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RIRDC Completed Projects in 2005-2006 & Research in Progress as at June 2006
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To Rare Natural (Animal) Fibres Research in Progress

2.6 RARE NATURAL ANIMAL FIBRES - COMPLETED PROJECTS

PROJECT NO PROJECT TITLE RESEARCHER PHONE ORGANISATION

DAV-200A Developing processing and production benchmarks for cashmere Dr Bruce McGregor (03) 9217 4200 Department of Primary Industries (Vic)

DAV-217A Objective drought feeding guidelines for caprines Dr Bruce McGregor (03) 9217 4200 Department of Primary Industries (Vic)

OSE-1A Decision support and action learning in the Australian Mohair Industry Stephen Chaffey (02) 6041 1093 Chaffey & Associates Pty Ltd

Project Title: Developing processing and production benchmarks for cashmere

RIRDC Project No.: DAV 200A

Researcher: Dr. Bruce McGregor

Organisation: Department of Primary Industries, Primary Industries Research Victoria (PIRVic),
475 Mickleham Rd., Attwood, Victoria, 3049.

Phone: (03) 9217 4200

Fax: (03) 9217 4299

Email: Bruce.mcgregor@dpi.vic.gov.au

Objectives To develop new preparation and processing procedures based on objective benchmarks.
To determine current production levels of flocks of cashmere goats. To determine the current economic potential for harvesting flocks of crossbred Australian cashmere flocks.

Background For the cashmere industry to be attractive to investors and to increase returns to existing producers it must focus on providing comprehensive economic data as has occurred in other major agricultural industries. No independent evaluation of the cashmere production capability has been undertaken since 1989. In recent years, many cashmere does have been mated to Boer goat sires in an attempt to pursue goat meat production. There is an urgent need for an evaluation of the cashmere production of these crossbred goats. The price of cashmere tops increases with increased fibre length. The recent establishment of Australian cashmere processing provides the opportunity to develop relevant processing benchmarks and new preparation techniques.

Research Cashmere goats on 13 properties were monitored and their fleeces measured, sampled and tested. Cashmere production, quality and value were determined. Fifty identified, quality controlled batches of cashmere underwent textile processing and the products were tested. Detailed statistical analyses of factors affecting cashmere production, cashmere quality and processing outcomes were completed.

Outcomes Cashmere production of two-year-old does varied from 69 to 225 g/head and averaged 141 g/head. These levels of production are not different to those of the 1980s. Generally the live weight gains for cashmere goats appear modest. A majority of the variation in clean cashmere production (56%) was associated with property and mean fibre diameter. Addition of staple length and fibre curvature measurements accounted for 7 to 13% more variation. The research showed that length and quantity of the first cashmere product of textile processing can be manipulated by altering the quality attributes of raw cashmere. This means that cashmere producers and brokers can prepare lots of cashmere that will process with different efficiencies and produce different value products. The length of the first product of cashmere processing produced in this study were superior to or equal to the best available cashmere from other origins of production.

Implications There is great scope for the Australian cashmere industry to increase production. Major gains can be made by breeders focussing on the measurement of clean cashmere production, mean fibre diameter, fibre curvature and staple length. The value of using staple length measurements to identify cashmere likely to process into longer and more valuable cashmere has been identified for the first time in the present work. This finding provides the cashmere industry with a clear direction for improving cashmere classing, processing efficiency and the value of the final product. Boer crossbred goats demonstrated limited potential to supply quantities of cashmere. Participants and observers expressed strong interest in further production benchmarking.

Publications McGregor, B.A. (2005). Cashmere benchmarking shows industry has the potential to increase production by 35%. Australian Cashmere Research Workshop, Newcastle, May 2004, pp. 42-47. RIRDC Report W05/041. (RIRDC: Barton, ACT).
McGregor, B.A. (2005). Evaluating Australian cashmere production and processing using benchmarking. Cashmere Australia 23 (1): 18-22.
McGregor, B.A. (2005). Relationship between Baer diagram hand array length and Almeter length measurements for dehaired cashmere. Proceedings 3^rd International Cashmere Determination Technique Symposium: 396-407. China National Cashmere Products Engineering and Technical Centre and China Inner Mongolia Erdos Cashmere Group Corporation: China.

Project Title: Objective drought feeding guidelines for caprines

RIRDC Project No.: DAV 217A

Researcher: Dr. Bruce McGregor

Organisation: Department of Primary Industries,
475 Mickleham Rd., Attwood, Victoria, 3049.

Phone: (03) 9217 4200

Fax: (03) 9217 4299

Email: Bruce.mcgregor@dpi.vic.gov.au

Objectives Implement three strategic actions recommended in the report DAV 202A namely: ·1 Canvass the wider goat industry to capture farmers recent learning and experiences from the 2002-03 drought
·2 Validate appropriate methods of feeding whole grain wheat to goats under simulated drought conditions
·3 Revise and republish the drought manual for goats incorporating all relevant findings and the review of water provision and quality for goats.

