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RIRDC Completed Projects in 2005-2006 & Research in Progress as at June 2006

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To New Animal Products Completed Projects
 

1.2 New Animal Products  -  Research in Progress
Project No.		Project Title	Researcher		Phone	Organisation
Increase market penetration and development
DAQ-312A		Commercial development of export markets for emerging skin industries	Brendan Goulding		(07) 3239 3315	Department of Primary Industries – Qld
DRG-1A		Feasibility study for establishing a snake farming industry in Australia	Yoland De Groot		(07) 3891 3037	De Groot International Food Marketing Pty Ltd
FSA-6A		Composition of New Meats	Dr Ron Tume		(07) 3214 2007	Food Science Australia
PTP-21A		Farming and marketing goat and sheep milk products	Arthur Stubbs		(03) 9844 1135	Primary Task Pty Ltd
QUT-8A		Catostylus mosaicus anutoimmune stimulant	Dr Bruce Rich		(07) 3864 4738	Queensland University of Technology
Improve processing, product development and diversification
ALP-1A		Alpaca laboratory scouring study	Michael Talbot		(03) 9311 0933	Australian Alpaca Fleece Ltd
LEC-5A		Extending the sustainable management of kangaroo	John Kelly		(03) 6326 8639	Lenah Consultancy
UNS-19A		Choosing kangaroo: product and industry attributes and consumer choice behaviour	Peter Ampt		(02) 9385 5677	University of New South Wales
Improve supply and productivity
BBC-1A		Commercial silk production practices for an Australian sericulture industry	Sarita Kulkarni		(03) 9711 5928	Brij Bugtrap Consultancy P/L
CSA-31A		Identifying and Utilising Genes for Disease Resistance and Doe Health for the Crusader Breeding Program for Meat Rabbits in Australia	Dr Sandra Eady		(02) 6776 1394	CSIRO Livestock Industries
SMG-1A		Crusader - a commercial breeding program for meat rabbits in Australia	Michael Bowerman		(02) 6454 4169	Snowy Mountains Gourmet Rabbit Company
UWA-84A		Exploring the commercial potential of sheep milk	Dr Roberta Bencini		(08) 9380 2521	University of Western Australia
UMO-35A		Genetic improvement of dairy sheep	Dr Alexander Cameron		(03) 5286 1211	Monash University
WMI-4A		Crocodile pen design	Prof Grahame Webb		(08) 8922 4500	Wildlife Management International Pty Ltd
US-139A		Linkage mapping and QTL analysis in saltwater crocodiles	Dr Sally Isberg		(08) 8988 5554	University of Sydney
US-140A		Runtism and survival in captive saltwater crocodiles	Dr Sally Isberg		(08) 8988 5554	University of Sydney
UWA-91A		Improving reproduction and genetics for game birds and ratites	Dr Irek Malecki		(08) 6488 2528	University of Western Australia
US-138A		The continued development of artificial insemination technology in alpacas	Professor Chis Maxwell		(02) 9351 4864	University of Sydney
DNT-33A	Genetic and reproduction improvements in Australian Water Buffalo			Barry Lemcke	(08) 8999 2263	Department of Business, industry and Resources development - NT
Facilitate information transfer, industry development, human capital and community awareness
WBT-3A		Requirements for NAP Traceability Systems: A Scoping Study	David Michael		(02) 9369 2735	Wondu Business & Technology Serives
WBT-4A		Adding value to new animal product (NAP) supply chains: part 2	David Michael		(02) 9369 2735	Wondu Business & Technology Serives

Increase market penetration and development
 

Project Title	Commercial development of export markets for emerging skin industries
RIRDC Project No.:	DAQ-312A
Start Date:	01-Nov-03
Finish Date:	01-Nov-06
Researcher:	Mr Brendan Goulding
Organisation:	Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries (Qld) GPO Box 46 BRISBANE QLD 4001
Phone:	(07) 3239 3315
Fax:	(07)3221 3896
Email:	brendan.goulding@dpi.qld.gov.au
Objectives	· Facilitate the development of sustainable trade for new animal industries, specifically camel, crocodile, emu and goat by: · Further investigating market segments identified as having potential for skin and leather products from each species. · Developing new exports and augment trade opportunities for skins and leather products by working with commercial businesses. · Conducting economic analysis to determine the viability of supplying skins and leather products to particular export markets. · Developing supply and value chain alliances between producers, exporters and buyers of new animal products. · Developing a communication and promotion strategy for identified export markets for emerging skin industries.
Current Progress	The primary market research component of the project was completed in November 2005 by way of an in-market research study completed for exotic skins and leathers in the United States and a market visit undertaken to Italy and the US. The market visit consisted of undertaking a range of business meetings at all levels of the skin and leather supply chain including tanneries, wholesalers and distributors, leather goods manufacturers, fashion houses, designers and retailers throughout northern Italy and the US. Additionally, market research was undertaken at the retail level to gain insights into the current competitive dynamics within both Italy and the US. These insights included product availability, price points for products available in each market, other competing supplying countries and current fashion trends. As a result of the business meetings undertaken in Italy and the US interest was expressed by many of the companies to source skin and leathers derived from all of the species. Negotiations have been continuing between the project partners and interested Italian and US buyers following the market visits, with the project partners providing interested buyers, further details on skin/leather specifications, volumes available and pricing. Export orders have been secured in Italy as a result of the visit.

