The Department of Primary Industries (DPI) Rockhampton beef extension officers provide practical support to producers across the Fitzroy, helping turn research, programs and funding opportunities into on-ground outcomes.

From on-property advice and project delivery through to workshops and industry engagement, they help producers achieve improved land condition, more efficient grazing systems and stronger, more resilient businesses.

For producers looking to make changes on their property or access available programs, the extension team can provide tailored support to help turn plans into action.

Here is a snapshot of some of the activities recently delivered across the Fitzroy region.

GRASS program in action | Weaner management workshops | Careers expo

GRASS program in action

The Grazing Resilience and Sustainable Solutions (GRASS) program continues to support graziers across the Fitzroy catchment to improve land condition, reduce erosion risk and strengthen grazing business resilience.

The Rockhampton DPI beef extension team has worked closely with producers across several areas of the program.

Erosion stability control consults

Addressing erosion is a key focus of GRASS, particularly in areas where land condition has declined.

As part of the program, participants can access on-property consultations with DPI’s soil rehabilitation specialist John Day to assess erosion and develop practical remediation strategies.

Recently, four properties were visited to inspect erosion-affected sites and discuss management options to stabilise these areas and prevent further degradation.

Sites assessed included:

• Dam by-wash spillways
• Gully heads and expanding gullies
• Eroding watercourse crossings
• Fence line erosion

Several properties had recently experienced significant rainfall, with some areas impacted by 1-in-50 year rainfall events, placing pressure on waterways and accelerating erosion, particularly around gully heads and banks.

Remediation strategies were tailored to each site and included:

• Diversion banks
• Rock armouring
• Geofabric installation
• Contour banks

Each producer will receive a detailed report outlining site conditions, soil and landscape characteristics, catchment considerations, recommended remediation steps and estimated project requirements to support planning and implementation.

Project onboarding

Interest in the GRASS program continues, with several property visits undertaken to meet with producers considering participating.

These visits provided an opportunity to understand each business, including current practices, goals and priority areas for improvement.

DPI extension officers assessed land type and existing infrastructure to identify opportunities to improve ground cover, reduce runoff and support more effective grazing management.

Project reporting

Infrastructure reporting was completed for GRASS participants who recently finalised on-ground works. DPI extension officer Grayson Jones visited properties to see the end result.

These visits confirm that agreed improvements have been completed and meet program requirements. Following this process, producers become eligible to receive incentive funding for their projects.

Weaner management workshops

A weaner management workshop series was recently delivered as part of the Grazing Extension Support Program to support producers review and refine their weaning practices.

The workshop focused on the key factors that influence weaner performance, survival and sale outcomes, with sessions covering nutrition, animal health and paddock management.

Through a mix of presentations and practical activities, producers explored vaccination and parasite management, supplementary feeding options, weaner paddock design and common weaning challenges, such as yard weaning duration, early weaning decisions in dry conditions and managing animal health risks.

Participants also assessed the costs and benefits of different feeding programs and their impact on animal performance and business profitability.

As part of the workshops, participants completed a business action plan focused on their weaner management. These plans identified current practices, areas they’d like to improve and by when. DPI extension officers will follow up with participants to monitor progress and provide support as they implement their plans.

Workshops were delivered at Moura, Springsure and Clermont as part of the broader DPI extension program. Over 90 producers attended the workshops across the three locations.

Careers expo

Also in April, the team attended the 2026 Northern Industry and Careers Exhibition in Rockhampton, held as part of the Australian Intercollegiate Meat Judging Association (ICMJ) Northern Conference.

The conference brought together 139 delegates from across five states and territories, including both university students and industry professionals, highlighting the strong interest in careers across the red meat sector.

The Rockhampton beef extension team, represented by Ryan Honor and Grayson Jones, attended alongside colleagues from the Department of Primary Industries, including agricultural economist Lucie Okill and biosecurity officer Mackenzie Leeson.

The event provided an opportunity to connect with students and early-career professionals while sharing insights into careers in agriculture and extension, day-to-day roles within the department and pathways through graduate programs.

Attendees included students from the University of Queensland, University of New England and Charles Sturt University, along with participants from across industry seeking to better understand career opportunities, the variety of roles available across the department and the balance between office-based and on-property work.

The exhibition also featured a wide range of industry organisations, including agribusiness banks, rural retailers, veterinary practices, pastoral companies, processors and research organisations.

Whether it’s on-property advice, workshop delivery, funding support or connecting producers with the latest research, DPI extension services continue to play an important role in helping beef businesses make informed decisions and achieve their goals.

More information

GRASS – adding value to your grazing asset →

GRASS phase two now open →

Find your local DPI beef extension officer →

The post DPI extension officers supporting beef producers across the Fitzroy appeared first on FutureBeef.