Background International scientific literature on goat nutrition rarely mentions drought feeding requirements for goats. Drought is a feature of the Australian farming landscape. Until 2002 the Australian goat industry had not previously reviewed the requirements and practices needed during drought feeding of goats. Since 1981 there has been considerable progress in understanding the nutritional requirements of Australian goats. An interim review of drought feeding requirements was published in 2002 (DAV 202A). A review of water requirements and a survey of water provision for goats was published in 2004 (DAV 202A).

Research This project was a review and evaluation of scientific data relevant to the energy and water needs, appropriate feeding systems, ration formulation and welfare of Australian goats in relation to drought management. International and Australian research databases were searched. The review includes data available from previous research from RIRDC funded projects. This project enabled the analysis of previously unpublished data on wheat feeding, welfare and the use of body condition scoring for the management of goats during drought conditions. Relevant recent information on sheep drought management has been included. Feedback from goat producers who experienced drought over the past five years was collected in five workshops and included.

Outcomes The manual identifies and develops information for the best practice of feeding goats during drought. Wherever possible reference has been made to original scientific data. Where relevant data are available for goats, the recommendations provided often differ to those for sheep. This project enabled the first determination of critical live weights for goats. The manual has revised energy requirements for goats for maintenance and growth. A number of useful and potential practices for improving the nutritional management and welfare of goats during drought have been identified. The impacts of cold and heat stress on the energy requirements of goats have been reviewed. Research on water requirements of goats has been included based on new Australian data. Welfare requirements of goats during drought have been reviewed. New information on the role, impact and assessment of body condition scoring in goats has been included.

Implications From the technical report a farmer bulletin was produced. This bulletin included cartoons highlighting important management issues. The bulletin was circulated to over 600 goat producers. A number of deficiencies in knowledge impacting on drought management of goats were identified and should be investigated.

Publications McGregor, B.A. (2004). Development of a drought feeding and management manual for goats. Proceedings of the 8^th International Conference on Goats, South Africa p. 110.
McGregor, B.A. (2005) Feeding whole grain wheat to drought affected Angora goats, the influence of roughage on adaptation and estimate of energy requirement for maintenance. Animal Feed Science and Technology ( in press).

Project Title: Decision support and action learning in the Australian Mohair Industry

RIRDC Project No.: OSE-1A

Researcher: Stephen Chaffey

Organisation: Chaffey & Associates Pty Ltd
PO Box 7095
East Albury NSW 2640

Phone: (02) 6041 1093

Fax: (02) 6041 4662

Email: schaffey@bigpond.net.au

Objectives To build, operate and transfer a learning support tool that reduces search time and thinking costs about management strategies and financial feasibility of an Angora enterprise

Background The mohair industry is an established small industry in the Australian agricultural landscape exporting rare natural fibre for processing into a range of luxury textiles. Low production volumes and loss of breeding stock threaten the future viability and sustainability of the industry. The mohair industry needs to expand. It needs to attract further investment by current and new commercial growers. Cull (2001) identified the reduction of search costs, thinking costs and time obsolescence costs were a benefit of industry conferences. The report ‘Making Mohair attractive to Investors’ (Chaffey & McGregor 2004) proposed a decision-making process and structure for new and existing growers that reduced search thinking and time costs would be beneficial to help the industry grow. This could be achieved by the mohair industry taking more control of the investment decision-making process and would lead to more investors making more informed decisions about the mohair enterprise. The report identified a wide range of useful data existing in the mohair industry however it had not been collected and packaged into a form that enables people to test management strategies and financial performance of the enterprise.

Research Literature from the industry was reviewed, growers were interviewed and a business model of the Angora enterprise was constructed using iThink® software. Physical and financial parameters were selected for the model, some were empirically based and others were subjective estimates by growers. Growers tested a physical and financial model individually or in a group environment. The model needed to be able to accommodate a broad range of management thinking and show the physical and financial effects of these decisions over a twelve-year time frame. Discussions about the effects of decisions encourage growers to think about their enterprise objectives, the issues and risks associated with managing the enterprise in particular ways and leads to new questions and ideas for improved management into the future.
This product is also a useful planning tool for new investors exploring potential management strategies and financial feasibility of the angora enterprise.

Outcomes A case study was used to provide an example of a new grower entering the industry with a 100-hectare property. A range of management strategies was tested. Return on investment ranged from by 11.5% to 17.5% with the same capital investments. Gross margin ranged from $114 to $144 per hectare. Total mohair produced ranged from 3,600 to 3,800 kg/year. Mohair cut per shearing ranged from 2.5 to 2.6 kg/head. Mohair price received ranged from $9.17 to $9.38. The performance of the enterprise changed over time. With the assumptions applied in this case study it took until the 8^th year before gross margins and the total mohair produced reached their maximum, four years before total enterprise cash flow became positive and 11 years before the net present value of the investment equalled zero.

