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The SmartSwine 2024 Conference, hosted by Apiam Animal Health in Perth this October, drew over 85 producers and industry sponsors for two days of cutting-edge discussions on technology transforming the swine industry.

This year’s event focused on the latest advancements revolutionising swine veterinary care, including AI-powered disease diagnostics, workflow solutions for pig farms, and a new product designed to enhance reproductive performance. Attendees were given a first-hand look at innovations driving efficiency and productivity in pork production.

Among the keynote speakers was Fred Kuhr, Director of Production for Dykhuis Farms, who shared his expertise on integrating advanced technology into large-scale operations. Apiam’s Business Manager for Swine and Poultry Services Shaun Welsh, further demonstrated how PigFlow technology is being effectively implemented on Australian farms. Producers shared their own success stories, offering valuable insights into how this technology has improved their operations.

Apiam’s Research and Development Manager Dr. Hugo Dunlop, provided a highly anticipated update on the company’s research trials, including the soon-to-be-released Japanese Encephalitis vaccine. This vaccine is expected to be available ahead of the summer season, helping to protect swine populations during high-risk periods.

Emerging technology also took centre stage, as Dr. Mackenzie Congreve, a new addition to Apiam’s veterinary team in Western Australia, introduced RealWear VR headset technology. She explained how its easy-to-follow workflows are being used to diagnose diseases on-site, streamlining processes for piggery staff.

Swine Consulting Veterinarian Dr. Mark Eastaugh, delivered a thought-provoking presentation on the cost-benefit analysis of adopting these new technologies, emphasising the potential for increased productivity and efficiency on pig farms.

Portec Swine and Poultry Services Veterinarian Dr Kim Nairn, along with Apiam’s Dr. Jonathan Van Dissel, highlighted the importance of upskilling young talent to address workforce shortages. They also discussed how novel disease outbreaks are being used as opportunities for professional development.

ACE Laboratory Services provided insight into their diagnostic services, including their role in bringing new vaccines to market and the importance of microbiology in advancing One Health objectives to improve swine health.

AusVet epidemiologist Ben Madin introduced the concept of compartmentalisation, explaining how it could help the pork industry maintain operations in the event of an emergency animal disease outbreak.

The conference concluded with an engaging industry panel addressing the current challenges facing Australian pork producers. Panellists discussed how the adoption of technology is crucial to overcoming the threats and obstacles the industry faces in the years ahead.

In true SmartSwine style, the event wrapped up with a lively axe-throwing competition, followed by a dinner cruise on the Swan River at The Raft restaurant, where live music kept the mood festive into the night.

Apiam Animal Health extended its gratitude to gold sponsor Boehringer Ingelheim, as well as bronze sponsors Zoetis, MSD Animal Health, CCD Animal Health, and AusPac for their support in making the conference a success.