2026 is the International Year of Rangelands and Pastoralists, offering a unique opportunity to showcase our landscapes and people that shape the Central Australian rangelands. Covering around 75 per cent of the country, the Rangelands are synonymous with the outback, and this vast environment is deeply embedded in Australia’s culture and identity.

‘Pastoralist: a person who lives a pastoral life, especially one who rears or grazes livestock.’ – Oxford English Dictionary

The first thing that stood out about Paul was his comforting demeanour. Worldly and unassuming, he carried a quiet authority. Dressed casually in a fishing shirt and thongs, and with a welcoming handshake, he put you at ease immediately – non-imposing; and clearly with an unmistakable depth and thoughtfulness to him.

The chance to visit Tieyon Station, managed by Paul and his wife Jo on the South Australia–Northern Territory border, was an opportunity to better understand what it means to be a pastoralist in this unique part of the world.

It’s not a role that lends itself to a simple definition, and it takes on many different forms – shaped by landscape, climate, and the people within it. Paul described the layers of Australia – from urban and peri-urban areas, through to cropping country, and then out into the remote regions. ‘And if you keep heading further out from there, you get to us.’

It is a different world, with its own unspoken culture. People dress a certain way, place a premium on footwear functionality, and, almost without exception, drive a Toyota. Small details but telling ones. Markers of a life shaped by practicality, distance, and environment.

At the centre of it all sits responsibility. ‘You value yourself on the health of your country and your herd,’ Paul said. ‘It affects you. And if you don’t like something, you make a change.’ It’s a simple line, but it carries weight. There’s no hiding out here. The country becomes a reflection of your changes, evolving with time and without apology.

After a harsh, dry January, the much-appreciated rainfall of February and March had delivered abundant pasture growth and a very content landscape, dotted intermittently with calm, shiny black Angus cattle. There was a sense of ease to it all, a result of many compounding decisions. And the decisions matter. ‘No one wants to decide anymore,’ Paul said. ‘No one wants to say yes or no, because no one has the balls.’ Blunt, but true. Out here, you have to decide, and you live with the decision.

When asked what he loves about his work, Paul didn’t hesitate. ‘Being able to make and create.’ He went on, ‘That calf goes on to feed us. The (surplus) is exported and produces for the nation.’ It’s work that is tangible, meaningful, and real.

In agriculture, change is constant. Ever expanding urban centres means land use shifts and country that once fed people now grows houses, and agriculture is pushed further afield. All while expectation on production rises.

That’s where the rangelands come in.

‘They’re becoming more important,’ Paul said. ‘We’re producing protein and energy in places you’ll never be able to crop.’ It’s the ruminant animal making it possible, converting tough plant material into food. ‘What we’re doing,’ Paul said, referring to common-held misconceptions of the industry, ‘is not something people need to worry about.’ In this landscape, well managed grazing works with ecological processes rather than against them.

And it’s not just any old protein; Paul shared the inspiration for his Nuffield Scholarship exploring how to market distinctive tasting beef from the Centre of Australia, under its own brand. He described an unmistakeable quality, ‘It has a unique taste this grass-fed beef,’ he paused, ‘it’s different.’ A mission to capture provenance, for broader community benefit, while adding resilience in a variable system. Evidence of a curious and pioneering mind; often characteristic of a pastoralist.

It’s certainly not just about production though, for Paul. It’s also a care for the country that makes it all possible. You can hear it in the way he talks about his Mitchell grass, waterholes alive with shield shrimp, visiting murmuration’s of budgies, and acknowledgement of sacred cultural sites. Each an indicator of a certain harmony.

That way of thinking doesn’t come from nowhere. ‘The desert teaches you to be patient, and to observe,’ Paul said. The kind of lessons that shape a person.

There’s a longer view that sits behind it all. Over time, you learn that every decision draws from, or adds to, the system – what Paul described as the ‘environment bank.’

Being a pastoralist, then, is not just about running cattle. It’s about stewardship. About having the courage to make decisions in uncertainty, and the discipline to stand by them. About shaping something over time, through patience and attention, where cattle, country, and people all play their part.

The unmistakable depth and thoughtfulness to Paul made more sense with time – a product of patience, observation, and a life spent making decisions that matter.

And perhaps that’s what it means to be a pastoralist.

Article by Caleb Schwartz, Livestock Extension Officer, NT Department of Agriculture and Fisheries.

The post What does it mean to be a Pastoralist? appeared first on FutureBeef.

In this edition of the FutureBeef eBulletin you’ll find information regarding:

• tips for using and handling vaccines
• virtual fencing technology overview
• time controlled rotational grazing for the win at Amelia Downs
• using stock to restore claypans at Farnham Plains Station
• a summary of environmental markets for Queensland producers
• a request for cattle ticks from the University of Queensland
• tips, tricks and advice regarding adopting technology from the Burdekin 7
• key messages shared at the recent Douglas Daly Research Farm field day
• upcoming webinar: getting the most from spinifex grazing lands
• new land type mapping for South East Queensland
• and more!

