Find where goats are going

Local goat producers can expect to gain valuable insights into future opportunities for their industry during a free information day at Orana Station, Ivanhoe on Thursday August 9.

Department of Primary Industries (DPI) livestock officer, Trudie Atkinson, said breeding and selection for improved productivity, marketing, goat health, parasite management and the National Livestock Identification System would feature on the agenda.

"A key part of the day will see DPI breeding specialist, Allan Casey, take producers through the finer points of goat breeding to boost meat production," Ms Atkinson said.

"Mr Casey will work with producers to define their breeding objective and demonstrate how to select goats which meet that objective.

"With a poll goat line and more than 15 years of breeding on their side, goats from John Vaggs’ Orana Station herd will be in the yards for the hands-on session."

To complement the production focus, a forum of industry representatives and marketing advisers has been drawn together to discuss current and future marketing opportunities.

According to NSW Trade and Investment export adviser, Ian Sanders, Asian and Middle East meat and live trade markets, including the export of breeding stock, offer potential for producers who can meet their requirements.

Domestic goat meat markets will be discussed, with Blair Brice from Meat & Livestock Australia (MLA) on-hand to answer questions.

An additional drawcard, NSW State Worm Control Co-ordinator, Stephen Love, will discuss current worm issues and outline effective worm management for goats.

The information day, which is supported by MLA, will also see the launch of a new handbook based on goat industry case studies.

Produced by DPI graduate officer, Allie Jones, the handbook showcases local goat enterprises, including Orana and surrounding stations in the Ivanhoe and Wilcannia areas.

The new handbook was in part a catalyst to the day and is now helping to consolidate the wealth of knowledge which has come out of the goat industry generated by producer experience and know-how, research and market intelligence.

Producers are asked to bring a chair; lunch and afternoon tea will be provided on the day, which runs from 8:30 am until 4:30 pm.

Registration is essential by Monday August 6, contact Trudie Atkinson (02) 6880 8041 or trudie.atkinson@dpi.nsw.gov.au

Photographs are available from bernadette.york@dpi.nsw.gov.au

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