Transitioning to Controlled Mating in Northern Australia’s Beef Industry

Transitioning to controlled mating on extensively-managed northern Australian properties can pose challenges. However, with expert advice and proper planning, the shift can be less complicated.

Essentials for a Successful Controlled Mating Program

Experts Mick Sullivan, Tim Emery, and Roxanne Morgan highlight key considerations for implementing a successful controlled mating program:

• Ease of mustering to remove bulls from cows.
• A secure bull paddock.
• Yard facilities for handling larger mobs of weaners.
• Possibly additional staffing during peak periods.
• Timeliness of management activities and adherence to schedules.
• A robust data recording system.
• A vaccination program, especially for vibriosis and leptospirosis.
• Conduct annual bull breeding soundness evaluations.
• Record lactation status and conduct pregnancy tests.
• Manage cow body condition effectively.

Example Property Scenario

Consider the following example property details:

• Large-scale property in Central Queensland.
• Green date in mid-January.
• First weaning muster from April to June.
• Second weaning muster from August to September.
• Aiming to transition from continuous to controlled mating without heavily impacting production.

Three-Year Transition Plan

Year One: Setting Up the Herd

August-September (Second Round Muster)

• Remove Bulls: Prevent calves being born during the dry season and ensure bulls are in a secure paddock with quality feed.
• Wean Calves Early: Focus on weaning lighter calves first.
• Vaccinate Cows: Administer relevant vaccinations while cows are in the yards.
• Sort by Lactation Status: Segregate cows for better management.
• Schedule Veterinary Checks: Book a vet for bull soundness evaluations.
• Supplement Cows if Required: Ensure cows regain necessary body condition.
• Identify Green Date: Determine optimal timing for calf births linked to rainfall forecast.

Year Two: Applying the Program

Mid-February: Bulls are reintroduced to the cows and heifers based on the calculated Green Date.

April-May: Conduct a forage budget to estimate dry season feeding capacities.

Late April-June: First round weaning, focusing again on lighter condition cows.

August-September: Second round weaning; remove bulls and test for pregnancy.

Year Three and Beyond: Refining the System

Continue repeating year two’s steps. Over time, managers can expect:

• Increased calves in the first round of weaning.
• Better overall cow condition with reduced need for supplements.
• Fewer second-round weaners.

Advanced options may also include tightening calving patterns and removing late-calving cows.

Through this structured approach, cattle producers can enhance their herd’s productivity and sustainability.

Source: FutureBeef