RIRDC Completed Projects in 1998-1999

and Research in Progress as at June 1999

RIRDC Sub-Program 2.6

RARE NATURAL ANIMAL FIBRES

September 1999 RIRDC Publication No 99/104

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© 1999 Rural Industries Research and Development Corporation. All rights reserved. ISBN 0 642 57994 6 ISSN 1440-6845 "RIRDC Completed Projects in 1998-99 and Research in Progress as at June 19989 - 2.6 Rare Natural Animal Fibres" Publication No 99/104 The views expressed and the conclusions reached in this publication are those of the author and not necessarily those of persons consulted. RIRDC shall not be responsible in any way whatsoever to any person who relies in whole or in part on the contents of this report. This publication is copyright. However, RIRDC encourages wide dissemination of its research, providing the Corporation is clearly acknowledged. For any other enquiries concerning reproduction, contact the Publications Manager on phone 02 6272 3186.

RIRDC Rare Natural Animal Fibres Research Manager Dr Peter McInnes RIRDC Level 1, AMA House 42 Macquarie Street BARTON ACT 2600 PO Box 4776 KINGSTON ACT 2604

Phone: 08 8556 7331 Fax: 08 8556 7289 Email: rirdc@netinfo.com.au RIRDC Publications Manager Eva Hickman Rural Industries Research and Development Corporation Level 1, AMA House 42 Macquarie Street BARTON ACT 2600 PO Box 4776 KINGSTON ACT 2604 Phone: 02 6272 3186 Fax: 02 6272 5877 Email: evah@rirdc.gov.au Website: http://www.rirdc.gov.au

Published in September 1999 Printed on environmentally friendly paper by Canprint

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Foreword This year RIRDC has produced Research in Progress, June '99, which contains short summaries of continuing projects as well as those that were completed during 1998-99 for all of the Corporation’s 20 program areas. The complete report on all the programs is only available in electronic format on our website at http://www.rirdc.gov.au The following report is a hardcopy extract covering Sub-program 2.6. It contains all entries from continuing and completed Rare Natural Animal Fibres research projects funded by RIRDC. This program aims to facilitate the development of new and established industries based on rare natural fibres. This report is the newest addition to our extensive catalogue of almost 400 research reports, videos and CD-Roms of projects supported by RIRDC. Please contact us for the latest publications catalogue or view it on our website: • downloads at www.rirdc.gov.au/reports/Index.htm • purchases at www.rirdc.gov.au/pub/cat/contents.html Peter Core Managing Director Rural Industries Research and Development Corporation

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Contents

2.6 RARE NATURAL ANIMAL FIBRES COMPLETED PROJECTS

PROJECT

No PROJECT TITLE RESEARCHER PHONE ORGANISATION PAGE

No ARI-1A Assessment for RIRDC of the interest and potential

commercial opportunity of mohair blend worsted manufacture

Robert Pearce 03 5787 1827 Mohair Australia Ltd 1

DAN-168A A national performance recording scheme for the cashmere industry

Phil Graham 02 6226 2199 NSW Agriculture 2

MMS-1A Improved Marketing of Mohair Fibre Chris Cull 02 6772 3424 Maroombra Management Services 4 UNS-8A Processing performance and fabric properties of

Australian mohair Xungai Wang 03 5227 2894 School of Eng. & Tech 5

WHP-1A The Impact of Reports into the Economics of Commercial Goat Fibre Enterprises

David Michael 61 2 9369 2735 Wondu Holdings Pty Limited 6

2.6 RARE NATURAL ANIMAL FIBRES RESEARCH IN PROGRESS

PROJECT

No PROJECT TITLE RESEARCHER PHONE ORGANISATION PAGE

No ACG-2A Assist reprinting of updated "Cashmere Goat Notes" Jock Simmonds 02 4375 1123 Australian Cashmere Growers'

Association Ltd 8

DAV-98A Overcoming constraints to the development of high quality speciality fibre/wool blend textiles

Bruce McGregor 03 9217 4200 Department of Natural Resources and Environment, Victorian Institute of Animal Science,

