Welcome to the ALFA Feedlot TECH Training Hub

This course is part of the NFAS: Mastering the Fundamentals online skills training. There are several steps feedlots must take to become accredited under the National Feedlot Accreditation Scheme (NFAS) and then to maintain their accreditation. This module will cover gaining NFAS Accreditation and how to maintain your NFAS accreditation including audits, activities and statement of authority holders. This E-learning series has been funded by grain-fed levies and matching federal government R&D contributions in consultation with the Australian Lot Feeders’ Association.  This module has been mapped to the Australian Curriculum grades 7-9 and State Curriculums for grades 10-12. Details can be found here: Curriculum mapping - Maintaining NFAS Accreditation Read more

Your role in maintaining a well-functioning feedlot is essential to ensuring the safety and wellbeing of both cattle and workers.  We will explore the fundamentals of how to keep pens, bunks, troughs, and related facilities in good condition. This module will cover: Performing maintenance tasks to keep feedlot pens safe and functional. Following procedures to identify, report, and address pen issues. Implementing preventative maintenance to reduce repairs and costs. Cleaning and repairing bunks and troughs to support cattle health. Identifying and addressing hazards to improve animal welfare. Recognising welding safety principles, including PPE and hazard awareness. Understanding basic welding repair requirements for feedlot infrastructure. Read more

Your work in the feedlot maintenance team plays a vital role in ensuring cattle remain healthy and the operation runs smoothly.  We will explore key topics around managing essential utilities and understanding the importance of water and energy supplies in feedlot environments.  This module will cover: Identify suitable water sources for feedlots and determine their availability. Maintain a reliable water supply through seasonal changes to ensure livestock have constant access. Perform essential water supply repairs to minimise downtime and disruption. Calculate flow rates to meet livestock demand and ensure system efficiency. Explore various water trough designs and their considerations for placement and upkeep. Recognise the importance of water in feedlots and its direct impact on animal health and productivity. Assess energy supply options to support all feedlot operations. Develop backup energy solutions to maintain operations during power outages. Read more

Your role in feedlot maintenance is essential for ensuring vehicles and machinery remain operational, safe, and efficient.  We will explore the importance of proper maintenance, which reduces downtime, prevents costly repairs, and supports overall feedlot productivity.  This module will cover: Performing pre-start checks to identify potential issues before operation. Conducting regular inspections to prevent breakdowns and extend equipment lifespan. Following scheduled servicing requirements to keep machinery in optimal condition. Maintaining cleanliness to reduce fire hazards, corrosion, and equipment failure. Understanding operator responsibilities in reporting damage and maintenance needs. Following proper breakdown and reporting procedures to minimise repair costs and downtime. Keeping accurate maintenance records to track servicing and identify recurring issues. Understanding accident reporting processes to improve safety and prevent future incidents. Read more

Managing summer heat in a feedlot is vital to protect cattle from heat stress, which can cause poor welfare, reduced feed intake, and even death in extreme cases.  High temperatures can also impact productivity, leading to weight loss, slower growth rates, and lower profitability.  By actively managing heat, feedlots can maintain animal health, performance, and overall business sustainability.    This module will cover:   What is heat load Developing a heat load management plan Daily monitoring the cattle and your feedlot Responding to a heat load event Heat load terminology Identifying high risk cattle and pens Pre-summer preparation Feedlot shade Read more

This course is part of the Fundamentals of Feedlot Nutrition, Feeding and Milling Operations online skills training.   The feeding and milling team play an important role within the day to day operations of a feedlot. Understanding the different grain processing methods, processes, equipment and considerations will increase your knowledge and understanding of what you do and why the feeding and milling team are so important.   Disclaimer & Copyright 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. Care has been taken to ensure the accuracy of the information contained in this training course. However, MLA does not accept responsibility for the accuracy, currency or completeness of the information or opinions contained in this training course. This training course is intended to provide general information only and it has been prepared without taking into account your specific circumstances, objectives, or needs. You should make your own enquiries before making decisions concerning your interests. Your use of, or reliance on, any content is entirely at your own risk and MLA accepts no liability for any losses or damages incurred by you as a result of that use or reliance. © 2021 Meat & Livestock Australia Limited ABN 39 081 678 364. You may not copy, republish, download, transmit, communicate, or otherwise use this content in any way without the prior written consent of Meat & Livestock Australia Limited ABN 39 081 678 364. Any such enquiries should be directed to info@mla.com.au, or the Content Manager, PO Box 1961, North Sydney, NSW 2059. Read more