Hundreds of beef and sheep producers are gathering in Bendigo today and tomorrow to further their knowledge, skills and understanding of producing meat and wool for an increasingly discerning market.
Top of the learning list this conference is best practice and innovation, particularly relating to producing a premium product, optimising pasture production and aligning production systems to consumer expectations.
Today’s BetterBeef program features keynote speakers ready to tackle these issues while addressing burning questions around recovering after dry seasons, stocking rates, animal health and welfare, abattoir improvements and genetics.
At Wednesday’s BestWool/BestLamb conference there will be presentations on building resilience in tough times, increasing reproduction outcomes and integrating technology into a sheep production system.
Meat and Wool Program Manager Kate Linden said the conference program once again provides a range of fantastic speakers discussing issues that are current and relevant to producers.
Optional health checks will be available at this years conference, with a team of agri-health professionals from the ³Ô¹ÏÍøÕ¾ Centre for Farmer Health offering delegates an opportunity to check on their number one asset – their health.
Taking just 20 minutes to complete, the farmer health and lifestyle assessments include a lifestyle survey covering health behaviours, farm practices and social and emotional wellbeing.
Participants will also have their cholesterol, blood glucose, blood pressure, BMI and diabetes risk measured, and provided with health education and skills to enhance their own health.
The ³Ô¹ÏÍøÕ¾ Centre for Farmer health is a partnership between Deakin University and Western District Health Service and focuses on improving the health, wellbeing and safety of farming men, women and their families and rural communities across Australia.
Ms Linden said the annual conference attracts around 400 industry leaders.
“It would not be possible without the support of our industry partners; Australian Wool Innovation and Meat and Livestock Australia,” she said.
For more details about today’s and tomorrow’s events, see the .
