Life Time Ewe Management in Yeoval
- LEP23_035_LLC
The issue
Little River Landcare had realized a lack of skilled training opportunities were being offered to producers within the catchment. The Southern Drought Hub has highlighted the Central West area as an “extension black spot”. Also noticed was a generation change of management for farming families within the area.
Producers are predominantly mixed farmers, however with livestock prices on the rebound, after the crash in 23/24, livestock numbers are on the increase within the region. Sheep producers had highlighted management issues, including barbers pole, fly strike and variable conception rates.
The solution
Little River Landcare decided to offer a one day workshop with Dr Jillian Kelly. Jillian worked as a District Veterinarian with Central West LLS prior to founding AHN Consulting. This workshop was an opportunity for local producers to better understand how ovine veterinary science, ruminant nutrition, and farm management work together to form the foundation of a successful sheep business.
Some of the topics covered included disease investigations, ovine brucellosis, farm calendar planning, feed budgeting, worm & fly management, vaccination plans & drought preparedness.
The impact
Over 30 local livestock producers attended the workshop. An extensive theory component followed a trip to the yards where participants were able to practice their feel for condition scoring on a pre-prepared mob of sheep. Feedback was extremely positive and participants wanted to learn more.
Little River Landcare was able to enable this producer driven need by connecting the group to a 12 month training program called Life Time Ewe Management; a producer funded series of 6-7 workshops over a 12 month period, facilitated by Dr Jillian Kelly.
Key facts
- Little River Landcare was able to identify a lack of skilled training opportunities for producers within the catchment.
- After attending one workshop, producers wanted to learn more.
- Little River Landcare was able to connect the producer group with a training program that serviced their needs.