New Animal Products - RIRDC Completed Projects in 2003-2004 & Research in Progress as at June 2004

1.2 New Animal Products - Completed Projects
Project No.	Project Title	Researcher	Phone	Organisation
Increase market penetration and development
DAQ-278A	Distribution of meat products for prospective animal industries in export markets for prospective animal industries in export markets	Maria Camargo	(07) 3239 3965	Department of Primary Industries - QLD
LEC-2A	Selling the kangaroo industry to the world	John Kelly	(03) 6326 8639	Lenah Consultancy
Improve processing, product development and diversification
US-94A	Factors that influence the quality of meat from kangaroos	Dr Peter Wynn	(02) 9351 1632	The University of Sydney
Improve supply and productivity
CSA-23A	Crusader - a production system for Australian farmed rabbits	Dr Sandra Eady	(02) 6776 1394	CSIRO Livestock Industries
US-109A	A genetic improvement program for farmed saltwater crocodiles	A/Prof Chris Moran	(02) 9351 3553	The University of Sydney
Facilitate information transfer, industry development, human capital and community awareness
CIE-19A	Rabbit farming: an evaluation of the Crusader R&D projedct	Dr Jennifer Gordon	(02) 6284 6699	Centre for International Economics
RIT-1A	Kangaroo Meat Awareness Project	Neville Thompson/	(08) 8384 4471
UQ-95A	Commercial safari hunting of Australian wild exotic game	Dr Gordon Dryden	(07) 5460 1255	University of Queensland – Regency Institute of TAFE

Increase market penetration and development

Project Title: Distribution of meat products for prospective animal industries in export markets for prospective animal industries in export markets

RIRDC Project No.: DAQ-278A

Researcher: Maria Camargo Tel: (07) 3239 3965 Fax: (07) 3221 3896
Email: Maria.Camargo@dpi.qld.gov.au

Organisation: Department of Primary Industries – Trade Markets and Investment

Phone: (07) 3239 3965

Fax: (07) 3221 3896

Email: Maria.Camargo@dpi.qld.gov.au

Objectives To analyse, present, and recommend strategies for the future distribution of meat products from prospective Australian animal industries (PAAI), specifically rabbits, gamebirds, crocodile, emu, hares and snails within the Australian domestic market. Specific project objectives include:
1 Description of current methods of distributing PAAI meats from processing works to the customer.
2 To analyse the methods by a SWOT or similar technique.
·3 To identify and assess present R&D that is aimed at producing innovative methods for the future.
4 To determine the key strategic implications from the project.
5 To recommend to RIRDC future R&D.

Background This project represents the second stage of the project Distribution of Meat Products from Prospective Animal Industries: crocodiles, emus, game birds, rabbits, hares and snails – DAQ 278A (March 2003).
The project comprises three stages. The first stage examined the issues involved in distribution of meat products produced from crocodiles, emus, game birds, rabbits, hares and snails.
The second stage is this part of the project. The objective of this stage is to determine which species, from those researched in stage one, were exhibiting the strongest capability to supply meat products to export markets through identifying export ready Australian businesses.
Crocodile meat and rabbit meat were selected based on their potential as meat exports. However, rabbit processors approached for participation were not able to partake in the project. Therefore, this report focuses solely on the crocodile meat industry.
In determining the export capability of the Australian crocodile meat industry it was necessary to determine the level of understanding of issues related to export market development. It was also necessary to highlight the impediments to export currently facing the industry.
The process involved in undertaking this stage of the project was two fold:
(i) Review all existing RIRDC reports in relation to game meats:
Distribution of meat products from prospective animal industries:
crocodiles, emus, game birds, rabbits, hares and snails (March 2003);
Identification and development of opportunities for exporting game
birds (July 20032)
Buffalo, Camel, Crocodile, Emu, Kangaroo, Ostrich and Rabbit Meat –
New value added products (May 2003)
(ii) Interviews with relevant industry members.
The next stage of this project was to determine target export markets for Australian crocodile meat and subsequently conduct in-market research.

Research The research for this this stage of the project comprised of a series of stages including the following: ·1 Reviewing of three specific RIRDC reports to identify the species exhibiting the strongest capability to supply export markets with meat products.
·2 Identifying processors who are currently exporting meat products
·3 Identifying of the current export markets for game meats
·4 Identifying of processors who are currently exporting and processors who are not exporting meat products.
·5 Contacting all processors to determine and validate their interest in participating in the project and in exporting markets, if not already. This was be done by way of telephone interviews. Shortlist those non-exporting processors who are interested in the project and display potential to export.
·6 Interviewing the appropriate industry members. This was be done by way of face-to-face interviews.

Outcomes This report has highlighted a number of issues for government and industry to consider in order to progress the development and export capability of the industry.
However, it has been concluded that at this time, the next stage of this project will not proceed, as it will provide limited benefit to the industry at this stage of its development.

Project Title: Selling the kangaroo industry to the world

RIRDC Project No.: LEC-2A

Researcher: John Kelly

Organisation: Lenah Consultancies
PO Box 294
Mowbray, 7248

Phone: (03) 63267696

Fax: (03) 63262790

Email: lenah@bigpond.net.au

Objectives To contribute to improvements in the pubic image of the kangaroo industry to assist with ongoing market growth.

Background The kangaroo industry offer huge environmental and economic benefits to the arid rangelands. Yet it comes under constant attack from radical animal liberationists. These attacks if unchecked have the potential to harm industry growth. Hence the industry needs to continually focus on ensuring the general public is informed of the sound management practices underpinning the harvest..

Outcomes The projects main output is a broadcast quality, commercial half hour documentary on the kangaroo industry. The target market being TV networks here and overseas, inflight entertainment such as National Geographic’s ‘Earthwatch’ program and educational institutions. The video is available from RIRDC and the Kangaroo Industries Association of Australia.
Other project outputs included kangaroo industry newsletters stressing the environmental wisdom and responsible conduct on the industry. These were distributed widely outside of industry and posted on the KIAA’s website.

