BCG Special Livestock Day a success

Management of sheep has been difficult for many Mallee and Wimmera farmers over the last few months given the tough start to the season, no green paddock feed and the need for supplementary feeding both in paddocks and containment areas. In response to the difficult season and a number of farmers indicating that more information about feeding strategies was required, BCG hosted a very successful livestock day at the Birchip Leisure Centre on 14 July, with guest presenter, Brian Ashton.

Brian Ashton, from PIRSA Rural Solutions, Port Lincoln, South Australia, has been working with sheep farmers for over 23 years specialising in managing sheep through droughts and tough seasons and brought a wealth of experience to the day. Eighty farmers attended the morning session in which Mr Ashton talked about feeding requirements of ewes and lambs in all stages of production, and supplementary feeding strategies including the use of grain, hay and minerals.

A hot topic for the morning was recognising symptoms of acidosis, nutrient deficiencies, pregnancy toxaemia (twin lamb disease) and milk fever. Farmers also asked about the practice of weaning lambs early and feeding sheep and lambs in containment areas. And perhaps the key issue for farmers during the morning was, is what we are doing profitable?

BCG Extension Coordinator, Fiona Best, said, “The morning has been fantastic. It has been a great opportunity for farmers, all in a similar situation, to share experiences and take advantage of Brian’s knowledge - somebody who has seen almost every possible situation, when it comes to sheep management during difficult seasons.”

During the afternoon a tour of three local feedlots was held, with over 50 farmers braving the cold and windy weather conditions. Feedlots visited were Scott Randall’s at Kinnabulla, David Ferrier and Jeremy Peakin’s as well as that of Ian and Warrick McClelland’s at Jil Jil. Each feedlot highlighted different issues that can arise when sheep and lambs are being managed in confinement areas and feedlots. The afternoon tour offered farmers an opportunity to discuss and gather different ideas about feedlot set-up, water troughs and feeding strategies from farmers who are putting the theory into practice.

The day was supported by the Victorian State Government, who have funded the Birchip Cropping Group to undertake a number of initiatives during the 2006 cropping season. For anybody who is interested, Brian referred to a new book "Feeding and managing sheep in dry times" which is available from the Roseworthy Information Centre on 1800 356 446, or can be ordered via the website www.ruralsolutions.sa.gov.au/bookshop.