Implications The results show that management decisions made early in the life of an Angora enterprise can have significant impacts on the return on investment in later years. Growers can experiment with a wide range of management options and check the possible physical and financial implications of each option before they commit their financial resources to the real enterprise. This provides growers with the opportunity to develop the best intentions for their enterprise to achieve their goals.

2.6 RARE NATURAL ANIMAL FIBRES - RESEARCH IN PROGRESS

PROJECT NO PROJECT TITLE RESEARCHER PHONE ORGANISATION

ALP-1A Alpaca laboratory scouring study Michael Talbot (03) 9311 0933 Australian Alpaca Fleece Ltd

DAN-221A Alpaca across-herd genetic evaluation to achieve commercially viable fleece production Allan Casey (02) 6391 3812 NSW Department of Agriculture

DAV-209A Increasing the capability of mohair producers to produce premium fibres Dr Bruce McGregor (03) 9217 4200 Department of Primary Industries (Vic)

DAV-224A Adoption of benchmarking to increase production of Mohair Dr Bruce McGregor (03) 9217 4200 Department of Primary Industries (Vic)

NMP-1A High specification classing of mohair Dr Doug Stapleton (02) 6364 2132 National Mohair Pool P/L

UNE-69A Breeding for helminth resistance in fibre goats Dr Stephen Walkden-Brown (02) 6773 5152 University of Western Australia

US-138A The continued development of artificial insemination technology in alpacas Professor Chris Maxwell (02) 9351 4864 University of Sydney

UWA-85A National evaluation of sires for the production of quality Cashmere Stephen Gray (08) 9573 6219 University of New England

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 Alpaca across-herd genetic evaluation to achieve commercially viable fleece production

RIRDC Project No.: DAN-221A

Start Date: 01-Sep-03

Finish Date: 30-May-07

Researcher: Colin Langford

Organisation: NSW Department of Primary Industries

Phone: (02) 6391 3812

Fax: (02) 6391 3899

Email: caseya@agric.nsw.gov.au

Objectives · Establish an Across-herd Genetic Evaluation (AGE) system and commercial AGE service that will allow effective use of all genetic resources and emerging artificial breeding technology so that industry genetic progress is maximised.
· Establish and conduct an industry driven, on-farm performance recording system and AGE training program for breeders and commercial producers.
· Utilise the AGE database to establish and maintain genetic parameters for commercial production traits.

Current Progress The Australian Alpaca Association (AAA) AGE Working Party is the driving force behind this project. A further 4 ‘Hands On" Breeders workshops have been conducted which brings the total to 9 with over 250 breeders having attended one of these workshops organised by Regional AAA committees.
A further 2 analyses of data have been conducted and reported to breeders. The number of studs and animals has increased with each analysis. There were 726 animals from 43 studs in the second analysis and 1153 progeny from 64 studs in the third analysis. The decision has been made by the working party that data analysis will occur three times per year to allow breeders to plan when they will submit their data and also to receive their reports. A follow up workshop is about to be trialled which will assist breeders to integrate the results from the analysis into their breeding programs.
An update on the AGE will be delivered to the AAA Conference in September 2006.

Project Title Increasing the capability of mohair producers to produce premium fibres

RIRDC Project No.: DAV-209A

Start Date: 01-Aug-03

Finish Date: 01-Sep-06

Researcher: Dr Bruce McGregor

Organisation: Department of Primary Industries (Vic)
475 Mickleham Road
Agriculture Victoria
ATTWOOD VIC 3049

Phone: (03) 9217 4364

Fax: (03) 9217 4299

Email: bruce.mcgregor@dpi.vic.gov.au

Objectives To reduce production of short and cotted mohair by: · Increasing producers' knowledge of methods to reduce the incidence of short and cotted mohair
· Evaluate different supplementary feeding programs and mohair harvesting strategies and
· Developing knowledge and capability people able to improve their mohair quality and financial returns.

Current Progress Major workshops were held at the NATS industry seminar in Goulburn, NSW in 2004, 2005 and 2006. Presentations were based on feedback from previous workshops, information from South Africa, results of our field experiments and detailed market analyses. The scientific paper detailing the market evaluation of mohair was prepared and published. An Agriculture Note based on the scientific paper has been distributed by mohair selling agents to all customers and at their publicity activities, by Mohair Australia and on the DPI website. Feedback from the NATS presentations and from other field days has been positive with almost all participants showing a large movement in their knowledge about the important factors affecting mohair quality. An experiment on the impact of shearing on mohair quality was recently completed. The results are being analysed and effects quantified. Two field experiments conducted in different years were completed in southern NSW where mohair quality problems were reported by industry. The impact of nutrition and other factors on mohair quality have been determined. Findings have been reported to Mohair Australia regional meetings in Western Australia, Victoria and New South Wales.