 
 
 
 

Project Title	Feasibility study for establishing a snake farming industry in Australia
RIRDC Project No.:	DGR-1A
Start Date:	01-Sep-2005
Finish Date:	01-Sep-2007
Researcher:	Mr Yoland De Groot
Organisation:	De Groot International Food Marketing Pty Ltd 2/727 Stanley Street WOOLLOONGABBA QLD 4102
Phone:	(07) 3891 3037
Fax:	(07) 3393 2555
Email:	gamemeat@bigpond.com
Objectives	· Examine the feasibility of establishing a snake farming industry in Australia. · Assess the consumer and producer markets for snake products in Australia and overseas markets. · Examine the business and environment aspects of snake farming based on over
Current Progress	A survey of consumers and restaurants has been undertaken to determine the extent of interest in snake meat. In China snake meat is popular. Restaurants mainly serve fried and boiled dishes. In Australia snake meat is imported and served at only at a few restaurants. Australian consumers surveyed would not contemplate eating snake meat. Further surveys of the market are planned in Europe, Thailand and PNG. Visits have been made by D’Groot International to South Africa, China, Vietnam and Europe to determine the market for snake products. The current value for snake products exported from America to South Africa is about A$2m per year. In Europe demand for snake meat is high and there is a shortage of supply. Meat is A$52/kg for snakes weighing 1.5 kg. In the USA meat price is A$35/kg and skin price is A$130. In Vietnam snake farming is popular. One snake farm visited had around 600 pythons. The ideal temperature for growth is 30-32° C. The snakes are sold within 2 years, at 12kg liveweight and 2.5-3.5m in body length. The average return to the farm is about A$226/snake. The snakes are processed under EU import protocols. Meat is exported from Vietnam at about A$10/kg and skin about A$42/per skin.  Currently a snake farming handbook for the Australian Industry is being prepared with information on snake species, breeding, feeding and husbandry.

 
 
 
 

Project Title	Composition of New Meats
RIRDC Project No.:	FSA-6A
Start Date:	18-May-2005
Finish Date:	31-May-2006
Researcher:	Dr Ron Tume
Organisation:	Food Science Australia Microbiology and Meat Industry Services PO Box 3312 TINGALPA DC QLD 4173
Phone:	(07) 3214 2007
Fax:	(07) 3214 2103
Email:	ron.tume@csiro.au
Objectives	· The objective is to collect commercially representative samples of meat from nominated species, analyse them using standard procedures, and report the results in a format that is compatible with the Food Standards Australia New Zealand (FSANZ) nutrient database
Current Progress	All the samples that can be obtained within the project timeframe have now been received by the National Measurement Institute (NMI) which will supply the last of the test data during July 2006. Buffalo samples were obtained through DPIF & M (NT). Seasonal effects and slaughtering specifications required by the industry prevented collection and analysis of as many riverine buffalo samples as intended. Camels International, as the only camel supplier currently, submitted samples from two mobs of camel. The crocodile samples were supplied by Koorana Crocodile Farm and Crocodylus Park. As the only supplier of ostrich, Michael Hastings coordinated the supply of ostrich from two properties. The farmed rabbit suppliers were Snowy Mountain Gourmet Rabbit Company and the Farmed Rabbit Industry Association. The emu samples were supplied by the Emu Farmers Federation of Australia and ANE P/L. Squab samples considered most representative of their industry were arranged by Queensland Squab Processors P/L. The analyses from NMI are being supplied in a Microsoft Excel spreadsheet to facilitate prompt summarizing and reporting of the results. Results are to hand for most species. Final test results of all samples are expected from NMI later in 2006.

 
 
 
 

Project Title	Farming and marketing goat and sheep milk products
RIRDC Project No.:	PTP-21A
Start Date:	01-Oct-04
Finish Date:	01-Oct-06
Researcher:	Mr Arthur Stubbs
Organisation:	Managing Director Primary Tasks Pty Ltd PO Box 661 GREENSBOROUGH VIC 3088
Phone:	(03) 9844 1135
Fax:	(03) 9844 4554
Email:	akstubbs@optusnet.com.au
Objectives	Increased productivity and profitability in the goat and sheep milk industries by definition of market requirements and promotion of best farming and manufacturing practices to match product demand.
Current Progress	Consultations with industry stakeholders are continuing with the aim of monitoring developments from year to year in production planning, market access, problems, opportunities and general growth prospects. Particular attention will be paid to reviewing some cost, management and marketing problems identified in 2005.  Market surveys of fine food outlets in four capital cities of Australia have revealed a strong presence of Australian goat and sheep milk products and frequent comments that supply is not keeping pace with demand. This augurs well for the future of the two industries if marketing systems can be improved. Work is also continuing on revision of a technical manual and farm computer program for producers, the latter being nearly ready for on farm testing.

