Farm Tech

Priorities for 2001/02

Meat & Wool Innovation funds research and development (R&D) projects that contribute to improved sheep farm production and profit. R&D projects seeking funding should offer short- to medium-term production results. Applications are more likely to be successful if they are also compatible with the long-term strategies of the Foundation for Research, Science and Technology (FRST), are co-funded by other agencies and include objectives which:

• assist farmers to react faster to changing market signals
• integrate sheep production, processing and marketing
• improve overall farm production systems.

The following outcome statements and themes reflect the funding priorities set by WoolPro for the 2001/02 year:

Extension and transfer

Outcome statement: Effective information transfer and uptake of knowledge and technology using a range of available extension opportunities.

Themes:

• Farmer networks (including Sheep Councils and monitor farm programme)
• Farm servicing groups/organisations
• Publications and television program

Research projects

1. Animal health

Outcome statement: Development of animal health treatments to reduce annual expenditure on chemicals by 5% and cut animal wastage by 10% as well as improving public and consumer perceptions of animal welfare.

Themes:

• Improved ectoparasite control
• Diagnosis and prevention of Johnes disease
• Integrated control of footrot and bearings

2. High performance sheep systems

Outcome statement: Improved annual production by 4% through genetics, nutrition and system enhancement.

Themes:

• Tannin containing plants
• Enhanced Pasture persistence
• Improved lamb growth
• Better reproductive efficiency

3. Innovative products

Outcome statement: Development of new products and delivery to the sheep industry.

Themes:

• Disease control
• Improved fibre production

4. Sustainability

Outcome statement: Improved environmental and social sustainability of sheep farming through lower chemical residues and more young people entering the industry

Themes:

• Pesticide residues
• Student involvement in R&D projects

5. Wool quality and market access

Outcome statement: Improved wool quality for 2% price premiums and enhanced market access.

Themes:

• Improved wool bulk
• Improved wool colour
• Wool crimp