BOER NEWS & VIEWS
ISSUE 6 – DECEMBER, 2011
Boer Goat Breeders of Australia
MERRY CHRISTMAS AND A HAPPY NEW YEAR!
Page 1
We aim to produce the best quality Boer Goats in a profitable,
sustainable and unified goat industry.
Welcome to the sixth edition of the Boer News and Views!
If you have information worth sharing, please send it through.
Federal Board Members
Contact Details
Phillip Adams – Ph: 02 6851 1491, Email: adamspm@ozemail.com.au
Vicki Mitchell – Ph: 03 5829 0693, Email: vicki@coomboonaboer.com
Jason Ellenden – Mobile: 0400 719 893, Email: ellendenelectrical@bigpond.com.au
Zoe Lacey – Ph: 02 6846 8237, Email: winoragoats@bigpond.com.au
Graham Reimers – Ph: 07 4666 1027, Email: uncle.reimers@bigpond.com
John Christensen – Ph: 02 6777 0967, Email: john@lia.net.au
Justin Gilbert – Ph 02 6657 5308, Email: justin@boomaboers.com.au
John Thomas – Ph: 02 6773 3126, Email: john.thomas@abri.une.edu.au
What’s in this issue…..?
- Chairman’s Report
- China Visit
- National Show Flyer
- National Show Schedule
- Stud Report
- WormBuster (Contributed)
- Meeting Minutes
Page 2
December 2011
Dear Members,
The past few months have been quite a busy time for Board members
addressing a number of issues, particularly in relation to the daily
management of our Association. It is no secret that the Association is
still losing money each year.
The main reason for the lack of funds is members not registering animals because of the lack of
markets, so we need to make some further tough decisions.
It is our belief that this drain on funds will continue until we establish new markets for our members
and once we see sales, we will see Registrations & Transfers happening, returning funds back in to
the Association account. We understand that members are reluctant to register animals while there is
little opportunity for sales.
For this reason, the main priority of the current Board is to find new markets for our members so
that you can sell your animals. Without sales we are all in desperate trouble. The other issues that
we need to address must take second place to finding new markets so that you can sell your animals.
It is also our belief that the prices paid in recent years has been insufficient for the better quality
animals which were just grouped with everything else and breeders were not rewarded for
producing quality. This situation the Board intends to change with any Export orders we are able to
gain.
Our goal is to gain new markets where members will be paid more money for their animals
that meet the criteria of these markets.
In October Graham Reimers and I travelled to China and spoke at the Eighth National Sheep and
Goat Conference. We were the first International speakers to ever be invited to speak at this high
level Government conference and I must say that this trip was certainly worth the effort.
As a result of meeting so many large producers at the Conference, we have two breeders in China
who have expressed strong interest in purchasing 300 breeding Does each, in the second quarter of
2012. These orders will be handled directly by the Board and we will engage an independent Export
Agent to facilitate the Export process. We also have a number of other breeders who were very
interested in what new genetics Australia could offer to them and we expect this will lead to sales
later in 2012.
As part of my Export Portfolio, I have been exploring other market opportunities for our members
in Russia, India, Dubai and Pakistan. Aus Trade have been very helpful in establishing credible
contacts in each of these countries, however this is a very time consuming process with many pieces
to the puzzle to coordinate and bring together. Having said that, the outlook is quite promising and
the Board will keep members updated on any progress with these possible markets.
Page 3
We wish to make it clear to members that the Association will retain a commission on all
Export sales that we generate through the BGBAA to cover administration cost and the cost to
the Association of securing these new markets. This will also help boost the Associations bank
balance & hopefully stop the losses we have been experiencing over the past few years. An
exact rate has not yet been determined; however this will be established soon.
Staff at ABRI have just about completed the upgrading of our “On-Line” system so that you will be
able to delete goats online that have died or sold for export. This will save the BGBAA considerable
cost in processing fees. The updating of your herd data will be compulsory for all breeders to enable
us to finally obtain current accurate numbers of Full Blood Goats in Australia.
Early in 2012 you will see the launch of our new BGBAA website. You will find the new website
more user friendly and furthermore, this website will not cost $7,800 per year to administer, which
is what the current site costs the Association.
Recently the Board approved the 2012 National Show be held at Stanthorpe SE Queensland from
Thursday 8th March to Sunday 11th March. This will be a “Stand Alone” National Show conducted
under a similar format to the 2011 Meat Goat Expo, where classes will be held for commercial
animals, both wethers & Crossbred Does on the Thursday, along with carcass classes on Saturday.
The Championship Stud Show will be conducted on Saturday 10th & Sunday 11th March. The Board
encourage all members to attend, especially anybody who has never attended or competed at a
National Show.
The Board would like to thank all volunteers who have worked for the BGBAA during the past
year, putting on field days, shows, breeder’s workshops and a host of other activities in promoting
the Boer Goat. Your tireless effort is greatly appreciated.
Finally we would like to wish all members & their families a Very Merry Christmas & a Happy &
Prosperous New Year.
Phillip Adams OAM
Chairman
Moratorium on Late Fees
As from 1st September 2011,
there will be a Moratorium on all late
Registration and Transfer Fees.
This Moratorium finishes on 31st August 2012.
All late Registration and Transfer Fees will be $11
Page 4
By Graham Reimers
On the 15th & 16th October 2011, Phillip Adams & I were given the privilege of speaking at
the “Eighth China National Sheep & Goat Industry Development Conference”. The
Conference was very different to what we had expected & it was pointed out to us that we
were the first International speakers to ever be invited to speak at this high level Government
Conference.
We were advised that there would be over 300 delegates at the Conference, with the greatest
number of them being Goat & Sheep Farmers. This wasn’t quite correct. There were over 300
delegates at the Conference; however the greatest number of them were from the various
Provence Governments or from Government Institutions like Universities or Government
breeding farms. It was more like a huge MLA Conference with all the different Industry
players present. In saying that, we could never put on a Conference with all of the pomp &
ceremony like we experienced at this Conference. It was simply amazing.
