ATTRACTING AND RETAINING WOOL HARVESTING WORKERS - ISSUE 91 JUNE 2022

ISSUE 91 JUNE 2022
 PROFIT FROM WOOL INNOVATION
 www.wool.com

 ATTRACTING
 AND RETAINING
 WOOL HARVESTING
 WORKERS

 12 24 36
 NEW FLYSTRIKE NEXT GENERATION SPORTSCRAFT’S NEW
MANAGEMENT WORKSHOP GENETIC EVALUATION WOOL COLLECTION

32 SHEEP FARMER OF 38 P
  RINCE PROMOTES
 THE YEAR ‘WHY WOOL MATTERS’
EDITOR
Richard Smith
E richard.smith@wool.com

Australian Wool Innovation Limited
AL 6, 68 Harrington St, The Rocks,
 ON-FARM OFF-FARM
 Sydney NSW 2000
 GPO Box 4177, Sydney NSW 2001 4 Wool harvesting showcased at Falkiner 36 Sportscraft’s new wool collection
 (From 14 June: L3, 24 York Street, 6 ‘Welcome to Wool Harvesting’ program 37 Aussie brand’s wardrobe essentials
 Sydney NSW 2000)
P 02 8295 3100 7 School students inspired by wool 38 New film: Why Wool Matters
E info@wool.com W wool.com
AWI Helpline 1800 070 099 8 Shearer and wool handler training 39 New sustainability course online
 9 Biosecurity vigilance needed 40 International Woolmark Prize
SUBSCRIPTION
Beyond the Bale is available free. 10 Protect your flock from bruce-o 42 Recent results: Victoria Beckham
To subscribe contact AWI
P 02 8295 3100 E info@wool.com
 11 Ram fertility research 42 Recent results: Feel Merino campaign
 12 New flystrike management workshop 43 Merino swim shorts make a splash
Beyond the Bale is published by Australian
Wool Innovation Ltd (AWI), a company 13 AWI’s Flystrike Extension Program 44 Woolmark Performance Challenge
funded by Australian woolgrowers and the 14 Blowfly chemical resistance publications
Australian Government. 46 Internship winner immersed in wool
 16 Grazing as a tool for parasite control 47 Merino keeps you running
COPYRIGHT 17 Best practice parasite management
Material in Beyond the Bale is copyright. 48 Modern Merino sportswear in China
Reproduction of the material is encouraged. 17 Fostering an idea for a new rabbit bait 49 Woolmark Gold program in China
However prior permission must be obtained
 18 Rabbit biocontrol timing vital 50 Japan: United Arrows hits bullseye
from the Editor.
 19 AWI smart tags for remote monitoring 51 Japan: Onward sales upward
DISCLAIMER
To the extent permitted by law, Australian 20 Exclusion fencing helps profitability 52 Indian subcontinent textile production
Wool Innovation Ltd excludes all liability
 21 Exclusion fencing across waterways 53 New markets for wool processing
for loss or damage arising from the use of,
or reliance on, the information contained in 22 10 years of wild dog control in Victoria 54 Woolly encounter at the Louvre
this publication.
The Woolmark symbol is a certification mark 23 South Australia Dog Fence 55 Fleece to Fashion awards at Deeargee
registered in many countries. 24 Next generation genetic evaluation
© 2022 Australian Wool Innovation Ltd. All 56 Market intelligence update
rights reserved. 26 Merino Lifetime Productivity project 58 EMI level stable
ADVERTISING SALES 28 Farm safety for all ages 59 Nearshoring: the new norm?
Steve Luxford, Pulse Hub Pty Ltd 29 Find skin cancer through self-checks
P 0429 699 553 60 Feedback on your clip at My WoolQ
E steve.luxford@pulsehub.com.au 30 Peter Westblade Scholarship 61 Broader micron wools
Advertising is subject to terms and conditions
published on the ratecard, which is available 31 Young judges’ champs foster talent 62 Readers’ photos
from Pulse Hub. 31 Horizon Scholarship for young leader 63 AWI Graduate Training Program 2023
ISSN 32 Sheep farmer of the year
1447-9680 34 Methane-reducing supplements
FRONT COVER AWI INVESTMENT STRATEGIES
A key priority for AWI is to attract and retain Sheep Production,
harvesting workers in the industry. Marketing Consultation
 CONNECTING WITH AWI Science & Technology
Pictured are the enthusiast participants at a
recent AWI novice wool harvesting course at Processing Innovation
 wool.com Traceability
Young in NSW, one of many AWI-funded courses & Education Extension
being run across the country.
Thanks to local woolgrower Mark Bryant for feedback@wool.com AWI E-NEWSLETTERS:
providing the sheep and facilities, who said:
“They were a great group of young people, To subscribe to the free monthly AWI e-newsletter
enthusiastic and keen even on day five. We had for woolgrowers, and the weekly wool market review
 wool.com/podcast e-newsletter, visit www.wool.com/subscribe
three great trainers to show them the ropes. Well
done AWI on putting the $ and time in to make it
happen. It was great to be a part of.” twitter.com/woolinnovation THE WOOLMARK COMPANY

 facebook.com/AustralianWoolInnovation woolmark.com

 youtube.com/AWIWoolProduction
 twitter.com/woolmark

 Instagram.com/AustralianWool
 facebook.com/thewoolmarkcompany

 View Beyond the Bale online at
 BtB http://beyondthebale.wool.com youtube.com/thewoolmarkcompany

 AWI STATE-BASED GROWER NETWORKS Instagram.com/thewoolmarkcompany

 AWI-supported networks are present in each state.

 • Sheep Connect NSW • BESTWOOL/BESTLAMB (VIC)
 • Sheep Connect SA • The Sheep’s Back (WA)
 AWI is the R&D and
 • Sheep Connect Tasmania • Leading Sheep (Qld)
 marketing organisation for the
 Australian wool industry Find your grower network at www.wool.com/networks or call the AWI Helpline on 1800 070 099.

GD4533

UPFRONT 3

AWI WORKING FOR
WOOLGROWERS
 John Roberts
 Chief Executive Officer
 Australian Wool Innovation

AWI CEO John Roberts provides readers with an overview of how AWI
is undertaking R&D and marketing to address some of the key issues
faced by Australian woolgrowers.

I n March of this year, I had the privilege of
 being appointed as Chief Executive Office
of AWI; I have been acting in the role since
 To attract and retain shearers,
 AWI is also looking at technology-based
 opportunities, some of which were on show
 Opportunities and
 threats in the market
October 2021. I consider the appointment to woolgrowers at the AWI Wool Harvesting The relatively stable and healthy EMI that
to be an enormous honour and brings with Innovation Demonstration Day held last we have seen during the past 12 months
it great responsibility to deliver programs month – see pages 4-6 for more information. continues. On the whole, the Australian
here in Australia and across the world that We are open to and are looking at any wool industry is in good shape and has come
help make Australian wool-growing more option that will help the industry, from new through the COVID pandemic better than
profitable and sustainable. handpieces to safer workplaces, from upright was perhaps expected back in mid-2020.
 During the past few months, the posture shearing platforms to chemical However, while COVID no longer
company has been developing its new de-fleecing. All options are on the table. dominates Australian media headlines as
Strategic Plan for the next three financial However, attracting and retaining it once did, it has not gone away and there
years, 2022/23 to 2024/25. The Plan will be enough shed staff is an issue that needs is still uncertainty regarding its ongoing
launched at the end of this month and to be addressed more broadly than solely effect on our key international markets,
be available on the AWI website. We have through AWI investments. It is an industry especially given the recent lockdowns
consulted widely with woolgrowers and wide issue, and other organisations and in parts of China which have caused
their representatives to ensure that industry individual woolgrowers can also play their some significant international shipping
views are incorporated into the plan – and part. A survey last year of (mainly) shearing and logistic issues. These international
we will continue to ensure that your wool contractors across Australia revealed uncertainties have been made worse by the
levies are directed to R&D and marketing that working conditions in sheds was conflict in Ukraine, rising energy prices and
projects that deliver the greatest value seen as the primary barrier to attracting an unsettled global economic environment.
to woolgrowers. and keeping new workers in the wool Another challenge we face is the
 harvesting industry. environmental impact labelling proposals in
Wool harvesting the European Union.
a priority for AWI Resources to help Against this backdrop, AWI continues
Attracting and retaining enough workers combat flystrike to work on behalf of woolgrowers to increase
to harvest and handle Australia’s wool AWI’s expanded flystrike extension program demand and market access for Australian
clip is essential to the viability of our continues to develop new resources that are wool, by promoting the fibre’s premium
wool industry. These workers are not only relevant to all woolgrowers, regardless of natural qualities, especially for luxury
important for producing a high-quality clip sheep type, climate, operating environment, apparel and sportswear, but also for other
that maximises returns for woolgrowers, or husbandry practices – see pages 12-13. applications including interiors. In our
but their on going availability is also vital Our new one-day SimpliFly workshop marketing, we are focussing on promoting
to ensure producers do not switch to has now been successfully piloted and will the eco-credentials of the fibre and taking
other enterprises. soon be available to woolgrowers via AWI’s advantage of the growth in e-commerce,
 AWI recognises that the industry has grower networks. The SimpliFly workshop particularly amongst the new generation of
struggled in recent years with a shortage of will help woolgrowers develop a property- premium consumers. We also have a wide
shearers and wool handlers (especially during specific flystrike management plan and network of supply chain partners with
COVID travel restrictions) and rectifying this calendar. SimpliFly builds on AWI’s existing which we work to explore new and diverse
situation is a key priority for the company. It’s Fly Time! resources that are already product and processing opportunities
 We have been running extra novice providing woolgrowers across Australia with for wool.
and improver shearer training courses to information for tactical flystrike prevention, Fundamentally, I believe that the
attract new entrants into the industry and, monitoring and treatment. long-term trends towards products that are
importantly, provide them with a career These resources draw on the outcomes environmentally friendly, and health and
pathway to help keep these newly trained and findings of AWI’s extensive flystrike wellness, play in wool’s favour – and this
individuals from dropping out of the R&D program, which continues with projects is something that AWI will capitalise on to
industry during the tough first few months such as the investigative work to develop a expand the commercial opportunities for
of employment. commercial blowfly vaccine. Australian wool across the world. 

