AWI working to deliver mulesing alternatives by 2010
12 Oct '07
3 min read
Australian Wool Innovation's (AWI) research and development program to deliver efficient and effective alternatives to mulesing is progressing well, with strong support from woolgrowers and the broader sheep industry.
Under a compact between international retailers and the wool industry to phase-out mulesing by December 31, 2010, AWI is charged with finding new and sustainable methods of breech-strike prevention.
AWI is continuing the national product development and testing program of 'breech and tail clips' on tens of thousands of lambs this spring.
More than 1,100 growers have registered their interest to participate in the evaluation of the clips, ranging from fine wool growers and prime lamb producers in the higher rainfall zones, to growers in the pastoral zone.
AWI's Project Manager Blowfly Control, Ian Evans, said the evaluation is going to plan.
“Our trained contractors are well and truly into the process of getting the clips on these lambs, and then two weeks later, they're returning to assess the early stage outcome, as per trial protocol,” said Mr Evans.
“Generally, the feedback from woolgrowers is very pleasing.”
Mr Evans said the aim is to achieve the same net effect as that of the conventional surgical mules.
“The results coming through at this early stage – and we've got some months to go yet – indicate that the clips are well on the way to achieving their key aim.
“Also,we've confirmed that operator proficiency and training is very important, and we've identified a minor clip design improvement, because we're now trialling on such a diverse range of sheep types.
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