In July and August, members of our Apiam Swine Services team hosted two Pub & Pork events in Bendigo and Kingaroy, with special guest US swine veterinarian Dr Tara Donovan.
The theme of the night was Optimising Production in a High-Cost Environment and discussed feeding effectively, US pig production and mental health. Over 100 pig producers attended the two events.
Dr Robert Suter (Bendigo) and Dr Mark Eastaugh (Kingaroy) presented on feeding effectively, focusing on what producers can implement on farm to reduce their feed conversion rate and feed costs.
Dr Tara Donovan presented on her 24 years of experience as veterinarian and vice president of health management for The HANOR Company, a US pork producer with operations in seven states and partner in Triumph Foods processing plant. She showcased her expertise in developing swine preventative health programs, leading biosecurity efforts for disease prevention and executing disease improvement and eradication programs.
Apiam ProDairy veterinarian and Let’s Talk Director Dr Craig Wood closed the night with a presentation on reducing the stigma of mental health and suicide and the importance of surrounding yourself with a support network.
These events showcased the breadth of knowledge and expertise Apiam’s Swine Services team can provide in the areas of animal health, production systems, nutrition and new technologies.
We’d like to thank Dr Tara Donovan for giving up her time to travel with our team for a week and providing us with insights into the differences between Australian and US pig production systems.
We would also like to thank Kerang East Piggery Investment Group and Wilson Pork Co. for hosting Dr Tara Donovan and our Apiam Swine Vet team for insightful farm visits during the week.
If you have any questions regarding the content discussed at the Pub and Pork events, please do not hesitate to reach out to your Apiam Swine Services veterinarian or Key Account Manager Haylee Clifford on 0456 498 120 or haylee.clifford@apiam.com.au