Project Title Adoption of benchmarking to increase production of Mohair

RIRDC Project No.: DAV-224

Start Date: 01-Sep-05

Finish Date: 28-Feb-09

Researcher: Dr Bruce McGregor

Organisation: Department of Primary Industries (Vic)
475 Mickleham Road
Agriculture Victoria
ATTWOOD VIC 3049

Phone: (03) 9217 4364

Fax: (03) 9217 4299

Email: bruce.mcgregor@dpi.vic.gov.au

Objectives An annual advisory bulletin and a final report outlining the results of the mohair enterprise benchmarking project.
Provide new documents, available via the internet and the industry web page, based on the analysed data collected from participants.
An assessment of the perceived change in knowledge of mohair producers to the operation and benefits of mohair benchmarking.
Information events will be held for interested mohair producers and the increase in knowledge and change in attitude to these issues will be determined by pre and post event surveys.

Current Progress Mohair brokers and Mohair Australia provided advice on likely participants. This was followed by advertising in industry journals and via large posters at industry events. Coverage was also received in two issues of the Australian Goat Report. Twenty expressions of interest were received and 14 producers returning signed commitments to the project. A detailed data questionnaire was developed and sent to all participants. The econometric model has been modified for mohair production. Most producers have agreed to weigh animals and fleeces and take fleece samples. At reporting date production data is still being received. Financial data is taking longer to assemble. Data that have been received have been entered into the financial model. Three progress reports have been produced and circulated. Graphs of the live weight of weaned kids show large variations within and between properties. At this stage there is considerable enthusiasm and interest in the findings of this project. Some producers report that they are undertaking financial and measurement activities that they have not undertaken previously.

Project Title High specification classing of mohair

RIRDC Project No.: NMP-1A

Start Date: 01/07/05

Finish Date: 01/06/07

Researcher: Dr Doug Stapleton

Organisation: National Mohair Pool P/L

Phone: (02) 6364 2132

Fax: (02) 6364 2323

Email: dstaplet@netwit.net.au

Objectives Implement high specification classing of mohair to 1) produce an ultra fine type, 2) produce low variation lines at specified micron, 3) identify and market superior lines of mohair and 4) link animal testing to classing and marketing

Current Progress Normal subjective classing of mohair has been shown to be relatively inaccurate for individual fleeces and it is suspected to be even more-so for lines from different properties which must be pooled for sale. This project aims to use individual fleece tests to more accurately place fleeces, thus reducing variation and offers growers the chance to gain maximum benefit from the identification of quality fleeces. Three sales of EGT (Every Goat Tested) lines have occurred. Mid side tests were found to underestimate final lot fibre diameter by as much as 2um. Sampling and identifying both samples and bagged fleeces at shearing proved logistically difficult so the trial advanced to use Siroscan/Laserscan technology to test whole fleeces in the warehouse. While calibration for mohair presented a problem, the 6 lines sold at the May 2006 sale achieved target core test values (with reduced CV) and enabled a 21.5um ultra fine line to be offered. The project now has the knowledge to utilize both mid side grower sampled and warehouse Siroscan tested fleeces to build accurately classed sale lots. It is expected that greater use of the EGT technique will be made for the spring 2006 shearing.

Project Title Breeding for helminth resistance in fibre goats

RIRDC Project No.: UNE-69A

Start Date: 01-Jan-00

Finish Date: 30-Dec-06

Researcher: A/Prof Stephen Walkden-Brown

Organisation: University of New England
Animal Science
School of Rural Science and Natural Resources
ARMIDALE NSW 2351

Phone: (02) 6773 5152

Fax: (02) 6773 3922

Email: swalkden@pobox.une.edu.au

Objectives · To determine the extent of genetically-based resistance to the major gastro-intestinal helminth parasite in Australian fibre goats
· To determine the extent to which such resistance is associated positively or negatively with major productive characteristics such as body weight, fibre production and mean fibre diameter.
· Based on 1 and 2 above, to develop alternative methods for controlling gastro-intestinal helminthiasis which can be integrated with existing methods to reduce the reliance on chemical control and slow the development of anthelmintic resistance.
· Based on 3, to improve helminth control in goats leading to increased efficiency and sustainability of fibre production from goats.

Current Progress All field and laboratory work has been completed. Quantitative genetic analysis of the data has also now been completed so all is ready for preparation of the final report. Estimates of heritability and correlations amongst production traits are broadly in line with other published estimates. Heritability (h²) of worm egg count (WEC) was greatest at 5 months of age following natural challenge, but was in the low-moderate range (0.16± 0.09 for Angora, 0.20± 0.09 for Cashmere). Following artificial challenge with T. colubriformis h² was slightly improved for Cashmeres (0.22± 0.08) but not for Angoras (0.12± 0.08). Heritabilities of antibody response to infection were also in the low range but reached 0.42± 0.13 in Angora goats 5 weeks after artificial challenge. Heritability estimates for most white blood cell counts were high (04-0.6) in both breeds but tended to be lower for eosinophils than the other leucocyte classes. Red cell traits such as haematocrit had very high heritability estimates in both breeds (0.6-0.9). Phenotypic and genetic correlations between parasite-associated traits and production traits were generally in the expected direction, but estimates of genetic correlation had high standard errors. These data, together with data from goat studies in other breeds will assist breeders to better evaluate the consequences of selection for parasite resistance in their herds.

