Clever ideas and innovations that have been incorporated into day-to-day feedlot operations are encouraged to enter the ALFA Innovation Competition, proudly supported by Integrated Animal Production (IAP).
The winner and runner-up will be determined by popular vote and announced at BeefEx, held in Brisbane on 15-17 October 2024.
To vote for your favourite entry, simply click the 'heart' button on the post (this indicates a like i.e. vote). The top four most 'hearted' entries will be offered a complimentary full delegate ticket to attend BeefEx 2024.
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 August 10 - September 23. The decision made will be final.
Rangers Valley Cattle Station's 'JJs Cattle Scratcher 3000' Innovation
What is your innovation?
Rangers Valley Cattle Scratching Brush was designed to primarily aid in the reduction of dag build up accumulated on the hides of animals, while also providing a comfortable and effective way for cattle to scratch themselves.
It uses repurposed and excess materials to create a durable and functional grooming tool.
The RHS steel frame needs to be cut and modified to accommodate a Drag Broom Head. A small piece of flat steel is welded to one end of the RHS.
The Drag Broom Head can then slide into the steel frame and be locked into place using a simple nut and bolt assembly, allowing a replacement brush to be fitted when necessary.
This design can be replicated and joined together if desired and mounted in a variety of locations, simply by welding it to an existing structure at the desired height.
What issue/challenge is your innovation solving?
Dag build up on the hides of animals can create a number of challenges throughout the tail end of the supply chain for our company.
On the feedlot front, excess Dags can have an impact on:
Accuracy of data e.g. - live weights on exit
Undesired scratching on structures such as fence lines, bunk rails and gates
Overall cattle comfort and improved welfare
Reducing additional processing fees incurred due to dirty cattle e.g. cattle washing fees
Cleaner cattle are also highly desired by processing plants in regards to hygiene, food safety, operational efficiency and regulatory compliance.
Cost of Innovation:
Assembled as seen in images - $360
Decided by popular vote, the top four most popular innovations will receive a full delegate ticket to BeefEx 2024 in Brisbane this October. The overall winner and runner up will be announced at BeefEx, receiving a prize of $2,500 and $1,000 respectively.
Vote for your favourite innovation!
To vote for your favourite entry, simply click the 'heart' button on the post (this indicates a like i.e. vote). The top four most 'hearted' entries will be offered a complimentary full delegate ticket to attend BeefEx 2024.
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 August 10 - September 23. The decision made will be final.
With thanks to our long-term supporter of this award, Integrated Animal Production (IAP)
