Welcome to the ALFA Feedlot TECH Training Hub

The webinar recording will extend the research findings of MLA Research Projects in relation to feedlot automation, such as the bunk trials, automatic crush and bunk scanner, to promote understanding and adoption of the new technologies available to automate processes on Australian feedlots. This workshop will benefit feedlot owners and those interested in technologies to improve lot feeding efficiencies.   PRESENTERS Joe McMeniman, MLA Jeremy Blampied, Te Pari Products Matt George, Bovine Dynamics Sam Platts, Bovine Dynamics Jeff Jurd, Mort & Co Pinegrove Feedlot Stuart McCarthy, Manabotix Hosted by Jeff House, ALFA/MLA Technical Services Officer   WORKSHOP TOPICS Introduction to and overview of the research - Background to the projects and the issues the tech aims to address. Cattle crush automation - An overview of the automated cattle crush that catches, injects and backlines the beast, how the product works, video of NZ Trial site. Bunk scanner trials - Introduction to the technology, overview of project results, what are the benefits to day-to-day feedlot operations. Case study: implementing the BunkBot - Introduction to technology, implementation process from a technical point of view, benefits seen at Pinegrove since implementation, implementation process from a practical point of view; change in processes, staff training, adoption lead time. Q&A   This webinar recording is provided for those who registered for the webinar and were unable to attend the live session. This webinar has been developed in collaboration with Meat & Livestock Australia.  Read more

This webinar will explore how feedlot development and expansion are driving real economic and social benefits across regional Australia. Using insights from Deloitte’s economic modelling and on-the-ground case studies, the session will highlight the flow-on impacts of feedlots through local communities, councils, processors and the broader supply chain. Participants will hear from industry leaders, regional representatives and approvals experts as they share practical experiences—from navigating development applications to supporting local jobs, services and business growth. Together, these perspectives will build a clear picture of how well-planned feedlot investment can strengthen regional economies now and into the future. Read more

This course provides all of the Feedlot Maintenance Fundamental modules in one place.  This course includes: 1. Introduction to Feedlot Maintenance, 2. Maintenance of Vehicles and Machinery, 3. Maintenance of Pens and Handling Facilities and 4. Maintenance of Utilities. Read more

This course provides all of the Feedlot Office and Administration modules in one place.  This course includes: 1. Foundation of Feedlot Administration 2. Administration of Commodities 3. Administration of Livestock  Read more

Shade is a critical component of feedlot cattle welfare and productivity. This course explores the science, research, and practical applications of shade and covered housing in Australian feedlots. Drawing on over 15 years of Meat & Livestock Australia (MLA) research, the course highlights evidence from studies on shade allocation, environmental control, heat load management, animal welfare outcomes, and best-practice design. Learners will gain a clear understanding of how shade and shelter strategies support cattle comfort, performance, and industry sustainability across different climates and feedlot systems.   By the end of this course, learners will be able to:   Explain the welfare and productivity benefits of providing shade and shelter for feedlot cattle. Describe key findings from MLA shade research, including studies on shade allocation, environmental interventions, and night-time cooling. Identify design and management principles for effective shade structures and covered housing systems. Evaluate the suitability of different shade solutions for various feedlot climates, pen types, and operational needs. Apply evidence-based decision-making to implement shade strategies that balance animal welfare, operational efficiency, and economic considerations.   Read more

The webinar will extend the research findings of MLA Research Projects in relation to feedlot shade structures suitable for Australian feedlots. This workshop will benefit feedlot owners and those interested in advancements in shade design to improve animal welfare and productivity in feedlots. PRESENTERS Hosted by Jeff House, ALFA/MLA Feedlot Technical Services Officer and joined by: Matt Van der Saag, MLA Project Manager - Feedlot & Sustainability Dr Peter McGilchrist, University of New England Researcher Dr Angela Lees, University of New England Researcher Tom Dawkins, Northern Territory Livestock Exporters Association CEO Ben Giblett, Berrimah Export Yards Manager Ian Lean, Scibus Managing Director Mike Ryan, Eagle Direct Managing Director   WORKSHOP TOPICS Introduction to and overview of the research - Background to the project and the issues it is addressing, including an overview of Shade and Covered housing R&D Strategy - MLA Feedlot Program. Shade & shelter solutions in a southern Australian feedlot - An overview of the projects including results from the Summer & Winter Trials, and the recommendations that have come from these. Experiences from the top end with covered shed management of cattle on feed in live export yards - Drawing on insights from some of the leading feedlots in SE Asia and how this shaped Berrimah Yards' approach to its tropical climate management using an Entegra Shed. Learnings from the Dairy Industry using covered housing - experiences from the dairy industry on covered housing, exploring production and adoption elements alongside design and sensing technologies. Q&A This webinar has been developed in collaboration with Meat & Livestock Australia. Read more