Phillip & I sat through a day & a half of Chinese, where we couldn’t understand a thing,
however our Austrade translator tried her best to communicate the general message from
each speaker. While we couldn’t understand the language, we could follow many of the
graphs & diagrams that were used & most of the presenters had numerous photos in their
presentation, which we found very interesting, to say the least.
The hospitality that was shown towards Phillip & I was overwhelming. We were treated like
Royalty by everyone that we met & by the organisers of the Conference. Being the only
Westerners at the Conference & for that matter the entire city, we stood out in the crowd &
everybody wanted to get their photo with you. This I found a little daunting.
With the assistance of Kathy Chen of Austrade, we were able to identify a number of large
scale Goat Farmers who were looking for new genetics. During the breaks in the Conference,
Phillip & I took every opportunity to speak with these breeders to try & ascertain exactly
what it was that they were looking for & how our Association could help. I must point out
that most of these breeders run between 3,000 & 5,000 Does, under a very intensive
husbandry system, where the Goats are housed in huge sheds with slatted floors.
The most important outcome from this Conference for our members here in Australia, is that
we have identified two or three breeders who have expressed very strong interest in
purchasing 300 Does each, in late March/April next year. I must point out that these breeders
are looking for “QUALITY” & will not accept animals that don’t meet their specification.
We also identified many other breeders who would purchase animals once they see what is
imported by the first few breeders. They are a little cautious after what happened in 2002/3,
but realise that they need new genetic material if they are to progress. These breeders are
looking to Australia for animals that will improve the performance of the animal they
currently have.
Page 5
Long gone are the days where China purchased thousands of animals each year. However in
saying that, there is great potential for future trade in China with high quality animals as the
breeders have become more discerning & more educated about the animals they purchase. If
we as an Association take great care in how we handle this opportunity, I am very confident
that we can develop a long term market in China.
After lunch on the second day of the Conference, all of the delegates boarded a convoy of
buses & went on a series of farm visits. For Phillip & I this was the highlight of the
Conference, as we were able to see firsthand the animals, the facilities & the management
practices. The facilities are certainly first class, with massive modern sheds housing hundreds
of animals in each shed. The animals themselves were not in keeping with the quality of the
sheds, with many of the breeding Does being of very average quality to quite poor quality.
Many of the animals were “Chinese Long Ear Goats”, which are basically a Nubian style
animal with a very large frame & no meat. The other major breed is the “Chinese Black
Goat”, a midsized animal that looks like a high quality Feral Goat here in Australia.
One very obvious feature that we noticed at all farms we visited & in all breeds, was the very
poor udder & teat structure of many of the breeding Does. There seems to be no selection
process on teat & udder structure & from discussion we had, the problem seems to be getting
worse with time. In fact, we don’t believe there is any selection process for improving the
quality of the animals in most of these farms & the breeders don’t really understand how to
select & improve their animals.
There is a great opportunity for our Association in the area of training of these Goat Farmers.
However in saying that, whoever gets involved with this training, must have extensive
knowledge of Commercial production as well as Stud breeding. The breeders that we spoke
with expressed great interest in attending training schools presented by our Association. I
strongly suggest that our Board seriously consider this opportunity as this will give us the
opportunity to create further sales of quality animals. Any training program must be very well
constructed & centred around Australia being the source of quality animals for the Chinese
breeders.
In conclusion, both Phillip & I feel that the trip was a huge success & money well spent in an
effort to create new markets for our members. We would suggest that any future
opportunities like this be grasped with both hands & exploited for every opportunity it
presents for the benefit of our members. We as a Board need to be more proactive in the
International marketplace to create opportunities, rather than sit back & wait for opportunities
to present themselves to us.
Page 6
2012 BGBAA
NATIONAL SHOW
Stanthorpe, SE Qld
Thurs 8th – Sun 11th March
Our 2012 National Show will be a “Stand Alone” event which will include
Commercial classes for grass & grain fed wethers as well as classes for
Commercial crossbred Does & will be judged by Theuns Botha from South
Africa. The Show will also include carcass classes for the wethers.
The Sydney Show Goat Committee declined the opportunity to again host
our National Show & with no other interest being expressed in hosting our
National Show, the Board decided that the Association would organise &
run our 2012 Show. Stanthorpe was selected as the venue because a very
successful Expo had already been conducted in this facility in May where
exhibitors were quite happy with the facilities at the Show Ground & in the
Town in general.
While the facilities in the pavilion are a far cry from what we have in
Sydney, there are other components that Stanthorpe offer which will offset
what we are used to in Sydney & ensure a very successful & friendly
National Show.
The ease of access at the Show Grounds along with an abundance of cheap
accommodation right next to the Grounds or camp on the Grounds plus
free parking alongside the pavilion, make this venue very user friendly.
A National Show Committee has been formed & this Committee will take
care of every aspect of the Show & will answer directly to the Board.
We hope as many members as possible will support our 2012 National
Show, either as an exhibitor or assist at the Show or simply just turn up to
watch the highest quality of Boer Goats in Australia strut their stuff.
Page 7
Crossbred Does
2012 BGBAA
10. Milk Tooth Doe under 25kg
11. Milk Tooth Doe 25kg & over
12. Two Tooth Doe
13. Four Tooth Doe & older
Champion Crossbred Doe
Reserve Champion Crossbred Doe
NATIONAL SHOW SCHEDULE
Entry Forms & all other relevant
paperwork will be available in early
January.
Thursday 8th March 2012 – Judging
commences at 8.00am Sharp.