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DAW-80A Determine the role of boer goat crosses in the Australian meat industry (joint funded RNF and NAP, MLA)

Peter Murray 07 5460 1256 The University of Queensland 9

KKN-1A Investigation into the basis of down production in cashmere goats and its improvement by genetic means

Robert Pearce and Mr Jim Browne

03 5787 1827 Mohair Australia Ltd 10

RMI-9A Precious fibres in Australia: Cashmere, Merino, Wool and Mohair

Fred Moylan 03 9592 3061 Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology

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UCQ-11A Improving the efficiency of reproduction and breeding in Alpaca

Michael D'Occhio 07 4930 6900 Central Queensland University 11

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2.6 Rare Natural Animal Fibres Completed Projects

Project Title

Assessment for RIRDC of the interest and potential commercial opportunity of mohair blend worsted manufacture

RIRDC Project No.:

ARI-1A

Researcher: Robert Pearce Organisation: Mohair Australia Ltd

PO Box 196 BROADFORD VIC 3658

Phone/Fax: 03 5787 1827 Email: acacia@ontherun.com.au Objectives

• To assist in the achievement of Objective two of the RIRDC RNF 5 year R & D Plan

for 1998 - 2003 which is To expand Value Adding and Product Development in Australia, through the assessment for RIRDC of the interest and potential commercial opportunity of mohair blend worsted manufacture.

Background

In March 1998 I was asked by RIRDC to prepare an outline of a means to assist in addressing the above Objective 2. I proposed a two stage approach based on collaboration with an appropriate organisations within the Australian textile industry. As Stage 1 achieved earlier success than anticipated, Stage 2 was proceeded with using the balance of funds unused from Stage 1.

Research

Discussions and communications were held with all the major industry bodies, to obtain information regarding mohair types requiring most assistance, current annual production of these types, and industry viable price estimates. Discussions were held with Dr. Xungai Wang the Principle Investigator for project UNS-8A, to determine if use could be made of the results obtained under UNS-8A. Discussions were held with Chris Cull, CEO Mohair Australia, to ensure that this work was complimentary that being carried out by him. 4. Appropriate samples were obtained for use in demonstrating properties of mohair, were examined and where appropriate analysed, and a report prepared. A report was also prepared listing the desirable properties of mohair and fabric properties of mohair and mohair blends, with references to research which has been done. These reports were designed for presentation to potential project partners. 5. After seeking advice, an approach was made to Jiemba Textiles Pty Ltd. a company considered to have the necessary resources to assist with the objectives.

Outcomes

Stage 1. Mohair of greater that 32 micron with annual production of approx. 180,000 kg. pa. was identified as the type most in need of assistance. Price and demand volatility remains an historical problem for mohair, but suggested price levels for long term grower viability have been determined. It was decided that research from UNS-8A was inappropriate for this project. A company considered to have the necessary resources to assist with the objectives, has agreed to co-operate in a program to identify possible market/s for mohair containing, furnishing fabrics, and to carry out development, design, and manufacture of samples for promotion. Stage 2. Supervision of the production of 67 kg. of 100% mohair worsted spun from 33 micron mohair was carried out and delivery made to the company selected. This yarn is to be manufactured into a plain sateen upholstery fabric, and upon satisfactory sample production, the product is planned for promotion as Australian

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mohair, in Australia and USA. Target monthly volume is 2000 sq. m. requiring about 1500 kg. of unscoured mohair.

Implications

A most important aspect of this project is the opportunity to identify the attitude, concerns, and problems faced by a commercial enterprise when considering new product commercialisation, with particular reference to a new product in mohair, and to report these concerns to mohair producers in such a way as to enable them to play a part in addressing them. Emphasis has been laid on concerns regarding price stability, the magnitude of expenses associated with the launch of a new product, and how this investment can be placed at risk by substantial variations in raw material or other costs. The large fluctuations typical of mohair fibre prices was raised in particular, with the request that this be considered and addressed by the mohair industry. The greatest value from this project may lie in its potential as a ‘seed’ project. If a successful product were to result, then there exists the opportunity for expanded interest growing from confidence in the fibre or its attractiveness in the market. Recommendations: • That further provisions be made to enable the continuance of this program covering:

a. Investigation and considerations should any problems or queries arise on examination or processing of the trial yarn.