 
 
 
 

Project Title	Catostylus mosaicus anutoimmune stimulant
RIRDC Project No.:	QUT-8A
Start Date:	01-Sep-2005
Finish Date:	01-Sep-2007
Researcher:	Dr Bruce Rich
Organisation:	Queensland University of Technology Institute for Sustainable Resources GPO Box 2434 BRISBANE QLD 4001
Phone:	(07) 3864 4738
Fax:	(07) 3864 4719
Email:	b.rich@qut.edu.au
Objectives	·1 Investigate the potential commercial development of therapeutic products from Catostylus mosaicus ·2 Establish handling and processing procedures ·3 Identify the class(es) of active components ·4 Determine degree of activity (or range of activity through bioassay) ·5 Gather sufficient data to make Go/No Go decisions for commercial development
Current Progress	During February 2006 and continued throughout March – May numerous efforts have been made to collect jellyfish specimens. They appeared to have had an early departure or lack of presence, in some way contributed to by cyclone Larry and prevailing weather conditions. Through a local Fisherman’s Co-operative a number of trawler operators have been approached to collect specimens. Again, no quantities of any note have been obtained. Areas will continue to be monitored until sufficient samples have been collected.  Once samples have been obtained extraction and analysis will commence. Although the delay is unwanted it is not expected to impact on the project to any significant extent as the project is due to be completed September 2007.

 

Improve processing, product development and diversification
 

Project Title	Alpaca laboratory scouring study
RIRDC Project No.:	ALP-1A
Start Date:	13-Jan-05
Finish Date:	27-Oct-2005
Researcher:	Mr Michael Talbot
Organisation:	Australian Alpaca Fleece Ltd
Phone:	(03) 9311 0933
Fax:	(03) 9311 0499
Email:	michaelt@australianalpacafleece.com.au
Objectives	The aim of this alpaca scouring study is to understand the basic chemistry to remove the dirt, grease and suint from alpaca fibre and to develop a basic scouring procedure and/or recipe to produce a clean alpaca fibre that will minimise the problems encountered to date in spinning and dyeing associated with dust retention on the alpaca fibre.
Current Progress	Following a study tour to Peru in which two alpaca processing operations were visited, scouring trials were conducted on Alpaca fibre supplied by Australian Alpaca Fleece Ltd. Scouring conditions identified at the two Peruvian mills were significantly different from those utilised by CSIRO and by the wool scouring industry in general. The main differences noted related to water temperatures in the scouring bowls and pre and post scour opening operations. The data clearly show that the fibre was cleaned as effectively under the lower temperature scouring conditions as it was at the higher temperature. Without further trials it is not possible to say whether the current CSIRO detergent, Hydrapol BD40, would have performed as well as the BP NID-1000 at the lower temperature as used in Peru. Pre-scour opening removed some of the dirt and wax but did not improve scouring efficiency. The consistent reduction in wax content after greasy opening is interesting and indicates that wax must be bound to the dirt. Post-scour opening made a further significant 25% reduction in the residual dirt content. This may prove to have a beneficial impact on subsequent downstream processing operations which are still to be conducted at a local woollen mill.

 
 
 
 

Project Title	Extending the sustainable management of kangaroo
RIRDC Project No.:	LEC-5A
Start Date:	27-Mar-2006
Finish Date:	01-Jun-2007
Researcher:	Mr John Kelly
Organisation:	Lenah Consultancy PO Box 294 MOWBRAY TAS 7248
Phone:	(03) 6326 8639
Fax:	(03) 6326 2790
Email:	lenah@bigpond.net.au
Objectives	· The project will seek to extend the sustainable management of kangaroo populations into regions not currently covered by Federally approved Management Plans such as Victoria, the Northern territory and parts of NSW and SA.
Current Progress	All State conservation agencies have been made aware of the project and all regions in which a commercial harvest does not currently occur have been identified. The barriers to introducing a harvest in these areas have been documented and data collection has commenced to enable calculation of the likely cost-benefits of a harvest.

 
 
 
 

Project Title	Choosing kangaroo: product and industry attributes and consumer choice behaviour
RIRDC Project No.:	UNS-19A
Start Date:	24-Mar-2006
Finish Date:	01-Jun-2007
Researcher:	Mr Peter Ampt
Organisation:	University of New South Wales FATE Program Valentine Annexe Sydney NSW 2052
Phone:	(02) 9385 5677
Fax:	(02) 9385 5710
Email:	p.ampt@unsw.edu.au
Objectives	· Identify key attitudes and issues concerning the use of kangaroo meat by smallgoods and other meat manufacturers. · Ascertain which attributes of meat and smallgoods in general are important for consumer choice and determine how kangaroo is perceived on these attributes. · Investigate choice behaviour and potential demand among meat consumer segments to identify the triggers for increased consumption of kangaroo based on the attributes identified in objective 2. · Determine the change in the choice behaviour of smallgoods manufacturers based on the previous findings.
Current Progress	The primary aim of this project is to increase the amount of kangaroo meat used in Australian smallgoods. In the process it will also uncover valuable information about the growing number of people purchasing kangaroo meat now that it is more readily available in supermarkets. Beliefs and attitudes of smallgoods manufacturers to the use of kangaroo meat in their products will be explored and discrete choice experiments (DCEs) will be used to explore choice behaviour of meat consumers in relation to smallgoods and kangaroo meat. DCEs use a web-based format where consumers make choices in response to experimental conditions set up by the researcher. These choices are then mapped against product attributes. A Steering Committee has been established comprising researchers and representatives of smallgoods manufacturers and kangaroo processors. Planning is in progress for interviews of smallgoods manufacturers about their past, present and potential future use of kangaroo meat in kangaroo-only and kangaroo-containing products. Focus groups of meat consumers are also being planned. Information from these activities will be used to design the DCEs.