Happy reading!

Kind regards

Jodie and Felicity
on behalf of the FutureBeef team

P.S. Let us know what you think of the FutureBeef eBulletin via email or call us on 13 25 23. You can also connect with us on Facebook, X and LinkedIn, or check us out on YouTube.

Vaccination best practice

For a beef business, vaccines sit up there with supplementation as one of those significant costs of production. So, if we’re going to spend the money we want to know we are getting bang for our buck.

Here are some sure-fire tips from former DPI Extension Officer Andrea McKenzie, to ensure you are getting the most out of your investment.

Vaccination guidelines for healthy herds (4:17 minutes) >>

Douglas Daly research farm field day recap

The Douglas Daly research farm (DDRF) field day showcased research and on farm demonstrations, highlighting current work happening at DDRF and its relevance to Top End production systems.

Key topics covered included soil types and constraints, nutrient variability and management, and novel pest management approaches for northern cotton.

Here are the highlights >>

Virtual fencing

Considering virtual fencing? This guide outlines how the technology works, how cattle are trained and what to consider before getting started.

Check it out >>

Upcoming webinar: Insights for productive spinifex lands

What if spinifex country holds more grazing potential than we’ve been using?

Despite its extensive coverage, practical knowledge around managing spinifex pastures for grazing remains limited and often untapped.

Find out more from Matthew Fletcher (Range Assist, Kununurra WA) and a well known pastoralist during the From fire to forage: Insights for productive and resilient spinifex lands webinar, 21 May at 11am (AWST), 12:30pm (ACST) and 1pm (AEST).

Register today!

Using technology to turn data into decisions

If you are wondering…

• What should you measure first to lift herd performance and profitability?
• Which digital tools are worth trialling, and how do you pick what fits your business?
• How can a producer peer group help turn data into confident decisions?

Then this compilation of experiences and feedback regarding adoption of technology is for you:

Producer insights into measuring what matters >>

Balancing land health and productivity

Jane and Jordan Moore manage Amelia Downs near Charters Towers with a time-controlled rotational grazing system. Their innovative approach to grazing management demonstrates how balancing land health and productivity can lead to long-term success.

Find out how >>

Using cattle to restore claypans

Queensland grazier Lauren Beresford (Farnham Plains Station, Eulo) is using her cattle to regenerate degraded claypan. This article explains how Lauren is demonstrating a low-cost, practical approach that can be easily adapted using existing infrastructure.

Read more >>

Unlocking opportunities in environmental markets for Queensland graziers

This report highlights how Queensland graziers can engage with environmental market schemes such as the Australian Carbon Credit Units, Reef Credit, Land Restoration Fund, Nature Repair Market, and Cassowary Credit schemes.

Watch the video and download the report >>

It’s all about carbon… or is it?

Beef producers from across South East Queensland visited Zeebra Plains and Brian Pastures in a recent 2-day bus tour all about carbon, natural capital and the cattle business. You do not necessarily need a soil carbon project or to plant trees to make a difference. What can you do?

Read more >>

Got ticks? Care to share? UQ wants your cattle ticks

The University of Queensland is conducting research to test cattle tick resistance to chemical control across Queensland. To do this, they need your cattle ticks.

Here’s what you need to do >>

Read more about the research project >>

New land type descriptions and mapping for SEQ

Landholders in South East Queensland can now reap the benefits of a collaborative effort between Healthy Land & Water and the Department of Primary Industries with newly revised and improved land type mapping.

Read more >>

Getting dry where you are?

It continues to be a mixed bag of seasons and feed across northern Australia going into winter. If it is dry or getting that way where you are, the following information and contacts may be helpful. Also check the FutureBeef calendar for dry season workshops in the area.

Worth a look >>

The post eBulletin May 2026 appeared first on FutureBeef.

Active carbon projects

Day one of the tour featured a visit to active carbon projects on Zeebra Plains, a commercial property at Gungaloon, west of Maryborough. Here, attendees heard from producers Christophe Bur and his neighbour Fraser Davey about their personal experiences with carbon projects as part of their beef enterprise, including some potential traps for inexperienced participants to be aware of. While some attendees might have left the tour with the realisation that a carbon project isn’t necessarily for them, everybody had a much greater understanding around the practicalities of establishing and maintaining a carbon project. There was also a great deal of emphasis on the importance of seeking impartial advice.

On the second day, attendees visited the Brian Pastures Research Facility in Gayndah, where multiple researchers presented key projects on site and the results to date. Brian Pastures Research Facility (owned by AgForce and managed by DPI) has a strong history of beef research in southern Queensland dating back to the 1950s.