4 ON
 FARM

 Woolgrowers had the opportunity to
 attend an AWI Wool Harvesting Innovation
 Demonstration Day last month.

 Wool harvesting
 innovations on show
 harvesting. This situation has been made demonstration day at Falkiner enabled
 Woolgrowers viewed a wide more critical given that the size of the woolgrowers to see different shearing systems
 range of wool harvesting national flock is rising again. and it also offered them a chance to talk to
 initiatives and technologies Finding solutions for woolgrowers, leading machinery and shed manufacturers
 at an AWI Wool Harvesting now and for the long term, is a leading about design and construction.
 priority for AWI. “AWI staff were also on hand
 Innovation Demonstration to provide the latest information to
 To enable woolgrowers to see the
 Day held last month. The current results of AWI R&D work in this woolgrowers on shearing shed safety,
 innovations aim to make the area, as well as commercial products from shed design, and shearer and wool handler
 job of harvesting easier and third-party manufacturers, AWI held a Wool training initiatives.
 “Every woolgrower’s operation and
 more efficient, which will help Harvesting Innovation Demonstration Day
 setup are different, but what we managed to
 last month at its Falkiner Memorial Field
 attract and retain harvesting Station at Conargo in southern NSW. do at the demonstration day was showcase
 workers in the industry. AWI Chairman Jock Laurie said it was in one venue a range of options for growers
 to see what could fit into their own business.
H arvesting wool has always been a a great opportunity for woolgrowers to see
 where their wool levies have been invested “There was a real buzz at the event.
 crucial component of all wool-growing
 by AWI and explore potential new harvesting People’s feedback was that they had been
 operations – and AWI has a history of
 options for their own enterprise. encouraged by what they'd seen, and I
 investment in new harvesting technologies,
 think people there were very positive about
 as well as shearer and wool handler training. “Shearing is the number one issue
 the industry.”
 However, the recent COVID-related that woolgrowers talk to me about, and
 travel restrictions have created and something I am familiar with as a grower Hear more from Jock Laurie
 highlighted a shortage of and demand for myself. It is critically important to get this in Episode 216 of AWI’s
 wool harvesting staff in Australia and the sorted as quickly as we can,” he said. The Yarn podcast, available at
 need for technological options to help with “The AWI harvesting innovation www.wool.com/podcast

 Highlights of the demonstration day
 Modular sheep delivery units
 The AWI modular sheep delivery unit For both modules, an angled shoot
 delivers sheep directly to the shearer. It allows for simple release of the shorn
 not only eliminates the time and energy sheep underneath the race – again without
 that shearers spend having to walk to the significant dragging or twisting.
 pen, catch a sheep and drag it back to the The potential benefits of the modular
 shearing stand, but it also minimises the sheep delivery unit for woolgrowers and
 chance of injury to the shearer from the the industry include:
 dragging and twisting movements. • improved efficiency for workers and
 The design focuses on a ‘modular’ the flow of livestock because the shearer
 concept in which portable singular shearing no longer has to walk to a catching pen
 stands can be joined together to make a • decrease in shearer injuries
 multi-stand shearing platform, which can • increased attraction and retention of
 be stored away after use. Each modular unit shearers to the industry
 holds three sheep in a continuous race at the • cost effective option when upgrading
 back of the unit. A dummy pen is fitted onto The modular sheep delivery unit (automatic infrastructure
 version), manufactured by Haynes Engineering.
 the end of the race to assist with the flow • provides an avenue for
 of the sheep. delivery race is very similar to the automatic multipurpose sheds.
 The automatic module contains a module’s race, except that in the race there The engineering plans for the module
 pneumatically powered delivery section is a simple gate, in place of the automatic are available from AWI for interested growers.
 that, at the press of a button, moves out delivery section. The shearer simply opens
 from the race and then tilts the sheep into the gate and collects the sheep from the More information
 a position suitable for the shearer to then race and manoeuvres the sheep the metre www.wool.com/sheep-delivery
 easily retrieve the animal. or so to the centre of the board before www.haynesengineering.com.au
 There is also a manual module; the starting shearing.

ON 5
 FARM

 Peak Hill’s ShearEzy upright shearing machine
 Peak Hill’s ShearEzy upright shearing machine is designed to enable either experienced
 or novice shearers to shear sheep effectively and easily whilst the shearer is in an upright
 standing position. The ShearEzy is a result of AWI’s past investment in shearing technologies.
 The ShearEzy was demonstrated at last month’s event by Shearing World, a company
 that specialises in the shearing of cross-bred rams. Their shearing trailers suit different
 farm areas, be it out in the yards or inside a big shed. The ShearEzy unit clamps the ram
 and rolls it over into a cradle where the back legs are locked in leg restraints. The ram is
 restrained enabling a pattern of shearing with big flat areas, which helps ensure a quality job.
 Furthermore, no sedative is required saving time and money and the rams are not off feed
 for too long, limiting any stress for all involved.

 More information
The Peak Hill ShearEzy unit being demonstrated www.peakhillindustries.com.au
by Shearing World. www.ramshearing.com.au

Shearing shed design and safety
Woolgrowers heard from AWI staff about AWI’s Shearing Shed Design. This is a result
of AWI and a working group of woolgrowers and shed staff in 2019 designing a shearing
shed which addresses worker safety and animal welfare considerations, while also
achieving improved shed efficiency and good wool quality outcomes. Dozens of sheds
have now been built across the country using this design. The blueprints of the design
and further information are available free on the AWI website. Woolgrowers also heard
from AWI staff about the shearing shed safety program, SafeSheds – see page 29 for
further details about SafeSheds.

More information The blueprints of AWI’s Shearing Shed Design are
www.wool.com/sheddesign available free on the AWI website.

 Shear Anywhere wool harvesting system
 The Shear Anywhere was developed by safety. A wider range of people are able to
 woolgrower Grant Burbidge of Burbidge shear sheep on this system, compared to
 Farms located at Tarcutta in NSW and at traditional shearing, because it required
 Simpson in Victoria. The Shear Anywhere less strength. Skirting can be done on the
 provides a novel approach to wool platform as the fleece is shorn. A specific
 harvesting with the upright standing shearing shed is not needed for this system,
 position for shearing, which removes a with the modular units being portable.
 lot of strain from the shearer’s back. The
 sheep are delivered onto a shearing cradle More information
 to the shearer – the shearer does not have www.burbidgefarms.com/wool-harvesting
 to catch and drag the sheep from a pen,
 Grant Burbidge talking to woolgrowers about his which significantly reduces the physical
 Shear Anywhere wool harvesting system. strength required, while increasing shearer CONTINUES OVER THE PAGE→

6 ON
 FARM

 CONTINUED FROM PREVIOUS PAGE

 3D Shearing’s mobile trailer
 3D Shearing is a contractor, based near Dubbo in NSW, with a custom-made three-stand
 mobile trailer with a single race delivery system to the shearer. The trailer has been
 specially designed with a short drag system that minimises the chance of injury to the
 shearer and the sheep whilst also maximising productivity with reduced catch times.
 There is a portable blow-up shed that goes over the trailer with plenty of extra room to
 contain the wool table, wool press and bales. The trailer can also be set up in a machinery
 shed or hay shed, rather than outside. The 3D Shearing option provides peace of mind that
 you have supplied a safe workplace for your team, and eliminates the cost and complexity
 of building a new shed.

 More information
 The 3D Shearing mobile race delivery and www.3dshearing.com.au
 shearing trailer.

