Your levies at work // January/FebruarySeptember/October 2015 2015

Ambassador 30// Chef Aaron Brooks shares his love of lamb with the US

06// How the MLA Donor Company adds value 12// Genetic trail blazer A northern producer leads the way 16// Match making Finding the right ram just got easier 27// All about phosphorus The focus of soil fertility research in the north Feedback: Your levies at work September/October 2015

A note from the MD... I’m also conscious of keeping in touch Parliament in mid-September. The with what’s happening around the country agreement includes the following benefits for livestock producers and around the for Australian red meat: world when it comes to demand for our > tariffs levied on Australian beef of great product. Whether I’m in China, as I 12–25% will be eliminated over the next was during August, meeting with nine years customers and gaining an understanding of opportunities in that market; meeting > sheepmeat and goatmeat tariffs of 12–23% industry leaders at the Royal Melbourne will be eliminated over eight years Show in September; or heading to central > 12–15% tariffs on offal will be eliminated and northern Queensland in October to over four to nine years meet with producers – I value the interactions I have and the time people > 5–14% tariffs on hides and skins will be spend letting me know how their eliminated over four to eight years businesses are going and how MLA can > 10% tariffs on live cattle and sheep will ed meat production, exports, better respond to their needs. be eliminated over four years. cattle and retail prices continue On that note, I want to remind all members The parliament will vote on the Bill in R at record levels at the moment, about the opportunity they have to vote at coming months. If you have further and have contributed to the total this year’s MLA annual general meeting in questions or want to know how to get off-farm value of the cattle, lamb Brisbane on 10 November. Members will involved regarding ChAFTA please contact and mutton industry increasing to be receiving their AGM voting entitlement our peak industry councils (CCA, SCA or $23.2 billion in 2014–15, 18% higher and proxy form and notice of meeting in ALFA) or the National Farmers’ Federation. year-on-year. Although it is a the mail during October. Please keep an spectacular result I am very mindful of eye out for it and I encourage you to not the ongoing challenges faced by only vote, but also attend this year’s AGM. producers with continuing drought and The legislation needed to implement the the record sell-off of livestock that has China-Australia Free Trade Agreement Richard Norton been necessary for many producers. (ChAFTA) was introduced into Federal MLA Managing Director

Contents Feedback is produced and 16 Made to measure published by Meat & Livestock Cover story 18 Seeing the opportunities Australia Ltd (ABN 39 081 678 364). 30 Red meat’s advocates 06 19 AACo’s gas reduction explorations MLA acknowledges the matching How the MLA Up-front 20 Moving into the pastoral zone funds provided by the Australian 03 Consultation rollout Donor Company Government to support the 21 Keeping a close eye on costs research and development detailed 03 NVD update adds value 22 What does it take to produce the in this publication. In-brief best lamb? E: [email protected] 04 Looking at the forecast 24 Genetic gains name of the game T: 1800 023 100 // F: 02 9463 9393 04 Moving forward with MISP www.mla.com.au 12 25 Breeding for profit 04 Strategies from market statistics Genetic trail 26 Progeny projects pay off This magazine was printed on Sumo 04 A new horizon for Caitlyn blazer 26 What’s come out of the BIN? Offset Laser, an environmentally 05 Strengthening live export assurance responsible paper manufactured 27 Delving into P deficiencies under the environmental Insight 27 Putting it to the test management system ISO 14001 06 Driving industry innovation 16 using Elemental Chlorine Free (ECF) without levies Match making 29 Desmanthus for dollars pulp sourced from sustainable 07 MDC investment snapshots forests. Sumo Offset Laser is FSC Growing demand Chain of Custody (CoC) certified Industry 33 Recipes: The season for lamb (mixed sources). 09 A smorgasbord of learnings 27 Markets Disclaimer: The views expressed in 10 Disease review to influence All about 34 Around the globe Feedback are not necessarily those of investment MLA, its employees or agents. Feedback phosphorus 35 On the ground: European Union 10 Research in action content is provided as information not as 36 The changing face of Australian advice and you should make your own On-Farm enquiries before making decisions markets 12 No free ride with the Rea family concerning your interests. All material in 15 Bovine anaemia In the Field Feedback is copyright. Reproduction of the material is encouraged, however due 16 Smart tools to make smart decisions 38 Past and upcoming events acknowledgement to Feedback is required. Cover: Australian born, Miami based chef and lambassador Aaron Brooks. Image courtesy Four Seasons Miami. 03 Up-front

Consultation rollout

NVD update AFEMEAT, the body responsible for safety and hygiene standards Sin Australia’s red meat industry has announced that from 16 November 2015, producers will need to ensure they are using the most up-to-date version of the Livestock Production Assurance National Vendor Declaration (LPA NVD) form. NABRC SAFEMEAT chair Ross Keane said he was confident that more than two-thirds SAMRC (including Queensland sheep) of Australia’s livestock producers are already using current LPA NVD forms WAMRC but it’s important all producers are ready for the November phase-out. “With 54% of lamb, 97% of sheepmeat, 70% of beef and 95% of goatmeat being MLA’s back-to-basics approach to seeking producer input into its exported, the decision (to change the research, development and adoption priorities has attracted strong form) was necessary to meet domestic support from producers and research organisations. and importing country requirements,” Ross said. The new strategy sees the creation of Producers in Western Australia will not “This change means the small number of independent research councils in southern miss out, with the newly appointed producers who are still using old forms and Western Australia that will allow coordinator of the Western Australia will need to obtain the latest LPA NVD producers to have direct input into how their Livestock Research Council, Erin Gorter, version to ensure our system consistently levies are invested. In northern Australia, enthusiastic about giving the west a strong delivers what international customers MLA will partner with the existing North voice in the setting of national research, require.” Australia Beef Research Council (NABRC) to development and adoption priorities. LPA NVD’s are required for movements offer northern producers the same All research councils will be busy in the of all LPA-accredited livestock (sheep, opportunity. coming months gathering feedback and lambs, goats and cattle) including Seven producers from southern Australia developing regional priorities to be considered property to property, through saleyards, have been selected (for contact details visit and used to guide MLA research projects. direct to processors, feedlots, and to the www.mla.com.au/samrc) to lead regional live export trade. Southern Australia Meat Research committees of the Southern Australia Meat From 16 November 2015 producers Council (SAMRC) Independent Chair Research Council (SAMRC). In August, should only use LPA NVD’s labelled 0413, SAMRC regional committees met in Sydney Ralph Shannon // T: 0403 351 732 E: [email protected] and for bobby calves forms labelled 0412. for their first face-to-face meeting. North Australia Beef Research NABRC regional chairs were introduced to Council (NABRC) Independent Chair MLA’s fresh approach at the council’s August Lee Fitzpatrick // T: 0408 622 759 meeting in Darwin, where MLA’s General E: [email protected] Manager of On-farm Innovation and Adoption, Western Australia Livestock Research Dr Matt McDonagh, emphasised the Council (WALRC) Coordinator Erin Gorter // T: 0429 833 752 importance of being able to tap into NABRC’s Producers can order a new E: [email protected] history of driving research into issues hard copy LPA NVD booklet online, www.mla.com.au/About-MLA/ or purchase electronic NVDs, at: affecting producers in northern Australia. RD-Consultation http://lpa.ausmeat.com.au 04 In-brief

Looking at Moving forward with the MISP the forecast he Meat Industry Strategic Plan (MISP it sets out clear objectives and key performance 2020) is a key document in setting the indicators to help us get there,” he said. Tdirection of the red meat industry. “MLA will work collaboratively with industry and LA is one of 14 MISP 2020 is created in conjunction with map out how the MISP objectives can be practically partners in a new industry; including producers, processors, achieved to benefit producers and tackle some of three-year M exporters and service providers such as MLA, the bigger issues, including objective carcase research project titled Livecorp and Australian Meat Processor measurement and value-based marketing “Improved Use of Seasonal Corporation. The core pillars of MISP 2020 are: “I strongly believe that MLA is playing a critical role Forecasting to Increase in improving the outlook and prosperity of the Farmer Profitability.” > consumer and community support red meat sector, and we’re up for the challenge.” The aim of the project is to > market growth and diversification. MISP 2020 was launched by Minister for Agriculture bridge the gap between > supply chain integrity and efficiency Barnaby Joyce in Canberra on 9 September. seasonal climate forecasts and > productivity and profitability. on-farm business decisions MLA’s Annual Operating Plan (AOP) for 2015-16 MLA Managing Director Richard Norton said the to improve productivity and has already been approved by industry, including MISP provided clear guidance on priorities. profitability by: the Peak Industry Councils, and can be viewed “The MISP offers a vision of where the red meat online at www.mla.com.au. MLA’s AOP for the > identifying the critical industry wants to be in the future, and, importantly, next four years will be based on the MISP 2020. information requirements relating to seasonal climate risks for primary Strategies from market statistics industries by sector, type heck out MLA’s new online Statistics product,” MLA’s Manager of Market Information of decision and region Database, which provides producers with Ben Thomas said. > enabling producers to use Caccess to long-term price, production and “There is huge potential benefit from this data, the unrealised potential in consumption data, as well as information from a resulting in a boost to the productivity of the existing seasonal climate number of export markets. Australian beef and lamb industry.” forecasts by developing “By accessing specific market reports, businesses tools, information and can make more informed decisions – in terms of The Statistics Database is available at: training to help producers www.statistics.mla.com.au breeding, buying or selling stock or exporting understand and use seasonal forecasts in business decision making > improving the seasonal A new horizon forecasting capabilities of Australia’s primary for Caitlyn forecasting model (POAMA/ACCESS) by ictorian veterinary science student analysing and reducing Caitlyn Daffey has been awarded a 2015 the main errors that V Horizon Scholarship, supported by negatively impact the Meat & Livestock Australia. quality of seasonal “I believe the program will allow me to do this The Horizon Scholarship, an initiative of Rural predictions through financial support, but also with Industries Research and Development Corporation opportunities from mentoring and development The project will be managed in partnership with industry sponsors, provides workshops,” she said. by the Rural Industries financial support during a student’s undergraduate “I intend to use the Horizon Scholarship for Research and Development university degree, encouraging young people across university expenses, such as accommodation, Corporation. The Federal Australia to pursue fields of study in agriculture. Government will fund $1.8 text books and study equipment for the duration Caitlyn said the Horizon Scholarship would help her million of the $3.5 million of my course. give back to rural communities after graduation project, with the remainder “On graduation I would like to find work in a by providing support throughout her degree. to come from the partners. remote community. I’d love to be able to assist Growing up in Ballarat, Victoria, Caitlyn’s love of producers in improving their stock yield and sheep farming and horses, and a year on a overcome welfare and disease issues.” Northern Territory cattle station in 2014 inspired her to pursue a career as a rural vet. She is www.rirdc.gov.au/research-programs/ rural-people-issues/horizon-scholarship www.rirdc.gov.au currently studying at James Cook University. 05 In-brief

Strengthening live export assurance

Since July 2011, the livestock export industry has operated under the Australian Government’s Exporter Supply Chain Assurance System (ESCAS). Now a new, more robust assurance system is being trialled. A research and development project, being undertaken by MLA and LiveCorp, aims to develop a more robust assurance system that will Comparison of strengthen the principles of ESCAS, better ensure the welfare of exported animals and demonstrate the professionalism of the trade ESCAS and LGAP while protecting the long-term sustainability of the entire industry. FEATURES: ESCAS LGAP The Livestock Global Assurance Program (LGAP) is currently in Exporter Supply Livestock Global Chain Assurance Assurance development and is due to be piloted in Malaysia (for goats), System Program Indonesia (cattle) and the Middle East (sheep) in coming months. Ensures that Australian livestock exported for feeder and slaughter purposes are handled in ✔ ✔ Under ESCAS, regulatory requirements are only able to be placed on accordance with the (OIE) Terrestrial Animal Australian exporters – not overseas facilities. Health Code. As a non-regulatory program, LGAP will be able to place Facilitates trade and prevents the occurrence of a ✔ ✔ total trade suspension. requirements and consequences on in-market importers, auditors, Provides a mechanism to deal with animal ✔ ✔ feedlots and abattoirs, not just exporters. welfare issues. In-market facilities would be more immediately accountable for Provides impetus to improve infrastructure and ✔ ✔ their activities under LGAP, without the responsibility currently training in export market facilities. borne by exporters under ESCAS, being diluted. Requires animal traceability throughout the ✔ ✔ supply chain. Australian exporters would continue to be subject to Australian Requires exporters to ensure the welfare, Government export regulations, with LGAP being a means for them traceability and control of livestock from their ✔ ✔ to more effectively demonstrate and ensure true compliance with arrival in the importing country until they are slaughtered. the principles of ESCAS. Able to place requirements on all participating Adherence to the program’s requirements would be verified facilities and operators in the supply chain, making ✔ through internal and external audits. External auditing would be them individually accountable for animal welfare and management. undertaken by independent organisations with no financial Developed based on international guidelines and ✔ relationship between them and the entity being audited. precedence, including those from ISO and WTO. The consequences of non-conformance under LGAP would vary Enables individually certified facilities to become ✔ depending on the breach, but a major or critical non-conformity may the links in an Australian exporter’s supply chain. result in the certification of a facility being suspended or withdrawn. Independent of direct changes in government ✔ in both Australia and elsewhere. The proposed structure of LGAP aims to do more for improving the Provides a definitive process for managing ✔ welfare of all animals in foreign markets, as it is not limited to just nonconformities within a short timeframe. Australian livestock. The program will encourage developing Greater and more timely visibility into conformance ✔ markets to improve animal welfare practices by offering different aids early detection of possible breaches. levels of requirements and a pathway to improvement. Capacity to include Australian and non-Australian ✔ The development of LGAP is being guided by a consultative livestock. committee comprising livestock exporters and representatives Places strict requirements on auditors to ensure ✔ appropriate levels of competency and conduct. from the Australian Department of Agriculture, the Australian Veterinary Association, MLA, LiveCorp and the Australian Provides a mechanism to ensure conformance ✔ during inter-audit gap. Livestock Exporters’ Council. Significant consultation has also been Facility certification status can be shared between occurring with exporters and in-market stakeholders, as well as supply chains thereby eliminating audit duplication ✔ producer representatives. and cost. The development project is funded under the Livestock Export Demonstration of conformance can be scaled to suit ✔ any sized facility. Program, with funding split by MLA (25%), LiveCorp (25%) and the Australian Government (50%). Research outcomes will be provided to the livestock export www.livestockglobalassurance.org industry in March 2016, after which the industry will consider the Check out the webinar and the frequently asked questions section for detailed information. feasibility of implementation. 06 Insight

Value chain Driving industry innovation without levies In the past 16 years, the MLA Donor Company (MDC) has invested more than $200 million in research and development (R&D) projects for the benefit of the beef and lamb industry. Dr Christine Pitt.