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 National evaluation of sires for the production of quality Cashmere

RIRDC Project No.: UWA-85A

Start Date: 01-Sep-04

Finish Date: 01-Sep-09

Researcher: Mr Stephen Gray

Organisation: University of Western Australia
PO Box 29
WUNDOWIE WA 6560

Phone: (08) 9573 6219

Fax: (08) 9573 7033

Email: alandale@cyllene.uwa.edu.au

Objectives Our key strategy is to identify superior sires by central progeny evaluation and provide estimated breeding values (EBVs) for industry to enable them to produce more quality cashmere. It will also foster a national approach for Australian production of more quality cashmere by communicating the outcomes to industry.

Current Progress Three monthly weighing of kids produced in the first year of the project have been carried out to determine difference in growth rates between individual sire groups. Measurements on fibre growth patterns have also been recorded. The first shearing of these animals is planned for June 2006.
As in the first year problems were encountered with semen quality of a number of the bucks from northern NSW and Queensland nominated for project in 2006. This meant that alternative bucks had to be found and substituted for some of those nominated. This resulted in viable semen being collected from only five of the planned six bucks. Semen from two bucks that had poor conception in the first year were AI’d to the surplus does to increase the number of their progeny.
AI was carried out in March using transcervical intrauterine insemination rather than the laparoscopic method used in the first year. The results of an ultrasound scan indicate a conception rate of 65% and a potential 112% kidding.
S. Gray gave a presentation to the ACGA AGM in Canberra in May on the results of the project to date.
The web site is now operational with results posted.

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2.6 RARE NATURAL ANIMAL FIBRES - COMPLETED PROJECTS
PROJECT NO	PROJECT TITLE	RESEARCHER	PHONE	ORGANISATION
DAV-200A	Developing processing and production benchmarks for cashmere	Dr Bruce McGregor	(03) 9217 4200	Department of Primary Industries (Vic)
DAV-217A	Objective drought feeding guidelines for caprines	Dr Bruce McGregor	(03) 9217 4200	Department of Primary Industries (Vic)
OSE-1A	Decision support and action learning in the Australian Mohair Industry	Stephen Chaffey	(02) 6041 1093	Chaffey & Associates Pty Ltd

Project Title:	Developing processing and production benchmarks for cashmere
RIRDC Project No.:	DAV 200A
Researcher:	Dr. Bruce McGregor
Organisation:	Department of Primary Industries, Primary Industries Research Victoria (PIRVic), 475 Mickleham Rd., Attwood, Victoria, 3049.
Phone:	(03) 9217 4200
Fax:	(03) 9217 4299
Email:	Bruce.mcgregor@dpi.vic.gov.au
Objectives	To develop new preparation and processing procedures based on objective benchmarks. To determine current production levels of flocks of cashmere goats. To determine the current economic potential for harvesting flocks of crossbred Australian cashmere flocks.
Background	For the cashmere industry to be attractive to investors and to increase returns to existing producers it must focus on providing comprehensive economic data as has occurred in other major agricultural industries. No independent evaluation of the cashmere production capability has been undertaken since 1989. In recent years, many cashmere does have been mated to Boer goat sires in an attempt to pursue goat meat production. There is an urgent need for an evaluation of the cashmere production of these crossbred goats. The price of cashmere tops increases with increased fibre length. The recent establishment of Australian cashmere processing provides the opportunity to develop relevant processing benchmarks and new preparation techniques.
Research	Cashmere goats on 13 properties were monitored and their fleeces measured, sampled and tested. Cashmere production, quality and value were determined. Fifty identified, quality controlled batches of cashmere underwent textile processing and the products were tested. Detailed statistical analyses of factors affecting cashmere production, cashmere quality and processing outcomes were completed.
Outcomes	Cashmere production of two-year-old does varied from 69 to 225 g/head and averaged 141 g/head. These levels of production are not different to those of the 1980s. Generally the live weight gains for cashmere goats appear modest. A majority of the variation in clean cashmere production (56%) was associated with property and mean fibre diameter. Addition of staple length and fibre curvature measurements accounted for 7 to 13% more variation. The research showed that length and quantity of the first cashmere product of textile processing can be manipulated by altering the quality attributes of raw cashmere. This means that cashmere producers and brokers can prepare lots of cashmere that will process with different efficiencies and produce different value products. The length of the first product of cashmere processing produced in this study were superior to or equal to the best available cashmere from other origins of production.