 Other potential technology solutions on show
 PORTABLE, SMART WEARABLE TECH TO
 SEMI-AUTONOMOUS WOOL
 SHEARING HANDPIECE PREVENT SHEARING
 HANDLING SYSTEM
 INJURIES
 AWI has been working with a design AWI-funded research continues into A three-year AWI-funded project to
 company, 4c Design, to develop a prototype wearable technology that will potentially design, build and test components of a
 of a battery-operated handpiece with power provide shearers with an early warning alert semi-autonomous wool handling system
 equivalent to current shearing plant. This (via a display on a smartphone) when they is being undertaken by the UTS Faculty
 has the potential for incorporation of are becoming vulnerable to potential fatigue- of Engineering and IT. The project aims
 sensors to make shearing available to less triggered injuries, and propose optimal to cover the steps from the wool table
 experienced operators while increasing resting cycles. through to baling.
 animal welfare.

 Students from
 Farrer Memorial
 Agricultural
 High School
 in Tamworth,
 NSW, during
 a workshop
 delivered by AWI
 trainers Andrew
 Newstead and
 Ross Thompson.

 ‘Welcome to Wool Harvesting’ program
 AWI’s pilot ‘Welcome to Wool Harvesting’ program, which was rolled out in
 April and runs until the end of June, aims to encourage high school students to
 take up a career in the wool harvesting industry.

 T he program delivers shearing and wool
 handling workshops to students in years
 9 and 10 at high school, which are the critical
 who might never have been exposed to it
 before, as well solidifying the knowledge of
 other students who might already have an
 but it educates our next generation about
 the wool supply chain from farm to fibre
 processing and beyond.
 years when students are choosing trades and interest in wool harvesting. The program has also helped foster
 skill-based apprenticeships. The AWI trainers take the students key relationships between AWI and the
 Along with the support of the school through practical work exercises, offer education sector which, beyond this pilot
 and their agriculture teachers, these insights into the career options as a shearer program, will prove extremely beneficial in
 workshops are delivered by AWI trainers or wool handler, and deliver their knowledge the continued promotion of the industry to
 and can cater up to 20 students per day. The of the industry from start to finish. This not new entrants.
 workshops provide an introduction to the only gives the students a chance to consider
 wool harvesting industry to those students the wool harvesting industry as a career,

ON 7
 FARM

 Students at
 Hawkesdale
 College in the
 Western District
 of Victoria, on the
 Wool Overview
 Program.

 Left and above: Lachlan

School students
 Phillips and Sophie Taylor
 of Monivae College in
 Hamilton, Victoria, on the
 Wool Overview Program.

inspired by wool offer in the wool industry. Many have gone
 on to continue studying with RIST and
 are now working in the sheep and wool
 industry,” she said.
Funded by AWI, RIST’s Wool Overview Program provides
hands-on training to secondary school students across What skills do the
Victoria, with the aim to inspire and grow them into the next students learn?
generation of Australia’s wool industry workforce. Led by industry expert trainers in
 conjunction with support from the wool

T hrough its Wool Overview Program,
 Rural Industries Skill Training (RIST)
targets students in years 9 and 10 (as well
 agricultural studies and undertaking
 traineeships in the farming sector.
 Woolgrower support is vital and the
 sector workforce, students take part in
 activities including shearing, handpiece
 maintenance, penning sheep, learning about
as students up to year 12) at about the time program has been enthusiastically embraced the parts of a fleece, wool handling, wool
when the students are choosing what career by a generous cohort of growers, shearers, classing, sheep breeds, workplace health and
to pursue. service providers and wool professionals safety in the shearing shed, working with
 The program is led by wool industry volunteering their farms and time to stock and sheep dogs, pastures, and value
experts and incorporates hands-on, engaging encourage young people’s interest in the adding to meat and wool production.
and practical on-farm training and insights, wool industry and agriculture. Tours to wool stores, saleyards, the
as well as providing a holistic overview of Among the participants, some are National Wool Museum at Geelong; and
the wool processing pipeline and the many selected as having previously become wool testing, wool brokering and wool fabric
career pathways available in the Australian disengaged from learning. RIST Shearing processing facilities; as well as on-farm visits
wool industry. and Wool Handling Program Coordinator, during sheep pregnancy scanning; have
 Since 2016, RIST has delivered the Raelene Laidlaw says it’s particularly received extremely positive feedback from
three- to five-day program to about 200 pleasing to see these students inspired by students and the industry alike.
students from schools across Victoria the sector. RIST has also been able to incorporate
including Hamilton, Camperdown, Mortlake, “During the past six years since Virtual Reality experiences into the
Derrinallum, Hopetoun, Edenhope, RIST and AWI have partnered to deliver delivery, providing the students with an
Casterton, Hawkesdale, Portland and Stawell. the program, we’ve seen a number of insight into advancements in processing
 RIST has witnessed a high percentage students re-engage in their learning and technology in the wool industry and
of program attendees continuing their find inspiration in the many careers on garment manufacture.

 superior
 wool entry + cut
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 wool entry + cut
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 Snow
 shearingLeopard
 combs
 shearing combs
 available at your local stockist
 visit www.beiyuan.com.au
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8 ON
 FARM

 Dookie College
 , Vic

 , NSW
 Walcha
 Petali, Parndana, Kangaroo Isla
 nd, SA

 , WA
 Rylington Park

 Haddon
 Rig, Wa
 rren, N
 Oxton Park, Harden, NSW SW

 AWI-funded in-shed
 harvesting courses
 Pictured above is a small selection of AWI-funded shearing and wool handling courses
 recently run across the country. AWI funds the training to attract and retain new entrants into
 the wool harvesting industry, build the capacity and longevity of existing staff, and increase
 returns to woolgrowers through improved clip preparation practices.

 A dequate numbers of highly skilled
 professional staff to harvest and handle
 a high-quality Australian wool clip in a
 Due to the current shortage of and
 demand for shearers, which has been made
 worse by COVID-related restrictions, there
 other shearing gear, subject to the shearer
 passing certain strict criteria. AWI has
 presented 200 toolboxes to learner shearers
 timely manner are key to the profitability of is a concerted effort to run extra novice since 1 July 2021.
 the Australian wool industry. and improver training, funded by AWI and AWI thanks all the woolgrowers who
 AWI regularly funds and supports several state governments. provide their facilities and sheep, and all the
 hands-on practical in-shed training for AWI also has initiatives to encourage other organisations and individuals that
 shearers and wool handlers to attract and budding shearers that have completed lend their time and resources to help run
 retain new workers, as well as increase their training to build up their skills and stay this training.
 productivity, skills and professionalism. In in the industry. These initiatives include
 Victoria and South Australia, the training three extra in-shed coaching training days More information
 is provided by the Shearing Contractors for learner shearers, and the presentation To arrange training in your state,
 Association of Australia (SCAA) Shearer to learner shearers of the ‘AWI Learner phone AWI on 1800 SHEARS or email
 Woolhandler Training Inc. Shearer Toolbox’, containing a handpiece and swt@wool.com

ON 9
 FARM

FMD international virus in greasy wool were mitigated. The
 new protocols required time/temperature

outbreaks a warning
 inactivation of FMD virus as per the OIE
 Terrestrial Animal Health Code and approval
 of all wool export facilities by South African

for Australia
 and Chinese government authorities.”
 Even with these agreed protocols, the
 current (2022) outbreak has again resulted in
 the suspension of exports, highlighting the
 sensitivities associated with EADs.
Australia has a robust strategy to minimise the potential “We really believed that the mitigation
 measures in place should have ensured
trade impacts on the sheep and wool industries if an that SA greasy wool could continue to be
emergency animal disease (EAD) was to occur in this exported to China. This however proved not
country. However, the outbreaks of foot and mouth disease to be the case,” Dr Varrie stated.
(FMD) in sheep in South Africa, and the outbreak of FMD Dr Varrie urges the Australian
 wool industry to take note of the South
in cattle last month in Indonesia, are a timely warning for African experience.
Australian livestock producers to ensure their own farm “The lesson from this is that mitigation
biosecurity measures are optimised. planning is essential. Scenario modeling for
 the worst possible case is indicated to allow