This level of investment in Figure 1 MLA Donor Company investment in 2014–15 innovation within the industry Maintaining has delivered a range of new and $0.3m technologies and ideas that improving otherwise would not have been market access possible. MLA General Manager Value Growing $6.0m Chain Innovation Dr Christine demand Pitt (pictured top right) said the funds invested came from a Increasing range of industry partners, productivity $19.3m including breed societies, across the pastoral companies, processors, supply chain value-adders, technology Supporting providers and international industry $4.4m collaborators, and were integrity and co-invested with matching sustainability Commonwealth funds. Total investment $30 million – includes voluntary contributions from investment partners and matched R&D funding from the Australian Government. No MLA producer levies were invested. “No producer levies are used but can only match two kinds there is still money left over. “We sought input from a number in Donor Company projects; of dollars: “The Donor Company enables us of sheepmeat processors who instead, the MDC attracts > money that comes via a levy to access those left-over funds. came together as a steering investment from designated for research It’s a ‘use it or lose it’ system – group. We then brought in commercial partners,” purposes if we didn’t have the MDC, the automation technology Christine said. providers and they formed a > money that comes as excess funding would go back into the Commonwealth’s collaborative network to “This system allows us to fully voluntary contributions via consolidated revenue and our develop strategies and access the matching funds a donor company. industry would lose the prototypes. allocated by the Commonwealth “Each year there is a certain opportunity to develop “The first prototype has been and so greatly increase the amount of matching funds innovations that deliver trialled in one processor’s plant, amount of money invested in available to MLA – usually from significant benefit to our levy but the whole group had input. red meat innovation.” about $49 million to $54 payers and industry Even now, that spirit of million,” Christine said. MLA has access to matching stakeholders.” collaboration is continuing, and Commonwealth funds for the “Once we’ve allocated matching the processors who have Fostering a spirit of purpose of R&D investment, dollars to all the levy funds, adopted the technology in their collaboration plants are willing to show it to According to Christine, a great other processors. Table 1 MLA and MLA Donor Company comparisons benefit of MDC partnerships is Funding sources increased collaboration within “Australia now leads the Government Voluntary the industry and faster adoption contributions contributions of innovation. world in red meat processing automation, with the new Producer (for R&D from partner “An example is the automated technology delivering value Company Owner levies projects) investors lamb boning project we began and efficiency for the MLA Producers ✔ ✔ ✘ in the mid-2000s,” Christine processors, with benefits MLA Donor MLA said. (See breakout story on ✘ ✔ ✔ flowing back to producers.” Company page 7). 07 Insight

MDC investment snapshots

LA Donor Company (MDC) LEAP III and LEAP IV are operating in two partnerships have delivered a range Australian processors (JBS and Australian Lamb of benefits to the red meat industry, Company). These multi-million dollar investments Christine said an exciting M including: typically have less than 12 month payback. development emerging from the automation program was > improved on-farm and off-farm sustainability Information: www.scott.co.nz/meat- the ability to objectively measure > reduced production costs leading to a more processing/lamb/lamb-processing a range of carcase attributes. competitive industry 2. Machinery Automation Robotics’ ovine (See case studies on page 7). > higher standards of occupational health and brisket cutter safety “This new capability will This system identifies the navel end of the breast > value-added products that have facilitated underpin greater exchange of bone and a circular saw cuts the breast bone access to new international markets and information along the chain down the centre of the carcase. increased export earnings and will become the basis of > enhanced supply chain collaboration The cutter can deliver savings through: whole new business models > increased innovation capability. decreased labour requirements and payment systems,” she said. > Here are three case study examples of MDC > reduced workplace injury Long-term partnerships investments. While anyone can be an MDC > improved yield and food safety. partner (providing they only Case study: Automated processing A cost/benefit analysis estimates a net benefit of invest non-Commonwealth technology up to 5c/head. funds) and one-off project Challenge: To develop fully automated and The Robotic Brisket Cutter is commercially suggestions are welcome, semi-automated carcase cutting equipment which: available for $150,000/unit. Christine said the donor > adds value to lamb slaughter and dressing Value chain benefits: Automated systems give company generally sought to > improves meat yield processors the ability to increase product value, encourage long-term > increases processing efficiencies improve yield and reduce labour costs, which partnerships, as this > delivers operator safety. enable abattoirs to purchase and process more encouraged a more strategic Partners: MDC, technology providers, processors stock, benefiting producers. Economic modelling approach that was more likely has revealed that producers capture 24% of the to involve multiple projects. Outcomes: benefit from any increase in productivity by 1. Scott Technology’s X-ray guided automated One example is the Beef processors. Information Nucleus (BIN) (see lamb cutting system, LEAP™ Information: story page 25) , which is a This equipment uses X-ray to find specific bones www.machineryautomation.com.au portfolio of projects established and cut between them. The precise cutting lines through the donor company increase value of product by not leaving higher- and funded by major breed value meat on a lesser-value cut. Watch the brisket cutter in action at: www. societies to further develop There are two systems: youtube.com/watch?v=9jG0exUc0jE genetic technologies. LEAP III – lamb primal system: separates carcases Christian Ruberg, MLA into shoulder, middle and hindquarters. Increases E: [email protected] carcase value by $1.30–$1.40/head. Darryl Heidke, MLA LEAP IV – middle system: breaks the rack barrel E: [email protected] into various sub-primal components. Increases Dr Christine Pitt, MLA T: 0411 680 520 carcase value by $3.20–$4.20/head. E: [email protected]

For information on how to partner with the MDC: Go to: www.mla.com.au/ Research-and-development/ Funding-opportunities/ Industry-researchers Contact MDC manager Skye Richmond on 02 9463 9213. LEAP III and IV lamb processing automation. The ovine brisket cutter. 08 Insight

Value chain injection, which presented operator safety, high temperature HPP can produce tender carcase quality and animal welfare issues. meat and is ideal for secondary cuts with Information: Jim Rothwell, MLA similar quality to sous vide/slow-cooked Case study: Pain relief for cattle E: [email protected] dishes, but in 15 minutes rather than six hours. and sheep 2. High moisture extrusion cooked: Challenge: To improve on-farm animal Case study: Developing new red This process uses extrusion to ‘create’ a welfare by developing a safe and effective meat products meat product with great texture and fibres pain relief method, which has manageable Challenge: The face of the food industry is made from lean trimmings. It’s ideal for withholding periods, for use during animal rapidly changing. Impacts are being felt as a pizza toppings, sandwiches and rolls and a husbandry procedures in cattle and sheep. result of: range of foodservice uses, and may deliver Partners: MDC, Troy Laboratories, CSIRO > increasing globalisation value chain benefits of up to $10/beef and and industry partners > an ageing population $1/lamb carcase. Outcomes: This $1 million partnership > a move away from traditional meals 3. Commercial partnerships: MLA has developed a new way to administer the eaten in the home supported the development of products for rapidly absorbed non-steroidal anti- > the growth of the foodservice sector, particular markets including sizzle steak inflammatory drug (NSAID) meloxicam, including conference and convention (using Thin Slice Technology), sausages which was originally developed as an catering, airlines and retirement facilities (fast-chilled NuMeat technology), sous injectable for cattle. > economic growth and the westernisation vide-cooked rib fillet (SmartShape™ technology), pulled meats (cooking/ Troy Laboratories developed a gel of China and South-East Asia shredding processes) and a range of formulation of the drug, ILIUM®Buccalgesic > advancements in technologies. meat-based toddler and baby food products. OTM, which can be orally administered to This suite of MDC projects has sought to Value chain benefits: Greater use of both sheep and cattle. grow red meat demand by investing in the secondary cuts and increased value of these Following treatment with the drug it takes creation of products for developing markets, cuts, and the development of new markets six or more minutes for effective blood new meat processing technologies, for Australian red meat . levels to occur, so ideally the drug should be developing capability within the industry given before the painful procedure. (by educating butchers, foodservice and Information: Michael Lee, MLA E: [email protected] The hook-nozzle dosing gun has been processing partners) and researching the designed for ease of use and the gel is bright forces impacting the market. See beef and goat innovations come blue so it’s easy to see if an animal has been Partners: MDC, Australian Meat Processing to life at www.youtube.com.au/ treated. It can be given while the animals Corporation (AMPC), industry and meatandlivestock (scroll to ‘MLA Red Meat Innovation’) are in the race, so the medication is kicking technology partners Skye Richmond // T: 02 9463 9213 in at the time of operation. Outcomes: E: [email protected] ILIUM®Buccalgesic OTM can be purchased 1. High pressure processing (HPP): through a veterinarian and costs about $1/ This process uses pressure and water to calf. The sheep product is due for release surround the sealed meat product to this year and will cost about 35–45 cents/lamb. significantly extend shelf life without the Value chain benefits: Meloxicam was need to freeze or add preservatives. When previously only available in the form of an pressure is also used in combination with

Orally administered pain relief for sheep. High pressure processing in action. Meat from high pressure processing. 9 Industry

Value chain A smorgasbord of learnings From Australia's west to Asia's east A memorandum of understanding was signed mid-2015 by MLA, V&V Walsh, the Department of Agriculture and Fisheries WA A recent trip to China served up more than hot pot for Neville McDonald. The (DAFWA) and Heilongjiang Grand China Insight Tour in July, facilitated by DAFWA and MLA, not only gave Neville, Farm Group which will see: seven other sheep producers and industry representatives an insight into the supply chain and market requirements, but saw an MOU signed to supply an additional 500,000 lambs a year into Grand Farms’ Chinese distribution channels. Neville runs a 70% cropping, 30% sheep enterprise on 12,000ha at Beaumont, east of Esperance, Western Australia, with his parents and brothers. They run 4,000 ewes and operate a lamb feedlot which annually turns out 25,000 head, mainly direct to Bunbury 500,000 lambs needed each year to processor V&V Walsh. supply China’s Grand Farm, the largest Neville shared with Feedback his lessons from sheepmeat and third largest beef the China Insight Tour: importer into China. 1. Different markets demand different products: Neville was surprised to see sheep kidneys priced higher than loin chops in Chinese supermarkets. Other secondary cuts, such as necks, flaps and briskets are also popular with Chinese consumers, creating an opportunity to value-add Australian lamb. To be processed by WA’s largest 2. Australia’s high safety and integrity processor V&V Walsh. status is invaluable: Meat managers in Neville McDonald in China. Grand Farm retail outlets reinforced the importance of Australia’s environmental and food safety credentials. Neville said the Australian lamb won’t slow, he will take message was to embrace quality assurance cautious approach in his own business with and traceability systems. a slow increase in ewe numbers and a feedlot 3. There are gaps in integrity: The lack of expansion on the cards. He said supplying market access for chilled Australian lamb to China in spring, when there is a gap sheepmeat undermines the true value of in their domestic production, could present our products. Frozen product is defrosted a price benefit for Australian producers. and processed in China, and although some To be transported frozen to Grand MLA will use the V&V Walsh and Grand Farm Farm’s new processing facilities in companies such as Grand Farms do identify supply chain model to develop other projects, Xilinhot, Inner Mongolia. Australian product, not all companies do. which aim to sustainably increase lamb 4. Supply chain relationships are important: production and improve supply chain Neville said good relationships with his efficiencies and returns to producers. It is part stock agent and processor are integral to his of MLA’s involvement, through the MLA Donor business. He said two-way feedback is Company (which doesn’t use producer levies), important to position processors and to co-invest in a number of targeted, strategically producers to take advantage of new aligned programs within the $300 million marketing opportunities. DAFWA Royalties for Regions program to 5. Demand is huge: There are between secure the profitability and sustainability of 360–520 million Chinese middle class WA’s food and agriculture sector. To be sold in Grand Farm’s retail consumers who want safe and healthy outlets to Chinese consumers. protein. Although Neville came home with www.mla.com.au/Marketing-beef- and-lamb/International-markets the ‘gut feel’ that China’s hunger for 10 Industry

Disease review to influence investment

With the completion of the first cost-of-disease review in almost a decade, Australia’s livestock industries have a much clearer direction of where research, development and adoption dollars should be spent.

MLA’s animal health, welfare and biosecurity project Table 1 Top five cattle diseases (total cost to northern and manager, Dr Johann Schröder, said the MLA-funded southern herds) analysis unveiled some significant changes in the effects Disease Annual cost of cattle, sheep and goat diseases on industry. 1. Cattle tick $156 million “This is potentially a very powerful document that shows some 2. BVDV/pestivirus $117 million sizeable shifts in which diseases are affecting us most,” he said. 3. Buffalo fly $98.1 million “For example, in cattle, bovine viral diarrhoea virus – also known as pestivirus – has gone from nowhere in the previous review to 4. Dystocia $97.8 million number two on the list.” 5. Neonatal calf mortality $96.2 million Johann said that for the first time the review measured the impact of diseases that usually only became evident during processing. Table 2 Top five sheep diseases “The negative effects on industry of illnesses such as arthritis, liver Disease Annual cost fluke and sheep measles weren’t quantified in the previous report,” 1. Perinatal mortality (includes losses to $540.4 million he said. dystocia) “This is where the new MLA-developed Livestock Data Link, which 2. Internal parasites $435.9 million will provide carcase feedback and trouble-shooting advice, will be able to put useful information into the hands of producers to 3. Dystocia $219.6 million address these problems.” 4. Weaner ill thrift and mortality $187.55 million Internal parasites were the biggest issue for the goat industry, with 5. Flystrike $173.17 million pulpy kidney coming in second. Johann said he expected the review to influence industry research Johann Schröder, MLA // T: 07 3620 5202 and development priorities for at least the next decade. E: [email protected] Download the disease report at: www.mla.com.au/Research-and-development Research in action

Membrane blood feeder and Buffalo fly buffalo flies on a mating platform used in rearing.

he latest buzz on buffalo fly control is that MLA-funded reared through all life research may have found a biological control agent to stages in a laboratory – Tinhibit its spread. without using live cattle – Buffalo fly is ranked number three on the list of endemic cattle an important animal diseases (Table 1) and the pest is steadily spreading south. welfare outcome – and a buffalo fly cell line. Senior Research Fellow at the University of Queensland Dr Peter James said Wolbachia, a maternally transmitted intracellular “Availability of these tools bacteria, is being investigated for use in controlling a range of insect will also help investigation of other methods of buffalo fly control in pests and insect-vectored diseases. areas such as early screening and clarification of modes of action of new insecticides, resistance screening and the use of viruses and “We are working on a project now to see if Wolbachia will provide baculoviruses for biocontrol and vaccine design,” he said. area-wide control of buffalo fly and arrest its southerly spread,” he said. Peter said his team had developed two important research tools to Dr Peter James // T: 07 3255 4268 // E: [email protected] enable these studies: a persisting colony of buffalo flies that can be 11 Industry

Bovine viral diarrhoea virus

or cattle producers, bovine viral diarrhoea virus “This is particularly useful when buying in females whose (pestivirus) can seem like a bolt from the blue – its pestivirus status is unknown.” Fpresence undetected until it causes abortions, stillbirths Sasha said Pestigard vaccinations were ineffective on PIs. or deformed calves. “The vaccine cannot cure the infection, it only helps to minimise the The cost to producers, estimated by MLA’s cost-of-disease review, is spread to susceptible animals,” she said. $170 million a year in lost production, ranked second behind losses Infected herds may also exhibit higher incidences of other health from cattle tick. conditions. In an effort to contain the spread of pestivirus and limit its effects, “The disease severely compromises the immune system, meaning MLA funded a project run by the University of Adelaide to identify affected herds can be impacted more often and more severely by persistently infected (PI) calves in utero. other diseases such as calf scours, mastitis and respiratory diseases,” PI calves are typically exposed to pestivirus between one and four she said. months’ gestation. They remain constantly and highly infectious “We also have anecdotal reports of higher incidences of, for example, during their typically shortened lives (usually less than 18 months) ring worm in herds that have no protective measures in place.” and properties harbouring them experience variable losses. In another MLA-funded project at the University of Adelaide, PIs maintain the disease cycle, continually exposing vulnerable overseen by Sasha, PhD student Caitlin Evans is investigating the breeders and their unborn foetuses to infection. transmission of pestivirus from cattle to sheep, and vice versa. Research fellow Dr Sasha Lanyon has developed a serum analysis that can detect the antibody difference between a breeder carrying Dr Sasha Lanyon // T: 0408 602 774 a PI foetus and one that isn’t. E: [email protected] “Having the ability to detect PIs in utero means they can be calved To help manage your herd’s health use the More Beef from down in isolation and the calves humanely euthanised, ensuring Pastures Herd Health and Welfare module: www.mbfp.mla.com.au/Herd-health-and-welfare the rest of the herd is protected,” she said.

