-step guide to getting themost important decisions right was written by leadingsouthern beef producers using the HACCP riskmanagement process, with support from technicalexperts. The manual has been designed so that newor improved tools can be added as they becomeavailable from R&D.

Awareness and support programThis program to encourage implementation of themanual by producers and service providers isspearheaded by a national coordinator, six statedepartment based coordinatorsII and a group ofproducer advocates. Activities include partnering inproducer and service provider forums, specific MoreBeef from Pastures forums and field days, and tradedisplays at larger events. Workshops on key parts ofthe manual are also conducted.

Extended learning opportunitiesThe More Beef from Pastures program is positionedto lead producers to public and private sector trainingand advisory services to increase their depth ofunderstanding of the key principles and toolsincluded in the More Beef from Pastures program.These include MLA’s EDGEnetwork® courses andgrants for producer group demonstration trials.

OutcomesObjective industry benefitsOn a single enterprise basis, adoption of decision-making processes and underpinning practices fromthe More Beef from Pastures program have beenshown to result in a doubling of return per hectare,while improving the natural resource base andenabling control of risk associated with climatevariability and market volatility.


CASE STUDIES

Indirect industry benefitsProducers applying the manual are well positioned toreceive and implement new knowledge and toolsresulting from ongoing R&D immediately. Likewise,they are well positioned to identify potential newR&D that will improve their decision making.

Intangible benefitsCollaboration is promoted between MLA, R&Dproviders and the private sector.

Triple bottom lineEconomicThe More Beef from Pastures framework is designedto help producers identify the critical parts of theirbeef business where they can increase profitability.

Increasing pasture utilisation by 10%, which isdemonstrably achievable by application of relevantMore Beef from Pastures key principles, would resultin a net present value of $280 million, based on aconservative adoption rate of 30%. Application ofkey principles for genetic selection alone wouldresult in a net present value of $70 million over aperiod of 20 years.

SocialProducers are empowered as the decision makerrather than being the passive recipients oftechnologies. This builds producers’ confidence in their ability to manage risk.

EnvironmentalImplementation of the More Beef from Pasturesprinciples can improve soil fertility, soil structure,clean groundwater run-off, as well as increasingcarbon sequestration and the efficiency of rainfalluse. More efficient conversion of pasture to meatand more appropriate land class use would result.

FutureNew and improved tools being developed in anumber of R&D programs will be incorporated withinthe More Beef from Pastures framework to enhanceits application for producers. One example is theRainfall to Pasture Outlook tool, which is a web-based application that uses meteorological records,and links with the current Southern Oscillation Indexto provide a three month outlook for rainfall andpasture growth. This assists producers withmanagement decisions such as stocking rates andpasture utilisation.



Case study: PIRD®

(Producer InitiatedResearch andDevelopment)

OpportunityThere is an ongoing interest by producers intrialling technologies to solve local issues.

Project The PIRD® program was started in 1992 by MLA’spredecessor the Meat Research Corporation. Theprogram aimed to enable cattle, lamb, sheep meatand goat producers to conduct R&D to addresseveryday problems and find practical solutions usingan adult learning approach, and to trial newtechnologies in their own environments.

PIRD® is a producer research support programproviding grants of up to $15,000 over three years toproducer groups. Projects that are supported with agrant are selected by an Evaluation Committeeaccording to industry, MLA and program objectives.The proposal must have direct value for the beefand/or sheep meat production activities of its groupmembers. It must attempt to solve local problems andimprove industry productivity. Measuring projectachievements requires the assessment of the changein the performance of an enterprise.

Major users have been independent beef and sheepproducer groups and production/marketing alliances.The next largest user group has been formalassociations and their branches and networks, for example the Beef Improvement Association.

PIRD® groups commonly conduct research in the areas of animal production, farm management and breeding, pastures, feed and grazing.

OutcomesObjective industry benefitsOverall this program has directly involved about15,000 producers across Australia, of which 7,458have been involved since MLA formed in 1998. PIRD®

groups typically extend their information and learningto other producers, so it is estimated that a similarnumber of producers have been indirectly influencedby PIRD outcomes.

Independent evaluation has shown that on average67% of producers that participate in a PIRD change

management practices as a result. Over time, otherproducers with similar issues have observed or heardof PIRD® results and made practice changes.

Indirect industry benefitsMLA has received direct market feedback on issuesof producer interest through producer groupsidentifying a problem and committing to testing andapplying ideas.

Intangible benefitsPIRD® helps establish producer support networks.

Triple bottom lineEconomicEconomic modelling has suggested a return toproducers and the meat industry of $25-30 million on 170 projects in the 9 years up to 2001.

SocialProducer networks and linkages have beendeveloped in order to share information, and many of the PIRD project groups have gone on to developfurther R&D within their enterprises or regions. Thishas built producers’ confidence in their abilities toidentify problems and possible solutions and to testthose solutions for themselves or in partnership withresearchers.

EnvironmentalImproved natural resource management has occurredfor those projects focusing on this component of thegrazing system.

FutureThis program is ongoing.

Rotational Grazing Project, Badgingarra PROGRAZE®

PIRD group, WesternAustralia, 2000This 17 member group visited farms whererotational grazing had been implemented, to identify the likely obstacles and ways ofovercoming them when establishing andimplementing rotational grazing. They developed a plan for the implementation of rotational grazing on four properties as a demonstration. The remaining group members trialled rotationalgrazing by splitting one paddock into four or fivesections and moving stock on rotation throughthese sections.


CASE STUDIES

All of the PIRD group members learnt how to implement and manage rotational grazing. As a result of this project, the group members nowhave a much better understanding of how tomanage their pastures to optimise production.One of the objectives of the project was tocompare the performance of rotationally grazedpaddocks with continuously stocked paddocks.Most group members felt that the benefitsobtained from rotational grazing compared with continuous grazing were too great to bebothered with maintaining the continuous grazing paddocks simply for the purpose ofcomparison.

OutcomesAbout half of the respondents are now usingrotational grazing over all of their properties. The rest of the respondents said they userotational grazing on 20-80% of their properties.

Notes

Unless otherwise specified, all net present valuescited in this report are calculated using a discountrate of 7% over a period of 20 years.

* Estimated Breeding Values (EBVs) for sheep are tobe referred to as Australian Sheep Breeding Values(ASBVs).

† PROGRAZE® is a trademark owned by NSWDepartment of Primary Industries.

§ The EDGEnetwork® concept is jointly owned byMeat & Livestock Australia Limited and theDepartment of Primary Industries, Victoria.

II Except in Victoria where the Mackinnon project iscontracted.

# MLA and its predecessors have been involved withthree Beef CRCs, commencing with the CRC forthe Cattle and Beef Industry (Meat Quality) in1993–1999. Most of the activities mentioned onpage 8 of this report were undertaken with theCRC for Cattle and Beef Quality in 2000-2005.Currently, MLA is a major private sector partner of the CRC for Beef Genetic Technologies, whichbegan in June 2005.


NOTES

Outcomes of MLA’s livestock production

research and development

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