A ustralia has a favourable animal health checks and balances to be in place, where
 status, with freedom from many diseases possible, prior to the crisis. Only in this way
present in other countries, giving us an do you have the best possible chance to avoid
advantage in terms of lower production/ what we went through. Even then, as we
management costs, enhanced animal health have found, it may not be enough but at least
and productivity, and preferential export you will be some way there.”
market access.
 However, CSIRO has estimated that if
 Biosecurity measures
a multi-state foot and mouth disease (FMD) in Australia
outbreak was to occur in Australia, it would Australia has advanced surveillance systems,
cost up to $50 billion over 10 years, primarily agreements and protocols in place to rapidly
due to the cost of trade restrictions. With detect and respond to EAD incursions.
90-95% of Australian wool exported in a Ruptured oral blister in a foot and mouth diseased The Emergency Animal Disease Response
greasy state, a single detection of FMD could goat in Nepal. PHOTO: Animal Health Australia Agreement (EADRA) and AUSVETPLAN,
result in the loss of our ability to export which are administered by Animal Health
greasy wool for at least six months. August 2019, even though the South African Australia, set out government and industry
 As an island nation, we have a National Department of Agricultural Land obligations (including cost sharing) in the
substantial advantage that allows us to Reform and Rural Development (DALRRD) event of an EAD outbreak, and provide
control movement of goods across our confirmed the outbreak to be localised. guidance on the management and control
borders. Australia has a world class multi- Therefore, the ban was in fact maintained measures that may take place.
layered biosecurity system that manages due to the loss of FMD zone free status. WoolProducers Australia is the EADRA
the risks of pests and emergency animal “During the six months of the ban, signatory for the wool industry, with AWI
diseases (EAD) entering Australia to a level the DALRRD worked extensively with China holding $5 million in reserves on behalf of
that is acceptably low, but not zero. The level to develop new export protocols with the the industry for use in the event of an EAD
of risk associated with pests and diseases is necessary assurances that risks of FMD impacting wool.
ever changing and our biosecurity system is
constantly positioning itself to address these
changing risks, as recently observed with
FMD, Lumpy Skin Disease and African Swine What can you do to help prevent and be prepared
Fever spreading to our near neighbours. for an EAD outbreak in Australia?
The South African There are various resources and More information
experience with FMD support tools available to Australian • Farm Biosecurity website:
As many readers will be aware, our wool- livestock producers that you can www.farmbiosecurity.com.au
growing colleagues in South Africa have add to your biosecurity tool kit. The
suffered a recent outbreak of FMD following FarmBiosecurity.com.au website • EAD risk management manual
an earlier outbreak in 2019. Following the offers several manuals, contacts and Preparing your business to survive:
2019 outbreak, South Africa immediately factsheets including a detailed EAD risk Risk management planning for an
lost its FMD zone free status with the management manual (see right). emergency animal disease outbreak:
World Organisation of Animal Health www.farmbiosecurity.com.au/toolkit/
 Early detection is critical if eradication
(OIE). This resulted in a series of bans of plans-manuals
 is to be successful. If you see unusual
exports of cloven-hoofed animals, and their signs of disease in your livestock, call
products (including greasy wool), by various • EADRA:
 your vet or the Emergency Animal
trading partners. www.animalhealthaustralia.com.au/
 Disease Hotline on 1800 675 888.
 “As this happened precipitously, there eadra
was no time for any role player to adjust and As our South African colleagues have
it had a profound impact on the entire wool learnt, we must not be complacent in • AUSVETPLAN:
value chain,” said Consulting Veterinarian to relation to EADs; we all have a role to www.animalhealthaustralia.com.au/
Cape Wools SA, Dr Stuart Varrie. play to keep our animals healthy and ausvetplan
 “The ban on the export of greasy retain our favourable market access.
wool was in place from February 2019 until

10 ON
 FARM

 Protect your
 flock from bruce-o
 Ovine brucellosis, commonly referred to as ‘bruce-o’, is a
 bacterial disease that permanently infects the testes and Veterinarian Dr Matt Playford
 demonstrating ram testicular
 epididymis of rams, rendering some infertile. There is no cure palpation at a RAMping Up
 Repro workshop.
 for brucellosis so prevention is critical – and there are steps
 you can take to dramatically reduce your risk.

 in the same cycle, or between rams in the
 Key recommendations ram paddock.
 Clinical signs are not common in
 • Only purchase rams from vendors ewes as they are fairly resistant to the
 that are accredited free of disease, but they can be carriers of the
 brucellosis. Ask for a copy of your infection and discharge the organism
 ram breeder’s certificate and a in the placenta, vaginal discharge and
 National Sheep Health Declaration. the milk. Ewes usually only carry the
 infection for one or two oestrus cycles.
 • Maintain sound fences to prevent Infection causes inflammation of placenta,
 entry of stray rams or ewes that could early embryonic death (usually without
 spread the disease to your flock. outward signs) or uncommonly the foetus
 may be aborted. Infection in ewes is self-
 • Perform pre-joining ram checks three limiting, so ewes usually breed normally in
 months prior to joining and have an subsequent years.
 accredited veterinarian inspect your
 flock if you find anything suspicious. Effect on flock fertility
 • Reduced lamb marking percentages –
 • Run your rams in small mobs with when clinically affected rams are used, the
 young rams and old rams separated, lambing percentages may be reduced. If
 and avoid running rams with ewes brucellosis continues in the flock, lambing
 during lambing periods. percentages will progressively decline.
 • Extended lambing period – when
 • Cull all infected rams. infected rams service ewes, the chance
 of conception is low and many ewes will
 return to service 17 days later. If rams are
 left with ewes, the number of pregnant

 O vine brucellosis, a reproductive disease
 caused by the Brucella ovis bacteria,
 affects all breeds of sheep and is found in
 ewes will increase, but this will result in
 an unusually long lambing period.
 • High ram culling rate – if rams are
 all states of Australia. The disease causes culled when abnormalities are detected
 Diagnosis and
 considerable economic loss in many flocks on palpation, then infected rams are eradication
 by reducing lambing percentages (through culled one or two years after infection. There are three methods of diagnosing
 a combination of reduced ram fertility and If brucellosis is not eliminated, this high ovine brucellosis:
 abortion), extending lambing seasons and culling rate will continue. 1. Palpation of the scrotum – examine ram
 increasing ram culling. in a standing or sitting (shearing) position.
 The bacteria localise and multiply Prevention Use both hands and start above the testes,
 in the reproductive organs. Affected rams There is no preventative treatment available moving down to the base of the testes and
 develop hard, abscess-like swellings in the for brucellosis, and infected animals cannot the epididymal tails. Check for symmetry,
 epididymis (the tube from the testes that be treated. Eradication of the disease is free movement in the scrotum and the
 holds sperm whilst it’s maturing). These the only cure and requires identification absence of lumps within the testes and
 lesions are most noticeable because they of infected animals and culling of these epididymides. Testes should feel firm
 are so much harder than the rest of the animals accordingly. and springy.
 epididymis and also because the swellings are Annual palpation as part of the Four 2. Blood tests – blood is tested to detect
 irregular in size, often making one epididymis Ts check (teeth, toes, tackle, testes) will assist the presence of B. ovis antibodies, which
 feel quite different in shape from the other. with identification of suspect rams, and indicates previous exposure to infection.
 (Normally, there is no significant difference in subsequent testing will determine if rams 3. Semen examination – examination of
 shape between a pair of epididymii.) have brucellosis for future joinings. semen may reveal a reduced volume of
 In some rams, the blockage is One tell-tale sign of brucellosis is semen, poor sperm motility and/or a high
 permanent and the tail of the epididymis lower conception rates and this should proportion of abnormal sperm. B. ovis may
 continues to swell. In other rams the be treated as a signpost for ruling out also be cultured from semen.
 blockage may break down, the swelling brucellosis for future joinings. These rates When ovine brucellosis is suspected
 reduces, and the testes feel normal, while the may not be exhibited as a complete failure, or detected in a flock, the grower should
 ram may still be infected. as not all rams may be infected. When the discuss the management options with their
 The disease is transmitted at joining number of affected rams in a flock is greater veterinarian. Eradication can be achieved by
 when a clean ram serves a ewe that has than about 10%, the fertility of the flock is a combination of manual examination, blood
 recently been served by an infected ram appreciably decreased. testing, and removal of infected rams as soon

ON 11
 FARM

as they are detected. There is no effective The University of
 Adelaide’s Bobbie
vaccine so culling infected rams is the only Lewis Baida will
option for eradication of brucellosis from examine the effects
a flock. of heat stress on
 rams’ reproductive
 During an eradication program, it performance.
is important to prevent contact between
infected and uninfected rams. Separate
infected rams immediately from other
tested-negative and young rams and sell
infected rams direct to slaughter.
 Once eradication is achieved,
precautions must be taken to prevent
 infected rams re-entering the flock,
 whether as strays or introductions,
 and monitoring through pre-joining
 ram checks is vital to maintaining a