Full Blood Stud Classes
Judge:- Theuns Botha
Saturday 10th March 2012 Judging
Wether Classes
commences at 8.30am Sharp.
Grass Fed Milk Tooth Wethers
(Crossbred or Full Blood)
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Judge:- Theuns Botha
Standard Doe Classes
Up to 25kg
26kg to 32kg
33kg to 40kg
41kg & over
Two Tooth Crossbred Wether 40kg &
over
Champion Grass Fed Wether
14. Junior Full Blood Doe under 12
months of age, this class will be divided
into four (4) subclasses on weight.
Junior Champion Doe
Reserve Champion Junior Doe
15. Full Blood Doe 12-18 months
16. Full Blood Doe 18-24 months
Grain Fed Milk Tooth Wethers
(Crossbred or Full Blood)
6.
7.
8.
9.
Intermediate Champion Doe
Reserve Champion Intermediate Doe
under 32kg
32kg to 40kg
41kg & over
Two Tooth 40kg & over
Champion Grain Fed Wether
17. Full Blood Doe 24-36 months
18. Full Blood Doe 36-48 months
19. Full Blood Doe 48 months & older
GRAND CHAMPION WETHER
Senior Champion Doe
Reserve Champion Doe
The first ten (10) place winners in
classes 1 to 9 will progress to the
hook competition & will be
slaughtered on Friday morning.
GRAND CHAMPION DOE
RESERVE GRAND CHAMPION DOE
Page 8
Red Doe Classes
GRAND CHAMPION BUCK
RESERVE GRAND CHAMPION BUCK
20. Junior Red Doe, under 12 months, milk
tooth, to be divided into two classes on
weight.
Red Buck Classes
28. Junior Red Buck, under 12 months,
milk tooth, to be divided into two
classes on weight.
Champion Junior Red Doe
Reserve Champion Junior Red Doe
21. Senior Red Doe 12-24 months
Champion Junior Red Buck &
Reserve Champion Junior Red Buck
22. Senior Red Doe over 24 months
Champion Senior Red Doe
Reserve Champion Senior Red Doe
29. Senior Red Buck 12-24 months
30. Senior Red Buck over 24 months
GRAND CHAMPION RED DOE
Champion Senior Red Buck
Reserve Champion Senior Red Buck
Standard Buck Classes
GRAND CHAMPION RED BUCK
SUPREME CHAMPION RED EXHIBIT
Sunday 11th March 2012 Judging
commences 8.30am Sharp.
Group Classes
31.Dams Progeny-Junior
(two animals any sex)
Judge:- Theuns Botha
23. Junior Full Blood Buck under 12
months of age, this class will be divided
into four (4) subclasses on weight.
32.Dams Progeny-Senior
(two animals any sex)
33.Dam with one Progeny
Junior Champion Buck
Reserve Champion Junior Buck
34.Sires Progeny-Junior
(three animals both sexes to be
represented)
24. Full Blood Buck 12-18 months
25. Full Blood Buck 18-24 months
35.Sires Progeny-Senior
(three animals both sexes to be
represented)
Intermediate Champion Buck
Reserve Champion Intermediate Buck
36.Exhibitors Group of three (3) animals
(Both sexes to be represented)
26. Full Blood Buck 24-36 months
27. Full Blood Buck 36 months & older
37.Breeders Group of four (4) animals –
Senior Buck, Senior Doe, Junior Buck
& Junior Doe
Senior Champion Buck & Reserve
Champion Senior Buck
Page 9
December 2011
By Graham Reimers
2012 National Show
As you are possibly not aware, Sydney do not want to host our National Show next year & we as
a Board needed to make a decision as to what can be done for our 2012 National Show. I made
numerous enquiries over the past few months, looking for a suitable venue in NSW but have
come up empty.
We conducted a very successful Expo in Stanthorpe this year where the venue proved suitable
& very inexpensive. It is our belief that this venue could be used for our 2012 National Show.
While we would prefer that our National Show be in Sydney, this is not possible next year & we
needed to make the best of what we had available to us.
The 2012 BGBAA National Show will be a “Stand Alone” Show at Stanthorpe SE Qld, from
Thursday 8th March to Sunday 11th March, where we include on the Thursday, Commercial
slaughter classes as well as Commercial Doe classes, as we did at the Expo. The Commercial
wethers would be judged on Thursday, slaughtered on Friday & carcasses judged on
Saturday. Stud Doe classes would be on Saturday & Stud Buck classes on Sunday along with
Group classes. Stud exhibitors need only arrive on Thursday night or Friday morning.
These dates have been selected to fit around other Shows & Events in the early part of 2012.
A National Show Committee has been formed & sponsorship is our priority to fund this event. I
believe that we can make a great success of this event, but it won’t be easy due to the lack of
time to gain sponsorship.
National Show Judge
Given that the exhibitors voted overwhelmingly for Theuns Botha to Judge again in 2012, the
Board have respected the wishes of the exhibitors & have engaged the services of Theuns
Botha as our 2012 Judge. We will use Theuns for Judging Schools & Workshops after the Show
to further justify the cost of bringing him out.
Judging Schools
We need members to advise us NOW if they are interested in attending any Judging Schools in
2012, so that we can finalise the planning of these Events.
As this could possibly be the last time that Theuns comes to Australia, I would advise
everybody to take this opportunity to be educated by the “Old Master”.
Page
10
Judges Days
Earlier this month we had a teleconference with the Level 3 Judges to discuss having a Judges
Day in each State, where all Level Judges will be invited to attend & gain further training &
express their views & any concerns they may have in relation to Judging matters. These days
will also give the Judges an opportunity to discuss the Breed Standard & any possible changes
that they might want to see happen at the 2012 Review. The Level 3 Judges in each State will
conduct these Judges Days in early 2012 & notification will be sent to all Judges when dates are
finalised.