 

Improve supply and productivity
 

Project Title	Commercial silk production practices for an Australian sericulture industry
RIRDC Project No.:	BBC-1A
Start Date:	01-Feb-04
Finish Date:	31-Dec-06
Researcher:	Ms Sarita Kulkarni
Organisation:	Brij Bugtrap Consultancy Pty Ltd 4 Veronica Court NOBLE PARK VIC 3174
Phone:	(03) 9711 5928
Fax:	(03) 9711 7592
Email:	sarita@bbtcpl.com
Objectives	· The proposed outcomes will be commercially and economically viable for: · The establishment of a prototype sericulture farm in South-East Australia mainly in Victoria on a commercial basis. · Establishing rural-based sericulture industry (moriculture, sericulture and silk reeling) in South-East Australia for producing raw silk for the Australian textile market with the potential for future export. · A tested and suitable system for (a) the production of silkworm moth eggs (seed) (b) incubation and rearing of young silkworm larvae (chawki rearing) (c) growing, harvesting and storage of mulberry leaves (d) collection, packaging and transport of cocoons (e) marketing of cocoons to silk spinners (f) reeling unit. · Possible future export opportunities in dried cocoons, raw silk, and other silk by-products and finished products to Asian, and later with European and American markets. · Providing an avenue for the Australian rural community for a home-based remunerative employment program.
Current Progress	Prototype Farm: Local varieties of mulberries were planted in the conventional method but weed control was costly in labour. To avoid this cost mulberries have been replanted using weed mats and this assessment is in progress. As huge quantities of plants cannot be sourced we are now propagating our own. Mulberry trees at the establishment of two enthusiastic growers are being assessed for the variety preference. Silkworm eggs have been acquired from Queensland and other states for future assessments. After an unfortunate mistake in quarantine, parent eggs of pure bivoltine race eggs obtained in India were destroyed but more eggs are currently being sourced. The permit for building the R&D facility is in progress. Reeling units have been examined and discussion is in progress in China and India. Visits to India and China are planned in the near future so that these discussions can be substantiated and future assistance can be sought. Indian and Chinese experts are waiting to visit Australia to assist in the project.

 
 

Project Title	Identifying and Utilising Genes for Disease Resistance and Doe Health for the Crusader Breeding Program for Meat Rabbits in Australia
RIRDC Project No.:	CSA-31A
Start Date:	01-May-04
Finish Date:	30-May-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	· Outcomes and deliverables of the proposed research in conjunction with RIRDC's project with Snowy Mountains Gourmet Rabbit Company · Leading edge genetic improvement program for meat rabbits incorporating innovative and new traits that impact on farmer profitability, such as disease resistance, doe health and longevity, and homogeneity of kit weights. · Establishment of the 120 doe Crusader herd at Snowy Mountains Gourmet Rabbit Company (SMGRC) facility at Bredbo, NSW, so that it is running on a weekly management cycle of mating, kindling, weaning and data collection consistent with protocols provided by CSIRO. · Database of information, updated weekly as per protocols, to support research and development for genetic improvement in the meat rabbit industry. · Improved Crusader breeding stock through the conduct of a selection program based on estimation of estimated breeding values (EBVs), index ranking of animals and appropriate mate allocation, as per protocols provided by CSIRO. · Crusader rabbits being used in industry and contributing to improvements in farmers; profits, through the regular sale of breeding stock. · High industry awareness of the availability and benefits of Crusader stock by promotion at field days and in the media. · Recommendations for industry on improved management options for rabbit farmers, in the first instance recommendations on kit boxes for improved kitten survival. · The establishment of a national meat rabbit genetic evaluation program, with Crusader acting as hub to provide genetic linkage between breeding herds.
Current Progress	Advances in breeding rabbits for disease resistance have been made since 2005. The first has been a simplification of the measurement protocol for bacterial infection, so that it includes observations at 5, 8 and 9 weeks of age rather than weekly, making the protocol more amenable for inclusion in commercial breeding programs. The heritability of scouring in grower rabbits was estimated (0.022±0.019) and the genetic correlation with bacterial infection was 0.05±0.24. Given both these estimates are not significantly different from zero, the current recommendation is not to include selection for scouring in the breeding program. Genetic trends for disease resistance and production traits continue to show consistent improvement in the Crusader herd. Evaluation of nest boxes is continuing with small and statistically non-significant differences in number of kittens born alive and weaned at this stage. Additional data is being collected as small differences, if significant, can have a large impact on profit. Genetic linkage between the Crusader and Growtec herd has been established with the swapping of bucks. Plans are being developed to move to AI which will aid in building the number of link progeny between the breeding programs and avoid the problems encountered with movement of mature bucks. The Crusader website www.csiro.au/crusader has been updated and new information on the project was presented at the Farmed Rabbit Industries of Australia national field day in SA in April 2006.

