Clever ideas and innovations that have been incorporated into day-to-day feedlot operations have been entered into the ALFA Innovation Competition 2023, proudly supported by Integrated Animal Production (IAP).
The winner and runner-up will be determined by popular vote and announced at SmartBeef23, held in Tamworth on 11-12 October.
To vote for your favourite entry, simply click the 'heart' button on the post (this indicates a like i.e. vote). The entry with the most votes will be announced as the winner. The entry with the second highest will be awarded the runner up. Voting is open from July 10 - September 22. The decision made will be final.
Jindalee Feedlot's Bunk Hungry Boards
What's the issue/challenge?
Jindalee had a trial of Friesian X calves with an average induction weight of only 150kg enter into their feedlot program.
They had to place a cable along the bunk to stop the calves from slipping under the bunk rail and over the bunk into the feedlot. In doing this, they came to realise the cattle could no longer reach the feed on the far side of the bunk.
How does the innovation/idea work?
Our Hungry Boards hook onto the bunk and decrease the width of the bunk. This pushes the feed closer to the pen side of the bunk and allows the calves to access all the feed.
As the boards hang from the bunk, they can angle of the boards to be adjusted allowing more or less space in the bunk as the cattle grow. The hooks are secured over the bunk, and the boards are heavy enough to not move in the bunk. However, they are also light enough that two people can remove them quickly to maintain bunk hygiene.
Cost of Innovation:
$1250 Inc GST
The winning innovation will be selected ‘by popular vote’ and announced during SmartBeef23.
To vote for your favourite entry, simply click the 'heart' button on the post (this indicates a like i.e. vote). The entry with the most votes will be announced as the winner. The entry with the second highest will be awarded the runner up. Voting is open from July 10 - September 22. The decision made will be final.
With thanks to our long-term supporter of this award, Integrated Animal Production (IAP)