Cows involved in pestivirus-detection research – which ones are carrying ‘persistently-infected’ calves?

A cow from the pestivirus research trial cleans her newborn, neurologically-affected calf. The calf appeared bright and normal but was unable to get up without assistance for two The cow bra stops the newborn calf from suckling prior to weeks. The calf survived but remained neurologically-affected due to a pestivirus sample collections. infection in utero. 12 On-farm

Research at work

The latest on-farm strategies emerging from MLA’s investment in research, development and adoption.

In this 15// BATOG 18// Exploring emissions 22// Top of the class 25// Out of the BIN issue What is it and why do cattle Read how large producers Learn what it takes to The genetic learnings producers need to know are examining carbon produce Australia’s best lamb. continue from the about it? reduction options. nucleus herds.

Robert and Donna Rea took out the MLA Genetic No free ride Improvement Award at this year’s Beef Australia 2015 for their commitment to advancing the genetics of the with the Reas northern cattle industry. > 13 On-farm

Genetics Snapshot Robert and Donna Rea, Townsville, Qld.

Property: 10,800ha Enterprise: Droughtmaster stud and steers for the Japan ox market Livestock: 850 breeders Pasture: Legumes, stylos, buffel grass, Urochloa, ponded pasture Soil: Sandy loam to heavy, dark, black cracking soils and salt pan Rainfall: 750mm summer dominant

‘Lisgar’ bulls are put through a rigorous selection process including a Bull Breeding Soundness Evaluation and semen morphology testing. he Reas mantra – ‘it’s a calf or sense. However, I had a lot of trouble genetics was the only area where we your carcase’ – may sound with the concepts of high and low could make further significant Ttough, but their unerring growth,” he said. improvements,” Robert said. devotion to lifting their herd’s “I’d look at my mature steers and think Morphology testing productivity has made ‘Lisgar’ a ‘they’re big, what’s not high growth about All bulls undergo a full Bull Breeding profitable beef business, as measured that?’ but yet performance recording Soundness Evaluation (BBSE), including by gross margin per adult equivalent. was showing them to be slow growth. sperm morphology, at 600 days. How do they do it? By measuring and “With the help of Alan Laing (Queensland “This is an early-in-life test to find our recording everything they can, Department of Agriculture and most fertile bulls,” Robert said. embracing genetic technologies, such Fisheries Senior Beef Extension Officer), “Our pass mark is 70% normal sperm, but as BREEDPLAN and DNA testing, and it dawned on me. Not low, but slow. My those that fail are re-tested again in 60 to taking a hard line on underperformers. cattle were taking too long to get there.” 70 days. Bulls still under 70% are culled.” The Reas sell up to 100 bulls annually Robert said genetic-linked selection According to the Beef CRC and other out of the paddock, grown from a pressure based on performance data research, bulls with a higher percentage production system aimed at finishing and balanced trait selection were the of normal sperm are expected to sire steers for the Japan ox market, weighing key to turning it around. 300kg dressed at 36 months of age more fertile daughters. “It’s working – the percentage of the or less. The Reas record weights, scrotal size weaner drop that is below breed average and carcase traits with the data During the past seven years, the couple in any trait is declining significantly submitted to BREEDPLAN to create has decreased the age of their steer each year,” he said. turnoff, improving from selling their Estimated Breeding Values. Bulls are The Reas saw genetic improvement as bottom 40% at 4½ years to selling 100% offered with the additional information their only way forward to improve their of their steers at three years of age. on the dams’ age at first calf and profitability. intercalving intervals. According to Robert, the improvement “Our pastures were as developed as they comes from using BREEDPLAN. could be, with buffel, legumes, stylos “I wasn’t a believer to start with but, after and Urochloa and ponded pasture, so > a while, the science started to make 14 On-farm

Genetics

Queensland Department of Agriculture and Fisheries Senior Beef Extension Officer Alan Laing and Robert Rea prepare for a data collection session.

Pressure pays off “When outsourcing genetics, we generally Pregnant breeders are vaccinated at Selection pressure on females by the Reas is source polled animals – it’s an animal pregnancy testing for leptospirosis, relentless, but rewarding, with more than 60% welfare issue and it’s what our clients want.” botulism and pestivirus. of females pregnant in the first 42–45 days. All calves are DNA-tested for sire verification The entire herd, tested for pestivirus several “That’s a good result, considering our so that bull productivity in multi-sire years ago and found to be naïve, is vaccinated environment, and that we’re often asking mating situations can measured. annually to allow opportunistic trading them to fall pregnant again before the “If a bull isn’t siring many calves, he’s culled,” without compromising the herd’s health. season breaks,” Robert said. Robert said. Making progress All females are control mated from mid- Nutrition boost With Alan’s help, the Reas are taking part in January, with maiden heifers joined for 70 Alan Laing has provided nutritional the Next Gen Beef Breeding Strategies days while mature cows are given 90 to 100 guidance. He and Robert design a protein project, led by the Queensland Alliance for days. Non-productive cows are culled. meal each year, with phosphorus and urea Agriculture and Food Innovation. They are “If they’re empty at pregnancy testing, no job. mixed with molasses, to suit the seasonal also participating in the MLA-funded If there’s no calf at branding, no job. It’s a conditions and current availability and Enabling Genetic Improvement of Reproduction in Tropical Beef Cattle project. calf or your carcase,” Robert said. product prices. “The MLA-AGBU (Australian Genetics and The Reas’ hard line is improving “We start calving around the middle to end Breeding Unit) project is specifically reproductive performance. Calving of October, and they get their first lick in focused on recording and genotyping key intervals are tightening, producing more September. We feed that through until we industry sires to rapidly increase the even lines, and re-breed rates are improving. get a break in the season,” Robert said. number of bulls in northern Australia with “We feed it at a rate of two litres/cow/day and Ultimate bull accurate reproduction EBVs,” Robert said. it keeps the cows up in condition enough The Reas’ ultimate Droughtmaster bull is to re-breed.” “We are also using the new trait information quiet with a good balance of growth, fertility generated from the Next Gen project in the (including scrotal size) and carcase traits, Disease control MateSel Breeding Optimisation Program to good semen morphology and is polled. Disease prevention is tackled head-on with help us make better breeding decisions.” “We’ve been selecting for polls since the all bulls vaccinated for vibriosis, three day sickness, leptospirosis and pestivirus. 1960s, and about 94% of our calves at Robert Rea // T: 07 4784 8203 E: [email protected] branding are polled,” Robert said. 15 On-farm

Animal health Bovine anaemia

What is BATOG? Bovine anaemia caused by the Theileria orientalis group (BATOG) is a potentially fatal disease caused by tick-transmitted blood Pale gums are a Researchers suspect symptom of Theileria this tick is a likely parasites that destroy red blood cells. infection. carrier of the blood- istorically, T. orientalis (buffeli) Jade has discovered the bush tick, which is transmitted parasite, was considered a benign parasite found on native wildlife as well as livestock, Theileria orientalis. H that had done little harm in is a carrier of the parasite, confirming earlier Australia since the early 1900s. However, reports from Japan. more pathogenic strains of the parasites Ticks can survive for several months without have been recognised worldwide and, feeding and T. orientalis may be able to Symptoms since 2006, there have been large remain infective in the tick for up to a year. The symptoms are common and could outbreaks of clinical disease in all states be attributed to numerous illnesses or Treatment except Tasmania. conditions, particularly around calving There is no vaccine and treatment options MLA-funded research, led by researchers at time. Most at risk are calves (6–12 weeks old), are limited. Veterinarians have used the Elizabeth Macarthur Agricultural heavily pregnant females and any animals oxytetracycline and/or imidocarb, but with Institute, has identified two more under stress. The symptoms include: doubtful beneficial effect. In rare cases, genotypes of Theileria – Ikeda and Chitose – where highly valuable animals have been > decreased milk > pale and/or associated with clinical disease in Australia affected, animals have improved following production yellow gums and New Zealand. blood transfusions – but these are time > lack of appetite/ and mucous consuming and expensive. Dr Cheryl Jenkins’ ongoing work includes weight loss membrane colour sequencing the T. orientalis genome, which > lethargy > shortness of The drug Buparvaquone (BPQ) is registered should reveal why some genotypes are > fever breath or for use in about 20 countries and used harmful and others benign. > exercise increased under permit in New Zealand; however, the intolerance respiratory rate product requires Australian Pesticides and Transmission (lagging behind abortions Veterinary Medicines Authority approval The parasites are transmitted into a cow’s > the mob, even jugular pulsation and the market here is considered bloodstream by feeding ticks. They multiply > staggering or animal down, commercially unviable. in white blood cells before entering the red > collapsing) unable to rise blood cells, destroying them, causing Recent MLA-funded research assessing the eating dirt anaemia and affecting the oxygen-carrying > drug’s residue levels found that BPQ was death. capacity of the cow. > still detectable in the liver, kidney and injection site muscles 147 days after MLA, along with United Dairyfarmers of treatment and a trade impact report Victoria and NSW Department of Primary Diagnosis concluded it posed a significant risk to Industries, is funding research into The disease is impossible to accurately Australia’s beef export markets. alternative modes of transmission. diagnose without veterinary intervention Jade said that in the absence of any effective such as physical examination, blood test or The principal researcher, Gippsland treatment or vaccine, producers needed to post mortem. veterinarian Dr Jade Hammer, is focus on providing good nursing care to investigating whether in utero infection via Producers should not rely on the presence affected stock. placenta, blood transfer through animal of ticks as an indicator of the disease. “High-quality feed and rest, and try not to husbandry practices (castration knives and Theileria can be spread by relatively few move them,” he said. needles) and biting insects, including ticks and the greater part of their life cycle is mosquitoes, flies, lice and other ticks, could spent on pasture, not on livestock, so their “If they are ‘downer’ cows, you treat them as be responsible for the disease’s spread. presence is not always obvious. downer cows and the vast majority will get over the infection. Learn more at: > www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/biosecurity/animal/info-vets/theileria Dr Jade Hammer // T: 03 5152 6666 E: [email protected] > www.depi.vic.gov.au/agriculture-and-food/pests-diseases-and-weeds/animal- MLA Project Manager Animal Health diseases/vetsource-information-for-vets/benign-theileriosis-in-victoria and Biosecurity Dr Johann Schröder > www.csu.edu.au/research/grahamcentre/downloads/beef_sheep_ T: 07 3620 5202 presentations/2012/2012-bfd-theileria-wagga-beef-forum-august-2012.pdf E: [email protected] 16 On-farm

Genetics Made to Smart tools to make measure smart decisions Gone are the days of searching pages of Australian Sheep Breeding Values (ASBVs) for the right genetics. They can now be sourced with the scroll of your thumb.

esigned primarily for commercial For those wanting to know more about producers, www.RamSelect.com.au, interpreting and using ASBVs, the website Dtakes the hard yards out of offers easy-to-understand instructions and comparing rams – providing practical, diagrams. Kangaroo Island sheep on-the-ground support on sale day. The website has been upgraded to enable breeder Jamie Heinrich The free tool is connected to the Sheep ram breeders to find more information on (right) is both a stud owner Genetics database, enabling access to listed the rate of genetic progress for their flock and a wool and prime lamb sale catalogues. and to access MateSel, a selection tool producer. With a foot in By following simple prompts, the buyer’s aimed at maximising the rate of genetic each camp, he understands gain while minimising inbreeding based on breeding objectives are matched to the the full spectrum of a group of candidate sires and dams. rams available on LAMBPLAN, MERINO- industry demands – from SELECT and Dohne Merino and ranked “Sheep Genetics has also adopted an sourcing the latest genetics accordingly, leaving only the visual application programmable interface which and leading trends to the assessment to be carried out. means other websites, such as livestock commercial reality of marketing portal ClassiMate, can use its The information can be saved on a tablet producing sheep that pay. and smartphone, or printed out for sale day. information – such as ASBVs,” Hamish said. Sheep CRC chief executive Professsor “A practical application is that third parties are able to access the site and keep sale and James Rowe said the tool would be a he Heinrichs’ ‘Ella Matta’ White AI catalogues up to date.” timesaver for many producers, giving them Suffolk and Poll Merino studs are the benefit of selecting rams with ASBVs For those who want to learn more about Ttucked away on Kangaroo Island, that match their enterprise objectives. genetics and how they can influence flock but in no way are they shielded from “After sale day, the user is reminded to return profitability, Sheep Genetics has other industry scrutiny. resources available. to www.RamSelect.com.au to save the list “All our stud animals are recorded on of rams purchased,” he said. “We have a series of technical videos – the LAMBPLAN and MERINOSELECT and “In future years, this information will be Leading Breeder Forums – on our website, benchmarked regularly through the year on used to benchmark the flock and inform which discuss technical issues such as how key traits to check our flocks are heading in ram purchases.” to use MateSel; incorporating eating quality the right direction,” Jamie said. traits into terminal sire indexes; and For those producers wanting breeding Their commercial flocks are the proving Thomas Foods International’s view on what values that fit in specific ranges, Sheep ground where genetic selection decisions impact lean meat yield and eating quality Genetics offers advanced search facilities in are put to the test. will have on the industry,” Hamish said. its database to pinpoint individual rams For Jamie, a commercially productive White “We’ve also developed a new dashboard on with the desired traits. Suffolk should have a good balance of the website for ram breeders, to make the growth traits and lambing ease. Further resources information we have more accessible with the Sheep Genetics manager Hamish Chandler facility to look at trends, accuracy of selection “We focus on Australian Sheep Breeding said the Sheep Genetics website had several and generation length – the components Values (ASBVs) for growth, muscle, tools useful to ram breeders as well as helpful that are the drivers of genetic progress.” birthweight and number of lambs weaned,” information for commercial producers. he said. “Ram buyers who are looking for more Hamish Chandler // T: 0417 254 858 Their target market for prime lambs, White information on rams can access sale E: [email protected] Suffolk–Poll Merino cross, is direct to catalogues where they can find ASBVs and processors at 22kg dressed. Useful links: indexes for available rams,” he said. At the stud level, Jamie is pushing birth www.RamSelect.com.au “They can also search for breeders in their weight ASBVs, aiming to keep their rams www.sheepgenetics.org.au area or for the breed they are interested in.” below 0.4 to ensure lambing ease. 17 On-farm

“Fat and muscle are important; they help to Snapshot Livestock: 600 White Suffolk lift ‘doing’ ability and lambing percentages, Jamie Heinrich, stud ewes, 400 Poll particularly in tough years, and they are Kangaroo Island, Merino stud ewes, traits that pay dividends at point of sale,” SA. 2,500 commercial Jamie said. Merino ewes and 1,400 Merino “Wool traits are important because they’re wethers the profit drivers. We also consider wrinkle Pasture: score and bare breach to minimise flystrike Property: Kikuyu, annual and worm resistance, which all help lower 810ha ryegrass and clover costs of production.” Enterprise: Soil: The next frontier for Ella Matta is genomics, White Suffolk and Sandy loam or DNA testing, and Jamie is using the tests Poll Merino studs, Rainfall: on his White Suffolks to measure eating commercial Merino 626mm winter/ flock producing spring dominant quality, shear force and intramuscular fat. wool and prime “We’re also looking at using it on our best lambs ewe lambs to identify our top genetics much earlier and to identify candidates for embryo transfer,” he said. On-farm reality For commercial producers looking to get the best out of their flocks, Jamie recommended using genetic information and benchmarking services such LAMBPLAN, MERINOSELECT and Dohne Merino. He stressed genetic selection must be supported by rigorous visual assessment to ensure animals are well conformed and structurally sound. Jamie’s advice to commercial producers is to measure what you can to ensure the flock’s genetic To assess how your sire choices are performance is improving. influencing production, Jamie’s advice was to measure what you can. Getting the genes New Poll Merino sires are introduced “For terminals, collecting weaning and post All outside White Suffolk genetics are through AI using MERINOSELECT with weaning weights will help you compare sourced through artificial insemination (AI) particular emphasis placed on fleece weight, average growth rates of your flock, from sires evaluated in LAMBPLAN with carcase traits (particularly muscle and fat), year-on-year. the occasional outside breed infused to wool traits such as micron (about 18.5), “For wool production, record fleece weights, boost genetic variability. staple strength, staple length, minimal micron, fleece staple length and strength co-efficient variance and worm resistance. and co-efficient variance. Building a record of performance will give you a clear indication of whether your breeding objectives are being achieved.” Jamie also recommended all sheep producers carry out mob worm tests, rather than rely on visual assessment.