Implications The benefit of this type of work is demonstrated by an article from the Ethical Investor magazine included in the report strongly supportive of the kangaroo harvest. Evidence of increased kangaroo meat penetration into the Coles supermarket chain supports the economic benefit of such reviews.

Publications Kangaroo Industry documentary

Improve processing, product development and diversification

Project Title: Factors that influence the quality of meat from kangaroos

RIRDC Project No.: US-94A

Researcher: Peter Wynn

Organisation: Faculty of Veterinary Science,
University of Sydney,
PMB3 PO, Camden, NSW, 2570

Phone: 0293511632

Fax: 0246556657

Email: peterw@camden.usyd.edu.au

Objectives To develop relationships between genotype, sex and age of kangaroo at slaughter with the key meat quality parameters of tenderness, flavour and juiciness.
To establish an understanding of the effect of harvesting and post-slaughter carcass storage methods on the rate of change of muscle pH, the ultimate pH, muscle shortening, losses due to drip from meat, cooking losses and ultimately consumer evaluation of the product.
To develop a series of recommendations will be developed in close collaboration with the industry partners to establish the major factors controlling kangaroo meat quality for human consumption.

Background The establishment of a $200million meat industry based solely on the sustainable harvest of a wildlife resource from our pastoral environment, necessitated benchmark investigation and fundamental scientific study of the key factors influencing meat quality. The current project identifies some of the unique properties of kangaroo meat that limit its potential as a healthy source of meat protein for human consumption.

Research We have conducted the first comprehensive sensory evaluations of kangaroo meat emanating from animals differing in species, age/carcass weight and sex and then harvested from different environments of Australia.
Having established these factors investigations have been conducted to identify the key factors responsible for the variation in product quality identified in this initial study. These include aspects of muscle metabolism, physiology and anatomy and the effect of post slaughter management of carcasses on meat quality.

Outcomes The project has identified flavour as the major component of overall acceptability of kangaroo meat by the consumer. Meat from Red kangaroos is more acceptable than that from Eastern Greys, while the eating quality of leg muscles is influenced by carcass weight/age of the animal: in contrast loin muscles are not. Interesting differences in glycogen content, the composition of muscle fibres and their energetics, as well as collagen content between animals reported herein will influence product quality. The method of hanging carcasses also influenced the acceptability of commercial cuts of meat.

Implications The results have implications for the methods for harvesting, transport and storage of carcasses, processing and conditioning of meat prior to marketing. The identification of flavour as the key component of meat quality for consumer acceptance provides future direction for research within this important industry. It also provides new information upon which to base future marketing campaigns for these healthy high protein-low fat meat products.

Publications Beaton, A.J.W., Spiegel, N.B., Thompson, J.M. & Wynn, P.C. (2002a). Harvesting the Australian kangaroo population for meat production: a self-sustaining wildlife industry Proc. Pakistan Congr. Zool. 21, 97.
Beaton, A.J.W., Spiegel, N.B., Wynn, P.C. and Thompson, J.M. (2001). Improving the quality of kangaroo meat: effects of carcass suspension by one leg. In ‘Veterinary Conservation Biology: Wildlife Health and Management in Australasia.’ pp. 91-95.
Beaton, A.J.W., Spiegel, N.B., Wynn, P.C. and Thompson, J.M. (2002c). The effect of pre-rigor temperature on the ageing potential of kangaroo meat. Inter. Cong. Meat Sci. Tech. 48 (2), 752-753.
Spiegel, N.B., Beaton, A.J.W., McGrath, J., Thompson, J.M., Wynn, P.C. and Greenwood, P.L. (2002a). Myofibre types in eight skeletal muscles from the Eastern Grey kangaroo (Macropus giganteus). Anim. Prod. Aust. 24, 225-228.
Beaton, A.J.W., Spiegel, N.B., Thompson, J.M. and Wynn, P.C. (2002b). The relationship between muscle glycogen stores and ultimate pH in commercially harvested kangaroos. Anim. Prod. Aust. 24, 21-24.
Beaton, A.J.W., Spiegel, N.B., Thompson, J.M. and Wynn, P.C. (2002b). Sensory evaluation of kangaroo meat. Anim. Prod. Aust. 24, 21-24.
Beaton, A.J.W., Spiegel, N.B., Thompson, J.M. and Wynn, P.C. (2004). Kangaroo total muscle collagen as influenced by carcass weight and muscle location. ASAP 25th Biennial Conference, July 2004 Melbourne, (In Press)

Improve supply and productivity

Project Title Crusader - a production system for Australian farmed rabbits

RIRDC Project No.: CSA-23A

Start Date: 01-Aug-02

Finish Date: 30-Jul-07

Researcher: Dr Sandra Eady

Organisation: CSIRO Livestock Industries
Private Mail Bag 1
ARMIDALE NSW 2350

Phone: (02) 6776 1394

Fax: (02) 6776 1371

Email: sandra.eady@csiro.au

Objectives Provide R&D operations that will support profitable and sustainable Australian meat rabbit production. The focus of the project will be on identifying and implementing methods to improve key profit drivers. Individual areas of work that have been identified by industry as high priority are management of disease, improved survival of kittens and growers, providing optimum nutrition and benchmarking performance. The project will deliver information systems, feed formulations and improved genotypes to optimise productivity and profit.

Background In 1998/99 production of farmed rabbit meat was 106 tonnes, compared to 72 tonnes for wild harvested rabbit. This represented a farm gate gross value of $0.62 million which rose to $0.9 million in 1999/2000. In 2003 an estimate of production by farmers was in the order of 270 tonnes/annum ($2.5 million farm gate value). The Centre for International Economics prediction is that production levels will continue to grow steadily at around 14 per cent a year to 2005, slowing to 10 per cent to 2008, and 8 per cent to 2015. The industry has an on-going requirement for targeted R&D investment to improve key financial drivers, in particular disease incidence, kitten survival and growth rate.