DPI researchers Nahuel Pachas and Luke Danaher provided the latest results on the ongoing Steak n Wood trial, co-funded by Meat & Livestock Australia. The project is exploring the possibilities of silvopastoral systems as a pathway to becoming carbon neutral. Nahuel and Luke shared practical planting strategies from the project, which uses alley planting rather than traditional block plantations, allowing cattle to graze productively alongside timber production and carbon sequestration.

Di Ouwerkerk from DPI talked about the current areas of research being undertaken by the Net Zero Emissions Agriculture CRC. Di shared updates on her research into practical methane reduction strategies, including slow-release rumen boluses carrying methane inhibitors, as well as identifying naturally low-methane pasture species that could help lower emissions while maintaining productivity. DPI’s Technical Officer Melissah Dayman gave a practical demonstration on how to train weaners to use GreenFeed machines – a specialised device used to measure methane production from cattle in-paddock. Producer attendees were excited to learn about some of the technology (i.e. GreenFeed machines and Optiweigh units) being used at Brian Pastures and how passionate the team are about bringing research to the producer community.

Not strictly carbon but impacts methane emissions intensity

The state-wide Queensland Pasture Resilience Program has multiple projects on Brian Pastures looking at renovating pastures with undesirable species, managing leucaena and addressing pasture dieback. Two key conversations lead researcher Stuart Buck and extension officer Kylie Hopkins from the DPI had with attendees included, the importance of inoculating cattle feeding on leucaena and requesting germination reports when sourcing seed for pasture improvement.

Key messages the group heard

The tour was overall a success, with producers highlighting how valuable it was to be able to raise their questions with other producers and researchers over the two days. The group also completed individual Action Plans (as part of GrazingFutures Prepare and Prosper) which focussed on steps they plan to implement at home in the next 12 months. With 100% of attendees planning to make a change, the stand-out in terms of implementation for the group focussed on pasture renovation and incorporating legumes into their pastures.

It is important to note you do not need a soil carbon project or to plant trees to make a difference. Two of the key practical ways producers can reduce carbon emissions for their grazing business is by improving herd efficiency (by culling non-performing cows) and establishing legumes within their pastures. Both of these, not only have carbon reduction benefits but increase overall productivity benefits for the cattle business. For beef producers out there interested in learning more about carbon emissions and reduction strategies or the various projects at Brian Pastures – further information can be found on www.futurebeef.com.au.

The post It’s all about carbon ….. or is it? appeared first on FutureBeef.

A ‘land type’ is an area of grazing land with characteristic patterns of soil, vegetation and landform that are easily recognised by landholders in a region.

Land type descriptions not only outline the characteristics of land, but also their capabilities and limitations in producing useful forage for grazing. This in turn helps with assessing land condition and calculating carrying capacities for more informed stocking and management decisions. Land type information on the various regions of Queensland is available on the FutureBeef website.

Bruce Lord, Principal Scientist with Healthy Land & Water in collaboration with the DPI Grazing Science team have now completed the review of the Moreton and Southeast land type descriptions and mapping. Bruce is pleased to see the improvements, particularly to the mapping.

“Some areas in the Brisbane Valley were previously mapped incorrectly” says Bruce. “The recent changes provide a much better indication of what we’d expect to find in those areas.”

As a long-time extension officer and beef producer in the region, Bruce has been able to ground truth and provide valuable feedback to validate these changes.

The two regions have been combined and will now be referred to as broader South East Queensland (SEQ) land types. These cover an area from Hampton north of Toowoomba, across to the Sunshine Coast and Hinterland regions down to the New South Wales border. The Mary region remains separate.

As a result of the review, three additional land type descriptions were developed (particularly relevant for coastal areas) bringing the total number of land types for the region to 15. The new land type descriptions created include:

• Gum-topped box open forest (SEQ04)
• Mixed open eucalypt forest on coastal plains (SEQ09)
• Paperbark (tea tree) forest on coastal plains (SEQ11)

The updated SEQ land type descriptions (including revised maps) are now available to view and download from the FutureBeef website. Landholders familiar with the former Moreton land type descriptions and mapping will also find a table showing how existing land types (MO) correlate with revised (SEQ) ones.

Until additional modelling work is completed the FORAGE indicative land type reports will still refer to the Moreton (MO) land types. The various FORAGE reports are available free via the LongPaddock website — a particularly useful tool when investigating unknown properties for agistment and purchase.

The post New land type descriptions and mapping updates for SEQ appeared first on FutureBeef.

• What should you measure first to lift herd performance and profitability?
• Which digital tools are worth trialling, and how do you pick what fits your business?
• How can a producer peer group help turn data into confident decisions?

