NT DITT hits 2023 running with two new staff members
The Northern Territory Department of Industry, Tourism and Trade (NT DITT) Livestock Industries Team in Katherine welcomes two new staff members — just in time for a busy 2023!
Livestock Extension Officer – Mary Williams
Mary grew up on a property in the south east of South Australia and completed a Bachelor of Agricultural Science in 2018. During her study Mary specialised in livestock nutrition and management. Before becoming an extension officer, Mary gained experience working on cattle stations across Northern Australia. Mary will be based in Katherine, working to increase adoption of best practise cattle management, nutrition and pasture utilisation.
Rangelands Research Officer – Jaidyn Eastaughffe
Jaidyn grew up on the Sunshine Coast, QLD. She has a passion for the outdoors which paved the way for her study in Environmental Science. Jaidyn’s study brought her across to Kidman Springs in the NT to assist with the Shruburn burning trials. Here, Jaidyn completed the practical component of her honours thesis, which focused on the importance of Biocrust and the impact of grazing on nitrogen mineralisation. Jaidyn enjoyed her time so much that she decided to stay and begin her career at Katherine Research Station!
The year ahead
The Livestock Industries team have lots on the go for 2023. At the moment, planning for school visits to Katherine Research Station and Rangeland Management Courses across the NT!
There is data coming in for the Paddock Power project to be finalised and analysed. The Pain Relief project data is also being collated for analysis.
The Easy P project, which is trailing a different approach to phosphorus supplementation, will be in full swing this year. The long term results will give a better indication of the financial and production outcomes of the Easy P phosphorus supplementation strategy.
The Rain Ready Rangelands project will be getting underway along with Crops for Cattle Project. More information about both of these projects will be provided later in the year.
As always, further information on NT livestock Industries projects can be found at Livestock industries projects | Department of Industry, Tourism and Trade.