Leading Sheep, Media Release, 8 July 2021

A survey of Leading Sheep’s network of Queensland sheep and wool businesses found industry collaboration and information sharing helps facilitate improved flock, drought, and business management changes for producers.

Program analysts Coutts JR surveyed 100 producers and industry service providers from across the sheep producing regions of Queensland.

Queensland Department of Agriculture and Fisheries (DAF) Leading Sheep Extension Officer Andrea McKenzie said the results demonstrate that connections and collaboration through the program are helping producers drive on-farm productivity gains.

“Leading Sheep works with producers to provide up-to-date and practical information on sheep and wool production in Queensland — especially around business management, flock productivity, drought planning and beneficial technologies,” Ms McKenzie said.

“This has enabled Queensland producers to improve lambing percentages, sheep health and condition, and drive time and labour efficiencies. These elements increase productivity, profitability and future sustainability of sheep and wool enterprises.

“A total of 98 per cent of the survey respondents said they were positively impacted by Leading Sheep information and/or activities. Respondents indicated the DAF and Australian Wool Innovation (AWI) program, with support from AgForce, is helping to fill a gap by connecting producers with expert knowledge and triggering them to implement new management practices in their businesses.”

The survey showed producers have made the following key changes to their business practices:

• 68 per cent of respondents improved flock management practices such as feeding and nutrition, condition scoring, joining and pregnancy scanning.
• 29 per cent of respondents increased drought management practices including supplementary feeding and destocking decisions.
• 21 per cent of respondents implemented business management change, with a focus on new market considerations and opportunities.
• 18 per cent of respondents improved infrastructure or implemented new technologies.

Ms McKenzie said producer input is critical to supporting future growth and will influence future planning for the project.

“This feedback will help ensure that we continue to provide our network with relevant information on best practice health, nutrition and business performance,” she said.

“For example, the survey indicated there is a high variation in lamb marking rates across Queensland regions, ranging from approximately 60 to 150 per cent. While there are multiple factors such as predation and high seasonal variability that impact Queensland producers, it’s positive to see the Leading Sheep network being used to update best practice to drive better reproductive performance.

“We look forward to continuing to support the growth and innovation of the Queensland sheep industry, and ensuring producers are equipped with the latest information to maximise on-farm productivity.

“There are a number of resources available through Leading Sheep that can help producers implement practice change and drive productivity in their operations. To find out more, visit: www.leadingsheep.com.au.”