Judges Conference
The 2012 Judges Conference is planned for Sunday night & Monday immediately after the
National Show & will involve Level 2 & Level 3 Judges. We are currently calling for Agenda
items for this conference.
Breed Standard Review
2012 is the scheduled year for the Breed Standard Review. Our Rules & Regulations clearly
state how this process is to take place, however I would like to extend the involvement in this
process as was done in 2007. I was the Stud Director in 2007 when the last review took place &
we involved the Judges in this process, which proved very beneficial to the process.
By conducting Judges Days in each State early in the year, Judges will be given the opportunity
to put their views forward & create formal suggestions to be presented to the review
committee & ultimately to the Board.
In 2007 the New Breed Standard was accepted on 3rd July, this new review I hope to have
accepted by the Board at our April meeting.
International Markets
While the items above in this report are essential for our Association, I would like to take this
opportunity to again stress the vital importance of our activity in sourcing new International
Markets for our members. This is not my Portfolio, but my Portfolio plays a role down the track.
Our involvement in sourcing New Markets is paramount & going hand in hand with this is
Training in these Countries where we sell our Goats. “After Sales Service”. Our Judges
should be our first point of call as future Trainers in these Countries & how much effort we put
into our Judges now will determine what & how much we can offer our new clients in terms of
Training over the next few years.
After our trip to China, it became even more obvious to me, the need for our Association to
play a much greater role in International Training. Our Judges need more training to better
equip them for the possible roles ahead, however not all Judges have what it takes to make a
quality trainer that can represent our Association Internationally.
Graham Reimers
Stud Director
Page
11
Very helpful website contributed by Carole Axton. Thanks.
Dear WormBoss subscriber
Welcome to the December 2011 edition of WormBoss News.
News
The worm management lessons from 2011 (and earlier times) will help you to reduce drenching,
slow down the onset of drench resistance and maximize productivity and profits.
More WormBoss news
New South Wales
The outlook is for a wetter than normal summer and therefore more risk from worms. At present,
worm activity depends on where the rain has fallen. Be vigilant and do regular WECs
More WormBoss news - New South Wales
Victoria
Worms are increasing activity following good rain. Regular WECs are essential!
More WormBoss news - Victoria
Queensland
A wet summer is likely and Barber's Pole will be a major threat. Be certain to do regular WECs (4
weekly) and check again after drenching to ensure that the drench was effective. If the drench is
not fully effective, rapid re-infestation will occur.
More WormBoss news - Queensland
Western Australia
A major “worm wave” is breaking, particularly in the Great Southern. Young sheep are at the
highest risk. Barber's Pole is also active around Esperance and other hot spots.
More WormBoss news - Western Australia
Page
12
Tasmania
Some sheep will need monitoring every 3 weeks to avert problems. Regular inspection and
monitoring of weaners is a useful way to avoid problems and recover from visiting rellies.
More WormBoss news - Tasmania
Happy Christmas everyone. Give a really useful gift to someone you know who doesn’t get this
email – send it on!
See you all in January!!
The WormBoss team
WormBoss was developed by the Australian Sheep Industry Cooperative Research Centre (Sheep
CRC) and Australian Wool Innovation Limited (AWI)
WormBoss represents the national knowledge on sheep worms and their management.
© Copyright 2011. All rights reserved | Unsubscribe
Moratorium on Late Fees
As from 1st September 2011
there will be a Moratorium on all late
Registration and Transfer Fees.
This Moratorium finishes on 31st August 2012.
All late Registration and Transfer Fees will be $11
Page
13
Boer Goat Breeder’s Association of Australia Ltd
Minutes of Face-to-face Board Meeting
ABRI Armidale
Tuesday 22nd November 2011 & Wednesday 23rd November 2011 9.00am EDST
Present: Phillip Adams (Chairman), Jason Ellenden, Justin Gilbert, Vicki Mitchell, John Christensen and John
Thomas (Company Secretary) in attendance.
Meeting was declared open by Chairman at 9.10am
1.
2.
Apologies: Graham Reimers, and Zoe Lacey.
Minutes of Meetings: Minutes of Board meeting 15th September 2011 were circulated prior to the meeting and
taken as read.
M11/125
Resolved to accept the minutes of the meeting of 15th September 2011.
Moved: Vicki Mitchell
Seconded: Jason Ellenden
Carried
John Christensen abstained from voting as he was absent from the August meeting.
3.
Business Arising.
3.1 Annual – See Item 16
3.2 Herd Book – ABRI Programmer is currently developing the program to become live on 1 st February
2012.
3.3 Day Board Forums – See Item 17
3.4 Website – See Item 15
3.5 National Show Tender – See Item 7
4.
Correspondence:
Correspondence report circulated at the meeting.
M11/126
Resolved to accept the inward correspondence and approve the outward correspondence.
Moved: Jason Ellenden
Seconded: Justin Gilbert
Page
14
Carried
5.
Reports:
5.1 Chairman’s Report
Phillip Adams stated that most of his report would be covered in General Business Items.
5.2 Treasurers Report
Copies of the Financial Reports were circulated to the Board prior to the meeting and John Christensen
referred to these in his report. He stated that the bottom line was that we need to find both internal and
external markets for the members as soon as possible or we may not survive. This is being looked at, see items
6.6 and 8.
The Board discussed ways to turn the financial situation around at length and are committed to finding
solutions and markets for the Australian membership.
The Balance Sheet as at 31st October 2011 shows a net loss of $36,577.40 compared to the same period last
year of a loss of $27,759.98.
Whilst Expenditure is down $4,741.25 on last year the Income is down $13,558.67. There are a couple of
major factors that have affected this in this period:
1. Interest on the Interest Bearing Term Deposit of $6,089 was received in this period last year but is not due
until June 2012 in this period, this will be $4,668.37.