Research A Disease Toolkit was produced using digital images and accompanying disease identification and control information. This is available on the web and in hard copy. Candidate traits for selection for disease resistance were assessed, and those found to be heritable have been added to the Crusader breeding objective. Genetic merit for resistance to bacterial infection has improved by 11% in grower rabbits with an accompanying 5% phenotypic reduction in mortality. A range of cage design issues were investigated as to their effect on doe health. Methods for reducing hocksore by the use of suitable pressure mats were identified. The Crusader breeding program continued to select for litter size at weaning, achieving a 9% improvement in this trait since the breeding program commenced. Methods of improving the productivity of grower rabbits were evaluated including reduction in stocking density in group pens and continued selection for improved liveweight gain. Stocking rate did not have a direct effect on growth or incidence of disease symptoms but lower stocking rates did result in improvements (5.7%) in survival rate. There has been a 17% improvement in rate of liveweight gain since the breeding program commenced. An Enterprise Model was build to estimate gross margin from meat rabbit production. It used information from the Crusader project, farmer surveys and a small group (3-4) of farmers who kept good production and enterprise expenditure records. The Crusader Enterprise Model was posted on the project web site (www.csiro.au/crusader) in August and has been downloaded more than 1000 times since then. It has been used by potential farmers, existing farmers and groups undertaking feasibility studies on the meat rabbit industry.

Outcomes The project has delivered to industry: ·1 a management guide to reduce disease and breeding stock with improved genetic resistance to disease
·2 sound management advice to improve the welfare of breeding does
·3 superior breeding stock capable of lifting the litter size of industry rabbits
·4 recommendations on stocking rate in grower accommodation
·5 rabbits with the genetic potential to grow faster
·6 an enterprise model against which farmers can benchmark their performance and investigate parameters in their own enterprise that are having major impact on profitability
·7 through the Crusader Advisory Group a mechanism by which industry priorities can be incorporated into R&D efforts and regional technology transfer activities can be co-ordinated
·8 with the commercialisation of the Crusader breeding program, the ability for industry members to independently run a genetic improvement program.

Implications In summary, the meat rabbit industry in Australia has grown considerably over the life of the Crusader project. Use of Crusader stock has significantly lifted the income of farmers and provided them with a reliable source of improved rabbits. The Crusader Enterprise model has allowed potential industry entrants to objectively evaluate returns from the industry and has contributed to the ability of industry members to base decisions on sound economic evaluation. This has reduced financial risk and strengthened the viability of existing enterprises. The project has provided an impetus for the emerging industry to form a national association which will assist in promoting industry growth and will represent its members. An independent assessment of the Crusader project has shown a significant return on investment in R&D - 15% for husbandry and management outputs and 15% for genetic improvements, once they are realised though-out the industry. Commercialisation of the Crusader breeding program means that the industry can now independently run an advanced genetic improvement scheme on a sustainable basis.

Publications Prayaga, K.C. and Eady, S.J. (2003). Performance of purebred and crossbred rabbits in Australia: Individual growth and slaughter traits. Australian Journal of Agricultural Research: 54: 159-166.
Eady, S.J., Garreau, H. and Hurtard, J. (2004). Heritability of resistance to bacterial infection in commercial meat rabbit populations. Proceedings of the 8th World Rabbit Congress (accepted).

Project Title: A genetic improvement program for farmed saltwater crocodiles

RIRDC Project No.: US-109A

Researcher: Chris Moran

Organisation: Centre for Advanced Technologies in Animal Genetics and Reproduction (ReproGen)
Faculty of Veterinary Science,
University of Sydney, NSW, 2006

Phone: 02 9351 3553

Fax: 02 9351 2114

Email: ChrisM@vetsci.usyd.edu.au

Objectives To create a practical genetic improvement program at a commercial crocodile farm (Janamba Croc Farm), thereby establishing the kernel of an industry-wide genetic improvement program to be called CrocPLAN.

Background Prior to this study, no research had been conducted to evaluate the potential of a genetic improvement program in the Australian crocodile industry. By implementing a selection program based on reproductive performance, juvenile growth rates and juvenile survival rates, superior juveniles can be selected a breeding parents to increase the profitability of crocodile farms.

Research This study was the foundation of a PhD project conducted by Ms Sally Isberg. Breeding objectives were defined using a survey of industry members. Data were obtained from Janamba Croc Farm, NT. Analyses were conducted to obtain relevant genetic and phenotypic parameters (heritability, repeatability and correlation) for economically-important traits. Relative economic weights were estimated by fourth year economics student, Ms Emily Gray. These were combined with estimated crocodile breeding values (CBVs) into a crocodile economic selection index ($CESI). This selection index ranks animals based on a single dollar value, allowing selection decisions to be made.

Outcomes A wide range of quantitative genetic analyses for economically-important traits in the production of saltwater crocodiles in Australia are presented. Results have indicated that there is sufficient genetic variability present for a selection program to be successful. In addition, the estimation of economic values (by Ms Gray) has allowed the immediate application of this program given the availability of performance records. Furthermore, the availability of a parentage testing kit using microsatellite markers provides verification of pedigree and a method of expanding the genetic improvement program beyond unitised breeding pens.

Implications Each $CESI value was expressed as a dollar ($) deviation from the average herd breeding potential with offspring from the pair B16 having the largest CESI values (+$4,748.46), whereas offspring from B01 have the lowest potential value (-$5,257.44). The response to selection was predicted to be $324 increase in profit per annum. This result reinforces the potential for implementing a genetic improvement program (CrocPLAN) on Australian crocodile farms.