• Advice and assistance if trial proceeds to initial production run. • Demonstration of continued interest in the project. • That consideration be given to carrying out an investigation into the feasibility,

operation, and effectiveness of forward contracts for raw mohair supply.

Project Title

A national performance recording scheme for the cashmere industry

RIRDC Project No.:

DAN-168A

Researcher: Phil Graham Organisation: NSW Agriculture

PO Box 20 YASS NSW 2582

Phone: 02 6226 2199 Fax: 02 6226 1581 Email: phillip.graham@agric.nsw.gov.au Internet: Objectives

• To evaluate the likely adoption of a national cashmere performance recording

scheme.

Background

The cashmere industry had identified the need for a national performance recording scheme as a major priority in their strategic plan.

Research

A list of major cashmere breeders was obtained from Cashmere Growers Association. This listed major breeders in most states. An article outlining the purpose of the project was printed in Cashmere Australia so all breeders would be aware of the work. A letter outlining the project and a survey form was sent to sixteen breeders across five states.

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Ten replies were received. Discussions were held with WA Department representatives about their research flock. Control of this flock is now with Uni of WA and no active work is being carried out with these animals, hence they saw no role in this project. Of the ten breeder replies, seven indicated an interest in the project. Additional information was requested from the seven breeders including their attitude to using AI, outside sires and uniformity of information collected. Only five breeders responded this time. These five were asked to supply one years breeding data to allow some initial genetic analysis to be carried out. Only two data sets were received by the 30th of April 1999.

Outcomes

• Breeders are keen on the idea of a national scheme provided it does not interfere with

their own programs. • There is an understandable lack of confidence and knowledge in the outcome of a

national scheme. The inputs required and the value of the outputs are viewed with caution.

• The combination of 1 and 2 is the likely reason for a drop off in replies over time. • Genetic linkages within the industry were hard to estimate from the data supplied. It

will only be possible once individual data sets are examined.

Implications

Experiences from other industries has shown that successful recording schemes need breeders who are confident in the scheme’s structure and outputs. This confidence results in ownership and therefore positive discussion about the scheme within industry circles. The response received is not good enough for phase 2 to proceed. Some of the remaining funds will be used to analyse the two data sets which have been received. This will achieve the following. • tests the suitability of the software used by Advance Breeding Services (ABS) with

goat data. • any minor changes needed to the software can be completed. • it gives the two breeders an example of the benefits of the genetic analysis. With this

experience they would be in a position to “champion” the project. If this concept is to progress it requires the breeders driving it.

• a system will exist which any breeders would be able to utilise via ABS in future years.

• over a number of years genetic linkages would be developed or identified which could lead to a industry recording scheme developing.

The analysis by ABS could be completed within four months of a go ahead from RIRDC. A successful scheme needs to be built up. First breeders need to have confidence in the data collection and analysis of their own data across years. From this point they will be confident to look at using existing linkages or developing linkages. The preparedness to exchange meaningful breeding data would then exist for a working scheme to develop. Some steps down this path have begun as a result of this project.

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Project Title

Improved Marketing of Mohair Fibre

RIRDC Project No.:

MMS-1A

Researcher: Chris Cull Organisation: Maroombra Management Services

Suite 4, Richardson’s Arcade (PO Box 135) ARMIDALE NSW 2350

Phone: 02 6772 3424 Fax: 02 6772 3424 Email: mohair@abri.une.edu.au Objectives

• To analyse and report on alternative/additional marketing systems for mohair fibre,

with the aim of facilitating discussion and identifying ways in which the mohair industry in Australia might be revitalized and Australian mohair might be more successfully placed in the world market.

Background

Faced with declining production, low prices and a marketing system which has not changed for many years it was felt that a short, timely review would assist the industry to identify strategies for improving the way Australian mohair is promoted and sold.

Research

The project drew on information from previous reports into the marketing of Australian mohair, a variety of other related documents, interviews with buyers, brokers and researchers, and meetings with producers.