2. The cost of the AGM, $6,789.09 is included in this period whereas it was not included until
November/December in 2010.
3. The income from registrations and transfers is down significantly from last year.
The Board are aware of the need to look at all aspects of the Associations Finances and are taking action to
reverse the situation over the next twelve months. One of the first steps taken was the review of the website
which will save the Association a considerable amount each year. The new website is to be reviewed by the
Board on day 2 of this meeting (see Item 15).
The Board discussed at length the need to achieve a critical mass of animals and John Christensen asked why
the upgrading of animals was no longer allowed as he could see no difference in the quality of a fifth cross
animal in comparison to many of the Full Blood Animals.
The Board is to look at a commercial business plan to incorporate this as it would be another income stream
that we are currently missing out on and also boost numbers down the track to fill export markets as they
become available.
M11/127
Resolved to accept the Treasurers Report.
Moved: John Christensen
Seconded: Jason Ellenden
Approved
A list of all accounts for payment since the last meeting was circulated to the Board for their approval.
M11/128
Resolved to approval the payments as presented.
Moved: Jason Ellenden
Seconded: Justin Gilbert
Approved
The Board broke for morning tea and to meet with Jack Allen, the new Director responsible for the Boer
Goat Association as part of his portfolio following the retirement of Dr Arthur Rickards.
Page
15
5.3 Company Secretary’s Report
Copy of Company Secretary’s report forwarded to the Board prior to the meeting.
M11/129
Resolved to accept the Company Secretary’s report.
Moved: John Thomas
Seconded: Jason Ellenden
Carried
5.3.1 Approval of New Members.
M11/130
Resolved to approve the list of provisional members as presented.
Moved: Vicki Mitchell
6.
Seconded: Justin Gilbert
Approved
Sub-Committee Reports
6.1 Communications
Jason Ellenden stated that he had hoped to have the next E-Newsletter out by now, however, he was waiting
for the report from the China visit before sending it out, he thought that there may also be some things from
this meeting that would be of interest to the members including advising the members the direction this Board
is planning on heading into the future and would now aim to get it out in the next couple of weeks and also
more than likely include Christmas greetings. He also reported that he had been working on the Annual but
had very little feedback from members, to date he has received only two people interested in placing
advertisements and no articles received.
The Board have therefore decided to defer the Annual until after the National Show in 2012.
When the new webpage is live an email to go to the members advising them and letting them know that the ENewsletter will be available on it. At this stage it is anticipated that the new Annual will also go on to the new
website.
M11/131
Resolved that the Annual be deferred until after the 2012 BGBAA National Show.
Moved: Jason Ellenden
M11/132
Seconded: John Christensen
Carried
Resolved to accept the Communications report.
Moved: Jason Ellenden
Seconded: Justin Gilbert
Approved
6.2 Systems
Zoe Lacey was an apology and no report received.
6.3 Treasury & Merchandise
John Christensen gave his Treasurers report and advised that he was still looking at promotional merchandise
to present to the Board for consideration.
6.4 Education & Field Days
Page
16
Vicki Mitchell presented written reports to the meeting as follows.
Field days calendar is attached with listing of all field days to be held during 2012. Quite a few of these field
days already have closing dates for November 2011.
Not all are focused on livestock and you need to read through the prospectus for full details and booking
conditions.
I have spoken with some members regarding their experiences with field days. Main points are:






Cost
Most field days are costly to attend, depending on what site you require
Time
Usually 2 days duration and can be hard to find volunteers and helpers
Promotional material
Definite lack of material available for handouts and promotion
Focus
No set standard of what is been presented – some are there for own stud
display,
Some commercial breeder goat market for export, some for meat market with product
available for tasting, Targeted audience- not always clear
Display animals
Not always suitable for display, need to have high quality stock regardless of
whether it is for stud or commercial display
Power point presentation Power point presentation would be helpful with background info on the Boer
and marketing of farmed goat.
Board needs to look at updating current promotional brochures and update. There needs to be a template kept
at ABRI so material can be printed and updated at any time as well as using reliable printing businesses to
ensure this info can be reprinted as needed.
States are encouraged to consider field days as a way of promoting the Boer goat but must be able to have
access to promotional materials and banners for optimum presence.
Mudgee may be a good one for NSW to follow up on as there hasn’t been a Boer goat display for a couple of
years. I have asked for a prospectus.
Workshops
Breeders are still interested in work-shops; Topics that could be offered include farm management, worms,
pro- graze, nutrition/husbandry, Genetics and preparation of meat animals etc.
All of these topics are dependent on having access to people willing to have open days on their farms or
suitable location and also the manpower to run events.
Government departments offer a good range of courses although can be cattle or sheep based. Some can be
run for particular requirements as long as minimum number of participants is met (usually 20 people) or 10
couples. Some courses will have subsidies available. Courses currently on offer are worm counts & Pro
graze.
Contact DPI (department of primary industries) or MLA for info & courses on offer. Check out their websites.
Other courses that could be of help are courses offered by local TAFE colleges – e.g. training the trainer,
business skills etc. Members would need to check within local area to see what is available.
M11/133
Resolved to accept the Education and Field Days Report.
Moved: Vicki Mitchell
Seconded: Jason Ellenden
6.5 Export Development
Page
17
Carried
See Item 8.
6.6 Domestic Development
Justin Gilbert reported that he understood that MLA had employed a nutritionist to get all the information that
they could on nutrition in goats and this will then be available to be included in our educational information
for both the members and other interested parties.
One idea that he had been looking into was getting Boer Goats into schools in their agricultural programs. He
had discussed this idea with one of the Regional Agriculture teachers who he invited to his place to discuss the
idea and he was very open to a plan to get a program started in schools. The idea would be that we
supply/give/sell the school with a number of kids and they grow them out, at the same time learning all about
the animal and breeding and farming of goats right through to entering them in Hoof and hook competitions
and eating the end product. Part of the plan that they discussed to have a field day for a number of schools to
get them interested in the concept and see what happens.
