P.PIP.0762 - Wingham Beef Exports Supply Chain Officer
When data is collected at different points of the beef supply chain, converted to information and disseminated in a form which can be interpreted and acted upon by other chain members, it can increase efficiency and productivity.
| Project start date: | 14 December 2018 |
| Project end date: | 02 February 2022 |
| Publication date: | 09 May 2024 |
| Project status: | Completed |
| Livestock species: | Grain-fed Cattle, Grass-fed Cattle |
| Relevant regions: | NSW |
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Summary
This project covered the engagement of a full-time resource within Wingham Beef Exports to drive adoption of the increasing array of feedback and data that is being provided to NH Foods producers. The process, tools and materials developed can become available for use in the wider industry. Critically, this project will allow for the impact of the adoption of feedback to be quantified, which will help drive similar models across industry.
Objectives
• Enhance existing feedback reports covering MSA, Animal Health and investigate inclusion of Lean Meat Yield percentage.
• Investigate the possibility of collecting data and reporting on other issues that could affect yield and grading outcomes such as nutrition, animal handling and animal health.
• Understand current on-farm management systems and how they can evolve to use feedback from processors.
• Develop tools that farmers can use to maximise the benefits of feedback, for example, more controlled reproductive practices, better nutrition – trace elements, glycogen loading prior to shipping for slaughter.
• Identify relevant external tools and systems and implement in the supply chain.
• Identify local champions who are willing to trial innovative practices.
• Benchmark on-farm practices at the commencement and then measure annually to assess productivity improvements and provide case studies for other framers to follow.
• Develop extension material related to the above topics.
• Deliver four producer workshops per year for three years.
Key findings
Through the implementation of the project, it was identified that producers were interested in making changes, however they didn’t have access to all the information required to make informed decisions. The project has generated interest and update beyond the early adopters as producers without email are calling into the plant to access their animal health and carcase data. Individual carcase value has increased with increased MSA compliance and a reduction in active liver fluke being identified. Overall, multiple extension approaches are required for impact.
Benefits to industry
Collaboration with producers and WBE, MLA, service providers and ISC throughout the project helped increase awareness of MLA tools, support resources and practical help to increase producer capability. A producer education day at Walcha Veterinary Supplies focused on increasing carcase profitability by reducing the burden of Liver Fluke, a common defect identified in carcases. Producers now also have a far greater understanding of dark cutting, its implications for eating quality, and the impact on value for both themselves and the processor.
MLA action
A second program of work in this area is being developed to ensure enhanced digital and data capability throughout supply chains.
Future research
Collaboration across industry groups, community groups such as catchment management groups, extension services, animal health suppliers and providers (veterinarians) and animal health manufacturers, will provide an opportunity to increase access to information and provide information from several different sources. Enhanced collaboration across the different groups who interact with producers will improve producer outcomes.
More information
| Project manager: | Demelsa Lollback |
| Contact email: | reports@mla.com.au |
| Primary researcher: | Wingham Beef Exports Pty Ltd |