Outcomes

The report makes eleven recommendations in all that are grouped into three significant areas: 1. Production issues which suggest ways to improve the understanding of ‘quality

mohair’ so standards can be set for producers which will also aid communication between producers and processors.

2. Promotion methods using improved market reports, direct contact with local and overseas processors and development of an Internet web site should all be used to increase awareness of Australian mohair and its attributes.

3. Industry development by way of stimulating local value adding projects was identified as a viable method of increasing consumption of fibre. There are opportunities to locally process certain types of mohair for specific end users but the process needs to be stimulated and monitored by an Industry Liaison Officer to ensure agreements are negotiated and maintained. The involvement of buyers and brokers and an advisory committee to Mohair Australia was identified as a beneficial strategy in this part of the project.

4. Once standards are determined and market awareness improved then there may be an opportunity to examine the systems currently in place for the collection and sale of Australian mohair.

Implications

Collectively the eleven recommendations form the basis of an action plan to improve the quality and marketing of Australian mohair. The report identifies goals that are achievable given industry resources and capacity. As the leading industry body Mohair Australia is well placed to carry out the work with assistance from other individuals and organisations.

Publications

The Improved Marketing of Mohair Fibre

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Project Title

Processing performance and fabric properties of Australian mohair

RIRDC Project No.:

UNS-8A

Researcher: A/Prof. Xungai Wang Dr John Curiskis Organisation: School of Eng. & Tech

Deakin University GEELONG 3217

Dept of Textile Tech. University of NSW SYDNEY 2052

Phone: 03 5227 2894 02 9385 4458 Fax: 03 5227 2167 02 9385 5953 Objectives

• To overcome problems associated with processing Australian mohair and mohair

blends, and to develop new fabrics using Australian mohair.

Background

Australia's annual mohair production is around 0.5 million kg and virtually all of this is exported in raw form to Europe and Asia for further processing. Little processing research and product development work on this luxury fibre has been carried out in Australia. The lack of basic and applied research will undoubtedly put the Australian goat fibre producers in a vulnerable position.

Research

There were four major components to the research. Firstly preliminary mohair processing was conducted to identify problems associated with the processing. Secondly the processing problems were tackled one by one. Thirdly new yarns of excellent softness and fineness were developed, and fabrics were produced from some of the yarns. Finally fabric properties were evaluated using KESF and FAST instruments.

Outcomes

A sliver twister has been developed to solve the main processing problem associated with the weakness of mohair slivers, due to the lack of cohesion between mohair fibres. Different techniques have been developed to produce very fine and soft yarns from Australian mohair. Low twist and even twistless yarns of about 20 tex have been produced, which was not possible before by using conventional mohair spinning techniques. Soft, lustrous, and light-weight fabrics have been manufactured and tested for a range of properties. A comparison with worsted wool fabrics was also made. This project has also provided research training to two Masters students and one honours student.

Implications

The difficulties in mohair processing can be overcome, even without blending mohair with other fibres such as wool. By using innovative yarn manufacturing techniques, very fine and low-twist or twistless yarns can be produced from Australian mohair fibres. This makes possible the development of light-weight, soft and lustrous fabrics from Australian mohair. As demonstrated in this research and in the synthetic fibre industry, developing new fabrics often means developing new yarns and even new fibres. Further research into reducing fibre diameter through breeding or fibre engineering, and into the engineering of new yarns will help increase the market share of Australian rare natural fibres in apparel applications.

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Project Title

The Impact of Reports into the Economics of Commercial Goat Fibre Enterprises

RIRDC Project No.:

WHP-1A

Researcher: David Michael Organisation: Wondu Holdings Pty Limited

P.O. Box 1217 BONDI JUNCTION 1355, NSW

Phone: 61 2 9369 2735 Fax: 61 2 9369 2737 Email: Wondu@compuserve.com Objectives

• To determine the impact of reports on commercial goat fibre enterprises and producer

decisions.