It is understood that schools are interested in getting away from the larger animals such as cattle for Health
and Safety reasons and this could be an answer to this approach.
There are around 28 schools that enter animals in the Adelaide Show and if this was to take off in NSW the
future interest in the Breed and possible new members/producers could be expanding the Breed.
Another project that he is looking at is setting up a stand in the Woolworths Food Dome at the Royal Easter
Show next year to sell and promote goat related products. Justin is to investigate this and advise the Board if it
is possible. At this stage it will depend on the availability of a stand as bookings may have already closed.
6.7 Stud & Judges Training
Graham Reimers was an apology from the meeting, however he sent in a written report as follows.
Many of the items in this Report require Board approval before they can progress to the next level.
2012 National Show
As you are all aware, Sydney do not want to host our National Show next year & we as a Board need to make
a decision as to what can be done for our 2012 National Show. I have made numerous enquiries over the past
month, looking for a suitable venue in NSW but have come up empty.
I would like to make a suggestion for the Board to consider & make a decision on at the face to face meeting.
While this suggestion might not be ideal when compared to Sydney, it is a viable option that I believe will
work.
We conducted a very successful Expo in Stanthorpe this year where the venue proved suitable & very
inexpensive. It is my belief that this venue could be used for our 2012 National Show. While I would prefer
that our National Show be in Sydney, this is not possible next year & we need to make the best of what we
have.
I am suggesting a “Stand Alone” National Show from Thursday 8th March to Sunday 11th March, where we
include on the Thursday, Commercial slaughter classes as well as Commercial Doe classes, as we did at the
Expo. The Commercial wethers would be judged on Thursday, slaughtered on Friday & carcasses judged on
Saturday. Stud Doe classes would be on Saturday & Stud Buck classes on Sunday along with Group classes.
Stud exhibitors need only arrive on Thursday night or Friday morning.
Page
18
These dates have been selected to fit around other Shows & Events in the early part of 2012.
If, as a Board we take on the National Show, a Show Committee must be formed immediately & sponsorship
must be our priority to fund this event. I believe that we can make a great success of this event, but it won’t be
easy due to the lack of time to gain sponsorship. I have a list of Companies that should be contacted & a well
coordinated plan of attack will see us achieve the sponsorship we need.
Personally, I would like to see us aim for $10,000 in product & kind sponsorship, which might sound high,
but is achievable when done correctly. If each member of the National Show Committee has a target of $1,000
& each Director can get $500 in sponsorship, we will romp in our goal.
M11/134
Resolved that the 2102 BGBAA National Show be held at Stanthorpe Qld between 8th & 11th
March 2012 and will include Commercial Slaughter classes as well as Commercial Doe classes.
Moved: John Christensen
Seconded: Justin Gilbert
Carried
National Show Judge
Given that the exhibitors voted overwhelmingly for Theuns Botha to Judge again in 2012, I would suggest
that we respect the wishes of the exhibitors. Sydney will not be inviting Theuns in 2012 & we can use him for
Judging Schools after the Show to further justify the cost of bringing him out.
M11/135
Resolved that the Judge for the 2012 BGBAA National Show will be Theuns Botha.
Moved: John Christensen
Seconded: Justin Gilbert
Carried
Judging Schools
I am currently planning a Level 2 Judging School in January, possibly at Gunnedah in NSW. This is to cater
for Judges needing to fulfil requirements before Theuns arrives. (If we decide to go that way)
The remainder of my planning depends on the decision on the National Show as I would like to use Theuns
for some of these Schools. I must point out that Theuns has indicated that this could be the last time that he
would be available as age is starting to play a role in his activities. Theuns is considered as the best trainer that
we have had from South Africa & I strongly suggest that we use our last opportunity to have our breeders
taught by the Old Master.
Should we choose to use Theuns, then I would plan a Level 2 & a Level 3 School with him as well as an
Inspectors Training Day & would consider some less formal activities with him during his stay.
Judges Days
I am planning a teleconference with the Level 3 Judges to discuss having a Judges Day in each State, where
all Level Judges will be invited to attend & gain further training & express their views & any concerns they
may have in relation to Judging matters. These days will also give the Judges an opportunity to discuss the
Breed Standard & any possible changes that they might want to see happen at the 2012 Review.
Judges Conference
The 2012 Judges Conference is planned for after the National Show & will involve Level 2 & Level 3 Judges.
Level 1 Judges will be able to have their say at the State Judges Days. This will be an agenda item for the
teleconference of the Level 3 Judges.
Breed Standard Review
Page
19
2012 is the scheduled year for the Breed Standard Review. Our Rules & Regulations clearly state how this
process is to take place, however I would like to extend the involvement in this process as was done in 2007. I
was the Stud Director in 2007 when the last review took place & we involved the Judges in this process,
which proved very beneficial.
By conducting Judges Days in each State early in the year, Judges will be given the opportunity to put their
views forward & create formal suggestions to be presented to the review committee & ultimately to the Board.
In 2007 the New Breed Standard was accepted on 3rd July, this new review I hope to have accepted by the
Board at our April meeting.
International Markets
While the items above in this report are essential for our Association, I would like to take this opportunity to
again stress the vital importance of our activity in sourcing new International Markets for our members. This
is not my Portfolio, but my Portfolio plays a role down the track. Our involvement in sourcing New Markets is
paramount & going hand in hand with this is Training in these Countries where we sell our Goats. “After
Sales Service”. Our Judges should be our first point of call as future Trainers in these Countries & how much
effort we put into our Judges now will determine what & how much we can offer our new clients in terms of
Training over the next few years.