Here’s what the Burdekin 7 producer-led peer group learned

Key takeaways

Did collecting data on individual animals help make better decisions? Yes, it supported informed culling and improved reproductive performance.

Does effective technology simplify decision-making? Yes, when it reduces complexity and adds value.

How can producers find the right tools for their business? Through trial, evaluation, and peer learning.

Can digital pasture monitoring improve grazing management? Yes, but is best combined with on-ground monitoring.

What is it all about?

The Burdekin 7 project was led by a group of producers who demonstrated that digital technology could provide valuable insights into both herd performance and pasture condition. At the same time, the trials highlighted that technology must fit within existing business systems and deliver clear benefits to justify the investment.

Just as importantly, the project showed the value of collaborative learning among producers. Through shared experiences and practical trials, the Burdekin 7 group helped answer how data driven decision-making can support more productive, profitable and sustainable grazing businesses across northern Australia.

After 3 years of working together in the MLA NB2 pilot program, the group continued to explore ways to improve productivity and profitability through the Burdekin 7 project, supported by Farmer Peer-to-Peer funding through the Queensland Government’s Integrated Engagement and Capacity project.

To track progress and focus their efforts, they used Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) to pinpoint improvement areas, guide technology selection, and measure outcomes during the trials. The key KPIs were:

• mortality rate
• Fertility rate
• ground cover
• total standing dry matter (kg/ha)
• kilograms of beef produced per adult equivalent (AE).

Where do I even start?

A shared focus across the Burdekin 7 group was improving herd performance. They decided that the first step was to have records on each animal. Some producers were relatively new to herd recording; however, all began by NLIS tagging each animal and scanning them through the yards in order to develop a data base. This became the foundation to measure and manage fertility, mortality, and kilograms of beef per Adult Equivalent (AE).

Across the group, producers emphasized that collecting accurate data was only valuable if it informed action. Many reported noticeable improvements in reproduction and feed utilisation due to having more accurate figures to base decisions on rather than only going with gut feel.

Identifying underperforming animals was consistently reported as a key indicator for informed culling decisions. At Cranbourne Station, the Coleman family used Gallagher APS to improve re-breed rates and calving intervals by tracking which cows calved on time.

 “The main benefits were measuring calving intervals, not just relying on wet/dry. Ensuring cows that are PTIC turn up with a calf at the right time.” — Coleman Family, Cranbourne Station

The Searle family at Jerona Station used NLIS, visual tagging, Gallagher APS, and BlackBox to track fertility and mortality and make management decisions around this as well as evaluate the cost of unproductive cows.

“[It] allowed our fertility rate to be identified annually and among different ages/classes, we were able to get an actual figure on mortality rate in each paddock, we are able to see the cost of producing a calf and the financial cost of carrying an empty cow.” — Searle Family, Jerona Station

Is more actually merrier?

Producers noted that in certain circumstances combining multiple tools led to double handling with limited added value. The Searles found that using Gallagher and BlackBox together created some overlap, while the Healing family at Warrawee Station observed that using Mobble, Gallagher and Excel together created extra steps without significant benefits. Every tool is practical but only when it can be used for its specific purpose. The most effective tools are those that provide actionable insights, integrate with existing systems, and reduce guesswork. Success depends on selecting technologies that fit the business, rather than accumulating platforms.

“Data needs to be useful and relevant to your situation, to help with decision making processes, not for the sake of just having the information if you’re not going to do anything with it.” — Healing Family, Warrawee Station

In short, the Burdekin 7 project demonstrated that practical, targeted data collection can improve herd efficiency, but only when technology is purposeful, relevant, and integrated into everyday management.

Can I rely on tech in my decision making?

The Burdekin 7 group decided they wanted to be able to quantify their pasture and land condition to better match their stocking rates to available feed without impacting the longevity of their country. This would lead to better utilisation and observations of areas that were being over and under grazed. Therefore, the group decided on two key metrics they wanted to focus on: ground cover and total standing dry matter.

At Landers Creek, the Tudehope family integrated CIBO Labs into their livestock management platform via AgriWebb, allowing both cattle numbers and feed availability to be viewed together at the paddock scale.

“Everything is together, cattle numbers and pasture levels for each paddock, and it’s accessible to everyone, which makes it easier to see feed on offer and stocking rates.” — Tudehope Family, Landers Creek

Families like the Marks and Tudehopes found that whole-property maps highlighted paddocks with declining ground cover and areas where grazing pressure needed adjustment.

Producers found that the added data provided by tools such as CIBO Labs and Long Paddock did make them more confident when adjusting stocking rates or planning around when to shift or sell cattle. However, producers emphasised that satellite-based models still require ground truthing (physically measuring pasture biomass in the paddock) to verify accuracy and understand pasture trends across large areas.

Is it simple to use?

