L.PGS.2201 - PGS SLP Delivery Heifers for Profit National Bundle

Summary

The Supported Learning Package (SLP) 'Heifers for profit' was developed to coach producers on better heifer nutrition management to improve animal welfare, increase future reproductive success and optimise stocking rates. 'Heifers for profit' is a Profitable Grazing Systems (PGS) package owned and delivered by Rural Industries Skill Training (RIST).

Objectives

The objectives of the SLP are to inform on:

• the principles and practices of 'Heifers for profit'
• getting heifers in-calf efficiently  
• managing pregnancy and achieving critical weights  
• transitioning the heifer into a cow - preparation for calving and re-breeding
• managing calving  
• pre-joining management and calf marking.

Further objectives include:

• delivery of RIST's 'Heifers for profit' SLP to up to 40 cattle producers across five groups in SA, NSW, Victoria and WA.
• ensure the SLP was delivered in accordance with the approved SLP, including focus on the genetics and reproduction curriculum
• ensure the SLP was delivered to each group with five sessions over an 18-month period.

Key findings

Due to the nature of the PGS program, there were no key findings.

Benefits to industry

The recent Producer Adoption Impact Assessment demonstrated on average producers that participate in PGS SLP can expect an additional net benefit of $18/ha annually.

MLA action

MLA will continue to invest in the PGS program.

Future research

Due to the nature of the PGS program, there was no research conducted and no further research required.