The rollout of sheep and goat electronic identification (eID) technology this year is giving Northern Tablelands producers a timely opportunity to identify the best-performing animals in their flocks as drought conditions force difficult management decisions.
Helping producers use eID data to distinguish high-performing stock from underperforming animals is the focus of a new event hosted by Northern Tablelands Local Land Services in partnership with Animal Health & Nutrition (AHN) Consulting and For Flocks Sake this month.
The event will be held at the Inverell Rugby Club on Thursday, 25 June and will feature practical demonstrations of eID technology, including how to collect, analyse and interpret data to support on-farm decision-making.
For Flocks Sake director Dr Tim Gole will discuss the practical realities of using eID tags and share insights from his experience implementing technology in livestock production systems. Dr Gole has more than 14 years’ veterinary experience and specialises in flock health, genetics and data management.
Northern Tablelands Local Land Services Sheep and Goat eID Coordinator Ebony Nowlan said the technology could help producers make more informed decisions during challenging seasonal conditions.
“As sheep producers re-assess their current stocking rates, eID technology can provide insights to make decisions about which animals to sell simple.”
“By recording weight and growth rates, eID technology can also help producers to know exactly which animals in their flock are in poorest condition, and adjust their supplementary feeding accordingly,” she said.
“With the right training, eID can be a very effective tool for livestock management, especially in drought.”
AHN Consulting’s Dr Jillian Kelly will also present information on livestock nutrition during dry conditions and drought management strategies, including confinement feeding.
The session will focus on practical, interactive approaches that translate complex scientific principles into strategies producers can apply on-farm to improve livestock feeding and management outcomes.
Dr Kelly has worked extensively as both a private and district veterinarian and now provides livestock health and nutrition services across eastern Australia.
Morning tea and lunch will be provided.
Further information on the transition to sheep and goat electronic identification is available on the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development website at: https://www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/dpi/biosecurity/your-role-in-biosecurity/primary-producers/nlis/eID
For more information or tailored advice, contact a local biosecurity officer on 1300 795 299 or visit the Local Land Services website.
The event is free; however, registration is essential. To register, visit: https://www.nsw.gov.au/departments-and-agencies/local-land-services/events/data-driven-decision-making-and-drought-strategies
For further information about the event or advice on eID technology, contact the nearest Northern Tablelands Local Land Services office on 1300 795 299.
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