Boosting Productivity and Sustainability in Livestock Systems

Join us for an engaging and practical session focused on unlocking productivity gains in beef and sheep farming systems.

This practical day will focus on a small number of high-impact levers that can help farm managers make the most of their resources. Topics will include grazing system design, improving animal fertility, optimising turn-off timing, emissions reductions and strategies to boost overall herd performance

We’ll also explore the role of technology in decision-making, with Optiweigh representatives on hand to demonstrate equipment and share insights.

Leading the session is Cam Nicholson, a highly respected consultant in the livestock industry, who will guide participants through practical, evidence-based options to strengthen farm productivity and long-term environmental sustainability.

PRESENTED BY Cam Nicholson
Topics Covered
Unlocking Profitable Productivity Gains
Explore practical strategies to increase on-farm profitability while reducing emissions and supporting long-term sustainable land management.
Linking Carbon and Productivity
Demystify carbon calculators by identifying the key productivity levers that also contribute to emissions reduction—across both livestock and mixed farming systems.
Making the Most of On-Farm Resources
Understand the core drivers that improve productivity and resource efficiency, enabling smarter, more sustainable farming.
System Change for Meat Production and Environmental Impact
Discover how adapting your farming system can increase kilograms of meat sold while minimising environmental impact.
Technology-Driven Decision Making
Learn how farm technology can support more informed, timely, and effective management decisions.
Accessing High-Value Supply Chains
Understand how reducing emissions intensity and environmental impact can open doors to premium markets and secure supply chain opportunities.
Effective Herd Management for Resource Efficiency
Explore how better herd management can reduce environmental pressure, optimise input use, and support long-term farm performance.

Please bring: Hat, chair closed shoes. Lunch will be provided.

ABOUT THE PRESENTER
Cam Nicholson is the Director of Nicon Rural Services, a consultancy based near Geelong that works extensively with the grazing and cropping industries. With over 35 years of experience in pasture agronomy and soil management, Cam has played a key role in delivering farmer-focused programs through GRDC, MLA, Landcare, and the Future Drought Fund.

Cam provides practical, science-based advice to farmers and also lectures on animal and pasture systems at Marcus Oldham College. His recent work has focused on helping farmers better understand and manage business risk, navigate carbon accounting, and make confident, informed decisions.

He has also contributed to the redevelopment of key MLA resources and tools related to pasture and soil management—ensuring they are practical, relevant, and aligned with current best practices.

OPTIWEIGH

Animal weights are the cornerstone of effective livestock management.
Optiweigh revolutionizes this process by delivering real-time, remote, and automatic weight data—effortlessly. This breakthrough technology empowers smarter decision-making, driving gains in productivity, sustainability, and profitability.

Optiweigh simplifies precision livestock management.
Developed and manufactured in Australia, it’s built tough to thrive in the harshest environments.