Publications Isberg, S.R., Y. Chen, S.G. Barker and C. Moran. 2004. Analysis of microsatellites and parentage testing in saltwater crocodiles. J. Hered. Accepted.
Isberg, S and C. Moran. 2003. Increasing production efficiency: A genetic approach. Crocodile Capers 8:4. QDPI, Townsville, Qld.
Isberg, S and C. Moran. 2004. A parentage determination kit for saltwater crocodiles. QDPI, Townsville, Qld. Submitted.
Isberg, S.R., F.W. Nicholas, P.C. Thomson, S.G. Barker, S.C. Manolis, and C. Moran. 2003. Defining breeding objectives for saltwater crocodile genetic improvement programs. Proc. Assoc. Advmt. Anim. Breed. Genet. 15:166-169.
Material presented in this report will be submitted in a thesis to be submitted for the Degree of Philosophy, University of Sydney, by Ms Sally Isberg.

Facilitate information transfer, industry development, human capital and community awareness

Project Title: Rabbit farming: an evaluation of the Crusader R&D project

RIRDC Project No.: CIE-19A

Researcher: Jennifer Gordon

Organisation: Centre for International Economics (CIE)

Phone: 02 6248 6699

Fax: 02 6247 7484

Email: jgordon@TheCIE.com.au

Background In 1999, CSIRO and RIRDC commenced a three-year R&D program, the Crusader program, to promote the viability of the rabbit farming industry. The goals were to: ·1 estimate genetic parameters for traits such as number of kittens weaned per litter, average daily live-weight gain and disease resistance;
·2 use this information to design and validate a breeding program;
·3 with commercial breeders, systematically quantify production parameters and develop simple software to manage data and formulate practical systems of performance recording and rabbit selection; and
·4 disseminate results and technical updates through existing industry networks.
·5 A second project funded in 2002 for 5 years is designed to increase the productivity of rabbit farming enterprises, reduce costs and manage disease.

Research This report assesses the success of the first RIRDC Crusader program. It also assesses the potential value to the industry if the breeding result of the program can be achieved by farmers through purchase of superior breeding stock. A benefit cost analysis (BCA) was undertaken to estimate the impact of the Crusader program up to and including 2002. It also assessed the potential future impact of the program if breeding results are realised on commercial farms. To estimate adoption rates, and effectiveness of practices when adopted, CIE conducted a survey of rabbit farmers. The survey covered experience with the Crusader program (adoption and the results), grower knowledge of the size and characteristics of the rabbit farming industry, and expectations for the future of the industry.

Outcomes The study estimated that the rate of return on the investment in the first phase of the Crusader program was 15 per cent (internal rate of return), a benefit cost ratio of 3.7 (at a 5 per cent discount rate). The main gains were from advice on animal husbandry and were of most value to smaller producers. If the current program achieves the expected rates of adoption and gains from breeding the estimated return will be 16 per cent with a benefit cost ratio of 4.6. The outcome of this report will provide a guide to RIRDC and CSIRO of the potential future direction for R&D into the rabbit farming industry.

Implications The implications of the study are that even with high adoptions rates (70 per cent) very large improvements from breeding will be required for the investment in R&D to meet the RIRDC benchmark return. The small size of the industry, importance of scale in production efficiencies and the limited gains from breeding due to the small genetic pool and fact that hybrid vigour is lost quickly limit the benefits of public research for the industry.

Publications RIRDC Publication no. 03/144

Project Title: Kangaroo Meat Awareness Project

RIRDC Project No.: RIT-1A

Researcher: Neville Thompson/Mark Olson
Phone 8348.44.71.
Fax.8348.42.94
Email mark.olson@regency.tafe.sa.edu.au

Organisation: Regency Institute of TAFE
Days Road Regency Park
Adelaide
South Australia 5010

Phone: 08 8348.44.71

Fax: 08 8348.42.94

Email: neville.thompson@regency.tafe.sa.edu.au

Objectives To create an innovative teaching and learning package designed to increase the awareness of the value, versatility and nutritional benefits of kangaroo meat to chefs, apprentice chefs and waiters nationally.

Background An earlier RIRDC report published in March 1997, (RIRDC Research Paper series NO 97/36) titled "Improving Consumer Perceptions of Kangaroo Products" highlights the lack of awareness of kangaroo meat. Therefore this Kangaroo Meat Awareness project was planned to increase the awareness and therefore the sales of kangaroo meat cuts which will occur due to improved understanding by hospitality industry employees of the value and versatility of kangaroo dishes on restaurant, hotel or café menu. As the previously mentioned RIRDC project uncovered, 66% of kangaroo meat consumers were introduced to kangaroo meat while dining at restaurants, cafes etc. This project has been driven by the recognised lack of awareness of kangaroo meat in the hospitality industry in general.

Research Principle investigator, Neville Thompson, contacted many of the major cookery/hospitality colleges around Australia during the initial stages of this project. This was done to measure the amount of kangaroo meat that is currently being used within the training programs of those Institutions. The outcome of those enquiries for the kangaroo industry is most disappointing, with little, or no kangaroo meat being included into the training programs operating within those Institutes. The investigation simply reinforced the perceptions gained from previous RIRDC projects.

Outcomes The Kangaroo Meat Awareness Package is designed to combat the findings of previous and current investigations regarding the lack of awareness of the value of kangaroo meat.

Implications This project has allowed the development of an innovative centre piece to source information regarding kangaroo meat. The kangaroo Meat Awareness Package has been developed to be used in line with the nationally accredited training package unit "Prepare and Cook Poultry and Game Meat". This allows the package and its information to be used within teaching classes, work place training programs or indeed simply as an information source for interested students of culinary and even other hospitality disciplines. It is from this opportunity that increased awareness will drive innovation at point of sale further impacting on and therefore increasing sales of kangaroo meat to consumers.

