Information and Articles

A recent increase in lice numbers across the state has prompted the Livestock Health and Pest Authorities to review the sheep lice policy in NSW with the aim of developing a more coordinated approach to lice control.

Meetings were held around the state this week to review the NSW Sheep Lice Policy, with LHPA staff and directors along with relevant staff from Industry & Investment NSW.

The Dorper sheep is well known for its ability to adapt and survive in a variety of climatic and grazing conditions. The Dorper was originally bred from the more arid regions of South Africa in the 1930’s. Initially imported into Australia in the mid 1990’s, its suitability to a range of climatic conditions and low maintenance has seen the Dorper develop into one of the largest meat sheep breeds in Australia.

An explosion of lucerne growth following summer rains now offers graziers the opportunity to boost lamb production according to Industry & Investment (I&I) NSW.

I&I NSW advisory officer, Jim Meckiff, said graziers can take advantage of good green feed at this time of year by finishing lambs,
growing out replacement ewe weaners and flushing ewes to lift conception rates.

The goat, one of the first herd animals domesticated by man, has been used for its meat, fleece, hides and milk since ancient times.

A dairy goat is one of the most useful animals you can keep, they are ideal for a small farmer as they are easy to look after and feed. They produce excellent quality milk which can easliy be made into cheese, butter and yogurt. Unwanted kids are excellent as a source of meat for the house, the skins tan well and the fat is used to make soap, as well as all that you have a marvelous source of manure for the garden. The goat is also a lovable animal to have around.

Dairy Goat Breeds

There are over 50 recognised breeds of small or miniature cattle throughout the world. To be classified as a small breed means that the breed is governed by a height regulation although every breed has different interpretations of how these restrictions are applied. The two largest breed societies, in terms of financial members, are the Australian Lowline and Dexter. 

An understanding of animal behaviour is very important as the greater your knowledge the better your ability to predict an animals response. Whilst some handlers have a natural ability for many the skills are gained from observation and practice. Over time you will also learn to be instinctive and sense when they are ill, distressed or hungry and know what their signs are. Remember that cattle are also clever and can learn to be very cunning.

Some basic infrastructure will be required if you intend to run livestock. The quality and cost will depend on the number of head, production goals and the docility of your animals.

For small or new farmers, purchasing and transporting livestock is not as simple as turning up at the saleyards, buying your animals, putting them in the back of your trailer and taking them home.

There are a number of legal requirements, which can incur hefty penalties if not observed, when it comes to owning, transporting and selling livestock. Some are state imposed and will vary depending on where you reside whilst others are mandatory national regulations.

 The prosecution of a grazier for cruelty and failing in the duty of care to transport only animals fit to travel has recently received widespread media attention, highlighting the obligations of all involved in transporting stock.