 Great balls
 brucellosis-free flock.
 Purchasing replacement rams
 from brucellosis-free accredited
 producers reduces the risk of

 of fire!
 brucellosis entering your property.
 Other biosecurity measures, such as
 good boundary fences, quarantining
 new introductions and requesting a
 National Sheep Health Declaration How hot weather
 from the vendor, help to maintain a
 clean, healthy flock. impacts ram fertility
 More information
 www.wool.com/rams A new AWI-funded project will investigate the impact of hot
 weather on ram fertility, as part of a first of its kind study
 Visit Animal Health Australia’s
 ‘OB Database’ to search for flocks
 undertaken on-farm rather than in climate-controlled rooms.
 of any breed that are accredited
 brucellosis free – click on the
 ‘Ovine brucellosis’ tab at T he University of Adelaide’s Bobbie Lewis
 Baida will undertake the 12-month
 project through an AWI-funded Science
 industry approximately $97 million each
 year, Bobbie says there is an urgent need to
 address the issue.
 www.animalhealthaustralia.com.au/
 sheep-health-and-biosecurity and Innovation Award for Young People “I think it’s important that we realise
 in Agriculture. the ramifications of climate change, and
 Visit Farm Biosecurity for more High testicular temperature is known I’m really excited that my research is a part
 information on the National Sheep to reduce the amount of morphologically of solving the problem in a small way.”
 Health Declaration and links to your normal, motile and fertile sperm. And with AWI CEO John Roberts says
 state government’s Brucellosis temperatures rising under climate change, ram fertility and sheep reproduction
 scheme – see www.farmbiosecurity. the new project will see Bobbie investigate is of fundamental importance to the
 com.au/industry/sheep how scrotal and body temperature profitability of Australian woolgrowers.
 regulation affects semen quality and fertility “Rams are high performance animals
 in Merino rams. that are the primary drivers of genetic
 Bobbie, from the University of improvement in a flock, so they need to be
RAMping Up Repro Adelaide’s School of Animal and Veterinary given every opportunity to pass on their
workshop Sciences, says the project complements genes. To cover multiple ewes over the
Pre-joining inspection and preparation of her existing PhD research on the impact joining period, rams need to be in peak
your ram team is a critical part of the farm of heat stress on ewes. She is using vaginal physical condition,” he said.
calendar to improve the health, performance temperature sensors to monitor the core “This new research into ram fertility
and longevity of your ram team and prevent temperature of ewes in the paddock, linking will create new knowledge to help ensure
avoidable loss of production due to poor this to behaviour, ovulation rate, conception the industry can be highly productive,
reproductive performance. rate, foetal growth and lamb birthweight. especially in a warming climate. The results
 RAMping Up Repro is a hands-on Adding rams will allow Bobbie to will feed into the industry’s extension
workshop, held on-farm, to help ensure collate a complete picture of how climate activities such as AWI’s RAMping Up Repro
that growers get the most from their change will affect sheep reproduction. workshops that provide woolgrowers with
rams. Developed by AWI in partnership “I’ll hopefully be able to tie it all knowledge of what drives ram performance,
with Zoetis Australia, the RAMping Up together and address a lot of unanswered thereby helping improve the profitability of
Repro workshop aims to build producers’ questions,” she explained. their enterprises.”
confidence in managing their rams before The temperature of ram testicles is The Science and Innovation Awards
and during joining, with full pre-joining ram regulated independently, typically sitting a for Young People in Agriculture are
checks undertaken by participants during few degrees centigrade below the animal’s core coordinated by ABARES and are open to
the workshop. body temperature. Bobbie will study how hot young people aged 18-35 years working or
 weather affects this over the 2022/23 summer, studying in rural industries. The annual
More information using technology designed to continuously awards aim to support and inform best
RAMping Up Repro is rolled out by AWI’s monitor scrotal and body temperature with farming practices and develop strategic
grower extension networks. Visit www. minimal impact on the rams. planning within the sector.
wool.com/networks to get in contact and With a changing climate and a recent
find out when your closest workshop is review reporting that heat stress around More information
being held or to register your interest. joining already costs the Australian sheep www.wool.com/scienceawards

12 ON
 FARM

 New workshop
 SimpliFly-ing flystrike
 management
 A new workshop to help woolgrowers combat flystrike has been successfully
 piloted and will be available from next month through AWI’s state grower extension
 networks. The one-day workshop, titled SimpliFly™, steps woolgrowers through
 an informative and interactive process for developing a property-specific, strategic
 flystrike management plan and calendar.

 W hile many woolgrowers know about
 flystrike and deal with it regularly,
 the new SimpliFly™ workshop from
 AWI provides woolgrowers with best
 practice, property-specific solutions,
 through business and husbandry planning
 and management.
 Attendees will be taken through the
 short and long-term ‘tools’ in their flystrike
 management toolbox that, when used in
 combination, are effective at addressing the
 complex flystrike challenge. In particular, the
 workshop demonstrates that no single tool
 provides a solution to preventing flystrike
 and that an integrated pest management
 approach is the best long-term approach.
 “SimpliFly™ provides woolgrowers
 with information on all the different
 options or tools available to them to manage
 flystrike. The tools need to be considered in
 Katelyn Millard and Will Kinghorn during the Hamilton (Vic) SimpliFly™ pilot workshop
 combination,” said AWI General Manager, held earlier this year, customising their flystrike management plan and annual calendar
 Research, Dr Jane Littlejohn. to their operations.
 “The workshop helps woolgrowers
 work through the implications on their
 production system of not only using, but
 “The workshop will be valuable
 also removing or changing the timing of any
 of the flystrike management tools, ensuring for all woolgrowers, I particularly
 they can continue to effectively manage found the calendar and plan to be
 flystrike and protect and advance the health really useful, really practical. I can
 and welfare of their sheep.”
 easily work with them and they’ll be
 Proven, easy-to- extremely helpful in the operation.”
 understand format Cam Munro (right),
 Pilot workshops were held in Warren (NSW),
 General Manager of
 Walcha (NSW), Campbell Town (Tas) and
 Hamilton (Vic). All attendees agreed that the Egelabra Merino Stud
 workshop increased their understanding Cam attended the Warren (NSW) pilot
 of flystrike management and 97% indicated SimpliFly™ workshop in 2021
 the workshop had given them the
 confidence to make changes to the way they
 manage flystrike.
 Angela Schuster, whose team “SimpliFly™ brings this information woolgrowers. A further train-the-trainer
 developed SimpliFly™ with AWI, and together in an easy-to-understand, accessible workshop is planned for July in WA.
 is a woolgrower herself, explained: format and provides resources that Nathan Scott, one of the accredited
 “There was already a significant body of woolgrowers can immediately use on-farm to deliverers had this to say from his experience
 information available to woolgrowers help in their battle to control flystrike.” learning about delivering the workshop
 about flystrike management, but until Throughout April and May, more to woolgrowers: “Everyone knows about
 now it was in a disparate form and than 35 advisors completed the training and flystrike, but the workshop provides really
 often highly technical rather than being accreditation process to equip them with practical tips that can help us reduce the
 readily implementable. the information to deliver the workshop to risks and more effectively use the range of

ON 13
 FARM

 AWI’s Flystrike
 Extension Program
 AWI’s Flystrike Extension Program supports woolgrowers to improve the
 lifetime welfare of their sheep, reduce their reliance on mulesing and
 crutching, optimise chemical use and increase whole farm profitability
 through the provision of practical information and tools and access to
 accredited advisor support on flystrike management.
 Woolgrowers can pick and choose how to get involved with the different
 components of the program that best suits their requirements, sheep
 type, climate, operating environment and husbandry practices.
 SimpliFly™ is the third of six extension initiatives to be released under
 AWI’s Flystrike Extension Program since January 2021.

 It’s Fly Time!
 Practical, just-in-time information in the lead up to, and during,
Colin and Suzie Jones using the chemical
selection wheel during the Campbell Town (Tas) high-risk flystrike periods.
SimpliFly™ pilot workshop in March to consider
the types of preventative chemical they can use Available now. See www.wool.com/itsflytime
as well as the timing of application.

management options available. I now know
 DemystiFly
more about flystrike management than Practical information about managing chemical resistance in blowflies.
I ever have before.” Available now. See www.wool.com/demystifly and page 14.
Property-specific and
practical resources
Participants leave the workshop with
 SimpliFly
 A one-day workshop to develop a property-specific, strategic flystrike
resources customised to their specific management plan.
property and management approach.
 The whole-of-farm management Available from July. See www.wool.com/simplifly and the opposite page.
calendar has been designed to integrate
flystrike management activities with other
farm management activities such as animal ClassiFly
husbandry and pasture management, as well A one-day workshop to increase understanding and skills in breeding
as much-needed holidays! for flystrike resistance. (This initiative is under development and
 Attendees also learn about the useful will be launched later in 2022.)
interactive features available online from
FlyBoss to help manage flystrike, including
the FlyBoss tools. The FlyBoss tools allow
woolgrowers to work out the high-risk
 StrateFly
 A one-day workshop to develop a property-specific, whole-of-farm
periods for flystrike in their area and test strategy for moving to a non-mulesed enterprise. (This initiative is
the effectiveness and timing of various under development and will be launched in 2023.)
management activities in combating

 AmpliFly
flystrike such as crutching and shearing,
chemical treatments, breeding for flystrike
resistance and mulesing.
 One-on-one coaching and support from a trained and accredited
 SimpliFly™ attendees also receive
 advisor to assist you over time to implement your whole-of-farm
a series of factsheets and case studies on
 strategy for moving to a non-mulesed enterprise. (This initiative is
flystrike management, managing blowfly
 under development and will be launched in 2023.)
resistance to chemicals and best practice
procedures at mulesing, including the use of
analgesia and anaesthesia.
 More information: Are you interested in becoming an
 • AWI’s Flystrike Extension Program: accredited advisor under the AWI
More information
 www.wool.com/flystrikeresources Flystrike Extension Program?
www.wool.com/simplifly
To find out when there is going to be a AWI has openings for industry
 • Flystrike management, including
SimpliFly™ workshop available near advisors to get involved in the
 access to interactive decision
you, or to register your interest in a program. For information on the
 support tools: www.flyboss.com.au
workshop in your region, we encourage program and how you can get
you to contact the AWI-supported grower involved, view the Call for Expressions
 • AWI’s Flystrike Research,
extension network in your state and sign of Interest at wool.com/flystrike-eoi
 Development and Extension
up to their free newsletter. You can find or contact the AWI National Extension
 Program: www.wool.com/flystrike
your network at www.wool.com/networks Manager, Emily King, on emily.king@
or call the AWI Helpline on 1800 070 099. wool.com or 0437 523 036.