Project Title:	Objective drought feeding guidelines for caprines
RIRDC Project No.:	DAV 217A
Researcher:	Dr. Bruce McGregor
Organisation:	Department of Primary Industries, 475 Mickleham Rd., Attwood, Victoria, 3049.
Phone:	(03) 9217 4200
Fax:	(03) 9217 4299
Email:	Bruce.mcgregor@dpi.vic.gov.au
Objectives	Implement three strategic actions recommended in the report DAV 202A namely: ·1 Canvass the wider goat industry to capture farmers recent learning and experiences from the 2002-03 drought ·2 Validate appropriate methods of feeding whole grain wheat to goats under simulated drought conditions ·3 Revise and republish the drought manual for goats incorporating all relevant findings and the review of water provision and quality for goats.
Background	International scientific literature on goat nutrition rarely mentions drought feeding requirements for goats. Drought is a feature of the Australian farming landscape. Until 2002 the Australian goat industry had not previously reviewed the requirements and practices needed during drought feeding of goats. Since 1981 there has been considerable progress in understanding the nutritional requirements of Australian goats. An interim review of drought feeding requirements was published in 2002 (DAV 202A). A review of water requirements and a survey of water provision for goats was published in 2004 (DAV 202A).
Research	This project was a review and evaluation of scientific data relevant to the energy and water needs, appropriate feeding systems, ration formulation and welfare of Australian goats in relation to drought management. International and Australian research databases were searched. The review includes data available from previous research from RIRDC funded projects. This project enabled the analysis of previously unpublished data on wheat feeding, welfare and the use of body condition scoring for the management of goats during drought conditions. Relevant recent information on sheep drought management has been included. Feedback from goat producers who experienced drought over the past five years was collected in five workshops and included.
Outcomes	The manual identifies and develops information for the best practice of feeding goats during drought. Wherever possible reference has been made to original scientific data. Where relevant data are available for goats, the recommendations provided often differ to those for sheep. This project enabled the first determination of critical live weights for goats. The manual has revised energy requirements for goats for maintenance and growth. A number of useful and potential practices for improving the nutritional management and welfare of goats during drought have been identified. The impacts of cold and heat stress on the energy requirements of goats have been reviewed. Research on water requirements of goats has been included based on new Australian data. Welfare requirements of goats during drought have been reviewed. New information on the role, impact and assessment of body condition scoring in goats has been included.

Implications	From the technical report a farmer bulletin was produced. This bulletin included cartoons highlighting important management issues. The bulletin was circulated to over 600 goat producers. A number of deficiencies in knowledge impacting on drought management of goats were identified and should be investigated.
Publications	McGregor, B.A. (2004). Development of a drought feeding and management manual for goats. Proceedings of the 8^th International Conference on Goats, South Africa p. 110. McGregor, B.A. (2005) Feeding whole grain wheat to drought affected Angora goats, the influence of roughage on adaptation and estimate of energy requirement for maintenance. Animal Feed Science and Technology ( in press).

Project Title:	Decision support and action learning in the Australian Mohair Industry
RIRDC Project No.:	OSE-1A
Researcher:	Stephen Chaffey
Organisation:	Chaffey & Associates Pty Ltd PO Box 7095 East Albury NSW 2640
Phone:	(02) 6041 1093
Fax:	(02) 6041 4662
Email:	schaffey@bigpond.net.au
Objectives	To build, operate and transfer a learning support tool that reduces search time and thinking costs about management strategies and financial feasibility of an Angora enterprise
Background	The mohair industry is an established small industry in the Australian agricultural landscape exporting rare natural fibre for processing into a range of luxury textiles. Low production volumes and loss of breeding stock threaten the future viability and sustainability of the industry. The mohair industry needs to expand. It needs to attract further investment by current and new commercial growers. Cull (2001) identified the reduction of search costs, thinking costs and time obsolescence costs were a benefit of industry conferences. The report ‘Making Mohair attractive to Investors’ (Chaffey & McGregor 2004) proposed a decision-making process and structure for new and existing growers that reduced search thinking and time costs would be beneficial to help the industry grow. This could be achieved by the mohair industry taking more control of the investment decision-making process and would lead to more investors making more informed decisions about the mohair enterprise. The report identified a wide range of useful data existing in the mohair industry however it had not been collected and packaged into a form that enables people to test management strategies and financial performance of the enterprise.
Research	Literature from the industry was reviewed, growers were interviewed and a business model of the Angora enterprise was constructed using iThink® software. Physical and financial parameters were selected for the model, some were empirically based and others were subjective estimates by growers. Growers tested a physical and financial model individually or in a group environment. The model needed to be able to accommodate a broad range of management thinking and show the physical and financial effects of these decisions over a twelve-year time frame. Discussions about the effects of decisions encourage growers to think about their enterprise objectives, the issues and risks associated with managing the enterprise in particular ways and leads to new questions and ideas for improved management into the future. This product is also a useful planning tool for new investors exploring potential management strategies and financial feasibility of the angora enterprise.

