Applications for RIRDC funding for 2008-09 are now CLOSED
Click here for  information on the application process, and to apply for RIRDC scholarships
 

Objective: To accelerate the commercial development of the buffalo industry.

Program Manager: Dr Peter McInnes, Phone: 08 8556 7331, Fax: 08 8556 7289, Email: mcinnes2@comstech.com
 

RIRDC Buffalo Produce Research Results:
Buffalo research publications for sale	Free downloadable research reports
Free Short Reports (research summaries)	Buffalo Progrfoam R&D Plan 2005-10
Completed Projects in 2003-2004 & Research in Progress as at June 2003
Handbook of New Industries entries	Agfacts(factsheets)
About the RIRDC Buffalo Produce Research Program:
Key longterm strategies	Strategies for 2007-2008
Background	Source of Funds
Expected key outputs in 2007-2008	Strategies for 2007-2008
Buffalo Sub-Account	Expected key outcomes in 2007-2008
Research budget 2007-2008
Related links:
Buffalo Industry Council

• Develop improved annual breeding programs by use of improved genotypes and as appropriate, artificial insemination
• Increase market opportunities for livestock exports and market development for meat in all states and the Northern Territory

The population of buffalo is concentrated in Northern Territory where there are around 15,000 domesticated buffalo. In 1992, a disease eradication program for brucellosis/tuberculosis reduced numbers significantly leaving only 40–50 buffalo. Since 1992 the industry has expanded with the establishment of many farmed buffalo enterprises in NT and some in all Australian states. A feral population of around 40,000 still exists in NT. Most states and the NT have an industry Council and the Australian Buffalo Industry Council was formed in 2000.

A levy of $5.33 per head at slaughter and for live exports provide the basis for the RIRDC R&D Program.

The importation of some Riverine buffalo to Australia in the 1990s has provided the opportunity for crossbreeding with the local swamp buffalo. Progeny from this breeding have faster growth rates and reach a quality tenderbuff carcase with well defined specifications at a young age. Crossbreeds, particularly with a high infusion of the Riverine breed, and purebred Riverine, are being milked for cheese and yoghurt products. The export of live buffalo has increased substantially in 2006–07 with most entering the meat trade in Asia

Source of Funds:
The Buffalo R&D Program is funded by statutory levies paid by industry participants. The levy is matched by the Commonwealth up to 0.5 per cent of the gross value of farm production.

Strategies for 2007–08

• Develop improved annual breeding programs by use of improved genotypes and as appropriate, artificial insemination
• Increase market opportunities for livestock exports and market development for meat in all states and the Northern Territory

• Analysis of more post breeding records from the Northern Territory
• Publication of the industry Newsletter
• Improved artificial insemination performance

• Increased export of live animals to North-East Asia, New Zealand and South Africa
• More artificial insemination using superior genotypes
• Increased marketing of milk products especially in and from Queensland