14 ON
 FARM

 Blowfly chemical resistance
 – publications
 www.wool.com/demystifly

 Are you concerned that your blowfly chemicals are losing effectiveness? There are only a small number of chemical groups
 registered for flystrike control, so it is important to prolong the usefulness of these chemicals on your property for as long
 as possible. By implementing resistance management strategies, woolgrowers can slow the development of resistance,
 which will help maintain the effectiveness of the currently registered chemical products.
 AWI has made available information for woolgrowers about blowfly chemical resistance to ‘demystifly’ this complex,
 yet important, issue. Here is a selection of the available publications, available at www.wool.com/demystifly.

 UNDERSTANDING
 CHEMICAL RESISTANCE
 Lucilia cuprina, the Australian sheep blowfly, initiates most cases of flystrike on Australian sheep. Like all insect
 pests, it has the potential to develop resistance to insecticide (chemical) treatments.

 MANAGING CHEMICAL Resistance is more likely to occur with long term use or over reliance on just one chemical group.
 Resistance doesn’t mean that the chemicals have completely lost effectiveness, it just means that the period FLYSTRIKE PREVENTION AND
 RESISTANCE of protection may be less than what you previously expected or what is on the label.

 TREATMENT CHEMICAL GUIDE
 DO YOU HAVE RESISTANT FLIES?
 Before you conclude your flies are resistant, check that: The table below is a guide only and summarises information specific to flystrike prevention and treatment only. Not all products containing the following chemical actives are
 KEY POINTS CHEMICAL RESISTANCE There was not heavy or persistent rain following
 treatment, resulting in chemical wash out
 The chemical was
 applied following
 registered for use in flystrike control. It is important to read the label for full details about the products’ permitted use for flystrike control, application method, wool length,
 label protection period and withholding periods or intervals.
 Lucilia cuprina, the Australian sheep blowfly, initiates most cases of the label instructions
 • Flystrike is estimated to flystrike on Australian sheep. Like all insect pests, it has the potential These signs and with the right
 Chemical is registered for use in flystrike Chemical is not registered for use in control Consider your chemical rotation strategy when using
 annually cost the Australian to develop resistance to insecticide (chemical) treatments. indicate you may have equipment control based on the application method flystrike based on the application method products that have formulations for both fly and lice control
 sheep industry in excess resistance:
 Resistance is the decreased susceptibility of a sheep blowfly For treating struck sheep, use a different chemical group from the one used for long term protection from flystrike.
 of $170 million in terms population to a chemical that was previously effective at controlling • a shortening of the protection The sheep affected
 of production losses and

 GUIDE TO FLYSTRIKE CHEMICAL ROTATION
 blowflies. When exposed to a chemical, the more resistant individuals period that is specified on were actually treated Application method for fly1 Formulation
 prevention and treatment costs. may survive and pass on this resistance to their offspring. Over time product labels; or
 The appropriate Chemical Chemical Withholding periods/
 Label protection period1 available for
 the proportion of resistant flies in the population may increase.
 amount of chemical group active Pour/Spray-on Jetting Dipping Dressing intervals (in days)
 • flystrike in multiple sheep that Dags did not make was applied using
 lice control2
 • Chemical resistance in
 Long-term use and over reliance on just one chemical group for have been treated with the penetration of the the right application
 blowflies is more likely to Organo- SRI: 42 WHP: 14
 any type of pest control almost always results in resistance if good same chemical rather than chemical difficult pattern Diazinon Not specified
 occur with long term use phosphates (OPs) WHI: 60 ESI: 21
 resistance management plans aren’t in place. Some of the chemical just in a few sheep.
 and over reliance on just one groups that we used to rely on for blowfly control, such as dicyclanil The wool length was
 chemical group. consistent with label Synthetic Alpha-cypermethrin SRI: 14 WHP: 0
 and cyromazine, are no longer as effective because blowflies are
 developing resistance to them. instructions Pyrethroids (SPs) (body strike only)
 Up to 10 weeks
 WHI: 60 ESI: 7 1 PREVENTION 2 LICE CONTROL 3 DRESSING/TREATMENT
 • There are only a limited
 Resistance doesn’t mean that the chemicals have completely lost If these factors have been eliminated you should arrange for a resistance test. Up to 10 weeks
 number of chemical SRI: Dry WHP: 21
 effectiveness, it just means that the period of protection may be less Neonicotinoids Imidacloprid OR
 WHI: 60-182 ESI: 63
 groups registered against than what you previously expected or what is on the label. RESISTANCE MANAGEMENT STEPS Up to 14 weeks3
 flystrike so increasing
 chemical resistance will Sheep producers can follow these SRI: Dry WHP: 0
 1. 2. Spinosyns Spinosad 4-6 weeks as preventative application
 have a significant impact on THE IMPORTANCE OF resistance management steps
 Use a range of chemical Know the chemical
 WHI: 0 ESI: 0
 to maintain flystrike protection
 the industry. RESISTANCE MANAGEMENT for their flocks and slow the
 and non-chemical tools –
 don’t rely on only one tool
 groups and rotate them,
 where practical Macrocyclic Up to 12 weeks under low to SRI: Dry WHP: 7 Consider the chemical group Consider the chemical Consider the chemical
 development of resistance within Ivermectin
 • There is an urgent need Lactones (MLs) moderate fly pressure WHI: 42 ESI: 7 that was last applied (either group that was last used to groups that were last applied
 It is estimated that flystrike causes annual production losses of their local fly populations:
 for sheep producers to approximately $105 million and costs the industry $65 million in
 Up to 11 weeks spray/pour-on SRI: Dry WHP: 7 earlier this season or at the control lice and avoid using to prevent flystrike and avoid
 strategically manage prevention and treatment each year. The average cost of this per head 3. 4. 5. Cyromazine4
 is $2.37 annually. Optimise the number and Follow the label Regularly monitor
 Up to 14 weeks for other methods WHI: 60 ESI: 21-28 end of the previous fly season) a chemical from the same using these as dressings
 the use of chemicals to Insect growth
 maximise flystrike control Flystrike also has a significant impact on the welfare of sheep causing
 timing of chemical and directions and keep for flystrike and kill regulators (IGRs) 12.5g/L: Up to 11 weeks and where practical, avoid group for the next preventative to treat struck sheep
 non-chemical treatments treatment records any maggots from SRI: Dry WHP: 7-28
 and to maintain the efficacy severe pain and suffering. Dicyclanil4 50g/L: 18-24 weeks
 WHI: 30-90 ESI: 21-1205 using a chemical from the flystrike application in the this season.
 struck sheep 65g/L: Up to-29 weeks
 of available products on There are only a small number of chemical groups registered for same group next. same season.
 their property. flystrike control. It is important to prolong the usefulness of these FURTHER RESOURCES RESISTANCE TESTING CONTACT SRI: Sheep Rehandling Interval WHI: Wool Harvest Interval WHP: Withholding Period (meat/milk) ESI: Export Slaughter Interval
 chemicals on your property for as long as possible. By implementing
 Narelle Sales 1 Application method, appropriate wool length and protection period must be verified on label. 3 Different label protection periods depend on wool length – carefully check product labels before use.
 • When selecting chemicals you resistance management strategies, sheep producers can slow the AWI has a range of resources to help you manage
 2 Some chemical sub-groups may also be used in products for lice control and this should not be taken to mean 4 Although cyromazine and dicyclanil are different chemical actives, there is some cross-resistance between them.
 need to consider chemical development of resistance, which will help maintain the effectiveness flystrike on your property, available at www.wool.com/ Elizabeth Macarthur Agricultural Institute that the product, formulation or application method for flystrike control is the same as for lice control. 5 ESI varies depending on formulation applied – carefully check product labels before use.
 of the currently registered chemical products. flystrikeresources. Email: emai.insectresistance@dpi.nsw.gov.au
 groups for flystrike prevention,
 For more flystrike management information visit the Direct Ph: 02 4640 6446 Switch Ph: 02 4640 6333
 lice control and treating FlyBoss website www.flyboss.com.au. ALWAYS READ AND FOLLOW THE PRODUCT LABEL Visit www.flyboss.com.au for more information on flystrike management ALWAYS READ AND FOLLOW THE PRODUCT LABEL Visit www.flyboss.com.au for more information on flystrike management
 struck sheep.
 This publication should only be used as a general aid and is not a substitute for specific advice. To the extent permitted by law, we exclude all liability for loss
 or damage arising from the use of the information in this publication. ©2021 Australian Wool Innovation Limited. All rights reserved. AWI invests in research,
 This publication should only be used as a general aid and is not a substitute for specific advice. To the extent permitted by law, we exclude all liability for loss or damage arising from the use of the information in this publication. ©2021 This publication should only be used as a general aid and is not a substitute for specific advice. To the extent permitted by law, we exclude all liability for loss or damage arising from the use of the information in this publication.
 development, innovation and marketing activities along the global supply chain for Australian wool. AWI is grateful for its funding, which is primarily provided by Australian Wool Innovation Limited. All rights reserved. AWI invests in research, development, innovation and marketing activities along the global supply chain for Australian wool. AWI is grateful for its funding, which is primarily ©2021 Australian Wool Innovation Limited. All rights reserved. AWI invests in research, development, innovation and marketing activities along the global supply chain for Australian wool. AWI is grateful for its funding, which is
 MANAGING CHEMICAL RESISTANCE 1 Australian woolgrowers through a wool levy and by the Australian Government which provides a matching contribution for eligible R&D activities. GD4407A_Dec21 provided by Australian woolgrowers through a wool levy and by the Australian Government which provides a matching contribution for eligible R&D activities. GD4390A_Nov21 primarily provided by Australian woolgrowers through a wool levy and by the Australian Government which provides a matching contribution for eligible R&D activities. GD4403A_Dec21