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	Alpaca across-herd genetic evaluation to achieve commercially viable fleece production
RIRDC Project No.:	DAN-221A
Start Date:	01-Sep-03
Finish Date:	30-May-07
Researcher:	Colin Langford
Organisation:	NSW Department of Primary Industries
Phone:	(02) 6391 3812
Fax:	(02) 6391 3899
Email:	caseya@agric.nsw.gov.au
Objectives	· Establish an Across-herd Genetic Evaluation (AGE) system and commercial AGE service that will allow effective use of all genetic resources and emerging artificial breeding technology so that industry genetic progress is maximised. · Establish and conduct an industry driven, on-farm performance recording system and AGE training program for breeders and commercial producers. · Utilise the AGE database to establish and maintain genetic parameters for commercial production traits.
Current Progress	The Australian Alpaca Association (AAA) AGE Working Party is the driving force behind this project. A further 4 ‘Hands On" Breeders workshops have been conducted which brings the total to 9 with over 250 breeders having attended one of these workshops organised by Regional AAA committees. A further 2 analyses of data have been conducted and reported to breeders. The number of studs and animals has increased with each analysis. There were 726 animals from 43 studs in the second analysis and 1153 progeny from 64 studs in the third analysis. The decision has been made by the working party that data analysis will occur three times per year to allow breeders to plan when they will submit their data and also to receive their reports. A follow up workshop is about to be trialled which will assist breeders to integrate the results from the analysis into their breeding programs. An update on the AGE will be delivered to the AAA Conference in September 2006.

Project Title	Increasing the capability of mohair producers to produce premium fibres
RIRDC Project No.:	DAV-209A
Start Date:	01-Aug-03
Finish Date:	01-Sep-06
Researcher:	Dr Bruce McGregor
Organisation:	Department of Primary Industries (Vic) 475 Mickleham Road Agriculture Victoria ATTWOOD VIC 3049
Phone:	(03) 9217 4364
Fax:	(03) 9217 4299
Email:	bruce.mcgregor@dpi.vic.gov.au
Objectives	To reduce production of short and cotted mohair by: · Increasing producers' knowledge of methods to reduce the incidence of short and cotted mohair · Evaluate different supplementary feeding programs and mohair harvesting strategies and · Developing knowledge and capability people able to improve their mohair quality and financial returns.
Current Progress	Major workshops were held at the NATS industry seminar in Goulburn, NSW in 2004, 2005 and 2006. Presentations were based on feedback from previous workshops, information from South Africa, results of our field experiments and detailed market analyses. The scientific paper detailing the market evaluation of mohair was prepared and published. An Agriculture Note based on the scientific paper has been distributed by mohair selling agents to all customers and at their publicity activities, by Mohair Australia and on the DPI website. Feedback from the NATS presentations and from other field days has been positive with almost all participants showing a large movement in their knowledge about the important factors affecting mohair quality. An experiment on the impact of shearing on mohair quality was recently completed. The results are being analysed and effects quantified. Two field experiments conducted in different years were completed in southern NSW where mohair quality problems were reported by industry. The impact of nutrition and other factors on mohair quality have been determined. Findings have been reported to Mohair Australia regional meetings in Western Australia, Victoria and New South Wales.

Project Title	Adoption of benchmarking to increase production of Mohair
RIRDC Project No.:	DAV-224
Start Date:	01-Sep-05
Finish Date:	28-Feb-09
Researcher:	Dr Bruce McGregor
Organisation:	Department of Primary Industries (Vic) 475 Mickleham Road Agriculture Victoria ATTWOOD VIC 3049
Phone:	(03) 9217 4364
Fax:	(03) 9217 4299
Email:	bruce.mcgregor@dpi.vic.gov.au
Objectives	An annual advisory bulletin and a final report outlining the results of the mohair enterprise benchmarking project. Provide new documents, available via the internet and the industry web page, based on the analysed data collected from participants. An assessment of the perceived change in knowledge of mohair producers to the operation and benefits of mohair benchmarking. Information events will be held for interested mohair producers and the increase in knowledge and change in attitude to these issues will be determined by pre and post event surveys.
Current Progress	Mohair brokers and Mohair Australia provided advice on likely participants. This was followed by advertising in industry journals and via large posters at industry events. Coverage was also received in two issues of the Australian Goat Report. Twenty expressions of interest were received and 14 producers returning signed commitments to the project. A detailed data questionnaire was developed and sent to all participants. The econometric model has been modified for mohair production. Most producers have agreed to weigh animals and fleeces and take fleece samples. At reporting date production data is still being received. Financial data is taking longer to assemble. Data that have been received have been entered into the financial model. Three progress reports have been produced and circulated. Graphs of the live weight of weaned kids show large variations within and between properties. At this stage there is considerable enthusiasm and interest in the findings of this project. Some producers report that they are undertaking financial and measurement activities that they have not undertaken previously.

