Goat Roadshow to kick-off in Queensland
01 November 2018
Goatmeat producers or anyone considering diversifying into goats can access practical tips and tools for their businesses when Meat & Livestock Australia (MLA) launches its inaugural National Goat Roadshow later this month.
The Roadshow will commence with two free producer workshops in Queensland at Barcaldine on Thursday, 8 November and Charleville on Friday, 9 November.
Industry experts including MLA Goat Industry Technical Officer, Geoff Niethe, and MLA Goat Industry Project Manager, Julie Petty, will feature along with a panel of industry stakeholders including local producers, goat processor Western Meat Exporters, the Queensland Department of Agriculture & Fisheries and more.
Ms Petty said the Roadshow will focus on improving on-farm practices and business management skills in the Australian goat industry, as well as profiling the range of new resources and tools produced by MLA.
“We will also delve into the practical details of managing goats during the industry expert panel session, discussing animal health, biosecurity, selection of bucks, profitability and more,” Ms Petty said.
“Providing goatmeat producers with the latest best practice information to help boost on-farm productivity and profitability is vital for the industry to help grow supply and secure its future.
“The Australian goatmeat industry in 2017 was worth over $257 million. Goatmeat production in Australia continues to steadily rise on the back of the export market.
“In 2017, Australian goatmeat production reached 31,414 tonnes carcase weight, with 90% of that volume going to export. The US remains the key market for boxed goatmeat, accounting for 66% of exports by volume in 2017.”
The Roadshow will further complement MLA’s suite of extension resources for goatmeat producers, which includes a new series of 10 best practice videos released this year.
Registration for the Roadshow is essential and can be made online at www.agcommunicators.com.au/industry-events or by phone on 08 8332 3277.
The one-day workshops run from 9.30am to 2.30pm.