After our trip to China, it became even more obvious to me, the need for our Association to play a much
greater role in International Training. Our Judges need more training to better equip them for the possible
roles ahead, however not all Judges have what it takes to make a quality trainer that can represent our
Association Internationally. I would like to see us fast track some of our Judges who show the potential of
making possible future trainers.
M11/136
Resolved to accept the Stud & Judges Training report as submitted.
Moved: Jason Ellenden
Seconded: Justin Gilbert
Carried
GENERAL BUSINESS
7.
National Show Tender
Phillip Adams reported that the RAS Sydney have declined to tender for the 2012 BGBAA National Show.
With regards to the Breed Hut, they offered the BGBAA the opportunity to run it, however, we are not
permitted to sell anything and also wanted to charge us for running it. The Board have decided not to take up
the offer and are instead looking to having a spot in the Woolworths Food Dome and are currently exploring
this possibility with the RAS.
As far as the National Show is concerned it was agreed to proceed with the National Show at Stanthorpe (see
item 6.7)
8.
Overseas Markets
Graham Reimers was an apology from the meeting, however he sent in a written report as follows.
Page
20
On the 15th & 16th October 2011, Phillip Adams & I were given the privilege of speaking at the “Eighth China
National Sheep & Goat Industry Development Conference”. The Conference was very different to what we
had expected & it was pointed out to us that we were the first International speakers to ever be invited to
speak at this high level Government Conference.
We were advised that there would be over 300 delegates at the Conference, with the greatest number of them
being Goat & Sheep Farmers. This wasn’t quite correct. There were over 300 delegates at the Conference,
however, the greatest number of them were from the various Provence Governments or from Government
Institutions like Universities or Government breeding farms. It was more like a huge MLA Conference with
all the different Industry players present. In saying that, we could never put on a Conference with all of the
pomp & ceremony like we experienced at this Conference. It was simply amazing.
Phillip & I sat through a day & a half of Chinese, where we couldn’t understand a thing, however our
Austrade translator tried her best to communicate the general message from each speaker. While we couldn’t
understand the language, we could follow many of the graphs & diagrams that were used & most of the
presenters had numerous photos in their presentation, which we found very interesting, to say the least.
The hospitality that was shown towards Phillip & I was overwhelming. We were treated like Royalty by
everyone that we met & by the organisers of the Conference. Being the only Westerners at the Conference &
for that matter the entire city, we stood out in the crowd & everybody wanted to get their photo with you. This
I found a little daunting.
With the assistance of Kathy Chen of Austrade, we were able to identify a number of large scale Goat Farmers
who were looking for new genetics. During the breaks in the Conference, Phillip & I took every opportunity
to speak with these breeders to try & ascertain exactly what it was that they were looking for & how our
Association could help. I must point out that most of these breeders run between 3,000 & 5,000 Does, under a
very intensive husbandry system, where the Goats are housed in huge sheds with slatted floors.
The most important outcome from this Conference for our members here in Australia, is that we have
identified two or three breeders who have expressed very strong interest in purchasing 300 Does each, in late
March/April next year. I must point out that these breeders are looking for “QUALITY” & will not accept
animals that don’t meet their specification. We also identified many other breeders who would purchase
animals once they see what is imported by the first few breeders. They are a little cautious after what
happened in 2002/3, but realise that they need new genetic material if they are to progress. These breeders are
looking to Australia for animals that will improve the performance of the animal they currently have.
Long gone are the days where China purchased thousands of animals each year. However in saying that, there
is great potential for future trade in China with high quality animals as the breeders have become more
discerning & more educated about the animals they purchase. If we as an Association take great care in how
we handle this opportunity, I am very confident that we can develop a long term market in China.
After lunch on the second day of the Conference, all of the delegates boarded a convoy of buses & went on a
series of farm visits. For Phillip & I this was the highlight of the Conference, as we were able to see firsthand
the animals, the facilities & the management practices. The facilities are certainly first class, with massive
modern sheds housing hundreds of animals in each shed. The animals themselves were not in keeping with the
quality of the sheds, with many of the breeding Does being of very average quality to quite poor quality.
Many of the animals were “Chinese Long Ear Goats”, which are basically a Nubian style animal with a very
large frame & no meat. The other major breed is the “Chinese Black Goat”, a midsized animal that looks like
a high quality Feral Goat here in Australia.
One very obvious feature that we noticed at all farms we visited & in all breeds, was the very poor udder &
teat structure of many of the breeding Does. There seems to be no selection process on teat & udder structure
Page
21
& from discussion we had, the problem seems to be getting worse with time. In fact, we don’t believe there is
any selection process for improving the quality of the animals in most of these farms & the breeders don’t
really understand how to select & improve their animals.
There is a great opportunity for our Association in the area of training of these Goat Farmers. However in
saying that, whoever gets involved with this training, must have extensive knowledge of Commercial
production as well as Stud breeding. The breeders that we spoke with expressed great interest in attending
training schools presented by our Association. I strongly suggest that our Board seriously consider this
opportunity as this will give us the opportunity to create further sales of quality animals. Any training program
must be very well constructed & centred on Australia being the source of quality animals for the Chinese
breeders.
In conclusion, both Phillip & I feel that the trip was a huge success & money well spent in an effort to create
new markets for our members. We would suggest that any future opportunities like this be grasped with both
hands & exploited for every opportunity it presents for the benefit of our members. We as a Board need to be
more proactive in the International marketplace to create opportunities, rather than sit back & wait for
opportunities to present themselves to us.
Phillip Adams also gave a verbal report on the visit. He stated that the trip was a great success and that they
were very confident of further contact with China. The success of these markets will depend on the
availability of the animals that will meet the requirements of those markets. The cleaning up of our database
will be instrumental in ascertaining the availability of the animals.