 MANAGING CHEMICAL
 RESISTANCE
 (November 2021) FLYSTRIKE PREVENTION AND GUIDE TO FLYSTRIKE
 This six-page factsheet contains TREATMENT CHEMICAL GUIDE CHEMICAL ROTATION
 information of how chemical resistance (November 2021) (December 2021)
 occurs, how to determine if chemical
 resistance is an issue and how to This one-page guide will help woolgrowers This one-page guide provides the
 minimise the impact. identify which flystrike chemicals three key considerations in the
 are available to use for their specific responsible selection and rotation of
 UNDERSTANDING circumstances, including the chemical flystrike chemicals.
 CHEMICAL RESISTANCE groups, actives, application methods, label
 protection periods, withholding periods
 (December 2021)
 and intervals and other uses.
 One-page summary guide.

 32 ON ON 33
 FARM FARM

 Chemicals can still be effective

 Combatting of sheep to prevent flystrike. Large and
 thick dags, for example, inhibit the effective
 application of preventative chemicals to
 Remember that if you think resistance is an issue on your property, this doesn’t mean the chemicals have totally lost effectiveness. It most
 likely means that the period of protection may be less than that advertised on the label or what you previously expected. Protection periods

 chemical resistance
 the breech. may also vary between properties.
 Unclassed lambs and weaners are also Even if you think your sheep are within the protection period of a chemical treatment, it is still important to continue to monitor your
 more susceptible to flystrike as they tend to sheep for signs of flystrike and treat them accordingly if they do become struck.

 There’s more than one tool have more wool colour, dermatitis and fleece It’s also important not to wait until the very end of the protection period before you utilise other flystrike management tools, for
 rot than mature sheep. example crutching and shearing, although attention must be paid to wool harvest intervals. Leaving yourself a buffer can relieve the pressure

 in the fight against flystrike The timing of crutching and shearing if unforeseen events delay other interventions, such as shearing or crutching.
 can influence the susceptibility of a mob
 EFFECTIVE CHEMICAL APPLICATION
 to flystrike, as can lambing. Crutching and

 CHEMICAL RESISTANCE MANAGING CHEMICAL MANAGING CHEMICAL
 shearing provide approximately six weeks
 Understanding chemical resistance and the role that an protection from flystrike, so scheduling Use the right Ensure
 integrated pest management approach plays in flystrike either of these activities at the start or application appropriate

 FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS RESISTANCE RESISTANCE management is crucial to woolgrowers’ ability to effectively
 prevent and treat flystrike as they enter the high-risk fly season.
 during the fly season should be considered
 to reduce the susceptibility of sheep to
 flystrike. Placental material attached to
 method wool length

 the breech of ewes can be attractive to flies
 Select the Apply the Read and
 CASE STUDY: REBALANCING CASE STUDY: RETHINKING and timing lambing and lamb marking to