In certain areas with high tree cover or diverse vegetation interpreting the data became more challenging. The Johnson family at Trafalgar Station worked closely with Long Paddock developers to provide feedback and improve the tool’s usability.

“There’s a lot of information to interpret and it can take time to understand how the numbers relate to what you see in the paddock.” — Johnson Family, Trafalgar Station

Producers noted that while technology can deliver powerful insights, it works best when combined with traditional on-ground measurements. Satellite models and digital platforms give a broad view of trends, but hands-on verification ensures accuracy and builds confidence in decision-making.

Despite some teething issues, all families reported long-term benefits from digital pasture monitoring. The tools provided a clearer picture of pasture trends, supported more informed grazing decisions, and improved confidence in aligning stocking rates with available feed.

The value of producer groups

Despite everyone being at slightly different stages of the tech adoption journey at the beginning of their collaboration there was an overwhelming consensus that peer to peer learning could not be understated, that the greatest benefit producers gained from the experience was the opportunity to collaborate with others.

Beyond differences in land types and rainfall, the participants of Burdekin 7 group ran different cattle, targeted different markets, approached management differently and came to the group with different opinions and experiences. This diversity has created valuable opportunities to share ideas and build on one another’s knowledge.

“The whole group was very diverse when formed – different markets, cattle and enterprise mix – coming in fresh was an advantage and [we] have built up a lot of trust and want to see each other succeed and want to share and collaborate as much as possible.” – Marks family, Winvic Station

Participants noted that attending training sessions and workshops together often led to more productive discussions and deeper understanding.

“[You] get a lot more out of training when attending with the group, [When you’re] familiar and comfortable with each other [you] get so much more out of any events, [just] feeding off each other — Tudehope family, Landers Creek

Tips, tricks and advice

1. Start with research

“Do extensive research before outlaying a large amount of money for subscriptions. Undertake free trials, if possible, to get a feel for the program.” – Healing Family

“Sometimes simpler programs like Excel can be just as effective and less expensive. It’s easy to print off data and provide it to other members of the business without them needing to log in.” – Healing Family

“Chat with sales reps in more depth to ensure the program will do what you want it to do.” – Healing Family

“Seek out and talk to people using the tech you are thinking about using.” – Coleman Family

2. Don’t skip the setup

“Make the time at the start to sit down with the specialists of the tech you choose and go through what you want to get out of it and how it works. It saves a lot of time and double handling of data.” – Johnson Family

“Spending a day at home going through your own data was far more beneficial than trying to learn what the program can do at a field day.” – Johnson Family

“Knowing exactly what you want to measure and having templates and formats already in place makes a big difference.” – Johnson Family

“Have clear objectives and know what you want to get out of the data before you start, then work backwards to determine what information you need.” – Johnson Family

“Making sure data is entered the same between all the years is important for accurate and easy filtering and analysis.” – Searle Family

3. Keep technology practical

“Data needs to be useful and relevant to your situation, to help with decision making processes, not for the sake of just having the information if you’re not going to do anything with it. – Healing Family

“You need to know what you are going to do with the information that you get. And don’t be afraid to trial something and to stop using it if it isn’t providing value” – Tudehope Family

“Start with basic recording that is most relevant to your production system…. We used condition scoring at the start of the trial [as it] was a better reflection of what was happening with the cows and saved us the initial cost of purchasing weigh bars.” – Coleman Family

4. Learn from your peers

“Do it! It’s a great way to connect with people. You all speak the same language and it’s an opportunity to see how other people do things.” – Johnson family

“Someone in the group may have already started and can give you advice when you’re in the cattle yards and can’t get something to work. Or you might both be starting out and bouncing ideas off each other.” – Searle Family

“It is great to know we have a trusted group with no judgement or hierarchy.” – Searle Family

For producers new to technology, their advice is to take it step by step.

“Start with something simple and then move onto more technical programs or data analysis as you get more confident.” – Healing Family

Finally, the overwhelming sentiment was…

“Just do it! don’t be afraid to ask for help.” – Coleman Family

The Farmer Peer-to-Peer Group Support funding is part of the Integrated Engagement and Capacity Building project, funded through the Queensland Government’s Queensland Reef Water Quality Program and delivered by the Department Primary Industries (DPI).

Want to download a print friendly version of this article? Producer insights into measuring what matters – Burdekin 7

The post Producer insights into measuring what matters appeared first on FutureBeef.

These initiatives offer pathways to diversify income and address productivity challenges, while simultaneously supporting environmental restoration, enhancing climate resilience, and protecting the Great Barrier Reef ecosystem. By understanding the supply and demand for environmental market credits, producers can position themselves to benefit from emerging trends.

The report also explores strategies to make projects financially viable, including credit stacking, integrating projects with primary production, and targeting marginal land to minimise opportunity costs.

