Mick Kruckow, a cattle farmer in northern Queensland, was facing challenges with the nutrition of his cattle, leading to poor breeding success. Despite successful calving seasons, his first calf heifers were often not heavy enough to join the following year. This issue was primarily due to the poor soil quality on his 60-hectare property south of Cairns, which lacked pH balance and was high in aluminium and iron, making it difficult for the cattle to receive adequate nutrition from the pastures.
After attending a Nutrition EDGE workshop earlier this year, Mick found a new ray of hope for his cattle. Through the workshop, Mick learned about the importance of nutrition for his cattle and connected with other producers facing similar challenges. One of the key takeaways was the feeding of a mix containing urea, molasses, and phosphorus to improve the overall condition of the cattle.
The results of the new feeding regimen were promising, with Mick’s cattle, especially the younger ones, now maintaining their condition and even seeing weight gain. The cost of the feed supplements was calculated to be minimal, at 17¢/day, making it a cost-effective solution for Mick’s farm. The improved feed conversion in the herd indicated that the new feeding strategy was working effectively.
In addition to changing the feeding practices, Mick also made operational changes on his farm. He started weighing his cattle, especially the weaners, more consistently to track their growth and adjust their feed accordingly. The weaners showed significant weight gain once they were on the new feed mix, highlighting the importance of proper nutrition for cattle growth.
Furthermore, Mick conducted diet quality testing of his pastures and implemented a rotational grazing strategy to ensure that the cattle had access to sufficient grass without exerting extra energy. By increasing the grazing period in each paddock, Mick noticed that the cattle were maintaining weight gain and overall health more effectively.
Despite running a smaller operation, Mick found immense value in attending the Nutrition EDGE workshop. The knowledge and practices he gained from the workshop not only improved the condition and breeding success of his cattle but also provided a foundation for continuous learning and improvement in his farming practices.
The main takeaway from Mick’s experience is the critical role that nutrition plays in the success of cattle farming. By investing in proper nutrition and making operational changes based on best practices, farmers like Mick can overcome challenges and achieve better outcomes for their cattle and their business.
Overall, Mick’s journey showcases the importance of continuous learning and adaptation in the ever-evolving field of agriculture. By staying informed, connecting with other producers, and implementing innovative strategies, farmers can overcome obstacles and drive sustainable growth in their operations.
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