Project Title: Commercial safari hunting of Australian wild exotic game

RIRDC Project No.: UQ-95A

Researcher: Dr. Gordon Dryden and Assoc. Prof. Stephen Craig-Smith

Organisation: The University of Queensland, Regency Institute of TAFE

Phone: 07-5460 1255

Fax: 07-5460 1444

Email: gmd@sas.uq.edu.au; s.craigsmith@uq.edu.au

Objectives To describe the existing Australian commercial safari hunting industry, to explore the social, legislative and biological environments in which it operates, and to describe international examples of successful commercial hunting industries. This information will help to identify constraints to sustainability and profitability which the industry faces and to formulate appropriate policies for the industry.

Background Australia has a variety of exotic wild large animals (camels, deer, buffalo, etc.) and smaller game (e.g. rabbits, hares, and foxes) which are not classified in any list of endangered or threatened animals. This pool of animals is available for commercial or recreational hunting. Safari hunting in other countries is a multi-million dollar business which earns substantial foreign income. An appropriate development of the Australian industry would similarly increase tourism receipts, especially for rural tourism.

Research Visits to countries with developed safari hunting industries (South Africa, New Zealand) or domestic hunting (Canada, USA); compilation of information about Australian hunting law, hunting and conservation practice and community attitudes to hunting; a survey of commercial safari hunting companies, recreational hunting clubs, landowner/grazier organisations and game meat exporters.

Outcomes Seventeen recommendations for the further development of the Australian Commercial safari industry.

Implications Commercial safari hunting presently earns about A$5 million annually. Much of this is returned to rural communities. This amount could be increased by appropriate support of the industry.

Publications Commercial Safari Hunting of Australian Exotic Wild Game (RIRDC Report, 2004)

Project Title:	Distribution of meat products for prospective animal industries in export markets for prospective animal industries in export markets
RIRDC Project No.:	DAQ-278A
Researcher:	Maria Camargo Tel: (07) 3239 3965 Fax: (07) 3221 3896 Email: Maria.Camargo@dpi.qld.gov.au
Organisation:	Department of Primary Industries – Trade Markets and Investment
Phone:	(07) 3239 3965
Fax:	(07) 3221 3896
Email:	Maria.Camargo@dpi.qld.gov.au
Objectives	To analyse, present, and recommend strategies for the future distribution of meat products from prospective Australian animal industries (PAAI), specifically rabbits, gamebirds, crocodile, emu, hares and snails within the Australian domestic market. Specific project objectives include: 1 Description of current methods of distributing PAAI meats from processing works to the customer. 2 To analyse the methods by a SWOT or similar technique. ·3 To identify and assess present R&D that is aimed at producing innovative methods for the future. 4 To determine the key strategic implications from the project. 5 To recommend to RIRDC future R&D.
Background	This project represents the second stage of the project Distribution of Meat Products from Prospective Animal Industries: crocodiles, emus, game birds, rabbits, hares and snails – DAQ 278A (March 2003). The project comprises three stages. The first stage examined the issues involved in distribution of meat products produced from crocodiles, emus, game birds, rabbits, hares and snails. The second stage is this part of the project. The objective of this stage is to determine which species, from those researched in stage one, were exhibiting the strongest capability to supply meat products to export markets through identifying export ready Australian businesses. Crocodile meat and rabbit meat were selected based on their potential as meat exports. However, rabbit processors approached for participation were not able to partake in the project. Therefore, this report focuses solely on the crocodile meat industry. In determining the export capability of the Australian crocodile meat industry it was necessary to determine the level of understanding of issues related to export market development. It was also necessary to highlight the impediments to export currently facing the industry. The process involved in undertaking this stage of the project was two fold: (i) Review all existing RIRDC reports in relation to game meats: Distribution of meat products from prospective animal industries: crocodiles, emus, game birds, rabbits, hares and snails (March 2003); Identification and development of opportunities for exporting game birds (July 20032) Buffalo, Camel, Crocodile, Emu, Kangaroo, Ostrich and Rabbit Meat – New value added products (May 2003) (ii) Interviews with relevant industry members. The next stage of this project was to determine target export markets for Australian crocodile meat and subsequently conduct in-market research.
Research	The research for this this stage of the project comprised of a series of stages including the following: ·1 Reviewing of three specific RIRDC reports to identify the species exhibiting the strongest capability to supply export markets with meat products. ·2 Identifying processors who are currently exporting meat products ·3 Identifying of the current export markets for game meats ·4 Identifying of processors who are currently exporting and processors who are not exporting meat products. ·5 Contacting all processors to determine and validate their interest in participating in the project and in exporting markets, if not already. This was be done by way of telephone interviews. Shortlist those non-exporting processors who are interested in the project and display potential to export. ·6 Interviewing the appropriate industry members. This was be done by way of face-to-face interviews.
Outcomes	This report has highlighted a number of issues for government and industry to consider in order to progress the development and export capability of the industry. However, it has been concluded that at this time, the next stage of this project will not proceed, as it will provide limited benefit to the industry at this stage of its development.

Project Title:	Selling the kangaroo industry to the world
RIRDC Project No.:	LEC-2A
Researcher:	John Kelly
Organisation:	Lenah Consultancies PO Box 294 Mowbray, 7248
Phone:	(03) 63267696
Fax:	(03) 63262790
Email:	lenah@bigpond.net.au
Objectives	To contribute to improvements in the pubic image of the kangaroo industry to assist with ongoing market growth.
Background	The kangaroo industry offer huge environmental and economic benefits to the arid rangelands. Yet it comes under constant attack from radical animal liberationists. These attacks if unchecked have the potential to harm industry growth. Hence the industry needs to continually focus on ensuring the general public is informed of the sound management practices underpinning the harvest..
Outcomes	The projects main output is a broadcast quality, commercial half hour documentary on the kangaroo industry. The target market being TV networks here and overseas, inflight entertainment such as National Geographic’s ‘Earthwatch’ program and educational institutions. The video is available from RIRDC and the Kangaroo Industries Association of Australia. Other project outputs included kangaroo industry newsletters stressing the environmental wisdom and responsible conduct on the industry. These were distributed widely outside of industry and posted on the KIAA’s website.
Implications	The benefit of this type of work is demonstrated by an article from the Ethical Investor magazine included in the report strongly supportive of the kangaroo harvest. Evidence of increased kangaroo meat penetration into the Coles supermarket chain supports the economic benefit of such reviews.
Publications	Kangaroo Industry documentary