 
 
 
 

Project Title	Crusader - a commercial breeding program for meat rabbits in Australia
RIRDC Project No.:	SMG-1A
Start Date:	26-Mar-04
Finish Date:	30-Jun-07
Researcher:	Mr Michael Bowerman
Organisation:	Snowy Mountains Gourmet Rabbit Company Sun Downer Station Monaro Highway BREDBO NSW 2626
Phone:	(02) 6454 4169
Fax:	(02) 6454 4179
Email:	bowerman@snowy.net.au
Objectives	· Establishment of the 120 doe Crusader herd at Snowy Mountains Gourmet Rabbit Company (SMGRC) facility at Bredbo, NSW. · Database of information, updated weekly as per protocols, to support research and development for genetic improvement in the meat rabbit industry. · Improved Crusader breeding stock through the conduct of a selection program based on estimation of estimated breeding values (EBVs), index ranking of animals and appropriate mate allocation, as per protocols provided by CSIRO. · Crusader rabbits being used in industry and contributing to improvements in farmers' profits, through the regular sale of breeding stock. · High industry awareness of the availability and benefits of Crusader stock by promotion at field days and in the media. · Recommendations for industry on improved management options for rabbit farmers, in the first instance recommendations of kit boxes for improved kitten survival. · Crusader taking a facilitative role in the establishment of a national meat rabbit genetic evaluation program, by assisting in genetically linking rabbit herds by purchasing and swapping of stock
Current Progress	The Commercialisation of Crusader to Snowy Mountains Gourmet Rabbit Company (SMGRC) continues its success. The herd of 120 rabbits have continued to improve under the management of SMGRC. The project continues to be promoted within the industry. A Field Day this year was held in South Australia and attended by 100 new and existing rabbit farmers. Next year a Field Day will be held in South Gippsland, Victoria. Through our website www.smgrc.com.au and through the formation and involvement with Farmed Rabbit Industries of Australia (FRIA) the project is further promoted. Advertising of breeding stock has continued in local and interstate newspapers. The sales are down on last year but the interest in commercial rabbit farming has not decreased. On average we are contacted four times per week either by phone or email from people in the rabbit industry or interested in the industry. A great new industry tool is the opening of the FRIA national website www.fria.com.au. The website is designed to help new industry entrants as well as existing farmers with current news and affairs. Total Sales of Rabbits for Breeding NSW 76 SA 0 TAS 2 VIC 9 ACT 0 Orders as at 1 June 2006  NSW 50 SA 15 TAS 4 The nest box trial is now in its seventeenth month. Data have been collected on all five nest boxes with the hygiene and maintenance part of the trial complete we are continuing to collect further data on each of the nest boxes.  Crusader is now also collecting data on buck servicing and receptivity. Data will be compared between Crusader natural conception rates and Growtec Artificial Insemination rates. Crusader continues to introduce new bucks from SMGRC and Growtec farms and will continue the process of genetic linkage between Crusader and other facilities. The importance of the Crusader project to help the rabbit industry grow in Australia is invaluable.

 
 
 
 

Project Title	Exploring the commercial potential of sheep milk
RIRDC Project No.:	UWA-84A
Start Date:	01-Sep-04
Finish Date:	01-Jul-08
Researcher:	Dr Roberta Bencini
Organisation:	University of Western Australia Animal Science Faculty of Agriculture NEDLANDS WA 6009
Phone:	(08) 9380 2521
Fax:	(08) 9380 1040
Email:	rbencini@agric.uwa.edu.au
Objectives	· Developing feeding strategies to increase the health benefits of sheep milk products, to that these products can be commercialised for their health benefits as well as their superior qualities. · Researching on the commercial potential of sheep dairy products for the domestic and export markets. · Investigating the suitability of behavioural tests to select dairy ewes based on their temperament.
Current Progress	In 2005 we conducted an experiment in which we fed canola, whole or crimped, to dairy sheep to enhance the fatty acids profile of the milk. Samples of milk from the experimental sheep will be analysed in 2006. We are processing batches of milk into cheese and determining the fatty acids profile of the resulting cheese. The batches of cheese are currently being tested on small samples of consumers and assessed for their palatability and acceptability by consumers. A flock of sheep selected for nervous or calm temperaments at the UWA Allandale Research farm will be transported to UWA and placed in a dairy situation to test the hypothesis that calm sheep will learn the milking routine faster, will have better milk let down and better composition of their milk. Different breeds of sheep are also currently being tested for their temperament and the data on their milk production and composition will be analysed to evaluate the applicability of temperament tests for the selection of sheep suitable for milking.

 
 

Project Title	Genetic improvement of dairy sheep
RIRDC Project No.:	UMO-35A
Start Date:	01-Sep-2004
Finish Date:	30-Aug-2007
Researcher:	Dr Alexander Cameron
Organisation:	Monash University RMB Cameron Rd MEREDITH VIC 3333
Phone:	(03) 5286 1211
Fax:	(03) 5286 1552
Email:	meredith.dairy@bigpond.com.au
Objectives	· To increase the rate of genetic improvement of dairy sheep by defining the optimum protocol for recording milk yield, and to develop management strategies that maximise the milk yield of dairy sheep.
Current Progress	The objective of the project is to increase the rate of genetic improvement of dairy sheep by defining the optimum protocol for recording milk yield, and to develop management strategies that maximize milk yield. For the past year the chief focus of the project has been to examine the repeatability of various parameters that may affect milk yield between lactations, and the correlation between milk yield measured in first and subsequent lactations. Parameters that have been measured include growth rate of lambs before ewes enter the dairy (at 2 to 4 weeks after lambing) and the rate of milk production in this suckling period, measured by a 4 hour oxytocin test. These two variables were not correlated. The average rate of milk production in the suckling period was in the vicinity of values reported for overseas dairy breeds, and ranged from 2.47 liters per day for primiparous ewes with single lambs, to 3.19 liters per day for multiparous ewes with twins. The rate of milk production fell by about 30% within a week of the ewes entering the dairy. When machine milked more than 70% of ewes retained at least 30% of their milk in the udder unless administered an intramuscular injection of oxytocin. This indicates that most ewes were not experiencing milk let down in response to machine milking, which is doubtless a significant reason for the relatively low average yield of milk obtained in our ewes compared to the best overseas breeds. Within the next 12 months the ewes in this study will have completed 2 lactations, and the correlation between milk yields during successive lactations will have been calculated.