Environmental markets represent a new pathway for Queensland’s agriculture sector to grow sustainably. To learn more, access the full report and discover how these schemes could work for you. Environmental markets for Queensland graziers 

Also, check out the webinar about the report below.

The post Unlocking opportunities in environmental markets for Queensland graziers appeared first on FutureBeef.

The day showcased research and on‑farm demonstrations, highlighting current work happening at DDRF and its relevance to Top End production systems. Attendees moved through a series of paddock and presentation sessions covering both cropping and livestock research.

Key topics covered during Plant Industries research updates included soil types and constraints, nutrient variability and management, and novel pest management approaches for northern cotton.

Livestock‑focused sessions covered buffalo fly management, virtual fencing updates, genomics, Crops for Cattle project update, along with results from the pilot demonstration of feeding whole cottonseed to cattle. There was a large component presented by the Zero Net Emissions Ag-CRC focussing on the selecting cattle with lower methane emissions and identifying plants in the northern feedbase that could reduce methane emissions. They demonstrated how the Greenfeed machines that have been installed at DDRF work to collect reliable methane data and how the producer demonstration site at the research farm will progress.

The strong attendance and engagement throughout the day highlighted the importance of locally relevant research and extension activities. It reinforced collaboration between producers, industry and research organisations in supporting productive and sustainable agricultural systems across the Northern Territory.

Thanks to NT Cattlemen’s Association, CRCNA, NT Farmers Association and Northern Hub for supporting the event. Additionally, we’d like to thank the DDRF team for having the farm ready to host the event after significant flooding in the region, the Douglas Daly Caravan Park for the brilliant catering, Bayer for sponsoring the morning tea, CSD for sponsoring lunch, Nutrien Darwin for sponsoring refreshments and to attendees for coming along and engaging with all topics presented!

To learn more about livestock and rangelands research that the NT Department of Agriculture and Fisheries are undertaking, see their project list at the link below:

Livestock industries projects | Department of Agriculture and Fisheries

To keep up to date with NT Department of Agriculture & Fisheries, follow their Facebook page!

The post Douglas Daly Research Farm Field Day recap appeared first on FutureBeef.

In this edition of the FutureBeef eBulletin you’ll find information regarding:

• nitrogen use efficiency research update from QAAFI
• a short tutorial on using Breedcow Lite for economic analysis of management decisions
• an introduction to ClimateARM
• cattle movements in WA
• welcoming 2 new extension officers to Alice Springs
• grant and leadership opportunities for Western Australia pastoralists
• an update on dehorning wound cover research
• how a small group of producers have used peer-to-peer funding to benefit their businesses
• a couple of event summaries
• and then some more!

Happy reading!

Kind regards

Jodie and Felicity
on behalf of the FutureBeef team

P.S. Let us know what you think of the FutureBeef eBulletin via email or call us on 13 25 23. You can also connect with us on Facebook, X and LinkedIn, or check us out on YouTube.

Unlocking the potential of nitrogen use efficiency in cattle

Research shows that nitrogen-use efficiency varies among cattle and affects growth, reproduction, and profitability.

In this webinar recording, Queensland Alliance for Agriculture & Food Innovation’s Associate Professor Luis Prada e Silva describes how a new tail hair test can identify which animals will have better nitrogen-use efficiency and why this could be a game-changer in northern cattle systems.

Watch the webinar recording (58 minutes) >>

Prefer to read a summary? Here are the key points >>

Breedcow Lite tutorial 2 — Analysing management options

Breedcow Lite is an online decision-making tool developed for graziers by economists from the Department of Primary Industries.

In this short tutorial, Agricultural Economist Jana Sim, steps users through how to use the Breedcow Lite tool to assess the economic benefits of:

• selling pregnancy tested empty cows
• supplementing phosphorus during the wet season
• destocking by 15% to have a positive impact on land condition.

MLA research update: Dehorning wound covers

Patches that cover dehorning wounds can have remarkable impacts on both animal welfare and productivity, however, the nature and location of the wounds make getting the patches to stay in place quite a challenge.

Read the research update >>

The power of peers: Torrens Creek Producer Group

The Torrens Creek Producer Group has successfully used Farmer peer-to-peer group support funding to make the most of several educational opportunities, allowing them to make progress on several key profit drivers over a number of years.

Members of the group have made a conscious effort to increase herd efficiency,  improve land condition and sustainability, and explore improved pasture and legume options.

Read more >>

The Callide Dawson Carcase Competition kicks off!

The 38th Callide Dawson Carcase Competition began with a well-attended field day. The day blended herd health advice, ag-tech innovation and a hands-on live cattle assessment, giving attendees practical insights to take back to their own operations and classrooms.

Key messages and photos from the event >> 

Tool of the month: ClimateARM

The Climate Agricultural Risk Management (ClimateARM) tool is the new online version of the tool previously known as Rainman. The StreamFlow analysis tool was developed to assist the industry to improve climate risk management.

