Summary of presentations at
Open Day in August 2008
Two excellent speakers gave plenty of stimulus with presentations on topics very relevant to Prime Lamb producers.
Mr Ashley White: Livestock officer with NSW DPI at Cowra. Ashley’s topic was “Proof of profit in ram selection” based on trials at Tooraweena to measure profit from selection of Rams for growth and muscle. Results include bone-out and valuation of carcases. All prime lamb ram buyers should be aware of this information.
This is a stunning presentation and some of the Power Points can be viewed at the link below. When the file opens, use the "Page Down" key to view the slides. To return to this page, use the "Back button".
I was pleasantly surprised that the trials supported the breeding programme at Coronga to make more profit for our clients by producing higher growth and high muscling rams.
For more information contact ashley.white@dpi.nsw.gov.au
Ashley also has available information and literature on workshops for prime lamb producers such as “weaning more lambs”.
Mr Phillip Graham: 20 years as livestock officer with NSW DPI at Yass. During that time has conducted an ongoing grazing trial at Bookham looking at the interaction between fertilizer, pasture production and profits of grazing systems.
Currently Technical Specialist Animal Grazing Systems for NSW DPI. Phil’s topic was “Are Prime Lambs Profitable at $400 per tonne for super”.
Phil has comparisons between fertilizer inputs at various prices and lamb returns at various prices. Great info when deciding your outlay on fertilizer.
His big message was to utilise soil testing to properly evaluate all parts of paddocks in order to put fertilizer where and at the level to be most profitable.
Even at $500 per tonne fertilizer can be profitable if judiciously applied.