 

Project Title	Crocodile pen design
RIRDC Project No.:	WMI-4A
Start Date:	01-Sep-04
Finish Date:	01-Sep-07
Researcher:	Prof Grahame Webb
Organisation:	Wildlife Management International Pty Ltd PO Box 530 SANDERSON NT 0812
Phone:	(08) 8922 4500
Fax:	(08) 8947 0678
Email:	gwebb@wmi.com.au
Objectives	The proposal aims to investigate two areas of pen design, with captive breeding and raising of Saltwater Crocodiles.
Current Progress	The aim is to quantify the effect and financial viability of different pen designs for breeding and rearing of crocodiles, based on existing knowledge of husbandry requirements. Breeding pens were constructed, comprising unitised pens (1M:1F) and group pens (1M:3F). Some breeding occurred in the unitised pens, but breeding was not anticipated until the next nesting season. Results from other unitised pens indicate that females tend not to breed in the season following relocation, suggesting a settling-down period is involved. A large communal pen, modified to create physical barriers between crocodiles was not successful – social dominance was still a problem. Large raising pens were constructed, that provided conditions similar to those that may be experienced in the wild. Areas of deep water provide animals with a "escape route" when disturbed, and high growth rates have been recorded. Labour costs are reduced. A prototype floating pen for hatchlings was not considered adequate - the design requires refinement and re-testing. Unitised enclosures for the final stage of growing out are currently being tested. Preliminary results indicate high growth rates can be achieved, and skin quality improved. Time required for specific skin "problems" (eg scratches, scars) to be remedied is now under investigation.

 

Project Title	Linkage mapping and QTL analysis in saltwater crocodiles
RIRDC Project No.:	US-139A
Start Date:	01-Jul-2005
Finish Date:	30-Sep-2009
Researcher:	Dr Sally Isberg
Organisation:	The University of Sydney PO Box 86 PALMERSTON NT 0831
Phone:	(08) 8988 5554
Fax:	(02) 9351 2114
Email:	sally@crocfarmsnt.com
Objectives	The major objective is to enable producers to select future breeding crocodiles based on the animal’s genotype in addition to phenotypic observations made on the individual and its relatives.
Current Progress	Six hundred microsatellite markers have been developed and are currently being evaluated for polymorphic content. All markers exhibiting two or more alleles will be evaluated on the resource panel consisting of six family groups. These microsatellites will help construct the first dense genetic linkage map in a crocodilian species.  Further to the microsatellite library, a fosmid library was also constructed. Forty-five primers have so far been designed although the target number is closer to 100. The fosmid primers will enable the microsatellite linkage groups to be anchored onto chromosomes, known as physical mapping, using florescent labelling. Before this can occur, blood cell culturing techniques need to be optimised for crocodiles to identify the individual chromosomes. Good progress is being made, although other optimisation strategies are yet to be examined.  The pedigree resource available for this study is from known-breeding pairs at the Darwin Crocodile Farm. Phenotypic data collection begun at the beginning of the hatching season in 2005 and will continue throughout the project. The combination of phenotypic and genotypic data collection, in addition to the genetic linkage map, will allow use to conduct a QTL analysis for important economic traits.

 
 

Project Title	Runtism and survival in captive saltwater crocodiles
RIRDC Project No.:	US-140A
Start Date:	01-Sep-2005
Finish Date:	01-Sep-2008
Researcher:	Dr Sally Isberg
Organisation:	The University of Sydney PO Box 86 PALMERSTON NT 0831
Phone:	(08) 8988 5554
Fax:	(02) 9351 2114
Email:	sally@crocfarmsnt.com
Objectives	· The major objective is to evaluate the specific risk factors associated with juvenile mortality, in particular runtism and disease susceptibility, within a genetic framework. This will help producers identify the main causes of juvenile mortality on their farms and determine whether mortalities are clutch-related, year-related or, more unlikely, randomly occurring events. · The major objective of the histopathology study is to examine the issue of runtism and attempt to observe any differences between 'normal' and 'runt' crocodiles. This will provide clues of why runtism occurs. Similar studies have been conducted in other crocodilians but not for saltwater crocodiles. Since this is an area of major profit loss within the Australian crocodile industry, this pilot histopathology study is of great importance.
Current Progress	Data relating to the cause of crocodile deaths are being collected in a categorical fashion (runt, disease, stress, congenital defect) at the Darwin Crocodile Farm. In general, this data collection protocol is providing some interesting observations on specific clutches as well as different rearing environments. These observations are currently anecdotal using basic statistics rather than correct modelling techniques for survival traits but should provide some very interesting results. The initial histopathology results have been completed. General findings include those very obvious apparent differences between runts and normal including smaller body size at the same age, a wasted appearance and lack of grossly appreciable adipose tissue. The fat body of runts was typically difficult to visualise compared to the obvious, moderately-sized fat bodies of normal crocodiles. There was no difference in the stomach content of runts versus normal crocodiles, and many individuals in both groups had single faecal pellets in the colon. The gall bladders of runts appeared enlarged and contained thicker, darker bile than normal crocodiles whilst the lymphoid and pancreatic tissue wasn’t as grossly appreciable in runts. The bones of all crocodiles appeared normal. Further analysis of the results will provide more useful findings outlining future areas for histopathological studies.