Background

In January 1997 RIRDC published complete and short reports on The Economics of a Commercial Cashmere Goat Enterprise and The Economics of a Commercial Angora Goat Enterprise. Both publications were produced by Lloyd Davies and Geoff Murray of NSW Agriculture. These publications provided case studies on different enterprises - goats, sheep and beef - using gross margins as a major determinant in drawing conclusions on goat profitability. The gross margins were determined from 1995 prices. It was shown in that research that a goat enterprise can improve whole farm profitability providing appropriate attention is given to stock carrying capacity; weed control; control of capital costs; improved genotype; and enterprise balance in mixed farm structures. It is important for RIRDC to identify and evaluate the effect of such publications on producers. The aim of this study is to do this evaluation through a survey of producers. The study also aimed to identify what financial information and processes are used by farmers in making on farm investments; how frequently information needs to be up-dated and how best to disseminate information to the industry.

Research

This study obtained data from a survey of 250 cashmere producers, 250 angora producers and 40 service enterprises providing inputs and marketing services for producers. There is a useful review of recent literature on extension and research adoption techniques. The research methodology highlights the importance of dealing with the separate behavioural stages that producers progress through in making up their minds about whether or not to adopt particular components of research. The results show that it is essential to facilitate early awareness and encourage producers to consider the research results before there is a chance of them adopting it.

Outcomes

The study results improve our understanding of how producers make decisions in adopting new research and highlight the importance of distributing research results through a diverse range of channels. Of particular interest is the finding that the regional based industry conferences used by the Australian Cashmere Growers Association to launch the release of the research had a significant effect on making producers aware of the existence of the research. There are important lessons here for many agricultural industries on how to increase the adoption of research results. The study also identifies access to credit and the cost of capital as constraints to the adoption of research components, particularly those that require capital investments. Improved whole farm business planning is recommended as a solution to these problems.

Implications

This study has significant implications for the extension of research results. It recommends a Strategic Extension Campaign [SEC] to improve the rate of adoption of research and the effectiveness with which research results are translated into commercial

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reality. The SEC is designed to provide a diverse mix of extension instruments to accommodate the different stages that users of research progress through before making a decision about whether or not to adopt a particular research component.

Publications

The Impact of Reports into the Economics of Commercial Goat Fibre Enterprises, RIRDC Report No.

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2.6 Rare Natural Animal Fibres

Research in Progress Project Title

Assist reprinting of updated "Cashmere Goat Notes"

RIRDC Project No.:

ACG-2A

Start Date: 1/07/98 Finish Date: 30/09/99 Researcher: Mr Jock Simmonds Organisation: Australian Cashmere Growers' Association Ltd

31 Jones Road CALGA NSW 2250

Phone: 02 4375 1123 Fax: 02 4375 1123 Objectives

• The new edition of "Cashmere Goat Notes" will have a broader coverage of the goat

industry than was found in earlier editions. This reflects the greater diversity of Australian based goat enterprises and the growing maturity of Australian goat industries.

Current Progress

Previous material has been reviewed. Previous authors have been contacted re updating and/or reissuing material. In some instances research papers, subsequent to previous publication, will be included. In-house expertise will be extensively used. Goatmeat is an end product of any goat enterprise and the goat meat section is a necessary component of any technical work on the cashmere industry. The Boer Goat Breeders Association of Australia Ltd has accepted an invitation to contribute to the update of the existing goatmeat chapters. The Mohair and goat Dairy Industries have also been invited to participate. An editorial committee has been established under ACGA Councillor, Mr Walter Aich, and the Principle Investigator Mr Jock Simmonds. Research has been completed. Material is now being updated and/or written, as appropriate.

Project Title

Overcoming constraints to the development of high quality speciality fibre/wool blend textiles

RIRDC Project No.:

DAV-98A

Start Date: 1/02/97 Finish Date: 31/01/00 Researcher: Mr. Bruce McGregor Organisation: Department of Natural Resources and Environment,

Victorian Institute of Animal Science, 475 Mickleham Road, Agriculture Victoria, ATTWOOD, VICTORIA 3049.

