Livestock Genetics Forum 2020 set for Adelaide

The impact of using genetics to adapt to a variable climate and continue to increase profitability is among the many topics set for discussion at the Livestock Genetics Forum 2020 to be held in Adelaide on 25-26 March.

Organised by Meat & Livestock Australia (MLA), the free forum is open for producers and all industry participants to attend, covering both cattle and sheep genetics.

This is the second forum of its kind, following on from the success of the inaugural forum in 2018 in Brisbane, which attracted more than 300 participants.

MLA General Manager – Research, Development and Adoption, Michael Crowley, said the forum was part of MLA’s broader approach to increasing the uptake of the use of genetic tools and technologies by livestock producers to boost productivity and profitability in their herd or flock.

“Since the inaugural forum, MLA has boosted investment in the genetics research and development portfolio, including the launch of a comprehensive new genetics hub in 2019, providing a one-stop-shop of tools and resources, aimed to demystify genetics and breeding values,” Mr Crowley said.

“There is a clear link between improving the rate of genetic gain and the commercial profitability of the Australian livestock industry. Attendees at the forum in Adelaide will hear about the strategic direction of MLA’s genetics program to 2025 and gain an insight into some of the key projects underway.  

“Speakers from throughout the supply chain and research organisations will unpack a range of topics including how producers can use breeding values to prepare to capture benefits from objective carcase measurement and associated pricing signals.

“Genetics needs to become part of the future tools the industry can use to help tackle our variable climate. Attendees will hear about what new traits are being investigated, how producers are changing their breeding programs and listen to a panel discussion on the big issues we will need to adapt to.

“A session designed for seedstock producers will discuss how key tools have been implemented into breeding programs and some of the science behind these tools that will accelerate breeding programs.

“An interactive session for commercial producers will discuss the key levers to pull to make sure their herd or flock is bred to optimise performance.”

The Livestock Genetics Forum 2020 will be held from 12.30pm on 25 March, to 12.30pm on 26 March, at Adelaide Convention Centre.  

The forum is free, but registration is essential for catering purposes.

To register for the forum, click here.