ClimateARM allows the user to analyse rainfall and other climate variables at specific locations, taking into account seasonal patterns and forecasts.

Check out ClimateARM >>

New livestock team members in Alice Springs

The NT Department of Agriculture and Fisheries is excited to welcome 2 new faces, Grace Pezutto and Caleb Schwarz to the Alice Springs livestock team.

NTCA Conference 2026: Better on Beef

The 2026 NTCA Annual Industry Conference returned to Darwin in March, bringing together producers, researchers, industry leaders and service providers from across northern Australia for 3 days focused on connection, capability and the future of the beef industry.

Here are some event highlights >>

When people and tools are brought together

The team at FutureBeef have been told we need to get better at promoting ourselves… So although we are cringing in the corner at the thought of tooting our own horn, we’d like to share this short story with you.

In this case study, the Hardy and Trovato families of Ingham share how listening to a FutureBeef podcast episode and finding additional resources on our website helped them with their weaning program.

Thanks for sharing, we genuinely appreciate it >>

Don’t forget to renew or update your biosecurity entity registration!

If you own or keep livestock or beehives in Queensland it is a legal requirement to be a registered biosecurity entity (RBE). If you are a landowner, a lessee or agist your animals on someone else’s land you need to register.

More information and where to renew or update your details >>

Timely reminders: Pain relief and clostridial diseases

If you are wondering what your options are when it comes to pain relief while conducting animal husbandry procedures such as dehorning and castration, this article that was published in 2022 (reviewed in 2025), provides a great summary.

Pain relief options for animal husbandry procedures >>

And, if you are wanting to know more about the clostridial diseases held at bay by the 5-in-1 vaccine, this is the article for you:

Sudden death — a timely reminder about clostridial diseases >>

The post eBulletin April 2026 appeared first on FutureBeef.

Building on the momentum of recent years, the conference continues to grow in both size and impact. With over 90 exhibitors this year, the conference reinforced its place as a key event on the northern beef calendar.

This year’s theme, Better on Beef, set the tone, highlighting not just the strength of the industry, but the opportunity to keep improving how we operate, adopt new ideas and back each other in the process.

A program grounded in practical outcomes

The conference opened with the popular Nutrien Ag Solutions Tech & Tea day, combining hands-on demonstrations with practical presentations focused on productivity, technology and on-ground application. From water security and solar pumping solutions to genomics, drones and herd monitoring, the sessions emphasised one consistent message: innovation only matters if it works in the paddock.

A highlight of day 1 was a panel discussion following lunch, Adoption or Adaptation? What’s the Real Issue in the North, challenged the idea that northern producers are slow to adopt new practices, instead highlighting the importance of fit-for-purpose solutions in northern systems.

Day two shifted to the broader operating environment, with strong contributions from government, industry and market analysts. Key sessions explored the future direction of the northern beef industry, global market outlooks and the role of data and decision-making in building resilient, profitable businesses.

Strong turnout, stronger connections

Despite challenging seasonal conditions across parts of the Territory, including wide spread high-impact flooding and infrastructure damage, attendance remained strong. The effort made by producers and industry to get to Darwin was a clear reflection of the value placed on coming together as a sector.

As always, the strength of the conference extended beyond the formal program. Conversations in the trade hall, at demonstrations and across networking events reinforced the importance of connection between producers, service providers and the broader supply chain.

Backing the next generation and the broader community

A highlight of the week was the AACo x NTCA Gala Dinner, which once again demonstrated the generosity and commitment of industry.

More than $130,000 was raised through the dinner auction, with funds supporting a range of initiatives including the Georgina Pastoral Future NTCA program, Dolly’s Dream, ICPA NT and It’s A Bloke Thing. The result is a testament to the strength of industry support and the shared commitment to investing in people, communities and the future of the sector.

The evening also provided an opportunity to recognise outstanding contributions to the industry. Ann Stanes was awarded NTCA Life Membership, acknowledging her significant and longstanding contribution to the Northern Territory cattle industry.

In a special moment, Jeremy Scott was announced as the inaugural recipient of the Ian McBean Memorial Award, recognising his commitment to the industry and the legacy of one of the north’s most respected figures.

From leadership development to mental health and regional education, the outcomes of the auction will have a lasting impact well beyond the conference itself.

Better on beef

At its core, the NTCA Conference continues to reflect what makes the northern beef industry unique. It’s our resilience, our practicality and our willingness to show up, contribute and move forward together.

In a season that has delivered both opportunity and challenge already, the 2026 conference provided a timely reminder that while conditions may vary, the strength of the industry lies in its people.

Because in the Territory, we are and will continue to be – better on beef.

Jessie Daniels
Regional Director
NTCA

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