Cibo Labs and EcoRich Grazing services have been supporting WA Department of Primary Industries in the delivery of series of on-station workshops under the theme of ‘Managing for climate variability’. The workshops were organised by DPIRD’s Northern Beef Development team to assist producers with access to timely and relevant information to support the response to the tough seasonal conditions.

Three October workshops at Bidgemia Station, Gascoyne Junction; Emu Creek Station, Nanuturra; and Ethel Creek Station, Newman, were attended by 52 people from 15 pastoral companies. They followed three successful forums held in April near Marble Bar, Derby and Halls Creek.

The forums featured Grey Mackay from Kimberley Pilbara Cattlemen’s Association, explaining the key drivers of seasonal climate in the north west and consultant Col Paton discussed management strategies such as forage budgeting and implementing key decision dates to manage pasture and cattle in drier years.

Phil Tickle from Cibo Labs presented on how satellite technology can assist pastoralists in monitoring the pasture availability for their cattle as well as monitor land condition.

Owen Catto from the Regional Men’s Health Initiative presented to attendees and DPIRD officer James Matthews discussed animal welfare in difficult seasons.

The forums provided a fantastic opportunity to talk directly to producers about their challenges and information needs. Since the forums a number of properties have been using the Cibo Labs services and providing feedback to drive system improvements.

We're certainly looking forward to spending more time with a great bunch of people in this special part of the world. Check Out the story here