Welcome to the ALFA Feedlot TECH Training Hub

As a bunk caller, your primary objective is to ensure the consistent and accurate allocation of feed to cattle in your feedlot. By mastering the art of bunk management, you can manage feed allocation, minimise wastage, and contribute to the overall success and wellbeing of the cattle in your care.   Completing this module will help you to:   Identify the bunk caller’s roles and responsibilities Examine key success factors and core challenges Comprehend the impacts of poor bunk management Perform basic calculations for efficient feed allocation Recognise daily feeding routines and other teams involved Read more

At the core of bunk calling is the bunk sheet. Bunk callers use this essential tool daily for feed allocation and intake monitoring. Being able to interpret the bunk sheet enables you to make informed decisions about bunk management.   This module is designed to help you:   Read and interpret data in bunk sheets Make decisions based on bunk sheet data Perform basic calculations for efficient feed allocation Comprehend the importance of accurate record keeping Read more

Your role in the feedlot hospital is vital for maintaining the health and welfare of the cattle. In this module, we will cover the essentials of managing and operating the feedlot hospital effectively.    This module will cover:  Understanding the setup and requirements of a feedlot hospital, including facilities and biosecurity measures.  Procedures for animal assessment upon arrival and maintaining accurate records.  Following veterinary protocols for treatment, ensuring compliance and effective recovery.  Identifying and treating common ailments such as respiratory disease, lameness, and digestive issues.  Monitoring recovery and managing continuity of care through re-treatments and record-keeping.  Completing this module will equip you with the knowledge and skills to provide timely and effective care, improving animal health outcomes and supporting feedlot operations.  Read more

As a livestock handler, you play a crucial role in maintaining the health and productivity of the animals under your care. This module will equip you with essential skills in administering medications and practising responsible antimicrobial use.    By completing this module, you'll be able to:  Understand various drug categories and their applications in livestock management.  Interpret and apply information from drug labels accurately.  Calculate and administer the correct drug dosages.  Observe and adhere to Export Slaughter Intervals (ESI) and Withholding Periods (WHP).  Selecting and safely using injection equipment.  Conducting subcutaneous, intramuscular, and above-ear injections properly.  Minimising injection-related complications, such as abscesses.  Applying antimicrobial stewardship principles to reduce resistance risks. Read more

This course is part of the Pen Riding: Mastering the Fundamentals online skills training  Pen riders play a pivotal role in ensuring the wellbeing of feedlot cattle. By learning factors impacting cattle health, understanding their body system, and gaining familiarity with common health concerns, you’ll develop the ability to identify health issues early, leading to improved welfare outcomes for cattle.  This online course covers health issues, body systems, and typical conditions concerning feedlot cattle.  After completion of the online training, an on the ground competency assessment is available so you can demonstrate your skills and competency in this area.  This E-learning series has been by funded grain-fed levies and matching federal government R&D contributions in consultation with the Australian Lot Feeders’ Association.  Read more

A successful feedlot operation must have facilities that are well-designed and kept in good working order. By understanding how to use and maintain the facilities you work in, you can have the confidence to handle cattle safely at your feedlot, which will improve animal welfare outcomes and performance. Read more