 
 

Project Title	Improving reproduction and genetics for game birds and ratites
RIRDC Project No.:	UWA-91A
Start Date:	01-Jul-2005
Finish Date:	29-Jun-2008
Researcher:	Dr Irek Malecki
Organisation:	University of Western Australia Faculty of Agriculture Animal Science CRAWLEY WA 6009
Phone:	(08) 6488 2528
Fax:	(08) 6448 1040
Email:	imalecki@animals.uwa.edu.au
Objectives	· The project will address production constraints in the management, reproduction, nutrition and genetics of game birds. This will provide industries with clear breeding and husbandry strategies leading to improved efficiency of production. Progress will be made towards development of AI technology for the ratite industry.
Current Progress	The experimental flocks of pigeons and ducks have been set up at UWA research station in Shenton Park and the evaluation of their true fertility has commenced. A preliminary assessment of the pheasant breeding flock was carried out on the participating farm in Victoria during the 2005-06 breeding season to determine the effect of season and female age on egg production and fertility. We have found that commercial pheasant production is limited by the highly seasonal breeding pattern of the birds that leads to short periods of laying and fertility. Fertility is not affected by female age but retaining 2 year old females for a second season might not be advantageous given the reduction in their rate of lay. On-farm studies of reproductive efficiency of pigeons have commenced. Farms in Queensland and Victoria are participating. Our collaborator in Queensland has set up a breeding flock where the effect of different diets on reproductive performance will be evaluated. Further progress has been made on development of methods for semen collection from ostriches. Ejaculates have been collected using teaser female and a dummy female.

 

Project Title	The continued development of artificial insemination technology in alpacas
RIRDC Project No.:	US-138A
Start Date:	01-Jun-2005
Finish Date:	01-Jun-2007
Researcher:	Prof Chis Maxwell
Organisation:	The University of Sydney Faculty of Veterinary Science RMC GUNN Building SYDNEY NSW 2006
Phone:	(02) 9351 4864
Fax:	(02) 9351 3957
Email:	chism@vetsci.usyd.edu.au
Objectives	· To further develop and establish technology for collection, processing and preservation of alpaca semen. · To further develop and establish the technology for insemination of alpaca semen. · To demonstrate the feasibility and logistics of an artificial insemination (AI) service to alpaca producers in Australia, including the possible use of imported semen.
Current Progress	Achievements include training males for semen collection using an artificial vagina fitted inside a wooden mannequin. Of the 16 males, 14 are trained, reliable workers. The wooden mannequin and artificial vagina (AV) were redesigned in an attempt to mimic more closely the female reproductive tract and increase the quality and reduce the variation of collected semen (both of which are major hindrances to the development of semen freezing and artificial insemination). However, semen quality remains highly variable, both between and within males. Further research focusing on the re-designing of the AV and collection protocols (including the frequency of collection and presence of females during collection) is continuing.  Characterising a large number of alpaca ejaculates to determine average values for sperm motility and concentration, sperm morphology and acrosome integrity is currently underway as these parameters are unknown for alpacas.  Current research includes the development of liquid (chilled) storage of semen with experiments on the appropriate dilution rate, diluent and storage temperature for sperm.  Sperm obtained from the epididymides of castrated males can be successfully frozen. A number of experiments have been conducted to investigate the appropriate diluent and packaging for cryopreservation, with the best results obtained using a lactose based diluent and pellet freezing of sperm.

 

Project Title	Genetic and reproduction improvements in Australian Water Buffalo
RIRDC Project No.:	DNT-33A
Start Date:	18-Jun-04
Finish Date:	01-Nov-07
Researcher:	Barry Lemcke
Organisation:	Department of Business, Industry and Resource Development (NT)
Phone:	(08) 8999 2263
Fax:	(08) 8999 2043
Email:	barry.lemcke@nt.gov.au
Objectives	·1 To analyse the existing swamp buffalo data collected at Beatrice Hill since 1983 and derive heritability estimates for the Australian swamp buffalo. Breedplan EBVs to be allocated. ·2 Review and recommend suitable database system to take the Buffalo Industry (meat, milk and stud) satisfactorily into the next 10 years. ·3 Review Australian and world literature and implement AI protocol that suits Australian conditions over multiple locations - trial in as many States as possible.
Current Progress	The first state to participate in the AI project other than the Northern Territory occurred in March 2006. At Yambuk in Victoria, 20 Italian milking heifers were given the Brazilian synchronisation protocol with a single insemination in the morning, using a very proficient and experienced local dairy AI technician. Results on pregnancy scan in late May were 50%, which is very pleasing A 7th round of AI in the NT using a different, more experienced technician on the same group used in November 2005(less 3 pregnant cows), and same protocol as previously, but with the Italian variation of 2 morning inseminations 24 hours apart. A small group of 6 cows were also tested with a different protocol using the Cue-Mate® treatment. Results are not yet available. DNA results from 10 head from previous AI rounds where 12 hourly inseminations with different sires were performed, gave 7 from the morning insemination and 3 from the afternoon insemination. A good spread of imported Italian sire progeny was achieved from this group. Some data for genetic analysis is with ABRI and original swamp data to be sent to ABRI in the near future.

