Now Loading
  • FutureBeef
  • News
  • Ametdale Field Day showcases Northern Grazing Demonstration results

Ametdale Field Day showcases Northern Grazing Demonstration results

Page published: September 2, 2019 | Page reviewed: September 2, 2019

Thirty beef producers and industry representatives attended the Ametdale Field Day in Central Queensland, to learn about the results of the Northern Grazing Demonstration project.

There were presentations about the Wambiana grazing trial near Charters Towers, techniques to increase breeder efficiency, and an update on pasture dieback.

Organised by Paul Jones, Senior Scientist from the Department of Agriculture and Fisheries (DAF), with contributions from a number of DAF beef extension officers, the field day gave producers and industry an opportunity to find out how spelling paddocks and adjusting stocking rates can achieve long term sustainability of pastures and increased profitability.

Two gentlemen hold up a multicoloured map as Grant Stone, Scientist, explains how to interpret it.
Grant Stone, Principal Extension Scientist from the Department of Environment and Science and guest speaker at the event, explains how to interpret Total Cover maps that can be obtained from the Long Paddock website.

Topics covered in the field day included:

  • understanding your pasture – monitoring your forage
  • adjusting stocking rates
  • treating paddock types
  • long term planning for improved productivity and profitability.

Mr Jones said there had been quite a bit of interest in the field day, with one producer driving 180 km to attend.

“We got some good feedback too, with producers commenting that it was good to see latest from DAF on relevant industry trials,” said Mr Jones.

“There was also a discussion on pasture dieback and regeneration, which is very topical at the moment.

“One of the highlights for producers attending the field day was being able to see the results for themselves, plus ask any questions they may have.  It also gives scientists and the Northern Grazing Demonstration Team a chance to understand any practical implications graziers may have adopting new production methods.

”Field day attendees indicated that they were appreciative of the multi-disciplinary approach involving agronomy, soil science and ecology and are also looking forward to the results of the MLA pasture trials.”