Project Title:	Factors that influence the quality of meat from kangaroos
RIRDC Project No.:	US-94A
Researcher:	Peter Wynn
Organisation:	Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Sydney, PMB3 PO, Camden, NSW, 2570
Phone:	0293511632
Fax:	0246556657
Email:	peterw@camden.usyd.edu.au
Objectives	To develop relationships between genotype, sex and age of kangaroo at slaughter with the key meat quality parameters of tenderness, flavour and juiciness. To establish an understanding of the effect of harvesting and post-slaughter carcass storage methods on the rate of change of muscle pH, the ultimate pH, muscle shortening, losses due to drip from meat, cooking losses and ultimately consumer evaluation of the product. To develop a series of recommendations will be developed in close collaboration with the industry partners to establish the major factors controlling kangaroo meat quality for human consumption.
Background	The establishment of a $200million meat industry based solely on the sustainable harvest of a wildlife resource from our pastoral environment, necessitated benchmark investigation and fundamental scientific study of the key factors influencing meat quality. The current project identifies some of the unique properties of kangaroo meat that limit its potential as a healthy source of meat protein for human consumption.
Research	We have conducted the first comprehensive sensory evaluations of kangaroo meat emanating from animals differing in species, age/carcass weight and sex and then harvested from different environments of Australia. Having established these factors investigations have been conducted to identify the key factors responsible for the variation in product quality identified in this initial study. These include aspects of muscle metabolism, physiology and anatomy and the effect of post slaughter management of carcasses on meat quality.
Outcomes	The project has identified flavour as the major component of overall acceptability of kangaroo meat by the consumer. Meat from Red kangaroos is more acceptable than that from Eastern Greys, while the eating quality of leg muscles is influenced by carcass weight/age of the animal: in contrast loin muscles are not. Interesting differences in glycogen content, the composition of muscle fibres and their energetics, as well as collagen content between animals reported herein will influence product quality. The method of hanging carcasses also influenced the acceptability of commercial cuts of meat.
Implications	The results have implications for the methods for harvesting, transport and storage of carcasses, processing and conditioning of meat prior to marketing. The identification of flavour as the key component of meat quality for consumer acceptance provides future direction for research within this important industry. It also provides new information upon which to base future marketing campaigns for these healthy high protein-low fat meat products.
Publications	Beaton, A.J.W., Spiegel, N.B., Thompson, J.M. & Wynn, P.C. (2002a). Harvesting the Australian kangaroo population for meat production: a self-sustaining wildlife industry Proc. Pakistan Congr. Zool. 21, 97. Beaton, A.J.W., Spiegel, N.B., Wynn, P.C. and Thompson, J.M. (2001). Improving the quality of kangaroo meat: effects of carcass suspension by one leg. In ‘Veterinary Conservation Biology: Wildlife Health and Management in Australasia.’ pp. 91-95. Beaton, A.J.W., Spiegel, N.B., Wynn, P.C. and Thompson, J.M. (2002c). The effect of pre-rigor temperature on the ageing potential of kangaroo meat. Inter. Cong. Meat Sci. Tech. 48 (2), 752-753. Spiegel, N.B., Beaton, A.J.W., McGrath, J., Thompson, J.M., Wynn, P.C. and Greenwood, P.L. (2002a). Myofibre types in eight skeletal muscles from the Eastern Grey kangaroo (Macropus giganteus). Anim. Prod. Aust. 24, 225-228. Beaton, A.J.W., Spiegel, N.B., Thompson, J.M. and Wynn, P.C. (2002b). The relationship between muscle glycogen stores and ultimate pH in commercially harvested kangaroos. Anim. Prod. Aust. 24, 21-24. Beaton, A.J.W., Spiegel, N.B., Thompson, J.M. and Wynn, P.C. (2002b). Sensory evaluation of kangaroo meat. Anim. Prod. Aust. 24, 21-24. Beaton, A.J.W., Spiegel, N.B., Thompson, J.M. and Wynn, P.C. (2004). Kangaroo total muscle collagen as influenced by carcass weight and muscle location. ASAP 25th Biennial Conference, July 2004 Melbourne, (In Press)