Jamie Heinrich E: [email protected]

Jamie’s top tips > Use industry resources to find the best genetics > Visual assessment is still important > Know which traits relate to your profit drivers 18 On-farm

Emissions Reduction Fund

Seeing the opportunities

Indigenous Land Corporation employee Garry Namponan takes time out to get up close and personal with the company’s Brahmans. Carbon trading in Australia may be in its infancy but cattle producers are already exploring how they can be involved. ccording to Steve Wiedemann, “In our feasibility studies, we found “For example, the ERF feasibility study agricultural scientist and producers needed to be running 10,000 identified that if we further developed A principal consultant for FSA animal units plus to generate sufficient breeder segregation infrastructure on just Consulting in Toowoomba, there are returns by applying the beef herd two of our stations, we could abate more several opportunities for producers management method to make it than 10,000 tonnes of greenhouse gases wanting to earn carbon credits while worthwhile entering the carbon market. per annum under the proposed beef cattle improving their productivity. “Projects adopted by operations of that size herd methodology while improving Steve said for an activity to qualify under could expect to return $40,000 to $80,000 productivity of the herd through increased the Emissions Reduction Fund (ERF), it must which is an appreciable amount.” weaning and calving percentages. be a new project. However, if a producer has Steve said smaller producers, keen to “Building on these initiatives, we can see the started, for example, improving herd become involved, could pursue aggregation savanna burning project generating more productivity by pregnancy testing and whereby numerous producers can pool than 5,000 carbon credits per annum.” removing empty cows from the herd at one their projects and reductions and trade in Elise said CPC is presently in the planning property but not on another, the remaining carbon auctions as a single entity. stages of implementing these projects. property would still qualify because it is a The Indigenous Land Corporation (ILC) was new project there. Doing the research Consolidated Pastoral Company (CPC), also part of the MLA-funded desktop study. “The ‘beef cattle herd management’ which owns 20 properties across northern Its agricultural subsidiary, National Indigenous methodology reduces enteric methane Australia, took part in MLA-funded research Pastoral Enterprise Pty Ltd, operates 11 emissions by improving whole-herd feed which involved a desktop study into the northern cattle businesses with a combined efficiency, reducing emissions per kilogram opportunities for the enterprise to reduce herd of about 90,000 head. of beef produced,” Steve said. carbon emissions while improving ILC Senior Policy and Environment Advisor “Producers can alter one, or a combination, of productivity using the approved ERF Nerissa Walton said they were keen to any of the major herd productivity factors methodologies. understand and share the ERF opportunities. such as weaning rate, survival rate, age at first CPC Projects Officer Elise Roberts said they calving and growth rates in young cattle. “Given the ILC is already experienced in the identified several opportunities for savanna burning method (see the story in “The method is not restricted to one reducing emissions by managing savanna the July/August edition of Feedback), having particular way to achieve this improvement burning, avoiding clearing and under the implemented and sold credits from projects and many different changes can be proposed beef cattle herd methodology. since 2011, our particular interest in combined to improve productivity.” “We are always looking out for innovative participating in this study was to identify For most producers, identifying ways to achieve a more sustainable, efficient the opportunities presented by avoided productivity improvements is the easy part. food production and enhance our animal, clearing and the beef cattle herd They also need to look closely at project land and fire management practices,” she said. management methods,” she said. approval and reporting requirements. “By aligning these sustainability goals with Many producers will be eligible to submit the environmental initiatives of the ERF, Steve Wiedeman // T: 07 4632 8230 projects for approval, but some operations E: stephen.wiedemann@fsaconsulting. we can see the potential for a mutually net or go to: www.fsaconsulting.net might lack sufficient scale to participate on beneficial situation. an individual basis. Useful links: www.mycarbonfarming.com.au 19 On-farm

Emissions Reduction Fund AACo’s gas reduction explorations

The nation’s largest cattle producer, Australian Agricultural Company (AACo), is on a learning curve to meet potentially higher carbon abatement targets. The Clean Energy Regulator website www.cleanenergyregulator.gov.au method available under the ammonium nitrate, the cattle produce less contains resources and topics including: Emissions Reduction Fund (ERF) for methane as they digest their food. > A guide to the feeding nitrates to A reducing greenhouse gas emissions Cameron said AACo conducted a desktop beef cattle method through feeding nitrates to beef cattle study combined with a field trial to identify > participating in the ERF could help AACo to aim for a 2% reduction that a 2% reduction of a northern breeder’s > aggregation in greenhouse gas emissions, within its greenhouse gas emissions was achievable current cost structures. from supplementation with a nitrate block. > legal rights To view the relevant method or AACo’s special projects manager Cameron “We believe we now have the embryonic determination, make project applications Best said the joint venture with MLA was part capability to do this without compromising and view the calculator visit: of ensuring that the company is prepared production or profitability,” he said. for change. www.environment.gov.au/ “Dialogue on developing the current capability climate-change/emissions- “During the past five years there has been a lot is ongoing and related to other potential ERF reduction-fund/methods of volatility surrounding carbon legislation; projects, such as herd management however, we expect that to stabilise before methodology, which we see as synergistic 2020 and for emission reduction targets to with the nitrate methodology. ERF news potentially rise,” he said. “At this stage, nitrate supplement blocks are not In September 2015 the Federal Government approved a new ERF “It is probable that livestock production commercially available.” industries will have to reduce their 10% methodology for grassfed cattle To be eligible for carbon credits, the feeding of producers: changed herd contribution to Australia’s total greenhouse nitrate-based supplements must be conducted management techniques. The gas emissions. It’s probably not equitable, nor using an approved ERF method. method includes practices that: sustainable, to expect the rest of the economy The Feeding Nitrates method was developed > increase the ratio of weight to age to carry that load. of the herd in collaboration with MLA, AACo and the “At AACo, we thought it important to federal Department of the Environment. > reduce the average age of the herd investigate and to prove our capability in this > reduce the proportion of It includes feeding nitrate to the herd as a lick area so, if legislation changes, reduction unproductive animals in the herd targets rise or carbon trading strengthens, we block, not as a loose lick, which may have > change the ratio of livestock classes practical constraints for some enterprises. are in a position to respond appropriately.” within the herd to increase total Urea is a common supplement, particularly for The methane emissions avoided by feeding annual liveweight gain of the herd. northern rangeland cattle, and is often used to the herd nitrates instead of urea are estimated www.environment.gov.au/climate- increase the amount of protein in the diet. using the Beef Nitrates Calculator published change/emissions-reduction- by the Department of the Environment. When some or all of the urea is replaced by fund/methods/beef-cattle- herd-management nitrate supplements, such as calcium or 20 On-farm

Business management Keeping a close eye on costs MLA’s revamped Cost of Production Calculator now combines functionality for cattle, sheep and goat enterprises and is more user- friendly. Feedback spoke to West Australian cattle producers Kim and Kerrie Dunnet about the importance of understanding just how much a kilogram of beef costs you to produce.

nowing their cost of production (CoP) has allowed Kim and Kerrie KDunnet to drive change in their Moving into the enterprise, which focuses on turning off pastoral zone milk vealers. Snapshot Pasture: The More Beef from Pastures (MBfP) program continues to evolve with Predominately Kim and Kerrie, David ryegrass/clover at the most recent development being an MBfP manual for the pastoral zone. and Sandra Dunnet, Nannup; Nannup and Scott predominately clover/ River, WA. ryegrass at Scott River National Coordinator – Peter Schuster Soil: E: [email protected] Each of the existing MBfP modules – setting Loam over clay at directions, managing your feedbase, T: 02 6887 3780 Nannup; Sandy loam at managing your natural resources, cattle NSW State Coordinator – John Francis Scott River genetics, maximising weaner throughput, E: [email protected] Property: Rainfall: 1,200ha herd health and welfare and meeting market T: 02 6931 7110 Nannup receives specifications – were modified using Enterprise: 800–900mm; Scott SA State Coordinator – Pene Keynes information relevant to enterprises in the Cattle for the milk River receives 900– (Pene is also the National Coordinator of vealer market 1,000mm arid zone. the Pastoral Profit program – Livestock: More Beef from Pastures: The producer’s www.pastoralprofit.com.au) 1,000 cattle manual remains central to the MBfP program. E: [email protected] comprising heifers, The interactive online manual is a package T: 08 8841 4500 cows, steers and bulls designed to deliver the essential principles Tasmanian State Coordinator – and practices for a successful business. Mel Rae The manual draws on the latest R&D as well E: [email protected] as the knowledge, skills and experience of T: 03 6427 5300 producer advocates who helped write the Victorian State Coordinator – seven modules. Each module offers links to Darren Hickey practical tools and resources to help producers E: [email protected] improve their skills in that subject area. T: 03 5152 0496 Check out the pastoral manual at: WA State Coordinator – Glen Brayshaw www.mbfp–pastoral.mla.com.au E: [email protected] or contact the MBfP coordinator in your T: 08 9622 8202 region to find out about upcoming events. 21 On-farm

The couple have been keeping a close eye “We want to be able to increase our beef markets, we’re greatly assisting our on their cattle enterprise’s CoP for the past production and also continue making sustainability. six years, following their introduction to improvements that will benefit the farm in “When it comes to plant and machinery, it’s MLA’s More Beef from Pastures (MBfP) the future.” easy to fall into the trap of wanting a new program through the Department of The biggest influences on the Dunnet tractor, ute or hay equipment, but it’s a large Agriculture Western Australia (DAFWA). enterprise CoP were found to be: component of your CoP, so we always consider Together with Kim’s parents, David and > fertiliser costs carefully before replacement and make sure Sandra, the Dunnets run about 1,000 head we shed and maintain what we have.” > plant and equipment purchases of cattle, including about 700 first-cross > fuel and vehicle expenses associated The biggest efficiency gains for the Dunnets Angus-Friesian cows. with hay production have come from their changes to pasture “We first looked at what changes had to be and herd management. > labour made straight away and the ones we could > general farm improvements “We’ve increased our pasture production work on in the future,” Kerrie said. and utilisation, with the main change being > herd management costs, such as “We gave ourselves a five-year plan to work controlled rotational grazing,” Kim said. animal health. with and to make as many changes as we “This has allowed us to increase our stocking “We can’t do anything about the price of were realistically able to. rate, which has been the biggest and most fertiliser, but we do make sure we soil test “Just being able to see in black and white successful change. and plant test so we’re able to use our where your money has been spent and budgeted product more efficiently,” Kim said. “Pregnancy testing is also an important part knowing how much it really costs to make of our program now, because it allows us to “With good fertiliser history we can manipulate a roll of hay, or grow out a calf ready for dispose of empty cows and immediately market, or grow your pasture, you can see the fertiliser products used according to replace them with mated heifers, which where you are able to cut costs, make their price variations each season, and ensures our herd fertility is maintained.” changes and work more efficiently. know we still have a good regime. “Our goal is to see where we can lower the “Cattle prices are largely out of our control Kim and Kerrie Dunnet E: [email protected] cost of production by decreasing our inputs when purchasing, but by identifying stock without compromising our production. that will produce beef that suits our chosen www.mla.com.au/tools

Kim and Kerrie Dunnet recently featured in an MBfP YouTube video, explaining how they use the MBfP online manual to help make decisions about their business. “The manual is a practical reference we can refer to when we need it,” Kim said. “The availability of MBfP webinars is also very handy. Being able to be involved with seminars online, and not have to leave the farm, is a valuable time saver.”

