The Victorian Farmers Federation’s (VFF) Stock Sense project will continue to work with Victorian livestock producers and strengthen the state’s biosecurity preparedness following an extension of project funding.
The total $1.660 million dollar project extension consists of a three-year agreement made up of farmer levies from the Cattle Compensation fund of $1,245,000, as well as a one-year agreement from the Sheep & Goat Compensation fund worth $415,000, that will see the project extended until 2028.
VFF Livestock President Scott Young welcomed the joint-funding announcement by the Cattle Compensation Fund and the Sheep and Goat Compensation Fund and said the project has become a vital resource for farmers since launching in 2021.
“We’ve been amazed by the response to our events, with recent numbers continuing to grow and that makes them a great networking opportunity.”
“This funding is a welcome boost and ensures Stock Sense can continue its crucial role in strengthening Victoria’s livestock industry and safeguarding against ongoing biosecurity risks.”
“Over time, the VFF’s Stock Sense has become a trusted go-to for livestock biosecurity and animal welfare education, delivering benefits that extend across communities and the state.”
“Our events bring together leading experts to share practical knowledge on everything from stock handling, fencing, and feeding, to animal ownership and supply chain management, particularly valuable for peri-urban and small-scale farmers.”
“With biosecurity challenges growing more urgent, these initiatives are vital both now and for the future,” Mr Young said.
The VFF’s Stock Sense project helps Victorian livestock producers and peri-urban landholders maintain and improve their animal health and welfare and farm biosecurity. Resources including free online tools, webinars, factsheets, and facilitated educational workshops across the state.
This year, there has been an average of 26 attendees at Stock Sense’s in-person workshops, and 151 registrations on average per webinar.
The VFF Stock Sense team is encouraging farmers or those wanting more information to contact the team on [email protected] or visit https://www.vff.org.au/stock-sense/