The latest grains and livestock research, development and innovations will be on display at the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development shed at the upcoming Wagin Woolorama.
A number of department projects that assist in boosting industry and regional economic growth will be part of the display.
Attendees can learn how to get the most out of the department’s updated weather website, launched at last year’s Wagin Woolorama and see a demonstration of a tilt sensor used to alert landholders when farm gates are left open.
Farmers can change their property details at the client property database stand, and information on employing farm hygiene practices to manage pest risks and free ‘Farm Biosecurity’ signs can be collected at the grains biosecurity display.
Expert advice on animal health and on-farm biosecurity will be available from department and private vets, as well as information on the footrot control program, Great Southern Cattle Surveillance Network and responsible use of antibiotics.
Department officers will provide practical advice on the NLIS sheep database requirements and will be sited with Livestock Production Assurance representatives will be on hand to answer questions on National Vendor Declarations and NLIS.
Department Southern Region director Neil Guise said the focus of the sheep research and development display was on innovations in condition scoring, an important tool in understanding variations in the flock and managing sheep nutrition heading into lambing season.
“Producers can view instructional videos on condition scoring and assessing feed on offer, and take away information and management tactics relevant to the WA sheep industry,” Mr Guise said.
“People who have not used electronic identification tags can come along and have a go at scanning ear tags using an electronic identification reader.
“An Internet of Things display will feature a remote level sensor that links to an online dashboard, illustrating the way landholders are able to check the levels in their water tanks, fuel tanks, or grain silos and improve efficiencies on bigger properties by reducing the need to check each asset in person.”
Biosecurity officers will be on hand to provide information and advice on the most appropriate control measures for invasive species including foxes and feral pigs on individual properties.
Autumn provides an ideal opportunity to undertake fox control before the start of lambing.
Livestock Compliance Unit inspectors staffing the department’s animal welfare display can provide updates on changes to legislation, including the implementation of national standards and guidelines, and advice on how people can have their say.
Visitors to the stand can find out animal welfare requirements in WA and common livestock welfare matters, such as ensuring animals are fit to load, and ask the inspectors about specific issues they are experiencing.
The department display will also include information about land and water, Recognised Biosecurity Groups, skeleton weed and MyPestGuide Reporter app and partners, Regional Men’s Health and Wagin Woodanilling Landcare.
The department shed can be found at site 626, corner Kitchener Street, Wagin Woolorama, located at 5 Ballagin Street, Wagin.
Media contact: Jodie Thomson/Dionne Tindale, media liaison +61 (0)8 9368 3937