Visit www.mla.com.au/mbfp 22 On-farm

Business management What does it take to produce the best lamb?

he McGormans’ Thornby Lamb ticked Here, Paul McGorman outlines the important Snapshot the boxes for tenderness, flavour and factors that underpin Australia’s best lamb. The McGorman family, juiciness to win the title of Australia’s Sanderston and Conalpyn, SA. T 1. Breed selection Best Lamb in the 2014 LambEx competition, Second-cross South African Meat Merino which recognised best practice from breeding (SAMMs) are a low maintenance fit, where to finishing. reproductive performance and weight gain are John McGorman runs the mixed enterprise with the main focus and wool is a by-product. his sons Paul and Alex (pictured above). Their late Property: “Our aim is to have a quality lamb we can grow out 3,200ha (owned and leased) mother, Helen, played an integral role in developing in the feedlot for a good, fast finish,” Paul said. at Sanderston; 1,200ha at their brand and now Paul’s wife, Kimberly, and Coonalpyn Alex’s wife, Fiona, are active in the business. “We operate on the basis that the quicker we finish Enterprise: lambs, the more tender the meat we produce.” Breeding and finishing lambs, The family established a grain finishing system at cropping Sanderston 12 years ago to get lambs to saleable Of the 25,000 lambs the McGormans finish each year, about 8% are home-bred and the rest are Livestock: weight before grass seeds in late spring could 2,000 second-cross South damage the carcase. It has grown to an annual sourced from across the state, where they look for African Meat Merino ewes, turn-off of 25,000. cross-bred lambs of around 35kg. finish 25,000 lambs a year (8% from their own In 2009, the McGormans became one of the few 2. Flock management production) producers in Australia to achieve accreditation Lambing is in April and lambs graze on lucerne at Pasture: with AusMeat’s Livestock Production Assurance Coonalpyn before being brought to Sanderston in Lucerne for finishing Scheme for Grain Fed Lambs. This opened up an late August–September, where they are finished Soil: opportunity to supply Thomas Foods on a grain-based diet. Sandy loam at Sanderston, International (TFI). Over the years, the McGormans have adjusted deep sandy soils at Coonalpyn The original Thornby Grainfed Lamb brand was their production system to maintain a quality Rainfall: sold through the McGormans’ butcher shop in the 300mm finished product. For example, grass seed Barossa Valley, which was sold in 2012 to refocus contamination can be an issue at Coonalpyn, so on the production side of the business. the finishing system allows them to get lambs off They relaunched ‘Thornby Premium Lamb’ in before seed set in October. They avoid buying 2015, and supply premium butchers, lambs from areas such as the south-east in spring supermarkets and the foodservice industry when there is a high level of grass seeds, to around South Australia. minimise risk of contamination. 23 On-farm

The family are part of a Making More From Sheep Central laneways in the finishing yard reduce group in the Mallee, which they use as a flock handling and allow easy movement of stock. Lessons learned benchmarking tool. They are also investigating Transport is also important. The McGormans pick > Know your market. You improved pasture options at Coonalpyn as a up most of the lambs they buy, and transport all can’t target a product result of the program. finished stock to TFI. Thornby is 40–45 minutes’ without knowing what your customer wants. 3. Nutrition drive from two TFI plants at Murray Bridge and > Do the sums. Your business The McGormans have fine-tuned their feed ration Lobethal. needs to be profitable. for optimal performance during the 40–50 day “It is important to have as much control of our > Start off small but with the finishing program. Lambs receive a starter ration, lambs as possible,” Paul said. end in sight. Aim for scale move onto an intermediate ration and then are “Owning our own truck gives us the flexibility to and efficiencies that are fed a final ration. Rations vary, but will generally transport lambs early in the day during summer manageable. contain a blend of barley, oats, lupins and hay – to reduce heat stress.” the majority of which is home-grown. The McGormans target a carcase weight of 27kg 7. Best practice dressed (58–60kg liveweight). The McGormans road-tested a lamb finishing self-auditing tool in 2010, as part of the National 4. Technology Code of Practice for Intensive and Sheep and Paul is conscious of how consumers can Lamb Feeding Systems. The development of this misinterpret industry terms. Their 15,000 head code was managed by industry consultants feedlot is described as a ‘lamb finishing yard’. Productive Nutrition Pty Ltd and overseen by MLA. The finishing yard has a five-away auto-drafter. The self-auditing tool came into its own when the While weight is the main criteria, Paul maintains family applied to the local council to expand the social groups on the basis that lambs settle in to finishing yard. the business of growing when they are with familiar animals. “Previously, the council only had guidelines from other industries to go by, but this time it was a 5. Traceability straight-forward process as they had a code of An individual traceability system tracks lambs practice for the lamb finishing industry,” Paul said. through the production systems and records origin, any treatments and feed intake. Paul said the tool was a good resource for producers Tools developing a finishing system, as it covered yard > National procedures and While data collection is currently manual, the design and animal husbandry best practice. McGormans are participating in a University of guidelines for intensive Adelaide trial to investigate how electronic 8. The environment sheep and lamb feeding systems: www.mla.com. identification tags can improve their record-keeping, The family plants 500 to 1,000 trees a year au/intensivesheep increase efficiency and track the performance of around the finishing yard and along fences for andlambfeeding animals from different suppliers. shade and protection. Sloped yards and central laneways drain water away from the yards > www.mla.com.au/tools “You can’t improve what you can’t measure,” Paul said. towards the tree lines. > www.makingmorefrom Paul said the Thornby point of difference was a sheep.com.au The McGormans, who have a water licence in the naturally produced, traceable, high-quality lamb. Marne-Saunders Catchment, have implemented “We hand select each lamb for the Thornby strategies to conserve water. They replaced Premium Lamb brand to ensure consumers enjoy standard large troughs (250L) with 45–50L the best we have to offer,” he said. troughs, which reduces the amount of water used “By taking the time to look closely at each lamb, during daily cleaning and draining. we can find the one with the ideal amount of fat; 9. Labour efficiency not too much – to keep the meat a healthy choice – Five full-time staff are employed, with skills that but enough to ensure the meat performs the best can be utilised across the business. They don’t when cooked. need to employ seasonal labour for busy periods 6. Low-stress handling in the cropping calendar as the finishing yard can The McGormans aim to keep lambs happy and free operate with minimal labour, enabling staff to from stress so they produce a better quality product. transfer from the stock side of the business to Paul McGorman “Handling and husbandry really underpin the seeding or harvest. E: paulmcgorman@thornby. com.au success of our operation,” Paul explained. 10. Business performance www.thornby.com.au Changes in diet are managed by providing The McGormans focus on sound business good-quality hay before animals enter the practices. They hold formal quarterly board Photos courtesy of James Knowler finishing yard and while adjusting to the new ration. meetings with an independent chairman. Photography. 24 On-farm

Genetics

Southern Genetic gains Breeding Technology name of the game Services (SBTS) will notch up a decade of genetics technical and extension support to the cattle industry as stage two of the project concludes in December.

Funded by the MLA Donor Company, 14 breed As each breed has been moved to the new International associations and the Agricultural Business Research Livestock Registry 2 (ILR2) database, they receive Institute, SBTS has been the backbone of genetics monthly genetic analyses instead of receiving them 23 progress in southern cattle herds. only once or twice a year. SBTS BullSELECT The project has helped producers apply research The Gelbvieh and Blonde d’Aquitaine breed societies workshops held in outcomes from the Beef CRC, supported BREEDPLAN, have most recently moved to monthly group past five years, upskilling and developed numerous genetic selection tools, BREEDPLAN analyses and are now able to produce indexes and information resources. enhanced BREEDPLAN reports. Genetic gains Alex said SBTS promoted the Beef Information Nucleus programs for Angus, Charolais, Limousin and Wagyu 470 SBTS project manager Alex McDonald said the project’s greatest achievement was helping southern beef and continues to assist in the development of new EBVs cattle breeders breeders improve their herds’ rate of genetic gain – an for various breeds (see story on page 26). achievement that has benefitted every beef producer. “In recent times we helped implement Calving Ease “The project’s original objective was to increase the Direct and Calving Ease Daughters EBV analysis and 14 weighted selection index by $15/cow mated from the publication for Red Angus and Docility EBVs for breed societies base year of 2008 to 2013,” he said. Hereford and Simmental,” he said. contribute to SBTS “This has been exceeded by 22%, to $18.33/cow mated/year.” Extension This has meant the average weighted change in selection SBTS has been helping breeders make more informed index trends of the southern seedstock sector has bull-buying decisions through their BullSELECT effectively doubled during the five years of the project. workshops. Index support During the past five years, 23 workshops have been held, SBTS may not be a well-known entity, but its extensive attracting 470 breeders who gained a better understanding technological and extension support has affected of the genetic information and selection tools available. almost every southern beef-producing enterprise. Other work by SBTS staff includes on-farm A major role of its team is to maintain and update the 32 consultations, delivering workshops, creating a library SBTS’ library of selection indexes for the 14 stakeholder breeds, of webinars and developing a host of other online online information, including webinar including Angus, Hereford, Shorthorn, Limousin, Red information, such as the SBTS Update and monthly courses are TechTalk articles. Angus, Charolais, Murray Grey, Simmental, South available at http:// Devon and Wagyu. “We use social media as an additional communication sbts.une.edu.au Boosting BREEDPLAN stream for genetic technology updates including In addition to number-crunching, SBTS continues to Twitter, Facebook and the SBTS and Tropical Breeds Technology Services YouTube Channel for uploading provide technical support to breed societies for Alex McDonald software upgrades, development of new genetic recorded webinars and videos,” Alex said. T: 02 6773 3555 selection tools and the integration of new Estimated “Presently, we have 40 videos on YouTube relating to E: alex.mcdonald@ Breeding Values (EBVs). genetic technologies for the beef industry.” abri.une.edu.au 25 On-farm

Breeding for profit

Dennis and Susie Stewart quickly recognised the decade-long contribution of Southern Beef Breeding Technologies Services to developing genetic selection tools and resources, impacts on their business almost every day.

Susie and Dennis Stewart, with their granddaughter Georgie, use breeding and selection tools to keep their herd achieving an above average rate of genetic gain. he Stewarts, who run an Angus breeding “We usually AI in November and this year we’re looking operation on 8,502ha west of Condobolin, are for a suitable sire to tick all those boxes and improve Snapshot dedicated herd improvers. marbling,” Dennis said. Dennis and T Susie Stewart, They employ technologies such as Fixed Time Artificial Split calving Condobolin, NSW. Insemination (FTAI), BREEDPLAN estimated breeding Any heifers that fail to fall pregnant from AI are values (EBVs), and apply selection pressure on fertility transferred to the other herd (e.g. spring heifer goes to and reproduction to their females to ensure each the autumn herd) and there they have another generation is more profitable and productive than the opportunity to reproduce. last. Property: With an extra six months maturity, the heifer will be 8,502ha Maximising genetic gain joined and, at three years old, will calve without Enterprise: To maximise their rate of genetic gain, Dennis and additional supervision. Angus beef Susie have been members of Team Te Mania, an Cows are joined for eight weeks to sires with above breeding for initiative of the Victoria based Te Mania Angus stud, for average EBVs for calving ease, growth, particularly 200 feedlot entry, the past nine years. cropping and 400-days, and intra-muscular fat (IMF), also (share-farmed) “It was a way of getting access to the latest genetics for known as marbling. Livestock: our artificial insemination (AI) program and, for our “Most of the steers are grown out to 380kg–420kg and 800 Angus cow herd, a way to access bulls of high genetic merit are sold direct to feedlots, such as Rangers Valley, or breeders through their lease program,” Dennis said. offered on Auctions Plus and the feedback we’re getting Pasture: “The team provides some economies of scale and we from buyers is that marbling is a trait they really value,” Oats under sown with lucerne, also have expert genetic and technical advice on tap.” Dennis said. medics and clover The Stewarts run 800 breeders with half calving in Young herd Soil: spring and the rest in autumn to make better use of Cows that fail to become pregnant are culled. Those Sandy loam, red their bulls. that remain productive in the herd are sold between six and grey clay soils and eight years as breeders. Rainfall: Using Fixed Time AI 400mm Heifers are artificially inseminated, at about 14–16 months “Our first calvers usually achieve about an 80% old, with one round of FTAI and no back-up bull. pregnancy rate which is down on the cow herd average AI pregnancy percentages are generally good, and of about 93%,” Dennis said. Dennis and Susie have used highly ranked sires, which “With their whole breeding life ahead of them, and the Dennis and Susie combine low birth weights and short gestational length, fact they possess some of our most superior genetics, Stewart with above average growth and $ index values in the we tend to give them a second chance with the E: trequair@ top 5% of the breed. alternate herd.” bigpond.com 26 On-farm

Genetics Progeny projects pay off Australia’s largest-ever cattle breed progeny test program, the Beef Information “The next challenge will be to develop Nucleus (BIN), has had an impact in 85% of the nation’s seedstock herds. multi-breed progeny tests and to underpin carcase measurements with a genetic am Gill, MLA’s Project Manager, “As a result, we now have increased evaluation system,” he said. Beef and Data Insights, said the BIN confidence in BREEDPLAN, better Sproject had fast-tracked genetic connectivity between herds and more progress during the past six years and engagement between breeders, and we’ve was now delivering real outcomes at the identified some exciting new sires. farm gate. Want to improve your knowledge of “We have also collected information for new cattle genetics? Try these resources: “The BIN has had the most widespread traits such as ‘methane emissions’ and > www.mla.com.au/genetics impact on our beef industry of any research ‘parasite resistance’.” > www.breedplan.une.edu.au project undertaken,” he said. So far, eight breeds have been involved in > www.breedobject.com “It has built genomic reference populations, the BIN, with the Shorthorn, Angus, improved accuracy of BREEDPLAN’s Hereford, Wagyu, Limousin, Charolais, > More Beef from Pasture Module Four: estimated breeding values (EBVs) and Brahman and Droughtmaster societies each Cattle genetics www.mla.com.au/ collected information on many hard-to- at various stages of the project. mbfp/Cattle-genetics measure traits such as ‘particular carcase Sam said funding for each BIN was provided qualities’, ‘feed conversion’ and ‘eating quality’. by the breed society and the MLA Donor Sam Gill, MLA E: [email protected] Company (no producer levies are used). What’s come out of the BIN? Here’s an update on what has been learnt about three of the breeds in the Colin said the project produced an BIN program. estimated benefit–cost ratio of 2:1 due to the Angus Cohort five females have recorded a 51% projected increase in the use of superior The Angus Sire Benchmarking Program, conception rate to one round of FTAI, with animals within the breed and the industry the largest of the BIN projects, is joining its calving to start in early July. in general. sixth cohort this spring. Cohort six has received 38 early sire Information: www.charolais.com.au The breed’s strategic project manager, nominations, with the bulls averaging in Christian Duff, said the program aimed to the top 10% for the Angus Breeding Index Limousin join an average of 40 sires a year to about and Heavy Grain Index. Limousin BIN technical officer Alex McDonald said their project had concluded 2,000 cows in southern-based cooperator Information: www.angusaustralia.com.au herds, using Fixed Time Artificial after three cohorts and measured the Insemination (FTAI). Charolais progeny of 30 young sires. The Charolais BIN, now finished after four Information collected from earlier cohorts is “We now have high accuracy EBVs for 30 cohorts, evaluated the progeny of 50 already being used by producers through young sires we wouldn’t otherwise have, Charolais, 18 Limousin and four Angus to higher accuracy BREEDPLAN estimated with some in the top 1% of the breed based enhance the estimates of the Charolais breeding values (EBVs). on indexes,” he said. Society crossbreed EBV traits. Cohorts one and two have contributed “We didn’t have adequate numbers in the The society’s breed development manager, carcase, reproduction and calving data project to be able to do discovery of Colin Rex, said 1,200 progeny were while cohort three’s steer portion has prediction equations, but we do have useful produced from either Angus or Brahman entered the Tullimba Research Feedlot to data for validating prediction equations cows and birth, growth, feedlot and undertake net feed intake testing. from our other sources.” slaughter data were recorded for all progeny. The cohort three heifer reproduction The project confirmed that neither the A random sample from the progeny of all outcomes to natural mating will be known US Merial prediction equations (a system sires was collected for meat science analysis. this spring, following their calving as using genomic assessment) nor the Beef two-year-olds. “The data showed that dystocia was not a major CRC’s multi-breed prediction equations problem for any of the breeds represented, were accurate enough to be included in Cohort four’s weaning and docility data was with less than 2% in the worst year and less BREEDPLAN. included in the March 2015 BREEDPLAN than 1% in the typical year,” he said. analysis and heifers will be joined this spring. Information: www.limousin.com.au The data was added to BREEDPLAN last Search ‘Information Nucleus Bulls’ under November. ‘EBV Enquiry’ to find the evaluated bulls. 27 On-farm

Supplementation Delivering Delving into P deficiencies to the Wet season phosphorus (P) supplementation for cattle grazing P-deficient country has long been recognised as highly beneficial, usually providing excellent economic returns. In highly deficient country, it is known to result in liveweight gains of 60kg or more and to breeders lift branding rates by 10–15%.