We also have contacts with 3 provinces in China and at least person has indicated that he will be ready to take
goats in March/April next year. Graham and Phillip also talked with several of the people from some very
large corporations in the Goat Industry and they were very well received by them and the Government
representatives which will be a major advantage in future dealings with the Chinese markets. There is a great
opportunity to supply training to them as well as the possibility of opening up markets for our members.
Phillip also indicated that they had made contact with a Dean from one of the Universities and discussed with
him the problems associated with the English to Chinese translations and he advised that he would supply two
undergraduates to be our interpreters for any future visits.
There have also been two enquiries from Russia which are being followed up.
There have also been enquiries from Turkey and India which are also being pursued.
Phillip Adams also advised that Pakistan has a agricultural expo on next year in a couple of major cities which
may be worth looking at attending. Justin Gilbert advised that there was also some type of event on in Dubai
next year that appears similar to the one that Phillip and Graham attended in China. Justin will send the details
from AUSTRADE to Phillip to investigate. The Dubai market is of great interest and one that the Board feels
well worth exploring.
9.
2012 AGM and Elections
The Board discussed the 2012 AGM and it was decided that it should possibly be held in Queensland around
the time of the EKKA. This is to be further investigated below a final decision is made.
10.
Strategic Plan

Vic branch has had meetings looking at the strategic plan. They are focusing on commercial breeders as the
general feeling is that they have been overlooked in the past and we need to grow the commercial industry to
become a commercial reality not just hit and miss. Need to have a series of workshops ranging from basic
Page
22
husbandry to more advanced such as selection of breeding stock, preparing goats for market, live exports or
domestic meat and most important assessment of commercial goats so breeders/commercial growers
understand the need for quality assurance.






11.
Draft Activity/Program 2012 Focus
To promote the need to critically evaluate breeding stock to improve our stud and commercial stock
throughout the Nation.
To commence the development of a recording system of commercially important attributes of a meat goat.
Further consultation and planning is underway and will include both objective parameters e.g. g.p.d. weight
gain, fat depth, eye muscle depth together with breeder assessed attributes e.g. udder structure, mothering
ability etc.
To offer a BGBAA herd assessment service to commercial breeders and where appropriate overseas breeders.
A simplified recording system to be offered.
To offer more advanced training packages that can be accessed by members, focused on breeding strategies,
breed standards, commercial attributes, and animal husbandry.
To provide feedback to Breeders on the success or otherwise of our stud animals to both the export and
domestic commercial industry and areas for improvement.
To promote a market for goat meat through advertising and promotional activities.
Judges Conference
This was covered in Stud Report at Item 6.7
12.
Judging Schools
Covered in Stud Report at Item 6.7
13.
Budgets
14.
Rules and Regulations
As Zoe Lacey was an apology from the meeting no update received.
Meeting ended Day 1 at 5.30pm
Day 2.
Meeting declared open at 9.15am
15.
Website
Page
23
The Board were given a lengthy presentation on the new website by David Carse from Waterfall Way
Designs. Development of the website was done with input from John Christensen and technical input from
ABRI.
The site was well received by the Board members and it is hoped to go live in the near future.
M11/137
Resolved that the Board approve the website for the BGBAA and that it be activated as soon
as practicable.
Moved: John Christensen
16.
Seconded: Jason Ellenden
Carried
BGBAA Annual
This was covered in the Communications Report at Item 6.
17.
Day Board Forums
Vicki Mitchell gave a written report from the Day Board Forum held with members at the Shepparton Show
in October.
Meeting was held after judging completed. Most weren’t very interested as they felt that their opinions and
suggestions would be overlooked by majority on the Board. Issues were raised as follows:








Journal - not interested in CD format and would not consider advertising as CD would not be opened
or used. Did not see it would benefit advertising members as a promotional item. The journal needs
to be a printed magazine- “coffee table style”.
Newsletter too many pages and not representing all states. Why haven’t articles from Carole &
others ever been used?
Cookbook- is this ever going to happen?
Members did not understand the herd book update that was included in newsletter and all assumed
that they would be paying extra fees to have their Herdbook updated. Did not understand that there
will be a time frame to update Herdbook before extra fees charged.
Must make sure the ABRI staff are aware of changes made. Barb was not aware that late fees for
transfers commenced on September 1st and had charged member full price on transfers ($22) and
only fixed up when member sent through newsletter info 27th October 2011
Could all info & changes to rulings be sent out as a press release- 1 page format to all members &
ABRI staff - called BOER BULLETIN Issue 1 etc. (single page) that ONLY HAS NEW
RULINGS for members to follow and email to members.
Is there any progress on the rules & regulations from Zoe and how long before it is available for
members.
Regs were forwarded by me to state Branches on Sept 20 and we are commencing to work through them and
need to allow a full meeting to resolve but may not happen before Christmas. I understand NSW is doing the
same.
John Christensen also gave a verbal report on the Day Board Forum that he held in conjunction with the North
Western Goat Breeders Group. He explained what the current Board were doing and the direction that it wished to
take the Society. Those present were happy with what the Board were doing and believed that the Day Board
Forum idea was a good one to enable the members to get a two way stream of information passed.
Page
24
One of the questions put to John from that meeting was in connection with the inspection of animals at shows.
They wanted to know if the animals could be inspected prior to the going in the ring. They wanted them inspected
the day before. The Board had no objection to this, however, if the exhibitor had any objection to the inspection
result that it should be heard by an independent adjudicator/s and a decision then binding on the competitor. The
animals will therefore be inspected as they are unloaded. John will convey this decision to the Group.
The next meeting will be a teleconference meeting at 8.00 pm EDST on 15th December 2011.
THE FEDERAL BOARD
WISHES EVERYONE
A SAFE
AND HAPPY
HOLIDAY SEASON,
AND A
PROSPEROUS
NEW YEAR!
Page
25