Hello!
In this edition of the FutureBeef eBulletin you’ll find:
- latest research on reducing the impacts of dehorning
- next BeefConnect webinar – 15 years of grazing research in Central Australia
- three-day sickness alert
- glovebox guide to grasses and legumes for Mackay, Whitsunday and Issac graziers
- generosity in pastoralism with Donny and Colleen Costello, New Crown Station, NT
- still waiting on rain – is it time to early wean
- the AridGRAZE project and the Mt Denison paddock challenge, NT
- pasture dieback update
- how Dr Tim McClymont (Roma Veterinary Clinic) uses FutureBeef
- new Feeder preparation best practice guide by MLA
- invitation to participate in FutureBeef survey
- how partnerships are creating lasting outcomes in WA.
Happy reading!
Kind regards
Grace, Kym and Flick
on behalf of the FutureBeef team
P.S. Let us know what you think of the FutureBeef eBulletin via email or call us on 13 25 23. You can also connect with us on Facebook and LinkedIn or check us out on YouTube.
Reducing the impacts of dehorning: new research
In this BeefConnect webinar, Dr Dominique Van der Saag from the University of Sydney presented findings from a series of research studies investigating practical, evidence-based approaches to improving outcomes following dehorning in beef cattle. This included:
- impact of horn size and wound severity on healing, recovery and growth performance
- when horn tipping may be a practical alternative to dehorning
- factors that influence bleeding, healing and production outcomes
- practical recommendations.
Watch the webinar recording (29 minutes) >>
15 years, 4 grazing strategies, 1 surprising result: what worked in Central Australia
After 15 years of grazing research in Central Australia, the Quality Graze Project has delivered valuable insights into the long-term impacts of grazing management on both pasture condition and cattle performance.
Through some of the wettest and driest years on record, researchers compared set stocking, variable stocking and different spelling strategies to better understand what drives productive and resilient grazing systems.
For answers, register for the BeefConnect webinar on Wednesday 25 November >>
Stay alert for signs of three-day sickness
The Department of Primary Industries is investigating reports of higher than usual impacts of three-day sickness (bovine ephemeral fever or BEF) in north and central Queensland.
Increased mosquito and midge activity can lead to a rise in cases of the virus. Cattle without prior exposure may have limited immunity, which can result in more severe illness and higher production impacts.
Producers who suspect three-day sickness are encouraged to contact their veterinarian for advice. Other conditions, including tick fever, can cause similar symptoms.
Get the latest about three-day >>
Glovebox guide to grasses and legumes
Reef Catchments has released a new glovebox guide to help Mackay, Whitsunday and Issac graziers identify local grasses and legumes, understand their grazing value and make more informed pasture management decisions.
Generosity in pastoralism
Northern Territory Department of Agriculture and Fisheries Livestock Extension Officer Caleb Schwartz recently visited Donny and Colleen Costello, pastoralists based at New Crown Station, approximately 280 km south-east of Alice Springs. Before setting off to admire the landscape, Donny explained their philosophy. ‘We want to have a sustainable stocking rate year in, year out. That’s why we’re not buying any more cattle now.’
Learn more about the Costello’s >>
Still waiting on rain: is it time to early wean?
As producers, we often hope that rain will come sooner rather than later. Which it has in the last few weeks to many places. When it doesn’t, difficult decisions follow, such as deciding whether to early wean. While the process of early weaning and the ongoing management of early weaners can seem daunting, it can help maintain breeder condition through the dry season plus supporting the growth and performance of young animals.
Click below for resources to help you build the knowledge and confidence to implement an early weaning program. You can also contact your local beef extension officer for support and advice.
Resources to help with early weaning >>
AridGRAZE project – Mt Denison paddock challenge
The Martin family at Mt Denison Station, NT, have been working with researchers and economists on the AridGRAZE Paddock Challenge for almost four years. By collecting and analysing data on pasture productivity, cattle performance and economic outcomes, the project has helped the Martins better understand their country and make more informed decisions about future improvements to their business.
Read on about how they made it possible >>
Pasture dieback update Spring 2026
Dieback has been detected in the USA, but what is the latest from Queensland this Spring?
While overall incidence has declined, new cases have been reported in western CQ. With warmer weather and summer storms approaching, now’s a good time to keep an eye on your pastures.
Find out where dieback is occurring, what signs to watch for and practical management options to help reduce impacts and support pasture recovery.
Knowledge that makes a difference
Dr Tim McClymont, a veterinarian at the Roma Veterinary Clinic, is no stranger to the FutureBeef platform and its resources.
Find out what his favourite page is >>
Feeder cattle preparation best practice guide
This best practice guide brings together key industry resources into a single, first-of-its kind reference to help grassfed cattle producers improve how feeder cattle are prepared for feedlot entry.
Developed by Meat & Livestock Australia, the Feeder cattle preparation best practice guide brings industry knowledge together into a single, practical resource for producers.
What has FutureBeef meant for you?
Read a FutureBeef article, joined a webinar or used one of our tools or resources? We’d like to know what happened next. Maybe you learnt something new, found information you needed, confirmed you were on the right track or did something differently as a result.
As part of our end-of-phase review, independent evaluators Coutts J&R will be speaking with some FutureBeef users about their experiences and the difference FutureBeef has made. If you’re contacted by Coutts J&R, we’d love to hear what happened next. You can of course opt out.
See what the interviews involve >>
Partnerships creating lasting outcomes in WA
“Kricket (Kristie) de Pledge continues her work on Pilbara ecology, with her project now progressing through new sources of funding.
It’s a great example of how the relationships, networks and expertise built through the Pilbara Innovation Partnership (PIP) and the Pilbara Extension Network (PEN) can create opportunities that continue beyond the life of a project — supporting the care and sustainable management of our unique Pilbara environment for generations to come.”