However, despite this widespread recognition, only a small proportion of cattle – niversity of Queensland Senior researchers estimate 10% – grazing P-deficient rangelands are adequately supplemented. Research Fellow, Dr Rob Dixon, is Given this conundrum, Uleading a research team on an MLA has funded MLA-funded project aimed at better several research understanding the phosphorus (P) needs projects to help cattle of breeder cows during pregnancy and producers increase lactation, when the cow has high demands their profitability by for P for the foetus and milk production. making more informed According to Rob, breeders’ peak demand decisions about how, for P usually coincides with the wet season when and why they when supplementation for some producers should feed P. Phosphorus status becomes problematic and appears Deficient to acutely deficient Find out here what Marginal deficiency or mixed unwarranted. Adequate (or unknown) some of that research “Even when P supplements are fed, it can be has revealed. About 70% of the northern beef-production area is acutely deficient in phosphorus. difficult to get breeders to eat sufficient loose mix or block P supplements,” he said. What’s new in phosphorus research for northern Australia? To address these issues, the research team > Blood tests are the most reliable indicator of P deficiency in cattle diets. is conducting a series of major experiments > Large benefits in supplementing breeding heifers and cows with P. at the Queensland Department of Agriculture and Fisheries’ Brian Pastures Research facility at Gayndah. Putting it to the test They are investigating the consequences of feeding P supplements from the late wet niversity of Queensland (UQ) would be growing cattle during the wet season through to the late dry seasons when senior research officer Dr Simon season, particularly heifers and first lactation it is logistically much easier to feed them. Quigley and his colleagues, and cows and steers to be sold,” Simon said. U “In these experiments both heifers and Tim Schatz from the Northern Territory MLA-funded research at UQ demonstrated mature breeders were kept under controlled Department of Primary Industries, that Brahman-cross steers take four to five conditions and measurements made during recently confirmed that a blood test from weeks to deplete P stores when consuming mid or late pregnancy, and during early growing cattle consuming a diet with a P-deficient diet, which results in lower feed lactation on P-deficient or P-supplemented adequate protein and energy is the most intakes and much reduced liveweight gains. diets,” Rob said. reliable indicator of phosphorus (P) intake and the P content of the diet, and In the second part of the experiment the “Intensive measurements are providing a therefore P status of the paddock. P-deficient animals’ performance improved detailed picture including feed intake, live almost immediately when they were weight gain or loss, digestion, milk Faecal testing for phosphorus deficiency was provided with supplement. production and calf weights. also examined but was found to be less reliable. “Blood and urine is being sampled to better The research found the tests work best when: “They went from maintaining, or even understand the hormonal control of P losing liveweight, to gaining 1.3 kg/day,” > random blood samples are taken during nutrition in breeder cattle, and to try to Simon said. the first round muster at the end of the develop better diagnosis of P deficiency wet/start of the dry from growing cattle from blood, urine and faeces.” “This showed that cattle that are P depleted > samples can be collected from the tail or respond very quickly to the provision of The two major experiments so far have the jugular vein. additional P when protein and energy in the shown the large benefits of P supplements Growing cattle only need to be tested once. diet are not limited, demonstrating the on feed intake and heifer/cow liveweight. “Once you have established that a paddock is importance of having P supplements For example, Rob said heifers fed a highly P deficient, it’s important to prioritise the available at the break of the season to P-deficient diet and supplemented with P stock classes requiring supplement. A priority capture these benefits.” during the last four months of > 28 On-farm

Figure 1 Change in liveweight of steers fed diets with increasing phosphorus (P) content Phase 1 Phase 2

500 g P/kg DM 2.4P = 2.4g 450 2.0P = 2.0g 1.8P = 1.8g Liveweight (kg) Liveweight 400 1.3P = 1.3g 0.9P = 0.9g

350 Above: Steers that took part in the trial demonstrated the significant effect of phosphorus on liveweight gain. The steer on the left consumed a diet with a low P content while the steer on the right consumed a high P diet 300 over the same period of time. 250

0 50 100 150 200 250 Stage of experiment (days) pregnancy were 50kg heavier at calving – Cows were fed a low-energy diet to P-deficient cattle often chew bones. The the cows fed P gained 30kg while those that represent mid dry season pasture in a team has been investigating whether this were not, lost 20kg. ‘normal’ year, and a high-energy diet to strong attraction of P-deficient cattle to However the birth weights of their calves represent good pasture during a favourable bones could be used to get cattle to eat more were similar because the cows looked after late wet season. P supplement during the wet season. their calves to their own detriment. “In cows fed the diet representing the mid Team members with specialist skills have dry season, the P supplement changed a identified the chemical compounds causing Rob also said P supplementation had large small live weight loss to a small live weight the odours and this animal behaviour. effects during early lactation on both cow gain,” Rob said. liveweight and calf growth. Rob said some of the scientific literature “However, in cows fed a diet representing indicated that this behaviour is ‘hard-wired’ “Three months after calving there was good wet season pasture, the P supplement (programmed into their genes) and up to 100kg difference in cow increased live weight gain from 0.2 kg/day associated with the smell and/or taste of liveweight,” he said. to 1.0 kg/day. chemical compounds in the old bones.

“Those fed P through both pregnancy and “This really demonstrated that even when “The idea was that it may be possible to use lactation were in very good body condition, producers are not able to feed P these smells or tastes to attract P-deficient while those that had been P-deficient supplements during the early and mid-wet cattle to commercial P supplements,” he said. season when the cow needs P the most, through these intervals, had badly run However, to the surprise of the team, the there should still be benefits from P down their body reserves.” first experiment indicated that this supplementation in the late wet and early attraction behaviour is learned by cattle P supplementation proved to have a dry season. rather than being a hard-wired response. large effect on milk production which “It also showed breeder cows in P-deficient “Even so, if it is a learned response, it may be increased calf weight by 30kg at three conditions on good quality pastures will possible to use the principle involved to months of age. show an enormous live weight response to develop P supplements and management P with all the benefits that flow on from that.” Rob said the trial clearly demonstrated that techniques to improve P consumption,” P supplementation can greatly improve the No bones about it Rob said. body condition of the cow at calving with One of the great northern beef industry the many benefits such as the cow re- quandaries is how to get P-deficient cattle to joining quickly so she is more likely to eat P supplements provided in the Dr Simon Quigley // T: 07 5460 1265 produce a calf each year, and also heavier economical forms of loose mixes or blocks. E: [email protected] weaners for more kilograms of beef/ha and “Where cattle are salt hungry it’s not so Dr Rob Dixon // T: 07 4936 0339 easier management. much of an issue, but where they do not E: [email protected] In another experiment, the team tested the have an appetite for salt, it is often a To download MLA’s Phosphorus benefit of P supplementation of cows for substantial industry problem,” Rob said. management of beef cattle in northern several months immediately post-weaning The project team has been investigating a Australia visit: www.mla.com.au/ northernphosphorus and when the cows were in mid pregnancy. novel approach to this problem.

The project team: Rob Dixon, Mary Fletcher, Stephen Anderson, David McNeill, Carol Petherick, Marcelo Benvenutti, Llorenc Castells Domingo, Kerry Goodwin and with the support of the staff at QDAF Brian Pastures Research facility. 29 On-farm

Desmanthus for dollars Snapshot Enterprise: Soil: Breed South Devon cattle, Mostly vines scrub, Alan Postle, turning off steers at softwood, bottle tree How to successfully establish Wandoan, Qld. 550–600kg live weight country but trials on hard aimed at the EU market. setting, box, bauhinia, legumes in grass pastures Livestock: sandalwood and myall Plan ahead country 130 cows (drought- > Kill the grass and weeds to reduce competition. reduced herd, usually 160) Rainfall: > Store moisture. Property: Pasture: 625mm > Select the most suitable varieties for climate and 502ha Green panic grass, buffel grass, medics soil type. > Ensure planted area can be spelled after sowing. Wandoan cattle producer Alan Postle is convinced planting > To reduce cost, sow in strips where the pasture legumes, such as desmanthus, is a great investment. has good grass species. Check soil nutrition is adequate rial plots on his property As part of measuring the benefit of > Some legumes have high phosphorus (P) and ‘Kookaburra’, near Wandoan, these legumes, steers were grazed on sulphur requirements. If soil P levels are low, plants have shown that annual beef the trial plots and liveweight gains will be stunted and grow poorly, so P fertiliser T may need to be applied at or prior to planting. production can be increased 40–100% were recorded. by grazing legumes/buffel grass, Blood tests of the animals showed they Select the right legume > Seek expert advice to choose the best species for compared to grazing pastures alone. were P deficient as well as marginally your situation. “We’ve had more than 700 legume lines copper deficient. To continue the trial > Consider: soil type and nutrition, frost tolerance, tested here and at our other property they were supplemented with rainfall, life span (perennial or annual), persistence, during the past 30 years and desmanthus bicalcium phosphate and molasses and time of maturity and grazing management. has been one of the best for production given a copper rumen pellet. and persistence,” Alan said. Use quality seed at recommended planting rates “Consequently, steer weight gains > Aim to sow at least 1kg/ha of pure live seed. “Cattle do well on it, it holds its own improved dramatically during the > If using coated seed, seeding rates per hectare with (Biloela) buffel and – if I want to summer to autumn period,” Gavin said. must increase, potentially 3–5 times, based on the return country to cultivation – I can “Unsupplemented, in the first year, they coat to seed ratio. spray it out and get rid of it.” recorded weight gains on grass of only Prepare a suitable seed bed Queensland Department of Agriculture 0.02kg/head/day and, on legumes, of > Aim to maximise seed–soil contact and reduce and Fisheries Senior Pastures 0.18kg/head/day. competition. Agronomist Gavin Peck said the “However, in the second year – once > Hard-setting soils should be opened up to legume trial at Kookaburra consisted of supplemented – their weight gains promote water infiltration. two 10ha plots – one planted to Biloela improved to 1.5kg/head/day on grass > Seedbeds where the soil is fine but firm often buffel only and the other planted to only and 1.9kg/head/day on legumes.” have the best germinations. buffel and the Jaribu desmanthus mix. Gavin said there were several key > Plant small seeded legumes on top or just under This mix is no longer available; however, take-home messages from the trial for the surface (e.g. for stylos) or no more than 20mm deep (e.g. for desmanthus). Gavin said the new Progardes blend producers in the Brigalow belt. should perform similarly or better. > Larger seeded legumes (e.g. leucaena, butterfly “If you’re grazing grass only, planting pea) can be sown deeper, down to 40mm. “Soil tests revealed Kookaburra to be legumes is the single biggest phosphorus (P) deficient so we also production boost you can give your Plant at the right time > In most years planting in January–March, during tested how legumes responded to five business,” he said. different rates of P fertiliser with a the wettest months, gives new seedlings the “Don’t take any shortcuts with legume highest chance for follow-up rainfall and less background application of potassium establishment. If your soil is P deficient, chance of heat waves. However, an early frost can (K), sulphur (S) and zinc (Zn) and a high fertilise legume-based pastures. It’s an kill small seedlings. rate of P without K, S and Zn,” he said. investment that will return dividends Post-sowing management “We drilled the phosphorus 5–7.5cm for decades. > Success of legume persistence depends on good deep into the soil, on 30cm tyne grazing management during the first year. “Test your stock’s P status. P deficiency spacings, and found it increased in animals grazing on Brigalow soils > Legumes should not be grazed until the seedlings pasture yields dramatically up to rates could be far more widespread than have developed a strong root system and grazing of 50kg P/ha. should be managed to allow the legumes to set previously thought.” “The pasture also responded to K, S or large amounts of seed. Zn or a combination of these nutrients.” Gavin Peck // T: 07 4688 1392 > Leucaena is the exception – it can be grazed once E: [email protected] the seedlings have reached about 1.5m high. 30 Growing demand

Ambassadors Red meat’s Making the menu in advocates Miami

MLA’s international offices have been working with ambassadors for many years to promote Australian beef and lamb in markets such as China, US-based chef Aaron Brooks Indonesia, the Middle East and the US. (pictured) was born in Sydney, grew up on the Gold Coast and had he use of brand ambassadors is a promote lamb to consumers and industry his first lesson in the kitchen with powerful marketing tool that professionals. his mum, who also worked in the Trelies on positive word-of-mouth “In the developing market of China and food industry. recommendations and, increasingly, South Asia, we’ve been using what we call harnesses the power of social media. Red Majesty Chefs for the past three years. MLA General Manager International These are local food industry identities Markets Michael Finucan said having who have been using Australian beef to independent opinion leaders talk about cook local dishes and who are helping us Australian product was vital. with promotions. “Ambassadors give the consumer a credible “Last year in Korea, we wanted to launch an alternative source of information on red Australian beef barbecue and camping meat and how to use it, and it helps MLA promotion, so we used a high-profile TV chef spread its messages about beef, goat and popular with younger consumers. That was lamb,” he said. a six-month ambassadorship because, “We work with the ambassadors and educate again, the campaign had a specific target.” fter completing his apprenticeship them about our food safety and traceability Long-term relationships and working in Australia, Aaron systems, and where the product comes MLA has highly successful relationships Aheaded to the US in 2010. He worked from and how it’s produced, and then they with long-term ambassadors who have at the Four Seasons Hotel Boston before are able to passionately communicate become passionate advocates for moving to Miami almost four years ago. these messages to their fans and customers. Australian red meat. When asked to represent Australian lamb, “The ambassadors are generally well-known They include celebrity chef Tarek Ibrahim Aaron said his reply was “an automatic ‘yes’”. chefs, housewives (the main purchasers in from Dubai and MasterChef Indonesia Here he shares his love of lamb with Feedback. many Asian markets), or other leaders in judge Vindex Tengker. their professions. Where do you work and what does your As MLA Middle East’s executive chef, Tarek role involve? “They often have a social media presence is technically an MLA employee, but he I am the executive chef of Four Seasons or loyal fans, which gives us the has also become a powerful ambassador – Hotel Miami and EDGE Steak & Bar. I opportunity to leverage off their popularity promoting Australian beef and lamb’s oversee the entire food operation for the and get greater exposure. Through them safety systems, products and quality to his hotel and restaurant. we can share recipes or key messages with legion of fans. a broader audience.” What do you love about Australian lamb? “Tarek is a hugely respected chef,” Michael It’s what I grew up on, so it has a very A regional flavour said. special place in my heart, and the flavour is Michael said each international office put “He was the first Arab chef to receive the second to none. The rigorous grading its own take on the ambassador concept. status of Master Chef from the World standards held up by the Australian “For example, the Japan office went out and Association of Chef Societies and his TV industry ensure only top quality lamb sought ambassadors for a particular issue, shows are watched by hundreds of makes it to the plate. It has the perfect which was to get the top restaurants in millions of people. marbling to ensure the best eating. Tokyo using more lamb,” he said. (See “His Facebook page, which promotes True Is it hard to encourage people to eat lamb story page 31). Aussie Beef and Lamb, has 47,000 likes.” in Miami? “The Japan ‘Lambassador’ program kicked It’s been pretty easy, to be honest. While it off in April 2015 and will use the Michael Finucan, MLA E: [email protected] may not be the first protein of choice for Lambassadors for targeted activities to Miamians, they are keen to try something 31 Growing demand

Vania adds dash of glamour Celebrity chef and Indonesian social media personality Vania Wibisono (pictured below) has been MLA Indonesia’s Family Ambassador since 2013.

ania has thousands of followers on of beef to fulfil nutrition required for kids social media and appears on eight and all family members. As a chef I Vdifferent television cooking programs. constantly use Australian beef for my The self-described “chef, mum, food activist dishes, due to its quality and versatility. and free soul” was chosen as an MLA What food trends are you seeing and ambassador for her connection to mothers how could Australian beef and lamb fit and young, social media-savvy consumers. into those? What do you love about Australian beef The fusion food trend is growing, especially and lamb? in Jakarta. Asian and Western fusion dishes It is naturally tender and practical to use and are the new trend. there are a wide range of cuts to be chosen. The rise of local Indonesian food is also quite strong, from local street-style snacks What is your favourite way to use (kue cubit, martabak, etc) to internationally Australian beef and lamb? known dishes such as beef rendang. As a roast, with homemade bread and sides, and as stir fry. I also use mince for home True Aussie beef is needed to support this cooking and cooking demonstrations. local food trend and develop high quality, Minced True Aussie beef is very versatile for beef-based food, such as beef rendang. This creating daily meals. is especially true if we are going to introduce these kinds of dishes worldwide. Why did you agree to be an MLA ambassador? Follow Vania on Facebook: I strongly agree with MLA Indonesia’s www.facebook.com/ ChefVaniaWibisono vision to educate mums on the importance new. We have received rave reviews on the different ways we feature lamb. Chops are usually the go-to dish, but when we put a lamb burger on our menu people go wild for it. Tacos are popular too, plus slow-braised lamb shoulder in a soft tortilla. What is your favourite way to use Australian lamb? Growing up we would gather for a roast leg of lamb every Sunday. These days I also enjoy braising a well-marbled shoulder of lamb with the bone in. I have to say, though, my favourite way to eat lamb is simply grilled. How do you promote Australian lamb? I’ve always ‘menued’ Aussie lamb so representation has always been there for our guests. Outside that, I was lucky enough to be part of two lamb immersions with Miami’s top chefs, educating the audience on the benefits of the product. I’ve also represented MLA at the Culinary Institute of America in Napa in front of industry professionals, which was a blast. Social media, radio and television have also been part of the initiative.

www.fourseasons.com/Miami 32 Growing demand

Ambassadors Lamb lures Andy High-profile US chef Andy Husbands (pictured) , owns two successful restaurants in Boston, has written four recipe books and is a world-champion barbecue cook.

