SmartShepherd system fast tracking of product innovation and validation stages

Summary

The SmartShepherd system is an innovative technology solution that enables livestock breeders to collect maternal pedigree quickly and cost effectively. Maternal pedigree is the key to unlocking the genetic potential of a farmer's herd or flock, significant productivity gains can be achived by tracking which animals produce profitable offspring. Additionally, there are numerous animal welfare issues that can only be addressed by knowing the mothering ability of dams.

This project was undertaken to fast track the innovation and validations stages of the SmartShepherd system. This project has contributed to the release of a commercial ready product being available early 2018, making it possible for Australian livestock farmers to benefit from this innovation during the 2018 breeding season. The SmartShepherd System has demonstrated 96% accuracy within 48 hours of being placed on a mob of sheep.

The Australian red meat industry will benefit from availability of a new maternal pedigree system that is more accurate and less labour intensive than traditional mothering up and far more cost effective than genomic testing. This will enable Australian farmers to determine maternal pedigree on many more mobs, which will increase the speed of genetic gain for livestock, resulting in productivity gains for the entire industry.