Phone: 03 9217 4200 Fax: 03 9217 4299 Email: bruce.mcgregor@nre.vic.gov.au Objectives

• The objectives of this work are inter-related with general objectives being to improve

the use of cashmere in textile production and to improve the quality of cashmere and

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mohair textiles.

Current Progress

Typical Australian cashmere (16.8 micron) was purchased from the Australian Cashmere Marketing Corporation and dehaired overseas. The cashmere was returned to Australia, combed and processed into tops. Different types of Australian fine wool (16.8 micron) were purchased from commercial sales and directly from wool growers and processed into tops. Blends of the cashmere and wool have been made and trial processed into yarn samples. Detailed arrangements have been made to process these new products into knitted samples with subsequent testing to commence soon. New products using short cashmere fibre waste blended with other natural fibres are also being developed. Trial spinning of these new blends has been completed and processing into knitted samples is ready to commence. The project has also examined a range of commercially important quality attributes of Australian cashmere. Australian cashmere has a number of superior attributes compared to cashmere from the major producing regions. The potential use of these superior attributes in marketing raw and processed Australian cashmere is being examined. The effects of animal husbandry and nutrition on these cashmere fibre attributes is still being examined by undertaking retrospective examination of historic research samples.

Project Title

Determine the role of boer goat crosses in the Australian meat industry (joint funded RNF and NAP, MLA)

RIRDC Project No.:

DAW-80A

Start Date: 30/09/96 Finish Date: 30/06/00 Researcher: Dr Peter Murray Organisation: The University of Queensland

Gatton College GATTON QLD 4352

Phone: 07 5460 1256 Fax: 07 5460 1444 Email: pjm@warigal.uqg.uq.edu.au Objectives

• By September 30 2000 to determine the most appropriate crosses of Boer goats with

meat, fibre and dairy breeds to satsify Australian and overseas market requirements for live goats and goat products including meat fibreand skins. Specificially:

− To evaluate the productivity of Boer Goat crosses in the agricultural area of WA and the sub tropical area of Queensland.

− To compare the productivity of Boer goat crosses with existing goat breeds run under the same conditions.

− To assess objectively, the difference in quality characteristics of meat and fibre produced from Boer goat crosses and existing goat breeds.

− To determine by assessment in target markets, whether a premium can be paid for live goats, meat and fibre from Boer goat crosses and determine the reasons for any premium.

− To compare the net return from Boer goat crosses with those from existing goat bereeds run under the same conditions.

• By 30 September 2000, in conjunction with AMLC and goat exporters, to investigate the potential for developing premium export markets for live goats and meat from Boer goat crosses.

• By Septermber 2000, and in consultation with abattoirs, exporters and the AMLC, to develop guidelines for the production of Boer goat crosses that will cater for the market.

• In conjunction with the Goat Industry council, undertake and effective program for disseminating the results of the project to industry members.

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Current Progress: We have completed four matings at both Gatton and Avondale, and the kids from the fourth mating are being born during June-July 1999 at both sites. We will have the first full set of F2 (¾, ½ and ¼ Boer and Saanen) kids born at this kidding for measurement of growth and carcass characteristics. One of the objectives of the research project is to determine by assessment in target markets any preference or premium for goat genotypes generated in the project. A consignment of skin-on carcasses (representing a range of genotypes) were evaluated by Focus group in Taipei (Taiwan) and a second consignment of skin-off carcasses were evaluated in Dubai (Middle East). The Focus group members in Taipei identified and strongly preferred castrated male as against entire male carcasses. The opposite was found in Dubai (entire males preferred). Both Focus Groups appeared to have preferences for different genotypes that differed between these two markets. The expansion of large Boer crosses carcasses into Taiwan may be difficult given the firm belief by the Taiwanese that big (> 16kg) carcasses are smelly/bucky. Less then 25% of the first cross goats have fleeces of cashgora with >35 mm long fibres. These goats have been shorn and their fleeces evaluated. Leather evaluation of the different genotypes has begun.