He signed on as an official MLA ‘Lambassador’ because Aussie lamb ticks all his boxes for flavour, sustainability and price. In his role, Andy has hosted dinners, led special events, such as seminars for chefs, included lamb recipes in his books and promoted lamb on social media. Where do you work and what does your role involve? I own Tremont 647 and Sister Sorel, in Boston’s South End, and am opening The Smoke Shop in Kendall Square, Cambridge, Massachusetts. I am chef/partner and I am heavily involved in all of the food and hospitality aspects. What do you love about Australian lamb? Flavour is number one, then we look at how it’s raised and handled and, finally, price. All of these aspects make Australian lamb perfect for us. What food trends are you seeing and how could Australian lamb fit into those? People want to know animals have been raised naturally and humanely, and these are the strong points of Australian lamb. What is your favourite way to use Australian lamb? We love making lamb pastrami with the legs. It’s a four-day process of curing, smoking and roasting. www.tremont647.com Aiming high in world’s top food city Tokyo is one of the world’s most fashionable cities. It has the most Michelin-starred restaurants of any city in the world and is considered by many to be the greatest food city. With the goal of making lamb more fashionable in Tokyo, MLA recently launched Japan’s first ‘Lambassador’ program. LA’s Japan business manager Andrew said the final step in the campaign Andrew Cox, MLA Andrew Cox said the initiative would be the publication of a lamb E: [email protected] Mbegan by approaching nine food inspiration guide, with recipes from the industry leaders to be Lambassadors. Lambassadors, which will be printed and “In this group there are five chefs – across a distributed to chefs across Japan. spectrum of classic French, modern French, bistro, Chinese and modern Australian – a butcher/lamb smallgoods specialist, two food stylists/media personalities and even the president of the 1,000-member Japan Sheepmeat Lovers’ Association,” Andrew said. “Our first step, in March, was to educate and inspire the Lambassadors by bringing them to Australia to learn from some trendsetting Australian chefs and visit a sheep property. This led to our media launch in April. “The next step has been to run a series of events hosted by the Lambassadors MLA Japan’s Lambassadors. Front, from left: Marie Inoue (food stylist), Tomoyuki Kezuka (hotel fine themselves, allowing them to showcase dining chef), Ryo Housho (Chinese restaurant owner) and Hideyo Ishii (food consultant/olive oil their skills and passion to other chefs, sommelier). Back, from left: Koji Fukuda (modern Australian chef), Moriaki Higashizawa (butcher consumers and media.” and A+ Australian Wine Specialist), Masafumi Irie (French bistro chef), Kazuhiro Kikuchi (president, Sheepmeat Eating Association) and Naoya Kobayashi (French fusion chef). 33 Growing demand

Recipes The season for lamb Spring has sprung and that means its time to enjoy lamb. Here are three new ways of preparing traditional cuts.

Chargrilled lamb Roasted lamb Spiced lamb and loin chops with rump with freekah, mint meatballs with rosemary dressing almond and lemon yoghurt pomegranate salad Serves: 4 // Preparation time: 15 mins Serves: 4 // Preparation time: 20 mins Serves: 4 // Preparation time: 15 mins Cooking time: 8 mins, plus resting time Cooking time: 15 mins, plus resting time Cooking time: 8 mins

Ingredients Ingredients Ingredients 8 lamb loin chops, trimmed 600g lamb rump, trimmed 600g lean lamb mince 3 tbsp olive oil 2 tsp Dijon mustard, plus extra to serve Zest of 1, and juice of ½ a lemon 6 anchovies in oil, drained and roughly Freekah salad: ½ cup mint leaves, chopped chopped 2½ cups cooked freekah* 1 tsp ground cumin 1½ tbsp rosemary leaves, roughly chopped 2 tbsp roasted almonds, chopped 1 tsp ground coriander zest of 1 lemon ½ cup pomegranate seeds 1 cup Greek yoghurt 1 red chilli, roughly chopped (optional) 1 cup flat leaf parsley leaves, roughly chopped Grilled lemon wedges, baked potatoes and 400g mixed tomatoes, sliced 1 tbsp olive oil spinach or chard, to serve ½ small red onion, finely sliced 2 tsp pomegranate molasses** Method 2 tsp white wine vinegar *Freekah is a Middle Eastern dried and roasted 1. Mix the lamb with the lemon zest, mint, cumin and coriander and season with salt Method green wheat, available from supermarkets or delis. Cook according to instructions on the packet. and pepper. Roll into meatballs roughly the 1. Preheat a ridged chargrill to moderately size of a walnut. high. Brush the lamb with one tbsp olive oil **Pomegranate molasses is a reduced and season with salt and pepper. Cook for pomegranate syrup, available from supermarkets. 2. Mix the yoghurt and lemon juice together and season with salt and pepper. four minutes on each side or to your liking. Method Cover and set aside to rest for five minutes. 1. Preheat the oven to 180°C. Place a frying pan 3. Preheat a large, lidded frying pan over a 2. Meanwhile, pound the anchovies, rosemary, over a moderately high heat. Rub the lamb moderate heat. Gently roll the meatballs in lemon zest and chilli (if using) in a mortar with some olive oil and season with salt and some olive oil and cook for four minutes or and pestle into a thick paste. Slowly pound in pepper. Sear for eight minutes or until nicely until nicely browned. Cover with a lid, reduce one tbsp of olive oil. browned all over. Rub with mustard and the heat to low and cook for four minutes or transfer to an oven tray. Roast for 12–15 minutes until cooked through. 3. Mix the tomatoes, red onion and vinegar or to your liking. Set aside to rest for five to with the remaining oil and stir to coat. 4. Serve the meatballs with the lemon yoghurt, 10 minutes, loosely covering with foil. Season with salt and pepper grilled lemon wedges, baked potatoes and 2. Slice the rested lamb and serve with the sautéed spinach or chard. 4. Serve the lamb with the pounded dressing freekah salad and a dollop of Dijon mustard. spooned on top and the tomato salad on the side. For the freekah salad: Mix the cooked freekah with the almonds, pomegranate seeds and parsley. Season with salt and pepper and dress with the olive oil Find more inspiration at: www.beefandlamb.com.au and pomegranate molasses. 34 Markets

Around the globe Wagyu led recovery Training promoters

7 Korea Online sales breakthrough

3 North America China 1 2 JAPAN Charity Barbie campaign barbecue Middle-east/ 4 The Philippines 6 north africa MLA marketing Grassfed on menu activities help Foodservice boost demand training for Australian Australia 5 beef and lamb both at home and Better on Beef campaign in our global Retailer expo marketplace.

1 China 14 July was declared Barbie Day 3 North America different cuts of meat and and 50 media representatives butchery and cutting skills. Massive online market Barbecuing in Boston attended an event at the MLA partnered with the opens up Australian Embassy, which Chefs were targeted when MLA International Centre for Culinary Australian chilled beef will be included a Barbie Day kicked off the barbecue season Arts (ICCA) for the first in a series sold online into China from Certification Ceremony and the with the ‘Great Aussie Steakout’ of seminars delivered its first mid-September via a company launch of a steak cooking app at the Catalyst restaurant in educational seminars at the ICCA with 38.1 million registered called Barbie Mate. Cambridge, a suburb in Boston. facilities in Dubai on 3–4 August customers. “Let’s Barbie” advertisements Chefs William Kovel from 2015. Director and CEO of ICCA Export meat marketer Sanger, were run on national and local Catalyst, Ryan Marcoux from Dubai, Sunjeh Raja, said the with the support of MLA’s television stations, along with Boston Chops, Matthew Gaudet initiative would go a long way to CoMarketing Program, has been billboard advertising in Tokyo from West Bridge, Renee Scharoff help develop better knowledge working to secure the contract and Osaka, print advertisements from Blonde on the Run Catering, and understanding of meat and with popular shopping site in magazines and posters and Eric Kinniburgh from Boloco its right cuts, for quality and cost- JD.com. displayed in barbecue areas. were on the grills where games efficient use, while also enabling JD.com processes 163.7 million Retailers, including steak and beers were offered alongside professional development and orders annually and has 97 restaurants, were given posters Australian beef and lamb. Funds improve performance and warehouses in 39 cities and and stickers for in-store raised went to the ALS Therapy growth within the hospitality 24,412 delivery staff across China. promotions. Development Institute, dedicated industry in the UAE. Check out MLA’s International to ending Lou Gehrig’s disease. 5 australia Business Manager Andrew Cox 4 million explaining the campaign at: middle-east/ Badger built on beef 38.1 north africa Chinese customers now www.mla.com.au/News-and- have access to chilled Aussie events/Industry-news/ Upskilling in the UAE beef online Global-marketing-update-video- Meat scientist Dr Peter diary-from-Japan McGilchrist travelled to Dubai 2 Japan to help Master Chef Tarek Bringing back the barbie Ibrahim educate culinary Australian beef promotions have 70 million students and food industry The Honey Badger has struck been reinvigorated in Japan with people targeted with professionals on the Australian again. In the latest instalment of a multi-faceted “Let’s Barbie” “Let’s Barbie” television beef and lamb supply chain, the “You’re Better on Beef” campaign in July and August. advertising correct cooking methods for campaign, rugby union player 35 Markets

Nick “Honey Badger” Cummins has 6 The Philippines On the ground showcased the role beef played in helping his dad overcome the trials Going with grassfed and tribulations of raising eight Thirty-seven of Manila’s top European Union energetic kids in the 1980s, often on restaurants featured Victorian his own. produced grassfed beef on their Josh Anderson International Business Manager Honey Badger’s home video is part of a menus for a month long promotion. Europe and Russia broader campaign, which includes MLA worked with Austrade and the E: [email protected] television activity on Channel 7 and Victorian Government to hold a Channel 10, national radio on the KISS competition during the promotion, and WSFM networks, posters in close with diners at participating he EU is Australia’s highest value export proximity to key retailers and butchers restaurants having chance to win a market on a per tonne basis for beef, with in shopping centres throughout trip to Australia. shipments averaging $11,270/tonne, up 11% Australia, digital panels in key high T 7 Korea year-on-year. traffic locations, national online video activity and a PR partnership with Wagyu to lure diners The majority of beef and lamb is purchased by leading national network Mamamia. foodservice and catering companies seeking consistent products. All the way with IGA Despite the major points of entry being Italy, the Netherlands and England, Australian beef and lamb is distributed throughout much of Europe depending on specific requirements and cuts. It enjoys

Spring is the season for sharing fresh, simple consistent demand from countries that have a strong meals with family and friends, that’s why we say, “You never lamb alone in Spring!” Lamb is a key component of the fresh category. Displayed well, lamb brings customers to store; restaurant culture and higher disposable incomes, it also has strong impulse appeal which can drive additional sales. Meat & Livestock Australia are working in partnership with Metcash to produce and distribute a range of POS materials to the IGA network that are designed to capture shopper attention and stimulate sales of lamb for you this spring, so; with countries such as Switzerland, Denmark, the Display you spring lamb POS to capture shopper attention, it can help increase sales, Focus on your in-store display to stimulate impulse purchases; and, Korean family restaurant franchise Investigate a range of new and innovative lamb cuts to broaden your offer Netherlands, UK and Germany continuing to pay (we have some suggestions overleaf). T.G.I. Fridays is offering five different Marinated Lamb Rump Steaks premiums for high quality beef and lamb. with warm rice salad Preparation: 30 mins Cooking: 15 mins Ingredients: Serves: 4 Australian Wagyu steak dishes on 8 lamb rump steak 250 g Greek-style yoghurt, extra to Method: There is a strong willingness from importers within serve 1. Add yoghurt and chutney with 1 3 tbsp mango chutney, extra to serve tablespoon of lemon juice in a bowl. their menus for a year, in an effort to Juice of 1 lemon Combine the lamb steaks and coat, marinate for 30 minutes. 220 corn kernels 2. Meanwhile, cook the corn, zucchini 2 zucchini, diced Europe to promote Australia’s high quality red meat and peas in boiling water for 4 300 g frozen peas minutes. In a separate pot boil rice, strain and combine with vegetables. 330 g uncooked rice attract more families hesitant to dine 3. Preheat a BBQ to medium, grill the chops 2 tbsp olive oil for 4 minutes each side or until cooked to your liking. Slice the lamb and serve on top of rice with extra yoghurt and chutney. products. MLA is able to leverage off this desire by out due to the economic downturn in www.beefandlamb.com.au supporting a wide range of activities aimed at Korea. MLA trained the restaurant growing loyalty and delivering increasing value. staff on handling and cooking the In market supply chain education, training and different Wagyu cuts and the Darling Summer is the season for active outdoor living and beef is the best fuel to help you get the most out of every day, that’s why development, activities have targeted chef and we say, “You’re better on Beef!” Downs-sourced steaks are now Beef is a category king; it drives customer loyalty and brings shoppers to store. Beef is also the most nutrient rich protein; nature’s best source of iron and an unbeatable source of zinc. foodservice groups to educate and promote brand Meat & Livestock Australia are working in partnership with Metcash to produce and distribute a range of POS materials to the IGA network that are designed to available in 37 stores nationally. communicate the nutritional benefits of beef and strengthen shopper loyalty this summer, so; Australia and raise awareness of Australian red meat Display your summer beef POS to communicate the nutritional benefits of beef, it can help increase shopper loyalty and sales, Focus on cross promotions that deliver a quick and easy meal solutions for the family, Investigate a range of new and exciting cuts to broaden your BBQ Talking shop in Europe. offer (we have some suggestions overleaf). ------bbQ rump steak Preparation: 10 mins with chimmichuri sauce Cooking : 20 mins Serves: 4 Current access to the EU is restricted by low import Ingredients: 1 kg rump steak, Method: 1 tbsp olive oil 1. Combine ingredients for the 2 cobs corn, husks removed sauce and set aside. 2 bunches asparagus, ends 2. Preheat a BBQ or chargrill trimmed until hot and brush corn, quotas and high above quota tariffs. Importing 8 large mushrooms, stalks removed asparagus and mushrooms Chimmichurri sauce with half the oil. Grill corn for 15 minutes, mushrooms 5-6 ½ red capsicum, very finely minutes and asparagus 3-4 chopped minutes turning frequently. 1tsp red wine vinegar 3. Meanwhile brush steak with 3 tsp extra virgin olive oil Australian beef and lamb outside these quotas, for oil and cook on a chargrill for ¼ cup finely chopped 3 minutes each side or to your coriander leaves liking, remove and rest. Slice ½ tsp paprika steak and serve with vegetables 1 clove garlic, crushed dress with sauce. ------the large majority, is not economically viable.