Project Title	High specification classing of mohair
RIRDC Project No.:	NMP-1A
Start Date:	01/07/05
Finish Date:	01/06/07
Researcher:	Dr Doug Stapleton
Organisation:	National Mohair Pool P/L
Phone:	(02) 6364 2132
Fax:	(02) 6364 2323
Email:	dstaplet@netwit.net.au
Objectives	Implement high specification classing of mohair to 1) produce an ultra fine type, 2) produce low variation lines at specified micron, 3) identify and market superior lines of mohair and 4) link animal testing to classing and marketing
Current Progress	Normal subjective classing of mohair has been shown to be relatively inaccurate for individual fleeces and it is suspected to be even more-so for lines from different properties which must be pooled for sale. This project aims to use individual fleece tests to more accurately place fleeces, thus reducing variation and offers growers the chance to gain maximum benefit from the identification of quality fleeces. Three sales of EGT (Every Goat Tested) lines have occurred. Mid side tests were found to underestimate final lot fibre diameter by as much as 2um. Sampling and identifying both samples and bagged fleeces at shearing proved logistically difficult so the trial advanced to use Siroscan/Laserscan technology to test whole fleeces in the warehouse. While calibration for mohair presented a problem, the 6 lines sold at the May 2006 sale achieved target core test values (with reduced CV) and enabled a 21.5um ultra fine line to be offered. The project now has the knowledge to utilize both mid side grower sampled and warehouse Siroscan tested fleeces to build accurately classed sale lots. It is expected that greater use of the EGT technique will be made for the spring 2006 shearing.

Project Title	Breeding for helminth resistance in fibre goats
RIRDC Project No.:	UNE-69A
Start Date:	01-Jan-00
Finish Date:	30-Dec-06
Researcher:	A/Prof Stephen Walkden-Brown
Organisation:	University of New England Animal Science School of Rural Science and Natural Resources ARMIDALE NSW 2351
Phone:	(02) 6773 5152
Fax:	(02) 6773 3922
Email:	swalkden@pobox.une.edu.au
Objectives	· To determine the extent of genetically-based resistance to the major gastro-intestinal helminth parasite in Australian fibre goats · To determine the extent to which such resistance is associated positively or negatively with major productive characteristics such as body weight, fibre production and mean fibre diameter. · Based on 1 and 2 above, to develop alternative methods for controlling gastro-intestinal helminthiasis which can be integrated with existing methods to reduce the reliance on chemical control and slow the development of anthelmintic resistance. · Based on 3, to improve helminth control in goats leading to increased efficiency and sustainability of fibre production from goats.
Current Progress	All field and laboratory work has been completed. Quantitative genetic analysis of the data has also now been completed so all is ready for preparation of the final report. Estimates of heritability and correlations amongst production traits are broadly in line with other published estimates. Heritability (h²) of worm egg count (WEC) was greatest at 5 months of age following natural challenge, but was in the low-moderate range (0.16± 0.09 for Angora, 0.20± 0.09 for Cashmere). Following artificial challenge with T. colubriformis h² was slightly improved for Cashmeres (0.22± 0.08) but not for Angoras (0.12± 0.08). Heritabilities of antibody response to infection were also in the low range but reached 0.42± 0.13 in Angora goats 5 weeks after artificial challenge. Heritability estimates for most white blood cell counts were high (04-0.6) in both breeds but tended to be lower for eosinophils than the other leucocyte classes. Red cell traits such as haematocrit had very high heritability estimates in both breeds (0.6-0.9). Phenotypic and genetic correlations between parasite-associated traits and production traits were generally in the expected direction, but estimates of genetic correlation had high standard errors. These data, together with data from goat studies in other breeds will assist breeders to better evaluate the consequences of selection for parasite resistance in their herds.

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	National evaluation of sires for the production of quality Cashmere
RIRDC Project No.:	UWA-85A
Start Date:	01-Sep-04
Finish Date:	01-Sep-09
Researcher:	Mr Stephen Gray
Organisation:	University of Western Australia PO Box 29 WUNDOWIE WA 6560
Phone:	(08) 9573 6219
Fax:	(08) 9573 7033
Email:	alandale@cyllene.uwa.edu.au
Objectives	Our key strategy is to identify superior sires by central progeny evaluation and provide estimated breeding values (EBVs) for industry to enable them to produce more quality cashmere. It will also foster a national approach for Australian production of more quality cashmere by communicating the outcomes to industry.
Current Progress	Three monthly weighing of kids produced in the first year of the project have been carried out to determine difference in growth rates between individual sire groups. Measurements on fibre growth patterns have also been recorded. The first shearing of these animals is planned for June 2006. As in the first year problems were encountered with semen quality of a number of the bucks from northern NSW and Queensland nominated for project in 2006. This meant that alternative bucks had to be found and substituted for some of those nominated. This resulted in viable semen being collected from only five of the planned six bucks. Semen from two bucks that had poor conception in the first year were AI’d to the surplus does to increase the number of their progeny. AI was carried out in March using transcervical intrauterine insemination rather than the laparoscopic method used in the first year. The results of an ultrasound scan indicate a conception rate of 65% and a potential 112% kidding. S. Gray gave a presentation to the ACGA AGM in Canberra in May on the results of the project to date. The web site is now operational with results posted.