Project Title

Investigation into the basis of down production in cashmere goats and its improvement by genetic means

RIRDC Project No.:

KKN-1A

Start Date: 1/07/98 Finish Date: 30/05/2001 Researcher: Mr. Robert Pearce and Mr Jim Browne Organisation: Mohair Australia Ltd

PO Box 196 BROADFORD VIC 3658

Phone: 03 5787 1827 Fax: 03 5787 1827 Email: acacia@ontherun.com.au Objectives

• The project seeks to identify factors associated with high phenotypic down

production in cashmere goats and to develop a hypothesis for a genetic basis

Current Progress

All project animals are in very good health. They are currently in the full flush of their 1999 cashmere growth cycle. This is the first growth cycle under the project regime. Some dietary and management changes have been made to address problems which occurred in 1998. At this time the project would appear to have identified one or more fibre growth patterns that differ significantly from the traditionally accepted autumn growth/late winter shedding cycle. Observation techniques are being adjusted to elucidate this discovery in detail. This second growth cycle will determine if the animals are consistent in their performance. Even at this early stage the observations suggest that at least one of these variations has a genetic base. Seventy-nine of the project does produced a total of eighty eight offspring (42 males, 46 females). Of these 26 males and 30 females were retained as potential replacements. Precise measurements for gestation length for all animals were obtained as a “by-product”. These are displayed graphically at the project Web Site www.cashmere.au.com The Project is on track. The challenge of the next 6 months is to further develop our analysis techniques to extract meaningful correlations from the enormous amount of data being collected.

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Project Title

Precious fibres in Australia: Cashmere, Merino, Wool and Mohair

RIRDC Project No.:

RMI-9A

Start Date: 4/06/98 Finish Date: 30/12/98 Researcher: Mr. Fred Moylan Organisation: Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology

181 Church Street BRIGHTON VIC 3186

Phone: 03 9592 3061 Objectives

• To identify the real marketing problem for Australian Mohair – Cashmere and

Merino Wool and to suggest solutions. Also document development of mohair and cashmere.

Current Progress

R.M.I.T will publish a book in1999 on the actual experience of Mr F Moylan in the Australian wool textile and precious fibre producing industries from 1949-1999. It will describe the development of the mohair and cashmere industries, identify the important marketing problems encountered also those in the wool industry. The book will suggest marketing strategies which should bring growth and more prosperous conditions to merino wool, mohair and cashmere.

Project Title

Improving the efficiency of reproduction and breeding in Alpaca

RIRDC Project No.:

UCQ-11A

Start Date: 1/07/98 Finish Date: 15/06/01 Researcher: Prof. Michael D'Occhio Organisation: Central Queensland University

Bruce Highway NORTH ROCKHAMPTON QLD 4702

Phone: 07 4930 6900 Fax: 07 4930 9209 Email: m.docchio@cqu.edu.au Objectives

• The major outcome of this project will be a practical and effective treatment

(Oestadiol Mating Protocol) that will increase fertility and conception rates in female alpacas following natural mating or AI.

Current Progress

• Ongoing compilation of a literature review of the available information that has been

published on camelids. • Ongoing observational studies of alpaca reproductive behaviour in relation to ovarian

follicle diameter, blood oestradiol and progesterone concentrations and pregnancy: started 12/98, will continue until 12/99.

• Writing a database and collecting data to do a retrospective analysis of Australian alpaca reproductive indices.

• Studied ovarian follicular dynamics after treatment with exogenous 17β-oestradiol using a cross-over experimental design with 16 female alpacas in May-July 1999.

• Meetings with Dr Alex Tinson and Dr Angus MacKinnon, veterinarians with

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extensive experience with embryo transfer and other reproductive technologies in dromedary camels in the United Arab Emirates, to discuss camelid reproduction.

• RIRDC project updates to the Australian Alpaca Association annual conference, University of Melbourne Post-Graduate Seminar group and the Australian Camelid Veterinary Association in July-August 1999.

• Will observe ovarian follicular dynamics subsequent to treatment in a commercial herd that is making 40 female alpacas available in August 1999.

• Currently communicating with researchers in Peru to organise collaboration and access to a Peruvian research herd in January 2000. The high cost and low numbers of alpacas available in Australia severely restricts access to animals to allow statistically significant results to be achieved.