 FLYSTRIKE PREVENTION TOOLS IN FLYSTRIKE MANAGEMENT WITH W oolgrowers are becoming increasingly
 concerned with chemical resistance in
 their fight to protect their flock’s welfare and
 1. SUSCEPTIBLE SHEEP
 Some sheep are more susceptible to flystrike
 fall outside of the fly season is important
 in reducing the risk of flystrike and assist
 right chemical
 for the job
 right dosage follow label
 instructions
 than others.
 Are shorter protection periods How will I know if chemical A NON-MULESED ENTERPRISE MULESED SHEEP combat flystrike. Recent research conducted Sheep with breech wrinkles, or
 wound healing.
 Remember: Check withholding periods and intervals, keep records and attend chemical users’ training.
 always because of resistance? resistance is occurring on my farm? November 2021 November 2021 by AWI and NSW DPI found increased long wool and wool cover in the breech 2. ENVIRONMENT
 resistance to dicyclanil and cryromazine area as well as those that are very daggy Wet, warm and calm weather conditions,
 in blowfly samples which coincides with or have urine stain, yellow wool, lumpy particularly over several days or more, favour
 Shorter protection periods provided by chemicals There are a number of ways insects can develop
 PETER AND ANGELA SCHUSTER GRAHAM, HELEN, COL AND KAZ QUADE reports from woolgrowers of reduced wool, dermatitis or fleece rot (among other blowfly reproduction and maggot growth.
 What can I do to manage or prevent
 than those described on the label are often resistance to a chemical, with different resistance Location: Central West New South Wales Location: Central West, New South Wales protection periods from chemicals. characteristics) are more likely to be struck. Some rainfall patterns (heavy or persistent chemical resistance?
 interpreted to be chemical resistance, but there are mechanisms resulting in different observable Property size: 5,500 ha Property size: 3000 hectares Some sheep may also be at greater rain) can also wash out chemicals from
 many factors that influence the protection period symptoms. If you have not had any lab tests done, Climate: Temperate Climate: Temperate with hot summers and no dry season • Use a range of chemical and non-chemical tools – don’t rely on one tool.
 achieved on farm. Before you conclude your flies have you noticed that: Rainfall: 600 mm annual average Rainfall: 475 mm (annual mean) What is chemical risk of flystrike if their conformation or the wool.
 • Know chemical groups and rotate them where practical.
 structure leads to their wool staying wetter You can’t do much about the weather,
 are resistant, ask yourself the following questions:
 Merino sheep: Self-replacing fine non-mulesed Merino flock
 Flock size: 10,000 sheep, joining 4,500 ewes to
 Merino sheep: Dual purpose, plain bodied, mulesed Merino
 ewe flock. Replacement ewes are sourced from
 resistance? for longer. For example, sheep with high but you do need to consider weather
 • Optimise the number and timing of chemical and non-chemical treatments.
 • some or all of the maggots survive knock-down Merino rams one breeder and are joined to terminal rams. and wide shoulder blades or a dipping forecasts when timing the application of
 • Follow the label directions and keep treatment records.
 Long term use and over reliance on just • Regularly monitor for flystrike and kill any maggots from struck sheep.
 1. Were the struck sheep more susceptible to chemicals and appear like they haven’t been Merino wool: Average 18-micron bright stylish wool Merino wool: Average 18 micron back are more susceptible to fleece rot and preventative chemicals and rule out possible
 one chemical group for any type of pest AWI has a factsheet Managing chemical resistance, which provides further guidance
 flystrike because of heavy dags, urine stain, treated, despite high confidence that the chemical control almost always results in resistance, body flystrike. chemical wash out due to rainfall before
 on each of the above points, available at www.wool.com/flystrikeresources.
 fleece rot, lumpy wool or other characteristics? treatment has been thoroughly applied; or if good resistance management plans aren’t It can also be more difficult to apply attributing reduced protection periods to
 in place. Some of the chemical groups chemicals effectively to susceptible types chemical resistance.
 2. Did dags make penetration of the chemical • the residual period of protection appears to be
 Peter and Angela Schuster operate a mixed farming When Graham and Helen Quade joined Graham’s that woolgrowers used to rely on for blowfly 3. CHEMICALS
 difficult? getting shorter than it was over past fly seasons, and grazing operation across 5,500 ha south of Dubbo in parents, Col and Kaz, to farm together near control are no longer as
 despite no change in application rate, correct Central West NSW, incorporating dryland and irrigated Trundle, NSW, in 2010 it was as good a time effective because blowflies
 There are different chemical Other tools in the toolbox
 3. Was the wool length consistent with label groups with different active manage chemical resistance. This means
 application and no significant differences in cropping as well as sheep and cattle enterprises. The as any to rethink how they would manage their have become resistant Using a range of strategies and tools, rather
 instructions for application? average annual rainfall is about 600 mm which falls flystrike risk. The Merino ewe flock of 2,000 head is crossed with chemicals that can be used you need to:
 season outlook or fly pressure? to them. than relying on one tool alone, will help you
 fairly consistently but not always reliably throughout terminal Border Leicester rams, with the sale of for preventing or treating a. Consider the chemical group that was
 4. Was there persistent or heavy rainfall following Shorter protection
 e monitor, prevent and treat flystrike, as well
 Is chemical resistanc
 Growers noting either of these symptoms should the year. “When we moved back, we took on more land wool and first cross lambs being the main income flystrike. Some chemical last applied (either earlier this season
 treatment, resulting in chemical wash out or periods provided by chemicals as reduce the risk and manage the impact of
 which meant more country being put down to sources from the sheep enterprise. farm? groups can be used for or at the end of the previous fly season)
 a problem on my
 urgently arrange for a resistance test. than those advertised on the
 increased fly pressure? The Schusters’ main sheep enterprise is based on a cereal, legume and oil crops. Harvest can often both, while others can be and where practical, avoid using a chemical resistance on your property.
 label are often interpreted This means using a range of chemical
 5. Were the struck sheep actually treated?
 Merino flock, with the sale of wool and surplus stock an PROACTIVE APPROACH coincide with our key risk time for flystrike in The Quades purchase around 250-400
 to be chemical resistance,
 that chemical resistance
 is a problem on used on open wounds or to chemical from the same group next.
 How can I get important income source. The flock comprises about spring and early summer, so we figured we should replacement, dual purpose Merino hogget ewes Before deciding control lice and others can’t. b. Consider the chemical group that was and non-chemical options. Non-chemical
 6. Did you check the label instructions carefully a resistance test? 10,000 sheep with 4,500 ewes to be joined to Merino TO FLYSTRIKE tweak things to make sure our sheep would be well of a preferred bloodline annually in January, all of
 but there are many factors
 that influence the protection your farm, ask yourself: to flystrike
 The application method last used to control lice and avoid using options you can utilise include:
 rams in 2022. In 2016 the Schusters moved to a non- protected if we got too busy,” says Graham. which have been mulesed. sheep more susceptible wool, fleece for different chemical a chemical from the same group for the • Monitoring sheep for flystrike,
 before applying the chemical, paying particular period achieved on-farm. It’s Were the struck yellow environmental conditions and fly
 mulesed enterprise and in doing so have reconfigured The Schusters have experienced periods where fly dags, urine stain, formulations varies next preventative flystrike application
 attention to dosage, patterns of coverage, also important to remember because of heavy ?
 Contact Narelle Sales for information and to their flystrike management approach. activity has extended throughout the year (such as in Collectively the Quades’ farm 3,000 ha across four “We used to buy replacement ewes from a couple wool or other characteristics and different chemical in the same season. populations.
 recommended applicator and whether the 2020). These years have reinforced the need for an properties, with 1,800 ha planted to wheat, barley, of the bigger sheep sales and would spend a lot that the advertised protection rot, dermatitis, lumpy difficult? • Crutching and shearing.
 arrange a resistance test at: of the chemical formulations can be c. Consider the chemical groups that were
 treatment should be applied off-shears or to Managing flystrike in a non-mulesed enterprise has annual plan to ensure they can implement a range oats, canola and lupins. Approximately a quarter of time looking for the right type of animals to suit periods were developed Did dags make penetration label instructions applied to different wool last applied to prevent flystrike and • Managing scouring, dags and stain.
 Elizabeth Macarthur Agricultural Institute of these crops are dual purpose varieties that are our production goals. We’d also look for ewes with during trials which may not consistent with
 longer wool? been a learning curve for the Schusters. Mulesing is one of preventative activities in a timely manner. Labour Was the wool length lengths. avoid using these as a dressing to treat • Selecting paddocks that work against
 Email: emai.insectresistance@dpi.nsw.gov.au tool in the toolbox when it comes to controlling flystrike shortages have also emphasised the importance of also used for grazing. The balance of the country is attributes that would reduce their risk of strike, necessarily reflect individual, conditions favoured by flies.
 for application? events following The protection struck sheep this season.
 7. Was the applicator calibrated and working and chemicals are another. Taking one tool out of the staying ahead of a problem by being proactive rather sown with improved pastures, primarily based on like how they’d been mulesed and their tail length,” on-farm conditions. Factors that or heavy rainfall • Reducing fly populations by killing AWI is also piloting a workshop
 Direct Ph: 02 4640 6446 Were there persistent out or increased period for each chemical Reduced protection periods may
 properly, with no blockages or leaks? toolbox doesn’t mean solely relying on another but than reactive. lucerne, sub-clover and medic varieties. says Graham. influence the effectiveness of in chemical wash maggots when treating struck sheep. that looks at how you can combine these
 Switch Ph: 02 4640 6333 rather, for the Schusters, it increases the importance chemicals can be grouped as: treatment, resulting formulation will vary as also be due to poor application techniques.
 well. It’s important to Make sure you check the label carefully to • Classing, selection and breeding activities tools in a flystrike management plan and
 of rebalancing the remaining tools in an integrated 1. how susceptible your sheep fly pressure?
 actually treated? always read the label and ensure you are using the right chemical for that consider the susceptibility of sheep annual calendar of activities – see page 37.
 approach to flystrike management. are to flystrike (susceptible the struck sheep
 Were
 If you answer ‘yes’ to any of the first four questions Can I use more or less label instructions
 carefully before think about the chemical the job, the correct dose and the correct to flystrike. Workshops are scheduled to be available to
 sheep); Did you check the attention • Breech modification and lamb marking woolgrowers from early 2022.
 or ‘no’ to any of the last three questions, something chemical for each application? paying particular groups and actives you application equipment and pattern.
 2. what the seasonal conditions applying the chemical, of coverage, have used and want to Paying attention to these details can help following best practice.
 other than chemical resistance may be reducing 1 1 dosage, patterns
 to application method, and whether the treatment
 MANAGING CHEMICAL RESISTANCE: CASE STUDY MANAGING CHEMICAL RESISTANCE: CASE STUDY are (environment); and
 use rather than just the maximise the effectiveness of chemicals A five-page AWI factsheet It’s Fly More information
 the protection period or the effectiveness of Overdosing and underdosing can contribute to 3. how you use chemicals, both in recommended applicator Time! Preventing and treating flystrike, • To help you manage flystrike on your
 longer wool? brand name. used to prevent and treat flystrike.
 the chemical. the past and now (chemicals). off-shears or to
 resistance. It is important to apply the correct dose should be applied properly, The type If you think the blowfly population a three-page AWI factsheet It’s Fly Time! property, AWI has a range of resources
 By looking closely at each calibrated and working Recognising and monitoring flystrike available that you can access online at
 to animals with the proper equipment that has been Was the applicator and frequency of on your farm may be resistant to
 of these factors, you can work or leaks? and a range of videos that address these www.wool.com/flystrikeresources
 calibrated using the appropriate application pattern. with no blockages chemical use in the chemicals, you should arrange a
 out what the fly challenge is four questions or
 to any of the first past are important resistance test by contacting Narelle Sales, tools are available at www.wool.com/ • You can also access further information
 This information can be found on the chemical label. likely to be this season and what If you answer ‘yes’ something other flystrikeresources. from FlyBoss at www.flyboss.com.au
 last three questions, considerations in your Elizabeth Macarthur Agricultural Institute
 ‘no’ to any of the

 1 2
 you can do to better manage the the protection
 may be reducing planned chemical use on emai.insectresistance@dpi.nsw.gov.au
 flystrike risk. than chemical resistance of the chemical treatment.
 period or the effectiveness
 this season to avoid or or (02) 4640 6446. See overleaf for two related case studies 
 FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS 1

 CHEMICAL RESISTANCE PRODUCER CASE STUDIES COMBATTING CHEMICAL
 – FREQUENTLY ASKED (November 2021) RESISTANCE
 QUESTIONS These two four-page case studies detail (December 2021)
 (November 2021) flystrike prevention by two woolgrowers in This two-page article from Beyond the
 This three-page factsheet provides Central West NSW: (1) Peter and Angela Bale provides an overview of chemical
 practical answers to the common Schuster (non-mulesed sheep) and (2) resistance and the role that an integrated
 questions that woolgrowers ask about Graham, Helen, Col and Kaz Quade pest management approach plays in
 blowfly chemical resistance. (mulesed sheep). flystrike management.