Project Title		Crusader - a production system for Australian farmed rabbits
RIRDC Project No.:		CSA-23A
Start Date:		01-Aug-02
Finish Date:		30-Jul-07
Researcher:		Dr Sandra Eady
Organisation:		CSIRO Livestock Industries Private Mail Bag 1 ARMIDALE NSW 2350
Phone:		(02) 6776 1394
Fax:		(02) 6776 1371
Email:		sandra.eady@csiro.au
Objectives		Provide R&D operations that will support profitable and sustainable Australian meat rabbit production. The focus of the project will be on identifying and implementing methods to improve key profit drivers. Individual areas of work that have been identified by industry as high priority are management of disease, improved survival of kittens and growers, providing optimum nutrition and benchmarking performance. The project will deliver information systems, feed formulations and improved genotypes to optimise productivity and profit.
Background	In 1998/99 production of farmed rabbit meat was 106 tonnes, compared to 72 tonnes for wild harvested rabbit. This represented a farm gate gross value of $0.62 million which rose to $0.9 million in 1999/2000. In 2003 an estimate of production by farmers was in the order of 270 tonnes/annum ($2.5 million farm gate value). The Centre for International Economics prediction is that production levels will continue to grow steadily at around 14 per cent a year to 2005, slowing to 10 per cent to 2008, and 8 per cent to 2015. The industry has an on-going requirement for targeted R&D investment to improve key financial drivers, in particular disease incidence, kitten survival and growth rate.
Research	A Disease Toolkit was produced using digital images and accompanying disease identification and control information. This is available on the web and in hard copy. Candidate traits for selection for disease resistance were assessed, and those found to be heritable have been added to the Crusader breeding objective. Genetic merit for resistance to bacterial infection has improved by 11% in grower rabbits with an accompanying 5% phenotypic reduction in mortality. A range of cage design issues were investigated as to their effect on doe health. Methods for reducing hocksore by the use of suitable pressure mats were identified. The Crusader breeding program continued to select for litter size at weaning, achieving a 9% improvement in this trait since the breeding program commenced. Methods of improving the productivity of grower rabbits were evaluated including reduction in stocking density in group pens and continued selection for improved liveweight gain. Stocking rate did not have a direct effect on growth or incidence of disease symptoms but lower stocking rates did result in improvements (5.7%) in survival rate. There has been a 17% improvement in rate of liveweight gain since the breeding program commenced. An Enterprise Model was build to estimate gross margin from meat rabbit production. It used information from the Crusader project, farmer surveys and a small group (3-4) of farmers who kept good production and enterprise expenditure records. The Crusader Enterprise Model was posted on the project web site (www.csiro.au/crusader) in August and has been downloaded more than 1000 times since then. It has been used by potential farmers, existing farmers and groups undertaking feasibility studies on the meat rabbit industry.
Outcomes	The project has delivered to industry: ·1 a management guide to reduce disease and breeding stock with improved genetic resistance to disease ·2 sound management advice to improve the welfare of breeding does ·3 superior breeding stock capable of lifting the litter size of industry rabbits ·4 recommendations on stocking rate in grower accommodation ·5 rabbits with the genetic potential to grow faster ·6 an enterprise model against which farmers can benchmark their performance and investigate parameters in their own enterprise that are having major impact on profitability ·7 through the Crusader Advisory Group a mechanism by which industry priorities can be incorporated into R&D efforts and regional technology transfer activities can be co-ordinated ·8 with the commercialisation of the Crusader breeding program, the ability for industry members to independently run a genetic improvement program.
Implications	In summary, the meat rabbit industry in Australia has grown considerably over the life of the Crusader project. Use of Crusader stock has significantly lifted the income of farmers and provided them with a reliable source of improved rabbits. The Crusader Enterprise model has allowed potential industry entrants to objectively evaluate returns from the industry and has contributed to the ability of industry members to base decisions on sound economic evaluation. This has reduced financial risk and strengthened the viability of existing enterprises. The project has provided an impetus for the emerging industry to form a national association which will assist in promoting industry growth and will represent its members. An independent assessment of the Crusader project has shown a significant return on investment in R&D - 15% for husbandry and management outputs and 15% for genetic improvements, once they are realised though-out the industry. Commercialisation of the Crusader breeding program means that the industry can now independently run an advanced genetic improvement scheme on a sustainable basis.
Publications	Prayaga, K.C. and Eady, S.J. (2003). Performance of purebred and crossbred rabbits in Australia: Individual growth and slaughter traits. Australian Journal of Agricultural Research: 54: 159-166. Eady, S.J., Garreau, H. and Hurtard, J. (2004). Heritability of resistance to bacterial infection in commercial meat rabbit populations. Proceedings of the 8th World Rabbit Congress (accepted).

Project Title:	A genetic improvement program for farmed saltwater crocodiles
RIRDC Project No.:	US-109A
Researcher:	Chris Moran
Organisation:	Centre for Advanced Technologies in Animal Genetics and Reproduction (ReproGen) Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Sydney, NSW, 2006
Phone:	02 9351 3553
Fax:	02 9351 2114
Email:	ChrisM@vetsci.usyd.edu.au
Objectives	To create a practical genetic improvement program at a commercial crocodile farm (Janamba Croc Farm), thereby establishing the kernel of an industry-wide genetic improvement program to be called CrocPLAN.
Background	Prior to this study, no research had been conducted to evaluate the potential of a genetic improvement program in the Australian crocodile industry. By implementing a selection program based on reproductive performance, juvenile growth rates and juvenile survival rates, superior juveniles can be selected a breeding parents to increase the profitability of crocodile farms.
Research	This study was the foundation of a PhD project conducted by Ms Sally Isberg. Breeding objectives were defined using a survey of industry members. Data were obtained from Janamba Croc Farm, NT. Analyses were conducted to obtain relevant genetic and phenotypic parameters (heritability, repeatability and correlation) for economically-important traits. Relative economic weights were estimated by fourth year economics student, Ms Emily Gray. These were combined with estimated crocodile breeding values (CBVs) into a crocodile economic selection index ($CESI). This selection index ranks animals based on a single dollar value, allowing selection decisions to be made.
Outcomes	A wide range of quantitative genetic analyses for economically-important traits in the production of saltwater crocodiles in Australia are presented. Results have indicated that there is sufficient genetic variability present for a selection program to be successful. In addition, the estimation of economic values (by Ms Gray) has allowed the immediate application of this program given the availability of performance records. Furthermore, the availability of a parentage testing kit using microsatellite markers provides verification of pedigree and a method of expanding the genetic improvement program beyond unitised breeding pens.
Implications	Each $CESI value was expressed as a dollar ($) deviation from the average herd breeding potential with offspring from the pair B16 having the largest CESI values (+$4,748.46), whereas offspring from B01 have the lowest potential value (-$5,257.44). The response to selection was predicted to be $324 increase in profit per annum. This result reinforces the potential for implementing a genetic improvement program (CrocPLAN) on Australian crocodile farms.