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

Project Title	Requirements for NAP Traceability Systems: A Scoping Study
RIRDC Project No.:	WBT-3A
Start Date:	01-Jul-2006
Finish Date:	31-Aug-2007
Researcher:	Mr David Michael
Organisation:	Wondu Business & Technology Services PO Box 1217 BONDI JUNCTION NSW 1355
Phone:	(02) 9369 2735
Fax:	(02) 9369 2737
Email:	dmichael@wondu.com
Objectives	· The purpose of the research project would be to conduct a study of the requirements for establishing improved traceability systems for the new animal product industries. A requirements definition stage would examine the business model options and priorities for traceability systems for animal industries with small numbers; improve the level of understanding about supply chain operator and market needs; and explore the possibilities for unified traceability systems across several new animal product industries.
Current Progress	The review of existing information on traceability systems has been partly completed. Two major themes emerge in terms of use of traceability systems: 1.) Human health is an important driver of the growing interest in traceability systems. The potential for a pandemic from Avian flu (Strain H5N1) and similar infectious diseases and the experiences with BSE (bovine spongiform encephalopathy) and its suspected association with v.Creutzfeldt-Jacob Disease (vCJD) has stimulated interest in the public good case for an intervention in livestock traceability systems. Several NAP species (ducks, turkeys and squab) fall within what might be called species of concern. In addition, some other NAP animal species (e.g. crocodile) are relatively intensive users of poultry in their feed rations. Wild birds, and their flight patterns, are also a general group of concern 2.) Competitiveness. Most business operators in the food supply chain are interested in traceability systems primarily because of their impact on competitiveness and especially how any particular system will impact on their costs of production and customers. This raises the question of customer’s willingness to pay for a traceability system. In turn, this raises further questions about competition along the supply chain and who will pay and who will benefit. Furthermore, there are questions about trade barriers being created by traceability systems. Gaining an understanding about international regulations on traceability systems is complicated by current changes and proposed changes in many countries. We have an online international survey in progress to help our understanding of changes in progress. Our understanding was also improved through the interaction and address by David Michael in February to the IDTech Conference and Trade Display on Food and Livestock Traceability Systems, Dallas on "Searching for the Optimal Traceability Business Model". A workshop/seminar is planned with either a small group of NAP stakeholders or a larger group including health experts and international stakeholders.

 
 

Project Title	Adding value to new animal product (NAP) supply chains: part 2
RIRDC Project No.:	WBT-4A
Start Date:	01-Jul-2005
Finish Date:	31-Aug-2007
Researcher:	Mr David Michael
Organisation:	Wondu Business & Technology Services PO Box 1217 BONDI JUNCTION NSW 1355
Phone:	(02) 9369 2735
Fax:	(02) 9369 2737
Email:	dmichael@wondu.com
Objectives	· Increase the knowledge of NAP industry stakeholders on how value is added along the supply chain by collaboration and various levels of labour and capital at different stages in the NAP supply chains. · Improve awareness of relative strengths and weaknesses along the NAP supply chains. · Improve information for negotiation of agreements between participants along the supply chains · Improve information for quality management by operators along the supply chains. · The project involves extending the supply chain mapping undertaken in Project WHP-6A through construction over 2 years of further supply chains for an estimated 7 new animal product industries - dairy goats, emus, rabbits, turkeys, sheep milk, silk worm, pigs and dairy cattle. Data from pigs and dairy cattle supply chains is being collected for comparison with other NAP animals.
Current Progress	An activity based costing model is being used to map the supply chains for dairy goats, emus, rabbits, turkeys, sheep milk and silk worm, with dairy cattle and pigs included as comparative data from traditional industries. Work so far has focussed on collecting for all animal species: i. work tasks breakdown structures, requiring identification of the supply-chain activities that are required to take a product from on-farm breeding, through processing (including co-products) to an end user.  ii. cost breakdown structure, which involves identification of costs associated with item (i), from the bottom up, starting from production of raw materials and sourcing of inputs on farms, though distribution and processing to retail. Two recurring themes emerge in competitive NAP supply chains: 1.) Genetic improvement can have an important impact on productivity and competitiveness, especially in the meat market. 2.) Feed and nutrition management throughout the life of the animal has an important impact on cost and quality of both meat and co-products.  It’s of some interest that producers have significant control over managing these variables. Among the management practices emerging to enhance feed and nutrition management is ‘individual animal’ management, where feed rations are being set to meet the needs of individual animals or groups of animals, rather than simply having one average ration for all animals in all conditions. This type of management practice is facilitated by digital individual identification and traceability systems that can be used to monitor growth performance and immediately implement corrective optimal rations. These measures are becoming common practice in dairy cattle and pig management. In turn, this has impact on the costs of production and selling price of products from these animal production systems.

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