www.beefandlamb.com.au ------Therefore the volume potential within the market will be limited for the short-term. More than 2,500 people and 250 Thirty Australian beef promoters in retailers now have a better Korea recently enjoyed a cooking MLA supports the Australian Government and understanding of the versatility of class and demonstration to improve industry in efforts to gain greater access across spring lamb and summer beef their sampling promotions with Europe. The EU – Australia Framework Agreement following MLA presentations at the consumers. With in-store sampling was concluded on 22 April 2015, and is widely seen annual Metcash expo on the Gold being a very successful sales activity as a positive step. The Agreement outlines the Coast. Retailers were invited to an with Korean shoppers, a professional relationship between the EU and Australia as MLA-hosted event during the expo instructor provided step-by-step like-minded partners, and aims to expand the and they sampled dishes of instructions on how to cook perfect existing partnership to a new strategic level. chimichurri beef rump and beef samples for in-store sampling The treaty will advance cooperation on economic Mediterranean lamb with cous cous with easy, versatile recipes. MLA also and trade matters, foreign and security policy and and mango chutney and entered a provided education and research and innovation. Importantly, the treaty will competition to win one of three communication skills on the True help boost growth, prosperity and jobs through $5,000 beef and lamb marketing Aussie Beef logo and how the brand is efforts that reduce barriers to commerce. packages linked to IGA stores. used in stores. 36 Markets

Figure 1 Australian beef exports and domestic consumption* Figure 2 Australian beef exports

3000 1400 Domestic Export Japan US Korea China Other 1200 2500

1000 ‘000 tonnes swt tonnes ‘000 ‘000 tonnes cwt tonnes ‘000 2000

800 1500 600

1000 400

50 200

0 1995 2000 2005 2010 2015 0 1995 2000 2005 2010 2015 Fiscal year ended June 30 Fiscal year ended June 30 Figures 1, 3 and 4 – Source: Australian Bureau of Statistics, Department of Agriculture, MLA calculations // * Consumption is calculated as production less exports Figures 2, 5 and 6 – Source: Department of Agriculture The changing face of Australian markets In the past 20 years, Australia’s beef and lamb industry has evolved to become increasingly export focused. That evolution looks set to continue. Here we examine the push and pull factors that impact on markets.

ustralia’s cattle and lamb industries are being impacted With the population growing by 32% since 1995 but beef and lamb by three major forces in 2015 – declining domestic production increasing 48% and 89%, respectively, it is no wonder we A consumption, increased production and growing continue to see more and more red meat head to the export market. global demand. Figures 1 and 3 illustrate how domestic beef and lamb consumption Domestic market has remained steady while total exports have continued to grow. Domestic consumption in Australia is forecast to account for 24% of Beef exports total Australian beef and veal production this year, leaving 76% for In 2014-15, Australian beef and veal exports increased 14% year-on- export. Declining domestic demand is expected to continue in the year, to a record 1.35 million tonnes swt – a trade worth more than next few years, with the forecast of lower slaughter and production $9 billion. Supporting exports was the 8% year-on-year increase in over the period. production, at 2.66 million tonnes cwt, driven by sustained drought Despite this, Australia will remain the most valuable market for induced cattle slaughter, along with strong demand from Australia’s Australian beef and the main market for loin cuts. three major markets – the US, Japan and Korea. Beef consumed by the Australian market is expected to decline 8% The US, the largest beef producer in the world, is a huge driver of the year-on-year in 2015, to around 611,000 tonnes cwt, and as a result, global beef market and is Australia’s largest customer and per capita consumption is forecast to decline 9% year-on-year to competitor (in Japan and Korea). Fortunately, with tight cattle and 25.7 kg/head. This is a common trend in many developed countries, beef supplies, the US has increased its volumes of imported beef such as the US and in Europe. and decreased the amount of product shipped onto the export Declining domestic consumption and increasing export demand is market – both of which have worked in Australia’s favour. Similarly, impacting the lamb industry. This year an estimated 41% of total the falling A$, now at a six-year low, has continued to make Australian lamb production to be consumed domestically, while Australian product more competitive on the international market 59% is forecast to be exported. while putting the US at a disadvantage. Domestic lamb consumption is forecast to decline 3% year-on-year Primarily lean manufacturing beef, Australian exports to the US in 2015, to 200,000 tonnes cwt, resulting in per capita lifted 77% year-on-year in 2014-15, to a record 471,242 tonnes swt – consumption declining 3% to 8.5kg. The forecasted increased and while the majority was made up of frozen grassfed beef production of lamb, through to 2020, is likely to be directed straight (381,272 tonnes swt), there was a surge in chilled grassfed product, to international markets. increasing 72% year-on-year, to 76,282 tonnes swt. MLA’s Sheep Industry Projections (July update) forecast lamb export Australian exports to Japan were also greater (9%) than the year volumes for 2015 to be 6% higher year-on-year, at 250,000 tonnes before, at 303,519 tonnes swt, underpinned by a 24% rise in swt, while mutton shipments are forecast to decline 24%, to grainfed shipments – which accounted for just under half the total, 142,000 tonnes swt. at 143,686 tonnes swt. 37 Markets

Figure 3 Australian lamb exports and domestic consumption* Figure 4 Australian mutton exports and domestic consumption*

600 400 Domestic Export Domestic Export 500 300 ‘000 tonnes cwt tonnes ‘000 400 cwt tonnes ‘000

300 200

200 100 100

0 1995 2000 2005 2010 2015 0 1995 2000 2005 2010 2015 Fiscal year ended June 30 Fiscal year ended June 30

Figure 5 Australian lamb exports Figure 6 Australian mutton exports

250 250 China Middle East US Other Middle East SEA-ASEAN* China Other

200 200 ‘000 tonnes swt tonnes ‘000 swt tonnes ‘000

150 150

100 100

50 50

0 1995 2000 2005 2010 2015 0 1995 2000 2005 2010 2015 Fiscal year ended June 30 Fiscal year ended June 30 * South East Asia - Association of South East Asian Nations

There was also some modest growth (1% year-on-year) in the the large number of lambs that continued to enter the market – volume of beef shipped to Korea, at 156,915 tonnes swt and like during the latter half of 2014-15 in particular – indicates a Japan, exports were buoyed by a relatively substantial increase (11% considerable improvement in lamb marking rates in recent years. year-on-year) in grainfed exports, at 37,454 tonnes swt. The Middle East was again Australia’s largest lamb export market in While the volume of Australian beef exported to China (124,820 2014-15, taking 69,374 tonnes swt (up 15% year-on-year), followed by tonnes swt) in 2014-15 was down 22% year-on-year, it must be the US, at 48,153 head (up 14%). Following unprecedented exports viewed in context with where the market has grown from, with in 2013-14, exports to China slipped 13% last year, to 35,737 tonnes shipments for the year 129% above the five-year average. The swt, as a result of high volumes reported in cold stores. majority (111,698 tonnes swt) was made up by grassfed beef. Australian mutton exports reached 169,492 tonnes swt in 2014-15 – For the remainder of 2015, the strong demand momentum is only back 7% from the previous year’s record high, which was driven by likely to slow a small amount, if at all. MLA’s Australian Cattle Industry elevated slaughter. Nevertheless, the 2014-15 volume was still Projections (Q3 Update) forecast export volumes for 2015 (calendar considerably higher (38%) than the five-year average (122,724 year) to be 2% higher than the 2014 record, at 1.32 million tonnes tonnes swt). swt – the US will comfortably be the largest market again this year. MLA’s Sheep Industry Projections forecast lamb export volumes for Lamb and mutton exports 2015 to be 6% higher year-on-year, at 250,000 tonnes swt, while Lamb production, in 2014–15, increased 7% year-on-year, to a record mutton shipments are forecast to decline 24%, to 142,000 tonnes swt. 507,000 tonnes cwt. Lamb exports followed suit, lifting 7% to 242,000 tonnes swt. Read the latest projections at: www.mla.com.au/Prices-markets/Trends-analysis Following what was historically high lamb slaughter in 2013–14, 38 In the field

Indonesia//Supply chain tour

ix northern cattle producers recently visited Indonesia on an MLA-LiveCorp supported tour to learn about the supply chain. Greg and Allison Dakin from the Northern Territory, Ross and Natalie Olive from Queensland and Ben Millis and Caitlin U’ren from SWestern Australia won the prize after filling out surveys at Beef Australia. Tour highlights included: > inspecting three feedlots in Lampung, Sumatra and in West Java > visiting wet markets and seeing the dynamics of Indonesia’s > touring the Elders abattoir in West Java, one of the many ‘fresh supplies’, where fresh meat is sourced from the previous modern abattoirs in Indonesia that produce their own frozen night’s slaughtering process and chilled meat and the TUM abattoir in West Java, a well- > finding Australian boxed beef for sale in a high-end supermarket. engineered ESCAS abattoir that ranked number one in its class They learnt that boxed beef imported to Indonesia is more for for cleanliness. the consumption of hotels, catering companies and restaurants

Rashelle Levonian, MLA At the Great Giant Livestock Co Feedlot in Lampung. E: [email protected]

Above: Getting ready for day one’s visit to a wet market and supermarket. Below: Visiting Ranch Market and finding Australian boxed beef on display.

Above left: At the Juang Jaya Abdi Alam Feedlot in Lampung. Above right: Talking with Elders’ Indonesia Feedlot Manager about their feed mix.

MLA AGM and Producer Forum 2015 LIVEXchange conference At MLA’s AGM and Producer Forum, the MLA Chair and World-renowned livestock handling expert Dr Temple Managing Director will present an update on the company Grandin will tour Australia and Indonesia in November to over the past financial year. The Producer Forum will examine the livestock export cattle industry and give a provide members with the opportunity to gain a greater keynote address. Fellow keynote speaker Dr Bernard Vallat understanding of the activities that the company is will provide a global perspective on animal welfare and the involved in and the opportunities that exist for their challenges being faced. A wide range of speakers, trade Upcoming events business, and a chance to ask questions. displays and panel discussions will attend including a When and where: 10 November 2015 at Mercure Brisbane, producer forum, where the proposed Livestock Global 85–87 North Quay, Brisbane, Queensland Assurance Program will also be outlined. Find more events More information: When and where: 25–26 November 2015, Darwin, NT and information: www.mla.com.au/agm Bookings and information: www.mla.com.au/ events www.livexchangeconference.com.au 39 In the field

Wagga Wagga and Brisbane// Intercollegiate Meat Judging

euben Welke is a third-year veterinary science student at Perth’s Murdoch University. With his eye on specialising in cattle, RReuben saw an opportunity to develop his skills through the MLA-supported Intercollegiate Meat Judging (ICMJ ) program. Earlier this year Reuben spent a week in Wagga Wagga, NSW, for the ICMJ program and competition, where he was runner up in the beef judging and made it into the top 10 overall team, which then went on to compete in Brisbane in late August. Reuben was then named in the Australian team, along with Jess McGrath from Charles Sturt University (CSU) and Sydney University students Anna White, Georgia Clark and Simon Kensit. “To be a good production animal vet you must understand what the In August, Reuben and four fellow ICMJ students were chosen to industry and ultimately what consumers want, as then you’re placed in a travel to the US (January 2016) to represent Australia and compete much better position to work with the producer on the required product,” in up to three American meat judging competitions. From L–R: Reuben Welke – Murdoch University, Anna White – Sydney he said. University, Georgia Clark – Sydney University, Jessica McGrath – CSU “After the first information and training session at ICMJ I realised I’d Wagga Wagga and Simon Kensit – Sydney University. made the correct decision and ICMJ was, firstly, going to provide so much knowledge about the animal post-slaughter and the supply chains and, secondly, provide invaluable industry networking.” Here’s Reuben’s diary from his week in southern NSW with ICMJ Day 1: Flew from Perth to Melbourne and drove to Wangaratta, Victoria. Day 2: Visited Lambpro, Tom Bull’s sheep genetics business at Holbrook and then on to Wagga for a beef training session at processor Teys Australia, then a retail and sheep carcase training session at Knight’s Meats. Learning: How to polish up the skills needed for the competition. Day 3: Toured Ashleigh Park feedlot at Culcairn and Rennylea Angus with Ruth Corrigan. Back in Wagga Wagga that evening for the first ICMJ function – the ‘rotational grazing’ dinner. Learning: The differences between eastern and western production systems and getting to know the fellow competitors. Reuben Welke of Murdoch University assessing ossification on a beef carcase during the beef judging at Teys Australia. Day 4: The official opening of the 2015 ICMJ program. The morning session included presentations from industry representatives. The afternoon session was a rotating series of workshops to learn what butchering is all about and the importance of yield with two demonstrations (lamb and pork) and then an eating quality workshop and dinner. Learning: Great to see how a carcase goes from complete to full retail cuts in 20 minutes. Day 5: Following a morning of industry representative presentations, we worked through group training sessions on retail cuts and lamb and pork carcases. Learning: The future for the red meat industry is positive. Day 6: Careers Expo and the small stock competition (lamb and pork classes). A careers expo of almost 20 companies was accompanied by professional development workshops preparing us for getting into the workforce. Learning: There are a lot of career options in the livestock sector. Students judging beef primals for Angus Knight assessing the eye Day 7: An early start at Teys Australia for the beef judging. There were quality and yield attributes. muscle of a beef carcase. nine classes, ranging from primal identification to an MSA grading class. The top 15 then had to go back to judge and verbally present a final class to differentiate the top 10 students. That night was the Coles Awards dinner, where all the team and individual categories were awarded. Reuben Welke E: [email protected] Learning: That the whole week had been fantastic and I was lucky to have the opportunity. www.icmj.com.au MLA is your company Have your say… MLA ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING AND PRODUCER FORUM Tuesday 10 November 2015 Mercure Brisbane 85-87 North Quay Brisbane, Queensland

Action dates

12 October AGM pack including proxy form posted to members 8 November Return your proxy form or submit online by 2pm AEDT 10 November Attend the MLA Annual General Meeting and Producer Forum

For more information visit www.mla.com.au/agm or call 1800 675 717