Goat producers and industry stakeholders are invited to attend the Measured Goats Field Day at the Condobolin Agricultural and Advisory Station on 17 September, hosted by the NSW Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (NSW DPIRD).
NSW DPIRD Technical Specialist Grazing Systems, Trudie Atkinson said the field day will provide the first public look at Australia's goat genomic reference herd, established through the Measured Goats project, co-funded by NSW DPIRD and Meat & Livestock Australia Donor Company (MDC).
Ms Atkinson said the herd represents the genetic diversity of the national goat population. It is central to research aimed at accelerating genetic gain and a significant step forward in building a national genetic evaluation system for goats.
"This field day will deliver practical insights for producers across all enterprise types," Ms Atkinson said.
"This is a unique opportunity to see the results of cutting-edge research and understand how it can be applied on-farm to improve productivity and profitability."
At this field day, attendees will see key presentations from:
- NSW DPIRD Research Officer – Quantitative Geneticist Dr Tom Granleese –on breeding values for growth traits and pathways for genetic improvement.
- Senior Research Fellow at the Animal Genetics and Breeding Unit (AGBU), UNE Dr Sam Walkom – on early findings about kid survival and implications for breeding strategies.
- Professor in Meat Science, School of Environmental and Rural Science, UNE Professor Peter McGilchrist – on meat quality data from 767 wethers, including carcase traits and consumer-relevant indicators.
- Research Fellow Animal Genetics and Breeding Unit, UNE Dr Rea Alexandri – on breed distinctions and genetic diversity within the rangeland population.
The event will provide attendees with the opportunity to see cohort two weaners drafted into sire groups, inspect purpose-built infrastructure, and access practical advice on animal health, electronic ID technology, and buck selection using breeding values.
"The Measured Goats project is a game-changer for the industry. It's giving producers access to data and tools that were previously only available in more established livestock sectors," Ms Atkinson said.
"We're seeing real momentum in the results generated from the project, and this field day is about turning that momentum into practical outcomes on-farm.
"Whether you're running goats in extensive rangelands or managing a stud enterprise, the insights from this project can help you make more informed breeding decisions.
"The field day is about connecting producers with researchers, data with decisions, and innovation with profitability."
The field day will run from 8:30am – 4:30pm Wednesday 17 September and will be held at Condobolin Agricultural Research and Advisory Station. Free morning tea and lunch featuring goatmeat will be provided for attendees.
To register for the Measured Goats Field Day, please visit - https://events.humanitix.com/measured-goats-field-day