Project Title:	Rabbit farming: an evaluation of the Crusader R&D project
RIRDC Project No.:	CIE-19A
Researcher:	Jennifer Gordon
Organisation:	Centre for International Economics (CIE)
Phone:	02 6248 6699
Fax:	02 6247 7484
Email:	jgordon@TheCIE.com.au
Background	In 1999, CSIRO and RIRDC commenced a three-year R&D program, the Crusader program, to promote the viability of the rabbit farming industry. The goals were to: ·1 estimate genetic parameters for traits such as number of kittens weaned per litter, average daily live-weight gain and disease resistance; ·2 use this information to design and validate a breeding program; ·3 with commercial breeders, systematically quantify production parameters and develop simple software to manage data and formulate practical systems of performance recording and rabbit selection; and ·4 disseminate results and technical updates through existing industry networks. ·5 A second project funded in 2002 for 5 years is designed to increase the productivity of rabbit farming enterprises, reduce costs and manage disease.
Research	This report assesses the success of the first RIRDC Crusader program. It also assesses the potential value to the industry if the breeding result of the program can be achieved by farmers through purchase of superior breeding stock. A benefit cost analysis (BCA) was undertaken to estimate the impact of the Crusader program up to and including 2002. It also assessed the potential future impact of the program if breeding results are realised on commercial farms. To estimate adoption rates, and effectiveness of practices when adopted, CIE conducted a survey of rabbit farmers. The survey covered experience with the Crusader program (adoption and the results), grower knowledge of the size and characteristics of the rabbit farming industry, and expectations for the future of the industry.
Outcomes	The study estimated that the rate of return on the investment in the first phase of the Crusader program was 15 per cent (internal rate of return), a benefit cost ratio of 3.7 (at a 5 per cent discount rate). The main gains were from advice on animal husbandry and were of most value to smaller producers. If the current program achieves the expected rates of adoption and gains from breeding the estimated return will be 16 per cent with a benefit cost ratio of 4.6. The outcome of this report will provide a guide to RIRDC and CSIRO of the potential future direction for R&D into the rabbit farming industry.

Project Title:	Kangaroo Meat Awareness Project
RIRDC Project No.:	RIT-1A
Researcher:	Neville Thompson/Mark Olson Phone 8348.44.71. Fax.8348.42.94 Email mark.olson@regency.tafe.sa.edu.au
Organisation:	Regency Institute of TAFE Days Road Regency Park Adelaide South Australia 5010
Phone:	08 8348.44.71
Fax:	08 8348.42.94
Email:	neville.thompson@regency.tafe.sa.edu.au
Objectives	To create an innovative teaching and learning package designed to increase the awareness of the value, versatility and nutritional benefits of kangaroo meat to chefs, apprentice chefs and waiters nationally.
Background	An earlier RIRDC report published in March 1997, (RIRDC Research Paper series NO 97/36) titled "Improving Consumer Perceptions of Kangaroo Products" highlights the lack of awareness of kangaroo meat. Therefore this Kangaroo Meat Awareness project was planned to increase the awareness and therefore the sales of kangaroo meat cuts which will occur due to improved understanding by hospitality industry employees of the value and versatility of kangaroo dishes on restaurant, hotel or café menu. As the previously mentioned RIRDC project uncovered, 66% of kangaroo meat consumers were introduced to kangaroo meat while dining at restaurants, cafes etc. This project has been driven by the recognised lack of awareness of kangaroo meat in the hospitality industry in general.
Research	Principle investigator, Neville Thompson, contacted many of the major cookery/hospitality colleges around Australia during the initial stages of this project. This was done to measure the amount of kangaroo meat that is currently being used within the training programs of those Institutions. The outcome of those enquiries for the kangaroo industry is most disappointing, with little, or no kangaroo meat being included into the training programs operating within those Institutes. The investigation simply reinforced the perceptions gained from previous RIRDC projects.
Outcomes	The Kangaroo Meat Awareness Package is designed to combat the findings of previous and current investigations regarding the lack of awareness of the value of kangaroo meat.
Implications	This project has allowed the development of an innovative centre piece to source information regarding kangaroo meat. The kangaroo Meat Awareness Package has been developed to be used in line with the nationally accredited training package unit "Prepare and Cook Poultry and Game Meat". This allows the package and its information to be used within teaching classes, work place training programs or indeed simply as an information source for interested students of culinary and even other hospitality disciplines. It is from this opportunity that increased awareness will drive innovation at point of sale further impacting on and therefore increasing sales of kangaroo meat to consumers.
Project Title:	Commercial safari hunting of Australian wild exotic game
RIRDC Project No.:	UQ-95A
Researcher:	Dr. Gordon Dryden and Assoc. Prof. Stephen Craig-Smith
Organisation:	The University of Queensland, Regency Institute of TAFE
Phone:	07-5460 1255
Fax:	07-5460 1444
Email:	gmd@sas.uq.edu.au; s.craigsmith@uq.edu.au
Objectives	To describe the existing Australian commercial safari hunting industry, to explore the social, legislative and biological environments in which it operates, and to describe international examples of successful commercial hunting industries. This information will help to identify constraints to sustainability and profitability which the industry faces and to formulate appropriate policies for the industry.
Background	Australia has a variety of exotic wild large animals (camels, deer, buffalo, etc.) and smaller game (e.g. rabbits, hares, and foxes) which are not classified in any list of endangered or threatened animals. This pool of animals is available for commercial or recreational hunting. Safari hunting in other countries is a multi-million dollar business which earns substantial foreign income. An appropriate development of the Australian industry would similarly increase tourism receipts, especially for rural tourism.
Research	Visits to countries with developed safari hunting industries (South Africa, New Zealand) or domestic hunting (Canada, USA); compilation of information about Australian hunting law, hunting and conservation practice and community attitudes to hunting; a survey of commercial safari hunting companies, recreational hunting clubs, landowner/grazier organisations and game meat exporters.
Outcomes	Seventeen recommendations for the further development of the Australian Commercial safari industry.
Implications	Commercial safari hunting presently earns about A$5 million annually. Much of this is returned to rural communities. This amount could be increased by appropriate support of the industry.
Publications	Commercial Safari Hunting of Australian Exotic Wild Game (RIRDC Report, 2004)