24 April 2012

2 minute read

Oceania

n an industry first, Dairy Australia and the National Centre for Dairy Education Australia are offering an online webinar next month to provide farmers with the opportunity to learn the latest information and best practise recommendations on lameness and maintaining foot health of dairy cattle.

The webinar will start at midday on 10 May and is expected to run for about 90 minutes. It will include a discussion panel of industry experts, featuring:

• Dr Neil Chesterton (NZ) – on-farm management to prevent lameness;
• Karl Burgi (US) - dairy hoof health and preventative trimming;
• Dr Jakob Malmo (Aus) – treatment of lameness.

Dairy Australia Animal Welfare Manager Bridget Peachey said lameness was a key area of focus for the industry and stresses the importance of minimising lameness on farm.

“Incorporating the latest information into your lameness programmes will ensure better outcomes for your cattle,” Ms Peachey said.

“Lameness affects the welfare and productivity of cows. It is imperative all farmers are on top of their game when it comes to its management.”

Dairy Australia Group Manager Industry People and Capability Shane Hellwege believes the webinar is a great way to reach farmers and service providers.

“At the NCDEA, we know how difficult it can be for framers to leave the farm to attend relevant information sessions,” Mr Hellwege said.

“A webinar is an interactive, real time event where you can see, hear and ask questions of presenters from your own home. We believe this format will make it easier for farmers and service providers to access information that will benefit their businesses.”

There is no cost to participate in the webinar. Those who want to join need to register by sending an email to [email protected] as capacity is limited.

TheCattleSite News Desk